AFC Wild Card 2012: Steelers Vs. Broncos Most Watched Program XLV Since Super Bowl

Broncos Vs. Steelers: Denver And Tim Tebow Set Several NFL Records In Win

Tim Tebow had a breakout performance throwing the football on Sunday, completing 10-of-21 throws for 316 yards and a pair of touchdowns. He was the first quarterback to throw for more than 300 yards against the Steelers this season, but that was just the start of the milestones for Tebow individually and the Broncos collectively.

Tebow also set NFL records for yards per completion and yards per attempt in a playoff game. The overtime victory, which spanned one play and 11 seconds, was the shortest OT contest ever, and that includes the regular season. The game-winning 80-yard pass play was the longest touchdown pass in NFL overtime history.

This is pretty incredible as well:

Tim Tebow stung the Steelers with big passing plays Sunday, completing three throws of more than 50 yards, which was one more than he had in his career entering the day. In the last 10 seasons, the Steelers had never allowed more than two passes of 50-plus yards in any game.

Tebow "pulled the trigger" on Sunday -- as John Elway had hoped -- to some spectacular results.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more in-depth coverage of this matchup, head to Broncos blog Mile High Report and Steelers blog Behind the Steel Curtain. For more news and notes from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Eric Decker Injury Update: Receiver Suffered MCL Sprain, According To Report

Eric Decker was hit at the knees on a passing play against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday afternoon, but the injury may not be as serious as it first appeared, according to a report from the Post's Mike Klis:

Decker likely suffered a sprain of his medial cruciate ligament (MCL) and not an ACL tear.

While Decker's short term availability may be in question, this is very good news in the long term if it is accurate. An ACL tear would have made for a far more significant rehab period.

Decker had 44 receptions for 612 yards and eight touchdowns during the regular season. Despite his absence, Tim Tebow was able to throw for over 300 yards against the Steelers.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more in-depth coverage of this matchup, head to Broncos blog Mile High Report and Steelers blog Behind the Steel Curtain. For more news and notes from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Eric Decker Injury Update: Receiver's Knee Injury 'Significant,' According To John Fox

Denver Broncos wide receiver Eric Decker suffered a knee injury on a rough hit by James Harrison in the first half of Denver's 29-23 overtime win over the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday, and he was unable to return to the game after the injury.

And based on this note from John Fox, Decker's short-term outlook does not sound good:

In his press conference, John Fox described Eric Decker's knee injury as "significant."

That likely means that Decker will have to sit out the team's game against New England next weekend, but Decker's outlook could change once he gets a more thorough examination.

Denver plays the Patriots at 6:00 p.m. MT on Jan. 14.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more in-depth coverage of this matchup, head to Broncos blog Mile High Report and Steelers blog Behind the Steel Curtain. For more news and notes from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Tim Tebow Handled Steelers Defense Like No Other QB

Tim Tebow not only threw passes of 30, 40, 51, 57 and the game-winning 80 yards, but he also did what no other quarterback was able to do this season against the Pittsburgh Steelers. As Bill Barnewll points out, Tebow shredded the Steelers' pass defense:

Tim Tebow just became the first quarterback this season to throw for more than 300 yards against the Steelers.

— Bill Barnwell (@billbarnwell) January 9, 2012

Tebow finished with 316 passing yards, well above his normal level of production. As it turned out, we never saw Brady Quinn in the game at all. Maybe the Steelers were expecting Tebow to falter and were just waiting for Quinn to enter the game.

Guess we shouldn't doubt what Tim Tebow can do.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more in-depth coverage of this matchup, head to Broncos blog Mile High Report and Steelers blog Behind the Steel Curtain. For more news and notes from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Steelers Vs. Broncos Final Score, 2012 NFL Playoffs: Tim Tebow Finds Demaryius Thomas For TD Pass In Overtime

The Denver Broncos pulled off an amazing overtime victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers in the 2012 NFL Playoffs. On the first play of the extra period, Tim Tebow threw a deep pass to Demaryius Thomas, who caught the ball and fought his way down the field for the 80-yard touchdown and the victory, 29-23. Thomas delivered one strong stiff arm on that play to make the score possible.

The players delight, the fans delight, John Elway jumps up and down.Tebow "tebows." The modified overtime rules that took place for the first time ever never came into play since a touchdown kept it true sudden death.

Tebow finished the game 10-of-21 for 316 yards and two touchdown passes. The rushing game piled up just 131 yards this week.

The Denver Broncos will now face the New England Patriots on the road next week.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more in-depth coverage of this matchup, head to Broncos blog Mile High Report and Steelers blog Behind the Steel Curtain. For more news and notes from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

NFL Playoff Schedule 2012: Bracket For Divisional Round Complete

After an opening round of the NFL playoffs that featured only one really competitive game, things are sure to be interesting next weekend with a great slate of games.

The Divisional round of the playoffs kicks off with a great contrast of styles, when the San Francisco 49ers host the streaking New Orleans Saints. The 49ers earned an opening round bye after finishing the regular-season 13-3 and winning the NFC West. New Orleans put together a dominant performance in a 45-28 win over Detroit in the opening round of the playoffs. The Saints have now won nine straight since a surprising loss to the St. Louis Rams.

The other matchup in the NFC will see the New York Giants visit the Green Bay Packers. The Giants defense was tremendous in a 24-2 victory over the Atlanta Falcons in the opening round. Green Bay finished the regular-season 15-1, including a 38-35 win over the Giants in week 13.

The AFC Divisional round begins on Saturday night when the Denver Broncos visit the New England Patriots.The Broncos advanced to this game after a thrilling 29-23 (OT) victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers. This game has no shortage of headlines, as it will feature Josh McDaniels against his former team. In the regular-season meeting between these teams, New England cruised to a comfortable 41-23 win.

Baltimore hosts the Houston Texans in the other AFC playoff game. The Texans advanced to this game after a 31-10 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals. The Ravens locked up the No. 2 seed in the AFC after winning the AFC North. These teams faced off in week 6, with the Ravens picking up a 29-14 home win.

Be sure to visit SB Nation NFL for all your NFL news and notes.

Broncos Vs. Steelers Go To Overtime In 2012 NFL Playoffs

The Denver Broncos and the Pittsburgh Steelers are going to overtime in the 2012 NFL Playoffs. After the Steelers tied the game late on a Ben Roethlisberger touchown pass to Mike Wallace, the Broncos weren't able to do anything (though the failure of the referees to make necessary calls precipitated much of that).

Instead, the Steelers did have one final attempt at scoring. They came close, but the Broncos defense held strong. Elvis Dumervil sacked Roethlisberger and caused a fumbled that Pittsburgh recovered. However, a delay of game and a short pass failed to put the Steelers into field goal position. Robert Ayers ended regulation by sacking Roethlisberger.

The Broncos will receive the ball.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more in-depth coverage of this matchup, head to Broncos blog Mile High Report and Steelers blog Behind the Steel Curtain. For more news and notes from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

2012 NFL Playoff Scores: Steelers Tie Game At 23 With Minutes Remaining

The Denver Broncos weren't going to have it easy in the second half against the Pittsburgh Steelers, and Ben Roethlisberger was going to make sure of that. Roethlisberger led his team to a touchdown with 3:48 left in the final quarter, tying the game at 23.

