Denver Broncos Defeated by Oakland Raiders, Suffer Injuries
The Denver Broncos suffered their first home game opening defeat since 2000 at the hands of the Oakland Raiders on Monday night.
The Broncos were forced to deal with a number of injuries, including defensive end Elvis Dumervil’s shoulder and cornerback Champ Bailey’s left hamstring, which was hurt during a tackle by Darren McFadden.
Bailey, who had to undergo an MRI Tuesday, expressed his frustration with having to stop McFadden, who ran 22 times for 150 yards.
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"It's very disappointing because we talk about having to stop Darren McFadden, and we don't do everything to stop him," Bailey said, according to NFL network reports.
Aside from their injury trouble, Broncos starting QB Kyle Orton had trouble on Monday night. Orton only hit 18 of his 37 passes, threw an interception and dropped the ball which resulted in a turnover.
The Raiders’ defensive line reacted quickly and managed to get four sacks and create holding penalties for the Broncos. The Oakland team managed to cover 65 yards in three plays and make a touchdown after Orton’s mishap.
The Broncos QB expressed his frustration with his performance.
"I just feel sick about the ball slipping out of my hands like that," Orton said. "It's just one of those deals that's sickening to have happen to you. It never really happened to me before."
Although the Broncos had a bad game, the Raiders’ chances of winning were boosted by placekicker Sebastian Janikowski. Janikowski managed to kick an NFL record-tying 63-yard field goal which helped the Raiders overcome their opposition 23-20 on Monday.
However, Janikowski did not seem happy with his performance.
"To be honest, I didn't hit it that good. It barely got over the bar," Oakland's strong-legged kicker said, according to ESPN reports. "I hit a 70-yarder in pregame."
Although the Raiders outperformed the Broncos, Bailey said his team aided their competition in securing a win.
"They're a good football team but we do so many things to help them win these games," Bailey said.
