The Denver Broncos' defense passed its first test versus a depleted Baltimore Ravens aerial attack in the NFL opener. The secondary remains without its most accomplished player in a tougher matchup this week.
Broncos coach John Fox already has ruled out cornerback Champ Bailey for Sunday's game versus the New York Giants, the team announced Friday.
Bailey suffered a sprained left foot during an Aug. 17 preseason game.
Bailey is without a timetable for a return after an Associated Press report last week suggested he would have a good chance to play against the Giants.
The Broncos will start Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie and Tony Carter, with Chris Harris entering in nickel packages.
Whereas the Ravens' passing attack clearly was rusty, the Giants trio of Hakeem Nicks, Victor Cruz and Rueben Randle became the first in franchise history to each surpass 100 yards in a game last week.
On throws to his top three targets, Eli Manning completed 15 of 22 passes for 333 yards, three touchdowns, no interceptions and a passer rating of 150.5.
Fans of both teams should brace for a shootout between the Manning brothers in Week 2.
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