Denver answered Richmond’s late lead with consecutive touchdown drives, riding Lawson Pike’s record-tying five rushing scores to a 35-27 Season 6 opening victory.

Denver Summit owner Lila Grant said the team’s preseason No. 1 ranking reflects an offseason effort to eliminate weak spots ahead of Thursday’s opener at Richmond.

Denver enters Season 6 as the most complete preseason team, with top-ranked offense and defense. Washington leads the chase, while several clubs profile as dangerous but less balanced.

The Denver Summit said owner Lila Grant has completed an offseason roster rebuild ahead of the team’s opener and will brand Bennett Stadium as “The Peak” for the franchise’s first season.

Denver and Charlotte completed a trade centered on Marcus Gentry and Micah Temple, with the Summit also sending roughly $150 thousand in cash.