NFL Week 8, Broncos Vs. 49ers: Troy Smith, Niners Open Up 3-0 Lead

After a slow start from both teams in London, the San Francisco 49ers have opened up a 3-0 lead on the Denver Broncos at Wembley Stadium.

Troy Smith, making his first start at quarterback for the 49ers, has completed four of six passes early in the contest, gaining 37 yards in the process. Frank Gore has added 29 rushing yards on seven carries, and Joe Nedney knocked in a 34-yard field goal to cap off a 13-play, 65-yard drive that took 7:31 to complete.

San Francisco’s defense, meanwhile, has bent, but not broken, through the early portions of the first quarter. Kyle Orton has completed three of four passes for 34 yards, and Knowshon Moreno has 28 rushing yards on just four carries. The Niners, however, forced two punts from Britton Colquitt to abate early threats.

Denver takes over in an early deficit with time nearly expired in the first quarter. Here’s hoping that the fine folks at Wembley get to see a few more points and big plays from two mediocre football teams.