Broncos Shock NFL with Acquisition of Big Ben, Defeat Pats 38-30

by PapaManningsPizza | 7 years ago | 0 Comments

Foxborough, Mass.

Given Paxton Lynch's ability to put up big numbers, one could make the argument that he deserved to remain the Broncos starting quarterback entering the 8th season of Madden Zone. Given his inability to win big games, one could make the argument that he deserved to be replaced.

Broncos brass felt the latter.

In a shocking turn of events, the Broncos acquired veteran signal caller Ben Roethlisberger from the Saints in exchange for a 3rd round pick in next year's draft. The Broncos had attempted to court Roethlisberger during free agency, but he chose New Orleans.

The move was one that sent ripples through the Broncos roster, who fully expected to have Paxton Lynch at the helm again this season. But the move was one that needed to be made, according to Broncos GM Swan.

"You know, we're in the business of winning championships. And we play in a hell of a division. So in order to even get the chance to play for a championship, you've gotta go through a gauntlet of 17 games. Paxton just wasn't giving us a chance to get in, and that's why we decided to go with Ben's leadership."

The move paid dividends in Week 1. Many speculated that Ben wouldn't play, but given the similar playbooks, he was able to dive right in. He was 17/19 on the day, threw for 329 yards, 3 TDs, and only 1 interception. On top of that, he provided balance to the Bronco offense, allowing sophomore Stephen Jett to rush for 128 yards and 2 TDs.

After jumping out to an early 21-0 lead, the Broncos looked like they would coast to their first victory of the year. But a late push by the Patriots saw the lead evaporate, and the Broncos needed a late field goal to put the game away.

Rookie QB Carlos Drake made his debut for the Pats, and looked very NFL capable. His speed and raw talent were obvious, but his two interceptions showed that he has room to grow in the pocket. Coach Reeves agreed.

"I'm optimistic with a new offense and our rookie QB Carlos Drake. I'm looking to improve from the mistakes we made in regards to turning the ball over heading into next week's matchup with the Jaguars."

Chris Harris Jr. and Kenny Vaccaro both had interceptions for the Broncos. Ezekiel Ansah had the lone sack for the Broncos defense -- a testament to Drake's scrambling skills.

The Broncos are looking to put together their first winning season in three years, and it looks as though Big Ben might just be the missing piece. 

GAME STATS

Passing

Ben Roethlisberger (DEN): 17/19, 329 yds, 3 TDs, 1 INT

Carlos Drake (NE): 14/21, 273 yds, 3 TDs, 2 INTs

Rushing

Stephen Jett (DEN): 20 carries, 128 yds, 2 TDs

Kareem Hunt (NE): 13 carries, 70 yds, 1 TD

Carlos Drake (NE): 4 carries, 40 yds

Receiving

Darian Robiskie (DEN): 7 receptions, 212 yds, 3 TDs

Eric Suggs (NE): 5 receptions, 120 yds, 2 TDs

Devin Funchess (NE): 2 receptions, 27 yds, 1 TD

Defense

Denver Interceptions: Chris Harris Jr, Kenny Vaccaro

New England Interceptions: Donta Hightower

Denver Sacks: Ezekiel Ansah

New England Sacks: Trey Flowers

Kicking

Kai Forbath (NE): 1 FG, 58 yds, 3 XP

Brandon McManus (DEN): 1 FG, 47 yds, 5 XP

Punting

Jacob Schum (DEN): 1 punt, 47 yards

Ryan Allen (NE): 1 punt, 35 yards, I20