Looking different from his first half self, Roethlisberger started the drive with a 15-yard pass to Emmanuel Sanders, putting the Steelers inside Denver territory. After another set of new downs was picked up on a couple of run, Roethlisberger found Jerricho Cotchery for a 31-yard touchdown. Sean Suisham kicked the extra point to tie the game.

Will the Broncos be able to have the last laugh in this game?

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more in-depth coverage of this matchup, head to Broncos blog Mile High Report and Steelers blog Behind the Steel Curtain. For more news and notes from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

NFL Playoff Scores: Broncos Move Into 23-13 Lead In Final Quarter

The Denver Broncos saw its 20-6 lead slide to just a 20-13 lead as they started the fourth quarter of this 2012 NFL Playoff game, but the team was within striking distance for a score of some sorts against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Matt Prater kicked a 35-yard field goal for the score after stalling at Pittsburgh's 10-yard line. An offensive pass interference sent the team back 10 yards and stymied the Broncos offense.

A little over 13 minutes remains in the game. Will this game turn into the triumph of Tim Tebow or will an injured Ben Roethlisberger be able to lead a comeback. The clock is ticking but not for much longer.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more in-depth coverage of this matchup, head to Broncos blog Mile High Report and Steelers blog Behind the Steel Curtain. For more news and notes from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Broncos Vs. Steelers Score Update: Pittsburgh Scores On Mike Wallace TD Run

The Pittsburgh Steelers are still very much alive against Denver Broncos in this 2012 NFL Playoff game. Down 20-6 at halftime, the Steelers just scored a touchdown to make it 20-13. After a starting at his own 13-yard line, Ben Roethlisberger and Mike Wallace teamed up for the score.

On 3rd-and-2 it appeared that Isaac Redman, filling in for Rashard Mendenhall, had rushed for a 33-yard touchdown, but upon review it was overturned. Redman had been down by contact before he broke the plane of the end zone. But one play later Mike Wallace ran to the right end for a one-yard touchdown.

Will Tim Tebow be able to answer with the same dominance he had in the second quarter?

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more in-depth coverage of this matchup, head to Broncos blog Mile High Report and Steelers blog Behind the Steel Curtain. For more news and notes from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Tim Tebow Finishes 1st Half With Impressive Showing

Tim Tebow and the Denver Broncos took over their game against the Pittsburgh Steelers in the second quarter, reversing the poor showing they had during the regular season. After not completing a pass at all in the first quarter, Tebow went 5-of-11 for 185 yards and a touchdown pass. Sure, he hasn't completed over 50 percent of his passes, but when he's completing passes like this to Daniel Fells, does it matter?

That was a 40-yard strike to Daniel Fells. He also had a career-long pass of 57 yards to Demaryius Thomas a little while after he found him for 51 yards. And Eddie Royal caught a 30-yard touchdown pass from Tebow as well.

Tim Tebow and the playoffs are quite agreeable.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more in-depth coverage of this matchup, head to Broncos blog Mile High Report and Steelers blog Behind the Steel Curtain. For more news and notes from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Broncos Vs. Steelers Halftime Update: Denver Takes 20-6 Lead Heading Into Half

After a listless opening quarter, it seemed like the Pittsburgh Steelers defense was in complete control of the playoff matchup against the Denver Broncos. However, the second quarter proved to be an entirely different story, as Tim Tebow and the Broncos offense found a rhythm and helped propel Denver to a 20-6 lead heading into the half.

Tebow and Demaryius Thomas connected on two huge plays in the second quarter, with Thomas making two receptions for 109 yards. Surprisingly, the passing game is where the Denver offense has found most of its success, as Tebow has completed 5/11 for 185 yards and a TD. Tebow connected with Eddie Royal for the TD pass and also scored a TD on the ground in an excellent second quarter performance.

While the Broncos offense was clicking on all cylinders, Pittsburgh struggled to generate any success against the Denver defense. Ben Roethlisberger struggled to link up with his receivers, as he has completed just 11/23 and threw an interception.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more in-depth coverage of this matchup, head to Broncos blog Mile High Report and Steelers blog Behind the Steel Curtain. For more news and notes from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

VIDEO: Tim Tebow Throws Career-Long Pass, Follows With Rushing TD

In a change from the regular season, the Denver Broncos have dominated the first five minutes of the second quarter, scoring two touchdowns for a 14-6 lead over the Pittsburgh Steelers in this 2012 AFC Wild Card game. Tim Tebow completed a 57-yard pass to Demaryius Thomas to set his career-long pass. Thomas caught the ball in stride and got extra yardage after the catch. Thomas had been adept at catching the deep passes from Tebow this season.

Tebow then ran the ball from the eight-yard line a play later to put the Broncos up, 14-6.

On the ensuing drive, Ben Roethlisberger was sacked by Robert Ayers and came up looking like his ankle was hurt further. QUinton Carter picked him off shortly thereafter.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more in-depth coverage of this matchup, head to Broncos blog Mile High Report and Steelers blog Behind the Steel Curtain. For more news and notes from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Tim Tebow Throws TD Pass For Broncos' 7-6 Lead Over Steelers

Tim Tebow led the Denver Broncos to a touchdown on the team's first drive of the second quarter, giving them a 7-6 lead over the Pittsburgh Steelers in this 2012 NFL Playoffs game. The big play on the drive was Demaryius Thomas' 51-yard catch on 3rd-and-12. Tebow had to dance around the pocked for a little bit before he found Thomas down the left sideline for the huge catch. Thomas beat Ike Taylor on the play.

Then after a one-yard rushing play, Tebow found Eddie Royal for a 30-yard touchdown catch:

Royal is able to maintain possession while he slides out of bounds for the touchdown. It was the Broncos first touchdown since the Buffalo Bills game on Christmas Eve.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more in-depth coverage of this matchup, head to Broncos blog Mile High Report and Steelers blog Behind the Steel Curtain. For more news and notes from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Eric Decker Injury Update: Denver WR Won't Return After Suffering Leg Injury

Although his production has decreased over the past month, Eric Decker has been a valuable WR for the Denver Broncos throughout the season. If the Broncos are going to knock off the Pittsburgh Steelers and advance in the playoffs, they will have to do so without the services of Decker. According to the Denver Broncos Twitter account, Decker won't return after injuring his knee on a hit by James Harrison:

@Denver_Broncos: WR Eric Decker has a knee injury and will not return.

Decker had a very productive season for the Broncos, with 44 catches for 612 yards and eight TD's. However, over the last three weeks of the season, Decker only had two receptions, as Demaryius Thomas emerged as the primary threat for Tim Tebow in the passing attack.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more in-depth coverage of this matchup, head to Broncos blog Mile High Report and Steelers blog Behind the Steel Curtain. For more news and notes from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Steelers Vs. Broncos Score, 2012 NFL Playoffs: Sean Suisham Has Pittsburgh Up, 6-0

The Pittsburgh Steelers just concluded the first quarter and they hold a 6-0 lead over the Denver Broncos in this 2012 AFC WIld Card game. Sean Suisham kicked a 38-yard field goal to extend the lead further. The Steelers offense picked up six first downs in the quarter while the Broncos needed to wait until the last play of the quarter for its first.

Dante Rosario almost had a nice one-handed grab, but he was shadowed by Troy Polamalu on the play and was unable to stretch out for the reception.

