The atmosphere Thursday night was just like fans wanted it to be: like a regular season game. At the first training camp practice open to the public at Invesco Field at Mile High since 2004, fans drank beer, ate nachos and even booed. It seems like football season has already started.

The Broncos’ organization didn’t expect an overwhelming number of fans for the practice. But 13,402 showed up to watch what the team has been working on as the season draws closer.

“It’s a whole new offense. It’s a whole new coach. It’s a whole new organization, and it’s novel,” said Bill Lugsch, who has had Broncos season tickets for the past 47 years. “There’s going to be a lot of interest.”

People continued to show up long after the gates opened at 5:30 p.m., many having to snake their way past the long concession lines. Because only 3,000 people were expected, only two concession stands were operating. Later, a few extra beer stands were opened.

But the lines didn’t deter fans from sitting in the pleasant weather, close to the field, to get a sneak peek at the team. For some, this was the only time they would be at the stadium to watch the Broncos, citing the price to get in — free — as the reason they were able to attend.

“The Broncos did right by the fans,” Justin Colgrove said after the practice.

For Craig Sinsabaugh, the practice was a highlight of his trip from Albuquerque.

“Denver fans need a reason to get excited,” he said, noting the mood appeared to be great in the seats.

Although all training camp practices have been open to the public, this was the first time so many people in one venue have seen the new coach, the new offense and the new quarterback.

And some weren’t extremely pleased with Kyle Orton’s abilities.

“We’re optimistic that he got all of his bad throws out tonight,” Patrick Sullivan said. “I’m glad it was practice.”

The boos started after two throws by Orton were picked off.

In a town where fans live for that 16-game season, they are longing for a team they can be proud of, especially after the coaching turmoil and quarterback drama during the offseason.

“I’m an optimist,” Rick Martinez said. “I’m going to say 10-6 (record). I’m just talking with my heart.”

The beer was cold and the orange and blue T-shirts were out. The fans got a preview and are ready to see their team in game action.

Anica Wong: 303-954-1720 or awong@denverpost.com

This article has been corrected in this online archive. Originally, due to a reporting error it had an inaccuracy regarding the historical context of the Broncos practice at Invesco Field. It was the team’s first practice at the stadium that was open to the public since 2004.