Broncos Set For Preseason Home Opener vs. Buffalo

Newly named Sports Authority Field. (Image courtesy of Chris Hall/BroncosTV)

The Broncos will kickoff their 2011 preseason home opener at Sports Authority Field at Mile High in just a few moments, here are some things to watch for:

• A powerful rushing attack. Denver's starters will play most of the first half tonight, which means running backs Knowshon Moreno and Willis McGahee will be getting a lot of touches. Both backs looked fresh last week against the Cowboys and are poised for a productive evening.

• An aggressive defense. Watch for Broncos defensive coordinator Dennis Allen to dial up the blitz against Buffalo, releasing sackmasters Elvis Dumervil and Von Miller to wreak havoc. In Dallas, Denver's defense struggled against screen passes and runs between the "A" gaps (up the middle). It will be interesting o see if the defense has improved at all in those respective areas.

• The young bucks. Second year wide receiver Eric Decker seems to be on the verge of a breakout season, keep an eye on #87 tonight. Also of note: undrafted free agent running back Jeremiah Johnson, offensive tackle Orlando Franklin and Kyle McCarthy.

• The team captains. The Broncos have not yet decided on their team captains for the 2011 season, as Coach Fox will name the captains on a week-by-week basis during the preseason. Tonight's captains are wide receiver Brandon Lloyd and left tackle Ryan Clady (offense), cornerback Champ Bailey and linebacker D.J. Williams (defense) and receiver Eddie Royal (special teams)

• Bills/Broncos connections. Running back Willis McGahee played the first few years of his career under Denver's current running back coach Eric Studesville, who at the time was in Buffalo with McGahee.

The Broncos are back, stay tuned to our facebook page for updates during the game!