Broncos Defeat Patriots, 13–10, in AFL’s First League Game
Mingo Sparks Denver Attack; Tripucka and Carmichael Key Early Breakthrough
BOSTON, Sept. 9 — Professional football returned to Boston last night under a new banner, but the debut of the American Football League did not bring the result the home crowd expected. Before 21,597 fans at Boston University Field, the Denver Broncos upset the Boston Patriots, 13–10, in the first official game in AFL history.
Boston struck first on a 35‑yard field goal by Gino Cappelletti late in the opening period, but Denver seized the lead on the first play of the second quarter and never relinquished it.
Denver Takes Command Early
Frank Tripucka, directing the Broncos with veteran poise, faked a downfield pass and then swung a throw to Al Carmichael at the Denver 45. Carmichael eluded a tackler and followed a convoy of blockers led by J. W. Brodnax to the left sideline, racing untouched into the end zone. Gene Mingo’s conversion made it 7–3.
Denver, winless in preseason play, showed far more spark than in earlier exhibitions. Tripucka, Carmichael, and Mingo provided steady production, and the Broncos’ defense repeatedly halted Boston drives.
Mingo’s Long Runback
The Broncos extended their lead in the third quarter when Mingo fielded a Tommy Greene punt at the Denver 24 and sprinted down the right sideline for a touchdown. His extra‑point attempt missed, leaving the score 13–3.
Mingo, discovered by Denver while playing service football, was the standout offensive performer of the night. He gained 66 yards on eight carries and added the long punt return that proved decisive.
Patriots Rally Behind Songin
Boston’s best chance came moments later when Chuck Shonta intercepted a Tripucka pass at the Patriot 45 and returned it to the Denver 10. Butch Songin, entering at quarterback, found Jimmy Colclough in the end zone after a series of fakes. Cappelletti’s kick narrowed the margin to 13–10.
Colclough, shaken up earlier while fielding a punt, returned to make the key catch that revived Boston’s hopes.
Late Opportunity Slips Away
With six minutes remaining, Greene’s punt struck a Denver player and was recovered by Boston guard Charlie Leo at the Bronco 46. Songin hit Jim Crawford on the right flank for a gain to the Denver 14, giving the Patriots a prime chance to tie or take the lead.
But Denver’s Austin Gonsoulin intercepted Songin’s next pass at the two‑yard line, ending the threat. The Broncos then moved out of danger behind Mingo and Tripucka, aided by several Boston penalties, and advanced to the Patriot 12 as time expired.
Denver Controls Key Moments
The Broncos held slight edges in rushing and passing and capitalized on Boston mistakes. The Patriots, who had dominated Denver in preseason play, could not match the Broncos’ execution in the league opener.
Boston’s defense produced several strong stands, but penalties and missed opportunities proved costly. Denver’s blockers repeatedly opened lanes for Carmichael and Mingo, and Tripucka’s experience steadied the attack.
AFL Era Begins
Though the Patriots fell short, the game marked the beginning of the AFL’s regular‑season competition. Both clubs showed flashes of promise, and the spirited play suggested that the new league may offer more balance than preseason results indicated.
Courtesy of The Boston Globe September 10, 1960 via Newspapers.com