In the NFL, there's the constant temptation to make every losing streak a civic crisis and describe each game-winning field goal with the drama of John Madden's booming voice.
On a Sunday night that felt as cold as desperation, with the Broncos down to the final tick of reasonable hope in this season, Denver beat Pittsburgh 31-28 in what can only be described as a must-win.
But how important can any football game really be?
As the clock showed 9:55 p.m. in the Broncos locker room, cornerback Domonique Foxworth sat alone in a corner, a towel draped over his head.
It was a scene that needed no explanation to rip at your heart.
In a ceremony before the opening kickoff, the Broncos had honored the memories of deceased teammates Darrent Williams and Damien Nash, who both died far too young earlier this year. A mother who lost her son and a widow who lost her husband were in the house, and had been on the same field with the Broncos, hearing the same cheers.
full story:
The Denver Post - Hope revived after victory