Plenty of teams have lost to the cerebral and competitive Peyton Manning. But when the Steelers lose, it's always a little more melancholy in the Steel City the day after.

Manning, making his triumphant return to the NFL after a season out of the game, led the Denver Broncos to a 31-19 win over the Steelers on Sunday Night Football in America. Manning ran the no-huddle offense effectively, his biggest completion a long TD pass to Demariyus Thomas that got the momentum for the Broncos.

The Steelers clearly missed Rashard Mendenhall and an effective running game plus depth on the offensive line, staples of team success. Playing at altitude also appeared to be a factor in the loss, writes Behind The Steel Curtain's Neal Coolong.

The Steelers were dominated at the point of attack in the running and passing games, and looked gassed, despite owning a huge advantage in time of possession.

The Steelers will try to get right in time for the New York Jets next Monday at home.

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