We have yet to see Brady Quinn in this game, but he has been throwing on the sidelines from before the start of the game.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more in-depth coverage of this matchup, head to Broncos blog Mile High Report and Steelers blog Behind the Steel Curtain. For more news and notes from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Casey Hampton Injury Update: Steelers DT Hurts Knee

The Pittsburgh Steelers defense has been utterly dominant in the opening quarter of the playoff matchup against the Denver Broncos. Denver has only gained eight total yards, and even more surprisingly, the vaunted rushing attack has been limited to zero yards.

However, the Steelers may have to keep this performance up without one of their defensive anchors, as John Clayton of ESPN reports that Casey Hampton is questionable to return after injuring his knee:

@ClaytonESPN: Steelers DT Casey Hampton suffered a knee injury. His return is questionable.

Hampton is in his 11th year with the Steelers and has consistently been one of the best run-stoppers in the NFL. The Steelers DT was impressive this season, recording 31 tackles in just 13 games.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more in-depth coverage of this matchup, head to Broncos blog Mile High Report and Steelers blog Behind the Steel Curtain. For more news and notes from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Broncos Vs. Steelers Update: Pittsburgh Takes 3-0 Lead Over Denver

The Pittsburgh Steelers opened up the scoring by driving 80 yards for a field on the first drive of the game against the Denver Broncos. After converting on 3rd-and-3, Roethlisberger followed that with a 33-yard completion to Heath Miller, who was supposed to be covered by Brian Dawkins' replacement at strong safety, David Bruton. But Miller was wide open and picked up big yardage.

However, the drive started to stall there and the Steelers couldn't advance the ball past the Broncos' 27-yard line. Instead Sean Suisham hit a 45-yard field to put the Steelers in the early lead.

Tim Tebow now gets his first chance at showing whether he has improved from the poor performances of hte past two weeks. Or will we see Brady Quinn come in on a 3rd-and-long play?

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more in-depth coverage of this matchup, head to Broncos blog Mile High Report and Steelers blog Behind the Steel Curtain. For more news and notes from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

PHOTO: Yellow Shoe, Black Shoe For Ben Roethlisberger

2012 AFC Wild Card: Broncos Inactives Vs. Steelers

The Denver Broncos are hosting the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday as they try to pull off a major upset and continue their stunning run of success, but huge questions continue to surround their quarterbacking situation. The Broncos will once again go with incumbent starter Tim Tebow against the Steelers as they try to right the ship, but it's been reported that Denver will turn to back-up Brady Quinn in certain situations if Tebow continues to struggle with his decision-making.

The quarterback situation is the big thing to focus on for Denver today, although the Broncos will also be missing a few players, as well. Starting safety Brian Dawkins is missing the game with his continuing neck issues, and he's the biggest player out for Denver. The full injury report for the Broncos can be found here, but it's shown below:

- S Brian Dawkins

- RB Austin Sylvester

- FB Spencer Larsen

- LB Mike Mohamed

- OT Ryan Harris

- TE Julius Thomas

- DE Derrick Harvey

Dawkins is really the big name missing for Denver. Other key players listed on the Broncos' injury report this week, such as linebacker Von Miller, wide receiver Eddie Royal and safety David Bruton, are all active and expected to play.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more in-depth coverage of this matchup, head to Broncos blog Mile High Report and Steelers blog Behind the Steel Curtain. For more news and notes from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

2012 NFL Playoffs: Steelers Inactives Vs. Broncos Include Maurkice Pouncey

Reports on Friday had Pittsburgh Steelers center Maurkice Pouncey out for Sunday's 2012 NFL Playoff game against the Denver Broncos, but the team had listed him as questionable for the contest. On Sunday, the Steelers declared Pouncey inactive for the game. Doug Legursky will start at center while Chris Kemoeatu takes over at guard.

More: Complete Broncos Vs. Steelers Coverage | NFL Playoffs Schedule

#Steelers inactives: M. Moore, R. Clark, C. Allen, M. Pouncey, M. Ivy, A. Woods & J. Meredith.

— Denver Broncos (@Denver_Broncos) January 8, 2012

Also as expected, safety Ryan Clark is not playing as a result of possible health complications by playing at altitude. He was previously affected by Denver's altitude, losing his gall bladder and spleen. Cornerback Cortez Allen and running back Mewelde Moore are also out for hte this game.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more in-depth coverage of this matchup, head to Broncos blog Mile High Report and Steelers blog Behind the Steel Curtain. For more news and notes from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Tim Tebow's Favorite Band, Rascal Flatts, Will Perform National Anthem

2012 AFC Wild Card: Broncos Vs. Steelers Expected To Be Huge TV Draw

The Denver Broncos and the Pittsburgh Steelers might just be the draw on TV during this Wild Card weekend of the 2012 NFL Playoffs. The Steelers are a team that has a national following while the Broncos have Tim Tebow, sure-fire rating grabber. While Tebow's luster has appeared to wane in the last several weeks with his poor play, he is still a big story in the league. Broncos public relations director Patrick Smyth expects the rating for this game to be "massive":

More: Complete Broncos Vs. Steelers Coverage | NFL Playoffs Schedule

Expect massive TV audience for Broncos-Steelers (2:40 pm MST, CBS). Broncos TV ratings up NFL-high 34% locally this year.

— Patrick Smyth (@psmyth12) January 8, 2012

Of course, that audience could always taper off if the Broncos struggle with Tim Tebow at quarterback and Brady Quinn can't do any better. But why do we want to be pessimists about all of this? It's time for the Broncos to pick up a postseason win.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more in-depth coverage of this matchup, head to Broncos blog Mile High Report and Steelers blog Behind the Steel Curtain. For more news and notes from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

2012 AFC Wild Card: Broncos Will Turn To Brady Quinn On Third Down

If there's always fire where there's smoke, then Denver Broncos fans should expect to see Brady Quinn on the field Sunday vs. the Pittsburgh Steelers. Fox's Jay Glazer is the latest to report that the Broncos have packages for Quinn on third down passing situations.

2012 AFC Wild Card: Tim Tebow Will Look For Hot Start To Avoid Brady Quinn Entrance

The great mystery for Sunday's 2012 NFL Playoff matchup between the Denver Broncos and the Pittsburgh is just what will happen with Tim Tebow. Will he struggle and be replaced with Brady Quinn or will he find some traction and show why he should be the Broncos' quarterback going forward?

More: Complete Broncos Vs. Steelers Coverage | NFL Playoffs Schedule

On ESPN's Sunday NFL Countdown, Ed Werder reported that in a conversation with head coach John Fox the team was committed to Tim Tebow as the team's starter for the game. If we parse that, as Werder did, it would seem to say that Fox is willing to go to Brady Quinn if Tebow struggles early in the game. Brady Quinn would be taking his first real NFL game in two seasons.

While it's certainly possibly for Quinn to be play well, should he actually enter the game I doubt it would be John Fox's first choice for that to happen. At this point, taking Tebow out of a playoff game for Quinn would open a whole new mess in the offseason over the direction at quarterback. Unless, of course, putting Quinn in is just a package change for a play or two.

