The Denver Broncos (11-2) took over the top spot in the AFC on Sunday with a 24-17 win over the Las Vegas Raiders.
Here are the grades from the victory in Las Vegas:
Offense
Running back R.J. Harvey and quarterback Bo Nix led a balanced attack on offense for the Broncos. Denver had drives of over eight minutes, nine minutes, and 10 minutes in the win. The offense was methodical in moving down the field against the struggling Raiders defense. Harvey had his best game as a pro and scored his ninth touchdown of the season, which leads NFL rookies. Nix was extremely efficient and completed passes to 11 different receivers.
Grade: A
Defense
After giving up an opening drive touchdown to the Raiders, the Broncos defense toughened up before giving up 10 points in garbage time. Denver had four sacks and pressured quarterback Geno Smith, who went out with an injury, for most of the game. Defensive end Zach Allen had three QB hits in the easy victory, and linebacker Nik Bonitto had two sacks to move his season total to 12.5.
Grade: A
Special teams
Marvin Mims showed why he is an All-Pro punt returner with a 48-yard touchdown return that gave the Broncos a 14-7 lead. The return was set up after punter Jeremy Crawshaw pinned the Raiders at their own 5-yard line and the defense forced a punt. Wil Lutz hit all three of his extra points and one field goal.
Grade: A
Coaching
Coach Sean Payton’s offense looked balanced and controlled after the coach called out how bad the game plan was in the last Raiders game, which ended 10-7 last month. Denver didn’t look past Las Vegas and did what it was expected to do.
Grade: A