With the Denver Broncos deferring to the second half, Brandon Tate returns the game's opening kickoff to the 35 yards to their own 36-yard.

Despite the optimistic return, Cincinnati's frustrating offense didn't do much. BenJarvus Green-Ellis pounded the football up the middle for a five-yard gain, leaving second and five with 14:19 remaining in the first quarter.

Then nothing.

Dalton arched the football on a running back screen, disrupted by Wesley Woodyard splitting blocks for a one-yard loss. On third and six, Dalton tried hitting Brandon Tate on a string during the receiver's hitch route, nearly picked off by Tony Carter.