Drama and mystery, everyone.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more in-depth coverage of this matchup, head to Broncos blog Mile High Report and Steelers blog Behind the Steel Curtain. For more news and notes from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Steelers Vs. Broncos, 2012 NFL Playoffs: No Option To Watch Online As Only NBC Offered Option

With NBC's slate of 2012 NFL Playoff games over for now, the option to watch games live online won't come up again until the end of the month when the Pro Bowl takes place and then a week later when the Super Bowl kicks off. That leaves watching the game on CBS on a TV is the best option. Though if a computer is all that is available, NFL.com does offer streaming audio online for $15.

More: Complete Broncos Vs. Steelers Coverage | NFL Playoffs Schedule

But if one is a Broncos fan, it might not be wise to spend that $15 since Denver does appear, to the oddsmakers, to be one-and-done in the playoffs. The Steelers are eight- or nine-point favorites and facing a Broncos team that has lost three straight games. With the potential for Tim Tebow to struggle, a Brady Quinn who has not played an NFL snap outside of the preseason in two years would further spell disaster for the team.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more in-depth coverage of this matchup, head to Broncos blog Mile High Report and Steelers blog Behind the Steel Curtain. For more news and notes from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Steelers Vs. Broncos, 2012 NFL Playoffs: Game Time, TV Schedule And More

For the first time since the 2005 season, the Denver Broncos (8-8) are in the postseason once again when they step onto the field to host the Pittsburgh Steelers (12-4). The Broncos are on its second coach since Mike Shanahan last led the team into the postseason. Josh McDaniels failed to finish out two seasons and was replaced by John Fox, who had reached the Super Bowl during his tenure with the Carolina Panthers. But, of course, the story about this game will be Tim Tebow.

There has been a ton of speculation on what will happen with Tim Tebow and Brady Quinn. It ranges Quinn receiving half the first-team reps to just a few more reps than normal to special packages to being ready in case Tebow is benched. Are the Broncos trying to play mind games with the Steelers, attempting to rattle them? Or are the Broncos legitimately game planning for a Tim Tebow failure early on? We'll find out soon enough.

Game time/date: 2:30 p.m. MT, Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012

Location: Sports Authority Field at Mile High Stadium, Denver, CO

TV: CBS

Radio: ESPN Radio, Sirius 92 (Steelers), Sirius 86 (Broncos)

Odds: Steelers favored by 8 or 9 points

Over/Under: 33.5 points

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more in-depth coverage of this matchup, head to Broncos blog Mile High Report and Steelers blog Behind the Steel Curtain. For more news and notes from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Steelers Vs. Broncos, 2012 NFL Playoffs: Expect A Cold Gameday

Don't expect any snow for Sunday's Denver Broncos game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. The weather is expected to be cold, but any chance of precipitation will pass in the early hours of the day, according to Weather Underground.

By 8 a.m. MT, the last chance for snow will have passed and the cloudy skies will continue to disappear throughout the day. By kickoff, the temperature should settle at the day's expected high of 31 degrees Fahrenheit and sunny skies are expected.

Wind is not expected to be a factor, possibly registering at 2 m.p.h. in a southerly direction. But we all know that Matt Prater doesn't need the wind to help him. He has enough leg to possibly break the longest field goal record -- if ever given a chance.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more in-depth coverage of this matchup, head to Broncos blog Mile High Report and Steelers blog Behind the Steel Curtain. For more news and notes from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Steelers Vs. Broncos, 2012 NFL Playoffs: Jim Nantz, Phil Simms Broadcast Yet Another Denver Game

The Denver Broncos won't hear Jim Nantz and Phil Simms call Sunday's 2012 NFL Playoff game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, but it will be the fourth straight time that CBS' No. 1 crew will be on a Broncos game this season, as the Denver Post's Lindsay Jones noted one week ago. It's the fifth overall game since the duo also called the Green Bay Packers' shellacking of the Broncos earlier in the season.

Will Tebow Time be able to make a comeback and staunch whatever bad vibes Nantz and Simms bring to the game? Or are we incredulous enough to doubt that having those two call the game really matters? We'll find out at 2:30 p.m. MT when kickoff takes place.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more in-depth coverage of this matchup, head to Broncos blog Mile High Report and Steelers blog Behind the Steel Curtain. For more news and notes from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Steelers Vs. Broncos: Tim Tebow, Brady Quinn And The Potential For A Benching

Brady Quinn's role in Sunday's 2012 AFC Wild Card game between the Denver Broncos and the Pittsburgh Steelers is, to borrow a phrase from Winston Churchill. "a riddle wrapped in a mystery inside an enigma." First reports emerge that he received half of the first-team snaps with Tim Tebow during practice. Then Qunn denied that, but later reports said he did see increased snaps, though not to the extent originally reported.

More: Brady Quinn's Practice Week | Brady Quinn Reportedly Has Special Packages In Offense

Pro Football Talk's Mike Florio originally reported that information and then followed up with Quinn having special practices in the playbook for him this week. On Saturday morning, Florio is reporting that John Fox will bench Tebow if he struggles and that:

As one source explained it, Broncos players don’t regard the development as a big deal. It’s no surprise that Tebow hasn’t been the same guy lately, with as many turnovers in the last two games (six) as he had in all of the prior 10 games combined.

That means Brady Quinn will see his first non-preseason snap in over two seasons. Can that possibly end well? Find out Sunday if it's even possible.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more in-depth coverage of this matchup, head to Broncos blog, Mile High Report, and Steelers blog, Behind the Steel Curtain. For more news and notes from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

2012 NFL Playoffs: Breaking Down The Steelers Vs. Broncos AFC Wild Card Matchup

With the AFC Wild Card matchup between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Denver Broncos rapidly approaching, SB Nation's team blogs for both teams have been working overtime trying to break this game down from every angle imaginable. Most recently, the Steelers blog, Behind the Steel Curtain, has done some great work on comparing this iteration of the Steelers to the 2010 version, while the Broncos blog, Mile High Report, launched into some in-depth statistical comparisons between the Broncos and Steelers.

For a look at how Ben Roethlisberger, Mike Wallace, Isaac Redman and the rest of the Steelers offense stacks up against Von Miller and the Broncos defense, here is a visual breakdown of the two units. The chart is taken from Mile High Report and includes last week's rankings for the Broncos to highlight progress or regression. The DVOA stat is taken from Football Outsiders and is explained here.

For more on how Tim Tebow and the Broncos offense compares to Troy Polamalu and the Steelers defense, and how the special teams units rate, be sure to check out the complete article from Mile High Report. Here is how they eventually come out in the end after all the analysis is done:

THE BOTTOM LINE
I won't lie to you, this is going to be a tough matchup for Denver. They have lost their last three games and they are going up against the #1 Defense in the NFL. I am more concerned with what the Broncos can do Offensively against the Steelers Defense than I am about Pittsburgh's Offense matching up with the Denver Defense. Still, the slate is wiped clean and it's a new, albeit short season and on any given Sunday, one team can beat another in the NFL. It only takes one win to advance.

2012 AFC Wild Card: Ben Roethlisberger Makes Steelers Offense Unpredicatable, In A Bad Way

As the Pittsburgh Steelers and Denver Broncos prepare for their 2012 AFC Wild Card matchup on Sunday, much of the focus has been on Tim Tebow and Brady Quinn, but the Steelers have also been dealing with trying to figure out the status of Ben Roethlisberger's ankle. A lot of pressure will be placed on Big Ben to produce points for a Steelers team that will be without Rashard Mendenhall, so what is the feeling on how the star QB will perform?

