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Come Fan with UsSunday, June 21, 2026

Broncos vs. Chiefs 2012: Manning made plays ‘when he had to’

It was ugly, but ultimately effective as the Broncos downed the hideous Chiefs.

Peter Aiken

The Denver Broncos didn't look overwhelming, but they got the job done against the embarrassing Kansas City Chiefs, 17-9, on Sunday at Arrowhead Stadium.

Peyton Manning wasn't flawless, but he played very well, especially in the second half. Manning hit on a pair of touchdown passes, including the eventual game-winner to Demaryius Thomas, which was perfectly placed down the left sideline.

Over at Mile High Report, Bronco Mike sums up the contest and how Manning’s performance was ultimately good enough.

Overall, gotta be happy with the win. The Broncos are now 8-3, 4-2 on the road, 4-0 in the division, 6-2 in the AFC and very much in the hunt for a first-round playoff bye. Gotta take care of business against Baltimore and hope NE stumbles at some point.

Manning making plays when he had to. This was a tough defense to face and the coverage and pressure were there all game. Manning may not have had a great game but he made plays when we needed them the most. That’s all you could ask for.

In the NFL, it's tough to win on the road regardless of the opponent, so Denver will gladly take the victory and move on to face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers next week at home.

With the calendar ready to hit December, the Broncos are in the enviable position of having their division all but wrapped up. Now, they can focus on getting healthy and making a run at the ring with Manning leading the charge.

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