The Denver Broncos lost to the San Francisco 49ers, 29-24, on Sunday afternoon at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. The team completed its home preseason schedule and finished with a 0-2 record. After holding a 24-10 lead at halftime, the Broncos' backups failed to put points on the board during the remainder of the game.
San Francisco running back Anthony Dixon (13 carries, 58 yards) picked up a 26-yard rushing touchdown about two minutes into the third quarter to account for the only touchdown of the second half. Kicker David Akers kicked four field goals, including ones of 44 and 45 yards, over the final two quarters to tip the balance of the game in favor of the 49ers. The 44-yard and final one came with 3:05 left in the game. Backup quarterback Colin Kaepernick was 4-of-4 for 80 yards.
Peyton Manning had a great time out there, completing 10-of-12 passes for 122 yards and two touchdowns. Eric Decker caught those scores from five and 10 yards out, finishing with four receptions for 38 yards in total. Caleb Hanie relieved Manning after the first quarter and did well by completing 8-of-12 passes for 92 yards and a touchdown pass to Joel Dreessen, but he did commit an early mistake with an interception.
But Brock Osweiler failed to do much in the second half of the game, completing 4-of-9 passes for 27 yards. Adam Weber saw some action in the final minutes of the game. Rookie Ronnie Hillman made his preseason debut and rushed 10 times for 29 yards.
The Broncos are on the road against the Arizona Cardinals in Thursday's preseason finale.
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