Marlboro County man helps Broncos to NFL playoff win
Posted: 01.08.2012 at 8:59 PM
Robert Ayers sacked Ben Roesthlisberger twice on Sunday.  / AP Photo
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The Denver Broncos eliminated the Pittsburgh Steelers 29-23 in overtime in Sunday's AFC Wildcard game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High, Denver, Colorado.

Former WPDE All-Zone football selection Robert Ayers from Marlboro County High made three tackles including two sacks for the Broncos. Ayers final sack came on the final play of regulation and sent the game to overtime tied at 23-all.

Denver quarterback Tim Tebow threw an 80 yard touchdown pass to Demaryius Thomas on the first play of overtime to secure the Broncos victory. Thomas had four catches for 204 yards. Tebow completed 10 of 21 passes for 316 yards and two TD's. Tebow also ran for a score.

On the opposite side of the field, 2003 WPDE Zoneman winner Lawrence Timmons out of Wilson High had six tackles for the Steelers including one for a loss.

Denver advances to the AFC Division Playoffs next Saturday, January 14 at the New England Patriots at 8 p.m.

In an NFC Wildcard game, the New York Giants eliminated the Atlanta Falcons 24-2. In the loss, former Lamar High and South Carolina Gamecocks defensive end John Abraham had four tackles, including two for loss and a sack for the Falcons.

The New York Giants advance to the NFC Division Playoffs next Sunday, January 15 at the Green Bay Packers at 4:30 p.m.