Broncos notes: Starters play sparingly
Unlike the first three preseason games, coach Josh McDaniels didn’t use his starters very long Thursday.
The top offensive and defensive units played one series before calling it a night. The starters suffered no apparent injuries.
The team had to juggle a few things based on some previous injuries. Receiver Chad Jackson started because of a thumb injury to Jabar Gaffney and Brandon Marshall’s suspension. Seth Olsen and Russ Hochstein started at left and right guard, respectively, for banged-up starters Ben Hamilton and Chris Kuper. And rookie Tom Brandstater started at quarterback with Kyle Orton and Chris Simms injured.
Jackson, Lloyd shine
The Broncos might be deeper at receiver than they imagined. Jackson and Brandon Lloyd — fifth and sixth options at receiver when the team is healthy and Marshall returns — made some nice plays. Jackson had a 43-yard gain on the first drive. Lloyd’s acrobatic 32-yard catch set up a 1-yard touchdown run by Darius Walker.
Walker’s statement
Walker tried to make a case for a roster spot in a crowded backfield. Rookie Knowshon Moreno didn’t play, but he’s a lock to make the team. Correll Buckhalter and Peyton Hillis also seem like locks. That could leave the team deciding between Walker and LaMont Jordan when it cuts the roster to 53 players. Walker had 47 yards on 13 first-half carries and added two catches.
