Denver Broncos Have More Losers Than Winners After Beating Raiders
The Denver Broncos managed an ugly win over the Las Vegas Raiders on Thursday night, finishing 10-7 in a game where neither team seemed eager to seize control. What unfolded looked less like a tactical duel and more like a test of which team could simply execute better.
Despite the Broncos leaving chances open all evening, the Raiders failed to capitalize. Their final opportunity came late in the fourth quarter when Daniel Carlson missed a 48-yard field goal, sealing their fate. With this result, Denver improved to 8-2 and extended its winning streak to seven games.
“This one didn’t earn the team any points against the naysayers who still don’t buy the Broncos as contenders.”
Whether it was the short week of preparation, the windy conditions in Denver, or a combination of factors, the overall play was low quality. The performance didn’t do much to convince skeptics about the Broncos’ long-term prospects.
Defensive Performance
Denver’s defense was the real story. The team relentlessly pressured Geno Smith, recording six sacks and numerous hurries. Smith struggled to move by the end of the night, but the Raiders chose to keep him in rather than switching to Kenny Pickett. Nik Bonitto stood out with 1.5 sacks and constant disruption.
“When the Broncos needed big plays by the defense in this game, Bonitto was there to make them.”
Key Takeaways
- The Broncos advanced to 8-2 with a seventh straight victory.
- The Raiders failed to equalize late due to a missed field goal.
- Denver’s defensive front dominated, led by Nik Bonitto.
- Despite the win, doubts remain about the Broncos as contenders.
Author’s summary: Denver won an ugly, defense-driven 10-7 game over Las Vegas, extending its streak but doing little to convince skeptics the team is a true championship threat.