Report: ‘Strong Chance’ Broncos Open Season in Prime Time, Likely Against Steelers in Denver

Shocker, right?

Peyton Manning's debut with the Denver Broncos will likely come in prime time in Week 1, the Denver Post reports. According to the report, the Broncos have been notified there's a "strong chance" that they'll be in prime time to open the season.

It's also likely that Manning and Co. will open against the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Broncos have the Steelers, Saints and Patriots on their schedule this season, but as the Post points out, there are reasons to likely rule out both New Orleans and New England. The Saints are likely out because the league won't want to showcase the same team it just came down on in Bountygate, and the Patriots are probably out because they're scheduled to host the Broncos this season.

So, if the league wants the Broncos hosting a marquee matchup in Week 1, that leaves Pittsburgh. The report also indicates that it's likely the Broncos will play on Sept. 9 in NBC's Sunday Night Football opener.