Trailing the San Diego Chargers 23-10 following halftime on Sunday, Denver Broncos head coach John Fox sent second year quarterback Tim Tebow out on the field to lead the offense.
The move came after weeks of fans chanting for Tebow and continued mediocre play from starting quarterback Kyle Orton. On Sunday, Orton seemed out of rhythm from the start, leading several 3-and-out drives and throwing an interception.
The defense had been on the field for much of the first half but was still able to hold the Chargers high powered offense to field goal attempts on three drives which could have resulted in twenty-one points. In the second half, Tebow was aided by the defense which stepped up, allowing just two more field goals and forcing two turnovers.
On his first few series, Tebow struggled, throwing several passes at the feet of open receivers. Once he started playing his game however, Tebow warmed up and the offense rallied behind him. Tebow finished the game 4-of-10 for 79 passing yards with six carries for 38 yards and two touchdowns (one rushing, one passing).
Tebow benefitted from the outstanding play of running back Willis McGahee, who finished the game with 125 yards off of 16 carries. Fellow running back Knowshon Moreno also made Tebow look good taking a screen pass 28 yards for a score. The offensive line also did a nice job of giving Tebow relatively good protection.
The Broncos were just one two-point conversation away from tying the game at 26 late in the fourth quarter. Star receiver Brandon Lloyd, who hauled in an incredible sideline catch earlier in the scoring drive, couldn't hold on to Tebow's two point conversation attempt and the Broncos ultimately fell to the Chargers by a score of 29-24 (following another Chargers field goal).
Although it was a loss, the game gave hope to Broncos fans across the country. For a change, Broncos fans actually had exciting football to watch and felt like the team had a chance to win down to the last second.
The Broncos have a Bye week next followed by a Week Seven match in Miami against the Dolphins. Speculation is that the Broncos will keep Tebow the starter moving forward. Coach Fox hasn't made any official announcement as of now, but we expect one to be coming soon.
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