This statistical breakdown is presented by the staff at Behind The Steel Curtain, SB Nation's Pittsburgh Steelers blog, and all stats are taken from ProFootball Reference or NFL.com:

So Big Ben has been worse in 2011 than in the previous year, but can it all be pinned on the lingering ankle injury he has been dealing with? Does it even matter if that's the reason at this point in the season? Once again the staff at Behind The Steel Curtain explain the significance behind the numbers:

It's been said many times before, but this offense will go as Ben goes. If he manages to figure out how to play reasonably well on the bad ankle, this post-season begins to look a lot more promising. What's concerns me is that the injury seems to have interfered to a greater or lesser extent with Ben's kinesthetic sense. This isn't too surprising. After all, if he can't step properly into a throw as he's accustomed to doing, the ball is going to do some unpredictable things.

So who are the 2011 Steelers offensively? Basically, they are who Ben is on any given day.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more in-depth coverage of this matchup, head to Broncos blog, Mile High Report, and Steelers blog, Behind the Steel Curtain. For more news and notes from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

2012 NFL Playoffs: Denver Broncos Have Special Packages For Brady Quinn, According To Report

According to Pro Football Talk's Mike Florio, the Denver Broncos installed special packages this week for back up QB Brady Quinn that focus on second and third-and-long situations. There have been conflicting reports out of Denver regarding the amount of reps that Quinn has been taking in practice, and it's still unknown how often the Broncos plan on playing Quinn, if at all.

Quinn has yet to take a snap in a regular season game in his two season with the Broncos, and a playoff game vs. the Pittsburgh Steelers would certainly be an interesting time to break that streak. But the Broncos have struggled in passing situations, and may be forced into desperation if the Steelers are able to stuff Denver's running game.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more in-depth coverage of this matchup, head to Broncos blog, Mile High Report, and Steelers blog, Behind the Steel Curtain. For more news and notes from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Brady Quinn Denies He Received More Snaps In Practice

Brady Quinn playing for the Denver Broncos in the 2012 NFL Playoffs? Maybe it wasn't as big of a joke as originally thought. Quinn has shared first-team snaps with Tim Tebow during practice this week, according to Pro Football Talk's Mike Florio. Apparently it has been split almost evenly between the two.

UPDATE: Brady Quinn has texted Jeff Darlington of NFL.com that he has not received any more snaps than normal. However, Darlington's other sources say there was some thought to it and that Quinn could come in on a package change.

But, of course, we don't really know what this means or if it is really true. The Broncos would obviously be gearing up to know two playbooks for the game, which has always been the plan with Quinn (and when he was here, Orton). But if Quinn has really been getting half of the first-team reps, what does that say about the confidence in Tim Tebow?

In a do-or-die situation, the Denver Broncos do need to be prepared for the worst with Tim Tebow. Or maybe they just want to rattle the Pittsburgh Steelers by putting out some disinformation. We'll find out Sunday.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more in-depth coverage of this matchup, head to Broncos blog, Mile High Report, and Steelers blog, Behind the Steel Curtain. For more news and notes from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

2012 NFL All-Pro Team: Broncos' Von Miller Earns Second-Team Honors

The NFL's 2011-12 All-Pro team was released Friday, and Denver Broncos rookie linebacker Von Miller earned second-team honors after tallying 11.5 sacks in his first season. Other Broncos to earn votes but not make the NFL All-Pro team were: Chris Kuper, Champ Bailey, Elvis Dumervil, Matt Prater and Britton Colquitt.

Vote Von Miller Pepsi Rookie of the Year

During the regular season, Miller played in 15 games and tied the team's rookie sack record. He tallied 64 tackles (50 solo) and led Denver with 19 tackles for a loss. He was also selected as a starting linebacker for the AFC team in the 2012 Pro Bowl.

As for the Sunday's Wild-Card round opponent, the Pittsburgh Steelers, they had two players, center Maurkice Pouncey and safety Troy Polamalu, who earned All-Pro First Team honors.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more in-depth coverage of this matchup, head to Broncos blog, Mile High Report, and Steelers blog, Behind the Steel Curtain. For more news and notes from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Pittsburgh Steelers Injury Report: Maurkice Pouncey Questionable; Ben Roethlisberger, Troy Polamalu Probable

The Friday injury report for the Pittsburgh Steelers has been released, and center Maurkice Pouncey is listed as questionable and could play Sunday against the Denver Broncos (2:30 p.m. MT on CBS). The news makes the Friday morning report that Pouncey would miss the Wild-Card round game false, as the All-Pro center still has a chance of playing. Pouncey was limited in practice on Wednesday and then sat out on Thursday.

Meanwhile, after missing Thursday's practice Steelers safety Troy Polamalu was listed as probably for Sunday's match up. Also, listed as probable are: quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (ankle), linebacker James Harrison (toe), defensive end Bret Keisel (groin), guard Doug Legursky (shoulder), tackle Jonathan Scott (back) and linebacker LaMarr Woodley (hamstring).

List as out are: corner back Cortez Allen (shoulder) and running back Mewlde Moore (knee).

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more in-depth coverage of this matchup, head to Broncos blog, Mile High Report, and Steelers blog, Behind the Steel Curtain. For more news and notes from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Denver Broncos Injury Report: Brian Dawkins Out Vs. Pittsburgh Steelers

The Denver Broncos will not have its defensive leader on the field for Sunday's 2012 AFC Wild card game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Safety Brian Dawkins has been declared out for the game with his neck injury. Head coach John Fox told reporters that it is the responsibility of the coaches to look out for the well-being of the players.

More: Broncos vs. Steelers 2012 | NFL Playoff Rankings

#Broncos injury report: Out - Dawkins; Doubtful - Larsen; Questionable - Bruton, Wilhite; Probable - Royal, Miller, Wilhite.

— Denver Broncos (@Denver_Broncos) January 6, 2012

Dawkins injured his neck several weeks ago after hitting into Robert Ayers. He missed the season finale against the Kansas City Chiefs, leaving the team to start David Bruton again (who is questionable for the game).He will play with rookie Quinton Carter while rookie Rahim Moore will also play in the secondary

Spencer Larsen is also unlikely to play after being listed as doubtful.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more in-depth coverage of this matchup, head to Broncos blog, Mile High Report, and Steelers blog, Behind the Steel Curtain. For more news and notes from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

2012 NFL Playoffs: Steelers' Kirby Wilson In 'Serious But Not Life-Threatening' Condition

Pittsburgh Steelers running backs coach Kirby Wilson is in a medically-induced coma after receiving burns on 30 to 50 percent of his body, reports Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburght Post-Gazette. Wilson was burned during a house fire overnight, Thursday into Friday.

Kirby Wilson has burns on 30 to 50 percent of his body, team source said. Serious but not life-threatening. In medically induced coma.

