Vernon Davis (80) of the Denver Broncos runs after making a catch against the Chicago Bears during the second half of the Broncos’ 17-15 win at Soldier Field. The Chicago Bears hosted the Denver Broncos on Nov. 22, 2015. (AAron Ontiveroz, The Denver Post)
The best and worst from the Broncos’ 17-15 win over Chicago in Week 11 action on Sunday…
Run game shines. Denver’s offense goes how its run game goes. After two games of running the ball for fewer than 70 yards in each of the past two games, the Broncos gained 81 rushing yards in the first half against the Bears. Ronnie Hillman led the team with 102 yards. C.J. Anderson added 59. The team finished with a 170 yards.
OD and VD. Broncos’ coach Gary Kubiak loves tight ends and he showed it Sunday. Tight ends Vernon Davis and Owen Daniels were Denver’s leading receivers, combining for 10 catches and 137 yards.
Turnovers return. Danny Trevathan’s interception was the Broncos first forced turnover since Oct. 18 against Cleveland. Malik Jackson added a fumble recovery after Brandon Marshall’s fourth quarter strip sack.
Secondary gave up big plays. The Broncos’ secondary gave up quite a few big passing plays. Chicago’s Marquess Wilson and Josh Bellamy got behind Denver cornerbacks a few times for 25-plus yards of receptions. Great red-zone defense saved a few from turning into touchdowns.
Penalties strike again. The Broncos’ defense has battled with penalties all season and did again. This time, it had one personal foul call — a T.J. Ward late hit. But, the defense was called for pass interferences that gave the Bears huge chunks. The Broncos finished with eight penalties for 118 yards.
Protect Osweiler. The Broncos’ offensive line allowed five sacks Sunday. Some blame is on Brock Osweiler, who has to get rid of the ball more quickly.
