Broncos at Lions: Full highlights adn final score

The Denver Broncos continued to live a charmed life on Sunday Night Football, beating the Detroit Lions, 24-12. Denver was not able to do a ton offensively, but rode three turnovers and a terrific defense to the win. Peyton Manning was better than he had been throughout the first two weeks, connecting on a pair of deep balls.

Neither team could run the ball with any effectiveness, combining for 70 yards on 37 carries. However, Manning was continually able to make the big play, usually beating the underwhelming Darius Slay on the outside.

Highlights

Three Stars

1. Peyton Manning

It was a weird game for Manning. At first, he was still missing on some throws but then kicked it into high gear with some nice deep throws to Demaryius Thomas and Emmanuel Sanders. Manning ended up completing 31-of-42 passes for 324 yards with two touchdowns and an interception. Ultimately, Manning played a good game.

2. Demaryius Thomas

Thomas suffered some drops, but he made the big play with a 45-yard touchdown catch in the dying seconds of the first half. Thomas was able to out-jump Slay, who had an atrocious night. Thomas finished the night with nine catches or 92 yards and the aforementioned score.

3. Calvin Johnson

Johnson was in a great matchup with Aqib Talib all night, and for the most part was the victor. Johnson was targeted 11 times for eight catches and 77 yards. However, Johnson never had a chance to get the deep ball, with Matthew Staford not afforded the time to go long.

Odds

Denver was favored by three points and covered the spread.

Next week

The Broncos will be at home to take on the Minnesota Vikings while the Lions face the Seattle Seahawks at CenturyLink Field.