Broncos Not Cutting It

Referring to the Broncos’ dormant running game, Terrell Davis said, “Like I told somebody else today, it’s almost like trying to start a lawn mower. You’re pulling it and pulling it and it wants to start, but it’s not starting. But I think once it starts, we’ll start rolling.”

Davis, who led the NFL with 2,008 yards rushing last season, barely is on pace for 1,000 this season.

The Broncos, who ranked second in the NFL in rushing last season, stand 21st after three games.

In their last six quarters, the Raiders have amassed 19 penalties for 163 yards. Last week against the Bears, every Raider offensive lineman but right tackle Lincoln Kennedy was flagged for holding.

If there is solace for the Raiders, it’s that most of their penalties are physical mistakes, not mental errors such as false starts or delays of game.

The Chargers brag about their rugged run defense--and rightly so. But a huge red flag has gone up regarding their pass defense as they prepare for the visiting Chiefs. Colt quarterback Peyton Manning threw for 404 yards and two touchdowns in last week’s win over the Chargers. And that could be just a clue of what lies ahead.

Cornerback Terrance Shaw is hobbling because of an ankle sprain, and Pro Bowl strong safety Rodney Harrison strained a hamstring and was already nursing a tender ankle.