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Colts to face Broncos in week 8 matchup

Perhaps the first really big match of the season will take place when the Colts (6-0) will enter Invesco Field at Mile High to face the Broncos (5-1) on Sunday. The two teams, ranked second and third, respectively, in Dr. Z`s Week 8 Power Rankings will be tested, as will their prospects for reaching the Super Bowl.

The key match up in the game will be between Indy quarterback Peyton Manning and the Denver defense. But called to the test is also the Indy defensive unit, which will have to stop Broncos running backs Mike and Tatum Bell. Both teams will miss key players. Colts defensive tackle Montae Reagor remains hospitalized in Indianapolis after his SUV flipped over on his way to Game 7 versus Washington, and the Broncos left tackle Matt Lepsis tore his anterior cruciate ligament and will miss the remainder of the season.

This year has seen superb defense from the Broncos. They are forcing turnovers, stopping third down conversions, playing strong red-zone defense, pressuring quarterbacks and gang tackling opposing runners. In Manning they will find perhaps the best quarterback in the league, coming off a brilliant performance last week.