— Gerry Dulac (@gerrydulac) January 6, 2012

The Steelers did release a statement earlier in the day on the incident:

First and foremost our thoughts and prayers are with Kirby and his entire family. We are saddened to hear about this unfortunate situation but we know that he has the best medical care in the country treating him. The entire organization is praying for Kirby to have a full recovery and we will be by his side through this difficult time.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more in-depth coverage of this matchup, head to Broncos blog, Mile High Report, and Steelers blog, Behind the Steel Curtain. For more news and notes from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

2012 NFL Playoffs: Maurkice Pouncey To Miss Steelers Vs. Broncos

The Pittsburgh Steelers won't have a healthy offensive line for Sunday's 2012 AFC Wild Card game against the Denver Broncos. Center Maurkice Pouncey has been ruled out for the game with an injured left ankle, according to Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. Pouncey was limited in practice on Wednesday and then sat out on Thursday. He will be officially declared out when the Steelers release Friday's injury report later in the afternoon.

More: Broncos vs. Steelers 2012 | NFL Playoff Rankings

Doug Legursky is expected to move into the starting center position while Chris Kemoeatu will take over at left guard, Dulac further reports. This now means that the Steelers will be without its starting running back Rashard Mendenhall and its anchor on the offensive line in Pouncey. And with Ben Roethlisberger's ankle ailing, to a degree, could the Broncos pull off the upset?

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more in-depth coverage of this matchup, head to Broncos blog, Mile High Report, and Steelers blog, Behind the Steel Curtain. For more news and notes from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Steelers Vs. Broncos, NFL Playoffs 2012: Pittsburgh RB Coach Burned In House Fire

According to a report by Pittsburgh's Channel 11 News, Steelers running backs coach Kirby Wilson was badly burned in a house fire early Friday morning. Here are the details:

"About 2:45 a.m., I was awoken by a number of pounding on doors,” said neighbor David Sebesta. “Looked out my window, and there was policemen, about five or six, going down this row of houses, waking people up. I could smell burning. Fire trucks came and pulled a man out, looked like he was pretty badly burned, and carted him off to a hospital."

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

According to the report, Wilson, 50, was flown to the nearest Pittsburgh hospital, but the status of his condition is not yet known.

The Steelers are preparing for their first-round playoff game at the Denver Broncos Sunday (2:30 MT on CBS).

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more in-depth coverage of this matchup, head to Broncos blog Mile High Report and Steelers blog Behind the Steel Curtain. For more news and notes from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

2012 AFC Wild Card: Denver Broncos Out To Reverse Historically Poor WC Performance

The Denver Broncos are out to pick up just its second win in a Wild Card game in eight tries. However, if history is trying to tell us something about Sunday's game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, it is that the Broncos are at the right place to make a win possible.

The Denver Broncos won a Wild Card game during the 1997 season when the Broncos defeated the Jacksonville Jaguars, 42-17, at Mile High. The Broncos are once again at home for a Wild Card game this weekend.

Of course, the recent history of the Broncos has been just the opposite of that dominating win against the Jaguars. The Broncos lost to the Baltimore Ravens, 21-3, during the 2000 season playoffs and then lost back-to-back Wild Card games to the Indianapolis Colts during the 2003 and 2004 seasons, 41-10 and 49-24, respectively.

Will a small sample size of history prove true 15 years later?

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more in-depth coverage of this matchup, head to Broncos blog, Mile High Report, and Steelers blog, Behind the Steel Curtain. For more news and notes from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Pittsburgh Steelers Injury Report: Ben Roethlisberger Fully Participates In Practice; Troy Polamalu Held Out

The Pittsburgh Steelers are preparing for their playoff matchup with the Denver Broncos, but the team has been without several key contributors in practice this week, including safety Troy Polamalu (calf). Polamalu was one of six Pittsburgh players to miss practice on Thursday, along with offensive lineman Maurkice Pouncey (ankle), linebacker James Harrison (toe), defensive back Cortez Allen (shoulder), defensive end Brett Keisel (groin) and running back Mewelde Moore (knee).

Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (ankle) fully participated in Thursday's practice after being limited on Wednesday.

Offensive tackle Jonathan Scott, a new addition to the injury report, was limited because of a back injury. Guard Doug Legursky (shoulder) and linebacker LaMarr Woodley (hamstring) fully participated.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more in-depth coverage of this matchup, head to Broncos blog Mile High Report and Steelers blog Behind the Steel Curtain. For more news and notes from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Denver Broncos Injury Report: Brian Dawkins Misses Practice Thursday; Eddie Royal Limited

The Thursday injury report for the Denver Broncos has been released and there's some good news on it, as play-making wide receiver Eddie Royal went from missing practice Wednesday to being limited today. According to the SB Nation blog Mile High Report, being limited means there's a less than 100-percent chance that Royal will see the field Sunday, but the progress is promising.

However, veteran safety Brian Dawkins missed practiced for the second straight day. It is becoming more unlikely that Dawkins will be able to play for the Broncos, who host the Pittsburgh Steelers Sunday (2:30 p.m. MT on CBS) in the Wild-Card round of the 2012 NFL Playoffs.

Steelers Vs. Broncos, NFL Playoffs 2012: SI.com's Cold Hard Facts For Wild Card Game

In a season that featured more passing yards than in the history of the NFL, the Denver Broncos proved that running it and controlling turnovers is still the best way to win a football game. On Tuesday, SI.com's Kerry J. Byrne published a Cold Hard Facts feature covering all the 2011-12 regular season and a few stats backed up the theory that a majority of the time if your team is throwing it they're going to have a hard time winning a football game.

Here's a few facts that Byrne found:

4 - Number of teams that ran the ball more often than they passed it in 2011. Three of those four teams won their divisions: Houston, Denver and San Francisco (the lone exception was Jacksonville). In 1978, every NFL team ran the ball more than they passed it.

6-6 - Record of teams when their quarterback passes for 500 yards or more, including a 1-1 mark in 2011. Brady's Patriots beat the Dolphins in Week 1; Stafford's Lions lost to the Packers in Week 17

By the end of the regular season, the Broncos (9-7) led by quarterback Tim Tebow, attempted a league-low 429 passes for just 2,708 yards (ranked 31 out of 32 teams). Meanwhile, Denver lead the league in rushing yards (2,632).

The Broncos opponent, the Pittsburgh Steelers, are ranked ninth overall in passing yards and 14th in rushing.

How much will that have an impact Sunday? I guess will see.

2012 AFC Wild Card, Steelers Vs. Broncos: Tim Tebow Has Praise For Steelers

As the Denver Broncos get set to take on the Pittsburgh Steelers in their first playoff game since the 2005 season. Broncos quarterback Tim Tebow talked a little bit about the Steelers and their experience in the playoffs. "He's done something that a lot of quarterbacks want to do: He's won championships. He's at his best in crunch time," Tebow said about Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger.

Tebow has struggled the past few weeks, as the offense as a whole has done much in the three consecutive losses. It won't get much easier for the quarterback against the Steelers aggressive defense and he knows it. "All 11 starters have a blitz called for them. It's something you watch. And you always have to know where 43 is," Tebow said. Tebow acknowledges he'll need to pay special attention to where '43' is, safety Troy Polamalu who is expected to play despite dealing with some injuries.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more in-depth coverage of this matchup, head to Broncos blog Mile High Report and Steelers blog Behind the Steel Curtain. For more news and notes from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Steelers Vs. Broncos, 2012 NFL Playoffs: Pittsburgh Still Big Favorites

The Denver Broncos are not the biggest underdogs on Wild Card weekend, but it's only by a small margin. According to Odds Shark, the Broncos are still nine-point home underdogs to the Pittsburgh Steelers after opening as eight-point underdogs. The Detroit Lions, on the other hand, are on the road and underdogs anywhere from 10 to 11 points to the New Orleans Saints. While the Saints are heavily favored in that matchup, things could turn into a shootout between quarterbacks Drew Brees and Matthew Stafford.

