The Denver Broncos defeated the Las Vegas Raiders 29-19 on the road on Sunday, improving to 7-5 on the season. Here are five quick takeaways from Denver’s big win in the AFC West.
1. Good luck predicting the backfield rotation: Two weeks ago, it was the Audric Estime show. Last week, Javonte Williams led the way. On Sunday, Jaleel McLaughlin led the Broncos’ backfield with 44 rushing yards, although he did get one less carry than Williams. It’s truly a three-headed backfield. That might be frustrating for fantasy football managers, but it’s working for Denver’s offense.
2. Maxx Crosby was held without a sack: Mike McGlinchey had a few penalties early in the game, but overall, he did well against one of the AFC’s best pass rushers. Crosby ended the day without a sack, snapping a 10-game streak against the Broncos of recording at least one sack.
3. Zach Allen was missed: Denver’s defensive line — and the entire defense — missed Allen, who was sidelined with a heel injury. Before the game, Allen was spotted in a walking boot. The team’s Week 14 bye can’t arrive soon enough.
Zach Allen in a walking boot pic.twitter.com/KtYcHHpx1v
— Romi Bean (@Romi_Bean) November 24, 2024
4. Courtland Sutton is on a tear: Over the last five games, Sutton has hauled in 36 receptions for 467 yards and three touchdowns. He’s on pace to post a career high in receptions (81) this fall with 1,054 receiving yards and seven touchdowns. He has been Mr. Reliable for rookie QB Bo Nix.
5. Speaking of Bo Nix: He’s on pace to win the Offensive Rookie of the Year award. Jayden Daniels has more total yards (3,169) than Nix (2,848), but Nix has more total touchdowns (21) than Daniels (17). Nix has been red-hot in recent weeks and if he keeps this up, accolades will follow at the end of the season.
