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ENGLEWOOD, Colo. — As Sean Payton prepared to transition his offense to a rookie quarterback for the first time in an extensive 17-year coaching career in the NFL, he emphasized two critical components necessary for success: a robust running game and a solid defense.
Both elements were prominently displayed during the Broncos’ impressive 33-10 victory over the Saints, who were dealing with a slew of injuries, in Payton’s poignant return to New Orleans on Thursday night.
“Seeing so many former Saints coaches and players out there, it’s a memorable experience for all of us,” stated defensive end Zach Allen. “It’s definitely something we’re all going to remember for a long time.”
Under Vance Joseph, the Broncos’ defense made a definitive statement by registering six sacks, securing two turnovers, and even scoring a defensive touchdown (though another was called back due to a penalty). The team also dominated the rushing game with an impressive total of 225 yards. Quarterback Bo Nix contributed significantly with 75 yards, bouncing back from a challenging performance against the Chargers the previous week by leading the team on six consecutive scoring drives. Javonte Williams ran for two touchdowns, complemented by four field goals from former Saints kicker Wil Lutz.
“We need to convert some of those field goals into touchdowns,”Nix observed. “But it was promising to start strong and establish momentum early. Our first play resulted in a first down, and, as usual, the defense held it down for us. We played well overall and our rushing attack was effective, which is always beneficial.”
Williams led the ground game with 88 yards off 14 carries, celebrating his first career game with two rushing touchdowns.
“Everything synced up for both the offense and defense,” Williams remarked. “It was a fantastic game for us.”
The Broncos have successfully limited opponents to one touchdown or fewer in four games this season, and they have allowed ten or fewer points three times.
“When everyone performs their role, we can achieve great things,” Allen stated. “We’ve been discussing this since OTAs. Last year, people were worried, but we’re in a much better place now. There’s still work to be done, but we have the right people here to make it happen.”
Nix is also aware that the offense still has areas for growth.
“We’re going to keep looking for ways to create explosive plays and maintain the offensive momentum we demonstrated today,” he commented. “The focus will be on replicating this performance in the weeks ahead.”
What’s working well?
The defense has been exceptional throughout the season, and in Thursday’s match, they managed to prevent the Saints from reaching the end zone on 11 of their drives before conceding a late touchdown.
What requires improvement?
Despite the comfortable victory, there is still ample room for advancements on the offensive front. While the Broncos scored on six straight drives, four of those drives resulted in field goals made by Lutz.
Stock Up
ILB Cody Barton excelled, tying for the team lead with eight tackles. Additionally, he recorded a sack, a quarterback hit, forced a fumble, recovered a fumble, and broke up a pass. He scored a touchdown during the game, while another was called back due to a penalty. Barton has taken on the responsibility of calling defensive signals since Alex Singleton was sidelined with a season-ending injury.
Stock Down
WR Courtland Sutton’s performance was noted as a concern since he received no targets during the game. Meanwhile, Williams had three receptions, putting him at 23 catches for the season, which is two more than Sutton, who is regarded as the Broncos’ top receiver. After an extended holdout during the spring, Sutton revised his contract in July, which included an additional $1.5 million in performance-based bonuses. Last month, the Broncos converted a significant portion of his salary into a signing bonus.
Injury Updates
Star cornerback Patrick Surtain II is anticipated to exit concussion protocol by next week.
Key Statistics
28 — total sacks by the Broncos, leading the league.
5 — consecutive games in which Nik Bonitto has logged at least one sack.
4 — sacks recorded by Zach Allen, just one shy of his total from last season.
1 — game ball presented to Payton by team owner Greg Penner.
Upcoming Games
The Broncos will take on the Carolina Panthers at home on October 27.
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