More: Broncos vs. Steelers 2012

As for the Broncos against the Steelers, a torn ACL for Rashard Mendenhall didn't cause anyone to move the line down. But could a Ben Roethlisberger injury change that in the final days before the game? Roethlisberger admitted that his ankle is not 100 percent, but he does appear ready to play. The Steelers have been a pass-heavy offense this season.

The over/under for this game is at 34 points, which might be heavily dependent on how much improvement Tim Tebow shows in the passing game. If he is able to throw, Tebow will keep the Broncos in this game.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more in-depth coverage of this matchup, head to Broncos blog Mile High Report and Steelers blog Behind the Steel Curtain. For more news and notes from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Denver Broncos Injury Report: Brian Dawkins, Eddie Royal Miss Wednesday Practice

The Denver Broncos are hosting the Pittsburgh Steelers this weekend as the winners of the AFC West division, but they're sure to be challenged after struggling down the stretch of the regular season. The Broncos have lost three consecutive games going into Wild Card weekend, and they're likely to be without of the defense's key veteran voices as they try to stifle Ben Roethlisberger and company.

Denver's full injury report can be found here, but it's show below:

Full Participation

- LB Von Miller

Limited Participation

- S David Bruton

Did Not Participate

- WR Eddie Royal

- S Brian Dawkins

- FB Spencer Larsen

Dawkins, even at 37, has been one of the key parts of an extremely effective Broncos defense. He started 12 times for Denver this season, recording 38 tackles and three sacks, but he's battled a neck injury in recent weeks. The Broncos will likely miss Royal's presence, too, although other playmakers emerged in recent weeks, such as Eric Decker.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more in-depth coverage of this matchup, head to Broncos blog Mile High Report and Steelers blog Behind the Steel Curtain. For more news and notes from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Pittsburgh Steelers Injury Report: Ben Roethlisberger Limited In Practice On Wednesday

The Pittsburgh Steelers had an injured Ben Roethlisberger as a limited participant during Wednesday's practice. He had a setback with his ankle during Sunday's game against the Cleveland Browns, but he told reporters that it isn't bad enough to prevent him from playing. Offensive lineman Maurkice Pouncey was the only other Steeler to be limited in practice. LaMarr Woodley was a full participant but listed due to his hamstring.

There were five players who did not practice. James Harrison and Troy Polamalu, two of the biggest hitters on the team, did not participate

Here is the complete Wednesday injury report:

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more in-depth coverage of this matchup, head to Broncos blog Mile High Report and Steelers blog Behind the Steel Curtain. For more news and notes from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Brian Dawkins Injury Update: Broncos Safety Missing From Wednesday Practice

The Denver Broncos are preparing to play the Pittsburgh Steelers in their first postseason appearance in a while, but they may be without veteran safety Brian Dawkins as they do it. The Broncos began practices on Wednesday to prepare for this weekend's game, but Lindsay Jones of the Denver Post is reporting that Dawkins wasn't present.

At this point, it's still unclear what's going on with Dawkins regarding his injuries or some other possible problem, but his presence on that defense would certainly be missed. The seasoned safety has been dealing with neck issues for the past couple weeks since aggravating the injury on Christmas Eve, and his absence would be a major problem for a secondary that's sure to be challenged on Wild Card weekend.

Considering that the Steelers won't have star running back Rashard Mendenhall during the postseason, they'll likely be passing more than usual. If Dawkins is unable to play, David Bruton will start in his place, and that could be a spot on the Broncos defense that Pittsburgh's passing game tries to exploit.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more in-depth coverage of this matchup, head to Broncos blog Mile High Report and Steelers blog Behind the Steel Curtain. For more news and notes from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Steelers Vs Broncos, 2012 NFL Playoffs: Ben Roethlisberger Injury To Ankle Had Setback Last Week

Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger has dealt with injuries off and on this entire season, be it his foot or his ankle. The latter, though, appears to have been hurt in Sunday's game against the Cleveland Browns, according to several reports.

More: Broncos vs. Steelers 2012

However, Roethlisberger doesn't sound too concerned with the injury (via Mark Kaboly):

"I felt really good going into the Cleveland game," Roethlisberger said. "I don't know if I caught it on the ground wrong or got hit ... we'll see, we'll be alright."

Kaboly also tweeted that Roethlisberger walked into the locker room with a limp, passing an ESPN camera on the way to talk with reporters. That's sure to be a big draw for ESPN, as the possibility of a Roethlisberger injury would be a major turn of events in this game.

Still, all signs point to Roethlisberger playing on Sunday and leading a pass-heavy offense, especially with Rashard Mendenhall out.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more in-depth coverage of this matchup, head to Broncos blog Mile High Report and Steelers blog Behind the Steel Curtain. For more news and notes from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

2012 AFC Wild Card, Broncos Vs. Steelers: Steelers Back Up QB Dennis Dixon Playing Tebow In Practice

Though it's up for debate just how much credit Tim Tebow and the Denver Broncos' pseudo-option offense deserves for the team's surprise playoff run, there's no doubt that the beguiling nature of the scheme helped in some way to propel Denver to the AFC West championship. Few NFL teams feature offensive players that ran the option in college, but in an interesting twist in the AFC Wild Card match up between the Broncos and Pittsburgh Steelers, Pittsburgh may have one of the closet things to Tebow on an NFL roster.

2012 AFC Wild Card: Tim Tebow Has John Elway's 'Full Confidence' For Rebound

While rumors and speculation swirl that Tim Tebow could be on the outside looking in for the Denver Broncos starting quarterback position again in the 2012 season, team vice president John Elway believes his second-year quarterback will be able to bounce back from the tough games he had against the Buffalo Bills and the Kansas City Chiefs to end the regular season. As Woody Paige writes in the Denver Post:

"When you get into these playoff situations, he's a good enough athlete, you know what, to pull the trigger. [...] I have full confidence he'll bounce back and have a good week."

"Pull the trigger" appears to be the phrase to describe this playoff game for Tim Tebow. If Tebow is able to turn around his passing game and defeat the Pittsburgh Steelers, that would certainly qualify as "pulling the trigger." The Steelers have the No.1 passing defense in the league, allowing 172 yards per game.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more in-depth coverage of this matchup, head to Broncos blog Mile High Report and Steelers blog Behind the Steel Curtain. For more news and notes from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Steelers Vs. Broncos, 2012 NFL Playoffs: History Says Winner Has Good Chance At Super Bowl

The Denver Broncos and the Pittsburgh Steelers meet in the playoffs for the first time since AFC Championship Game on Jan. 22, 2006, the last time the Broncos were in the playoffs. The Steelers won that game, 34-17, and went on to defeat the Seattle Seahawks for a Super Bowl victory. It was just the latest playoff game between the two that saw the victor go on to the Super Bowl (this one needing to do it since it decided the conference championship.

