Dallas Cowboys

Denver Broncos getting ready for rare visit from Cowboys

Denver Broncos outside linebacker Shaquil Barrett, cornerback Aqib Talib and inside linebacker Zaire Anderson run off the field with one second left on the clock against the Los Angeles Chargers after a blocked field goal attempt. The Broncos won 24-21.
Denver Broncos outside linebacker Shaquil Barrett, cornerback Aqib Talib and inside linebacker Zaire Anderson run off the field with one second left on the clock against the Los Angeles Chargers after a blocked field goal attempt. The Broncos won 24-21. AP

Dallas and Denver had contrasting season-opening wins.

The Cowboys rolled over the New York Giants 19-3 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington on Sunday night.

The Broncos edged the Los Angeles Chargers late Monday night 24-21 in Denver.

The teams meet Sunday afternoon in Denver. The Broncos lead the series 7-5 and have won the past five meetings. The last time the Cowboys played in Denver was 2009.

Here are five things to know about the Denver Broncos:

Stout secondary

The Broncos have one of the best secondaries in the league led by All-Pro cornerbacks and Kansas products Aqib Talib and Chris Harris Jr. Chargers quarterback Phillip Rivers threw for less than 200 yards Monday night. Dak Prescott and the Cowboys receiving corps will have their hands full finding holes and passing lanes.

Miller time

Von Miller is among the best pass rushers in the league. He didn’t get one Monday, but he has posted double-digit sacks for three consecutive seasons. He’s been named first-team All-Pro the past two seasons and will be a match-up to watch going against the Cowboys’ top offensive line.

Texas ties

The Broncos have another play-making Texan on its roster in running back Jamaal Charles. The longtime Chief joined the Broncos in the off-season, and had a more complementary role Monday. The former Texas Longhorn had 40 rushing yards on 10 carries.

Leary reunion

Former Cowboys left guard Ron Leary joined the Broncos in free agency. Leary got a four-year, $35 million deal with $20 million guaranteed. But Leary exited Monday’s game with a concussion in the third quarter and might not be available to play against his former team.

Mile High

The Broncos have one of the better home-field advantages in the league. The Cowboys haven’t won in Denver since 1992, and will have their work cut out in the altitude. The Broncos went 5-3 at home last year, plus have won the past five match-ups regardless of venue.

Drew Davison: 817-390-7760, @drewdavison

This story was originally published September 12, 2017 at 8:50 AM with the headline "Denver Broncos getting ready for rare visit from Cowboys."

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