The schedule release - the next big day in the non-stop, football-never-ends, NFL calendar is still a few weeks away but rumors are already spreading that the Denver Broncos could be featured prominently in the NFL's Opening Weekend.

According to Mike Klis, the Broncos have been told they are strong candidates to open their 2012 regular season at home on NBC's Sunday Night Football. Looking at their home opponents in 2012, Klis sees the Pittsburgh Steelers as the likely opponent in a rematch of the Wildcard Playoff game won by the Broncos 29-23 in Overtime.

"Our fans should get ready for more night games," Broncos president Joe Ellis said. "Home and road."

Peyton Manning's arrival in Denver surely has the NFL and the networks chomping at the bit to get the team in front of as many eyes as possible, though the TV folks wanted the Broncos with Tim Tebow at quarterback as well.

Sunday Night Football has become the marquee prime-time game of the week, taking the place of Monday NIght Football which is now on ESPN. I can't think of a better way for the Broncos to start their 2012 season than at home against the Steelers.