More: Postseason Odds

We also saw this happen in Jan. 1998 when the Broncos defeated the Steelers before winning a Super Bowl for John Elway. In Jan. 1990, the Broncos defeated the Steelers in the divisional round and followed that with a victory over the Browns reach the Super Bowl (losing to the San Francisco 49ers). It also happened in 1977 and 1978, the Broncos ultimately losing in the Super Bowl in the former and the Steelers winning it all in the latter.

The only year that the winning team did not make the Super Bowl was in 1984 as the Steelers lost to the Dolphins in the conference championship after defeating the Broncos one round earlier.

How does this contest turn out?

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more in-depth coverage of this matchup, head to Broncos blog Mile High Report and Steelers blog Behind the Steel Curtain. For more news and notes from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Denver Broncos Sign Former University Of Colorado LB Brian Iwuh, Release S Kyle McCarthy

According to the Post's Jeff Legwold, the Denver Broncos have signed linebacker Brian Iwuh:

The Broncos on Tuesday signed former Colorado linebacker Brian Iwuh, giving the team a proven special teams player on the roster for Sunday's playoff game against the Steelers.

Iwuh spent the 2010 and 2011 with the Chicago Bears, where he appeared in 27 games and recorded 32 tackles. Prior to his stint with the Bears, Iwuh spent four seasons with the Jacksonville Jaguars, where he appeared in 58 games. As Legwold noted, Iwuh has plenty of experience as a special teams player.

To make room for Iwuh, the team released safety Kyle McCarthy. McCarthy appeared in just four regular season games in 2011.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more in-depth coverage of this matchup, head to Broncos blog Mile High Report and Steelers blog Behind the Steel Curtain. For more news and notes from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

2012 NFL Playoffs: Steelers Predictably Have Better Odds To Win AFC, Super Bowl

Finishing with an 8-8 record, the Denver Broncos are one of the bigger underdogs in the 2012 NFL playoffs. However, they aren't the team with the worst odds to win the AFC or the Super Bowl, according to Bovada. While the Broncos have 50/1 odds to win the Super Bowl and 25/1 odds to take the AFC, the Cincinnati Bengals only match the Broncos in the latter. The Bengals are 65/1 favorites to hoist the Lombardi trophy in February, last among all playoff teams. The Pittsburgh Steelers, meanwhile, are 11/1 favorites for the Super Bowl and 7/2 for the AFC.

If the Broncos were able to get to the Super Bowl here are the odds for each matchup against the NFC:

Green Bay Packers vs. Denver Broncos 40/1

San Francisco 49ers vs. Denver Broncos 150/1

New Orleans Saints vs. Denver Broncos 80/1

New York Giants vs. Denver Broncos 200/1

Atlanta Falcons vs. Denver Broncos 300/1

Detroit Lions vs. Denver Broncos 350/1

Who wants a rematch of Super Bowl XXXIII?

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more in-depth coverage of this matchup, head to Broncos blog Mile High Report and Steelers blog Behind the Steel Curtain. For more news and notes from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

NFL Playoffs, Steelers Vs. Broncos: Steelers Safety Ryan Clark Will Sit Vs. Broncos

While he has not yet been declared out, Pittsburgh Steelers safety Ryan Clark is coming closer and closer to not playing in Sunday's playoff game on the road against the Denver Broncos. The teams is leaning toward sitting Clark, according to Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.

UPDATE: Head Coach Mike Tomlin has ruled Clark out for the game:

Coach Tomlin " I met with @RealRClark25 and have informed him i am not going to allow him to play in this game"

— Pittsburgh Steelers (@steelers) January 3, 2012

Clark is affected by sickle cell trait and the thin air in Denver could prove devastating to his health. It previously did, as Dulac points out, in 2007 when he had his spleen and gall bladder after playing in Denver. The medical personnel for Pittsburgh has apparently determined after tests that Clark should not play.

Ryan Mundy now gets the chance to start and look Tim Tebow in the eye on the field.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more in-depth coverage of this matchup, head to Broncos blog Mile High Report and Steelers blog Behind the Steel Curtain. For more news and notes from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Broncos Vs. Steelers, NFL Playoffs: Pittsburgh Safety Ryan Clark Might Not Play Vs. Denver

The Pittsburgh Steelers are already without running back Rashard Mendenhall due to a torn ACL, but he might not be the only player they will be missing. Safety Ryan Clark might not play in the game on Sunday, reports the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, because he is affected by sickle cell trait and nearly lost his life after playing in Denver during the 2007 season. He sat out the team's 2009 contest in Denver, as a result.

However, he has since had medical tests, according to head coach Mike Tomlin, to determine how the altitude affects the sickle cell trait. If the doctors believe that he can play and then get the coaches on board as well, Clark would team up with Troy Polamalu in the secondary. Otherwise, Ryan Mundy is going to get a playoff start.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more in-depth coverage of this matchup, head to Broncos blog Mile High Report and Steelers blog Behind the Steel Curtain. For more news and notes from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

NFL Playoffs 2012, Steelers Vs. Broncos: Tim Tebow Doing 'Best He Can' For Denver, Says John Fox

Denver Broncos head coach John Fox is trying to soften the poor performance Tim Tebow had against the Kansas City Chiefs. A 6-of-22 passing game isn't good by any means, but Fox sees Tebow still trying to do all that he can.

Fox on Tebow: "He's trying to do the best he can to help us win. We had a struggle yesterday throwing the ball -- that happens sometimes."

— Denver Broncos (@Denver_Broncos) January 2, 2012

It's been a struggle most of the season and facing the Pittsburgh Steelers in the opening round of the playoffs won't make it any easier for Tebow. Troy Polamalu, James Harrison, Lamarr Woodley and Casey Hampton are just a few of players Tebow will need to avoid, but the hard-hitting nature of the Steelers could prove to be a dire situation for Tebow. Harrison especially seems like someone who wants to hit Tebow on every play.

Tebow struggling throwing does happen "sometimes," but that can't happen in the playoffs. That will mean one-and-done for the Broncos.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more in-depth coverage of this matchup, head to Broncos blog Mile High Report and Steelers blog Behind the Steel Curtain. For more news and notes from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

NFL Playoffs 2012: Steelers Vs. Broncos Odds

The Denver Broncos are big underdogs at home to the Pittsburgh Steelers in the opening round of the 2012 NFL Playoffs. The Steelers opened as eight point favorites, according to Odds Shark, and other lines almost immediately moved the Steelers as nine point favorites.

This is not all that surprising. With loss to the New England Patriots, the Buffalo Bills and the Kansas City Chiefs, the Broncos are down and almost out entering this game. The oddsmakers certainly don't see many people in favor of the Broncos this week. Tim Tebow has left a sour taste in many mouths.

Even if the Broncos defense can match the Steelers' normally solid defense, Tebow will need to make plays, which he clearly wasn't able to do on Sunday against the Chiefs. Will the expected loss of Rashard Mendenhall for the Steelers move the lines as the week goes on?

Visit Odds Shark for more Wild Card weekend odds and lines. For more in-depth coverage of this matchup, head to Broncos blog Mile High Report and Steelers blog Behind the Steel Curtain. For more news and notes from around the NFL, visit SB Nation's NFL news hub.

Rashard Mendenhall Injury: Steelers RB Expected To Miss Encounter With Broncos

Pittsburgh will be without RB Rashard Mendenhall for its playoff game against the Denver Broncos