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Cardinals vs. Broncos: What was the play of the game?

Cardinals fall in an injury plagued matchup but not without some spectacular moments.

Ron Antonelli

The Cardinals suffered their first loss, falling 41-20 at Sports Authority Field at Mile High to a hot Denver Broncos offensive unit. The Cards still hold onto their first place title but it could be shared depending on how the Seahawks perform against the Redskins Monday night. Despite the loss, the Cardinals did produce some impressive plays. What do you think was the play of the game Sunday afternoon?

1) Capitalizing on Peyton's Mistake:

Although the Cardinals fell later in the game they put up a great deal of early resistance. Cornerback Jerraud Powers had the first nab at Manning when he read and intercepted an underthrown ball intended for Wes Welker. Although the Cardinals did not get points off of the turn over, this interception proved to the Cardinals that Peyton is human, promoting their aggressiveness and lead to another Manning pick.

2) Defensive Back Interception:

Late in the second quarter, Cardinals 300-pound defensive end Calais Campbell came up with what looked to be a miracle interception. After shredding a block, Campbell read the screen pass, pulled off a spectacular catch, spun around, and sprinted 23 yards before being tackled by Peyton at the 5-yard line. This turnover set up the score and spurred Cardinal momentum.

3) Ellington Punching It In:

Andre Ellington was responsible for both of the Cardinals' touchdowns against the Broncos. Following Calais Campbell's sprint for the end zone that was stopped short of the goal line by Peyton Manning, Ellington carried the momentum. His 5-yard, 6- point punch pulled the Cards within one.

4) Thomas to Ellington:

After a Drew Stanton's game ending injury in the third quarter, the rookie Logan Thomas played his first NFL snaps - two of the first three resulting in sacks. However, his only completion of the game came on a pass into traffic to Andre Ellington. Ellington took the ball up the sideline 81 yards for the touchdown bringing the Cardinals within one once again.

So what do you think? What is the most prominent silver lining in the Cardinals loss? Vote in the poll and comment below!