The Denver Broncos came into Week 17 with a lot of controversy — specifically at the quarterback position — but ended on Sunday with a win, a 16-9 victory over the Los Angeles Chargers.
We take a look at the studs and duds from the win on New Year’s Eve.
Stud: Jaleel McLaughlin
Broncos running back Jaleel McLaughlin got carries and catches in bunches (eight carries for 44 yards and three catches for 18 yards) during Sunday’s win over Los Angeles. His explosiveness proved to be a much-needed spark during drives, and helped move the chains.
Dud: Javonte Williams
Running back Javonte Williams hasn’t looked like himself in a few weeks, as he rushed 15 times for 41 yards against a porous Chargers defense. It has been a rebound season for the third-year back who is coming off a serious knee injury last year and is still the leading rusher for Denver. We will see how he does in Week 18 against the Las Vegas Raiders.
Neither stud nor dud: Jarrett Stidham
Quarterback Jarrett Stidham made his first start as the Broncos signal-caller, and he performed at an average level, going 20-of-32 for 224 yards and touchdown. Stidham did have a few drives stall out, but Denver did not have any three and outs during the game. Stidham consistently tried hitting downfield shots, but did not connect on any of them. He played well enough to have earned the last game’s start.
Stud: Lil'Jordan Humphrey
Wide receiver Lil’Jordan Humphrey scored on a 54-yard catch and run where he eluded five tackles and left a pile of Chargers in his wake. It was his third touchdown of the season, and by far his most impressive. He was a bright spot in the offense during the game.
Dud: The Broncos' playoff aspirations
The Broncos were officially eliminated from playoff contention, ending a roller coaster ride that has been weeks in the making. Denver still has a chance to pull out a winning season for the first time since 2016, with a win over the Las Vegas Raiders on the road next week.
