NFL: Manning inspires comeback as Broncos rally against San Diego

Peyton Manning recovered from a off-form first half to overcome a 24-point gap and lead Denver to a 35-24 win over the Chargers.

Denver Broncos quaterback Payton Manning makes a throw during their match against the San Diego Chargers

Peyton Manning orchestrated the biggest comeback of his career as the Denver Broncos erased a 24-point half-time deficit to beat the San Diego Chargers 35-24 at Qualcomm Stadium.

Manning endured a miserable opening half that included an interception return for a touchdown, before the quarterback climbed out of a 24-0 hole with a vintage display after the break as the Broncos went on a rampage.

He completed 13 of his 14 passes for 167 yards in the second half as the Broncos (3-3) tied the Chargers at the top of the AFC West.

The result eclipsed Manning's previous best second half turnaround of 21 points and equalled the second biggest halftime comeback in the Super Bowl era.

"It sure was special considering what was on the line," said Manning afterwards.

Manning's 21-yard touchdown pass to Brandon Stokley gave Denver their first lead of the game with just over nine minutes remaining.

Chris Harris then sealed the victory with a 46-yard interception return for a touchdown with a little over two minutes left on the clock.

Chargers counterpart Philip Rivers, meanwhile, had a night to forget, notching up four interceptions - three in the final quarter - and two fumbles, with two of his turnovers returned for touchdowns.

twitter

Follow us