2016 NFL Power Rankings Week 2: Los Angeles Rams Edition

Sep 8, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos quarterback Trevor Siemian (13) calls out from the goal line in the fourth quarter against the Carolina Panthers at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. The Broncos defeated the Panthers 21-20. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

2. Denver Broncos (5)

It wasn’t the prettiest of games, but give the Denver Broncos credit for rallying in the second half by overcoming a 17-7 deficit against the Panthers to win on opening night.

Without a strong performance by the defense, there’s no way the Broncos would have come away with a win in this one, and the argument can even be made they should have ended up losing after a missed field goal by the Panthers in the final seconds was caused by a bad snap. Still, a win is a win no matter how it comes, and this win shows Denver is ready to make their case for being one of the top defenses once again in 2016.

While Trevor Siemian clearly needs more experience as the starter, one of the main concerns for the Broncos moving forward will be Demaryius Thomas. The wide receiver suffered a hip injury against the Panthers, and unfortunately, the seriousness of the injury is still unknown at this point.

Hopefully, the injury is only minor for Thomas as Denver could use all of the help they can get on offense with Siemian adjusting to being the starter.

Next: 1. New England Patriots

2. Denver Broncos (5)

Schedule