Broncos' Miller says he knew QB Allen was 'going to give us the magic'
The Denver Broncos got a steadying 24-19 win over the Cleveland Browns in Week 9 thanks in large part to new starting quarterback Brandon Allen.
Perennial Pro Bowler Von Miller told the media postgame that he predicted the breakout performance from Allen, who'd never before thrown an NFL pass in his four years in the league.
"I feel like when Lil Wayne found Drake," Miller said after the game, according to team reporter Aric DiLalla. "I called it at the beginning of the week. I said, 'He's going to give us the magic. He's going to be ready to go.' He was cold in college, and I just knew if he got an opportunity, he'd be good."
Allen completed 12 of 20 passes for 193 yards and two touchdowns with no turnovers in his first career NFL start. He was taking over for Joe Flacco under center after the Broncos placed the veteran on injured reserve with a neck injury last week.
Despite Miller's effusive praise, Allen was much more measured in evaluating himself.
"They helped me out. I made some dicey throws that Courtland (Sutton) bailed me out a couple times on," Allen said. "Noah (Fant), what an incredible play by him just to catch that ball and take it the distance. It was incredible. You can't do any of those things without the offensive line and the way they were blocking."
The 27-year-old pivot also praised his offensive coordinator, Rich Scangarello, for taking the time this week to work with him and tailor a game plan that fit his skill set.
Allen and the 3-6 Broncos will have a bye next week before they head to the Twin Cities to take on the 6-3 Minnesota Vikings in Week 11.