How was the performance of the top running backs?
The most heated remaining roster battle, between tailbacks Kapri Bibbs and Ronnie Hillman, got some clarity. Bibbs started the game and was given all of the running reps in the first quarter, with five carries for 26 yards. Trevor Siemian got all of the initial snaps last week before he was named the starting quarterback. That may be a clue to Bibbs earning a roster spot.
Which player really helped or hurt his standing?
Linebacker Zaire Anderson already was a near-lock to make the roster. Against Arizona, he improved his lot even more. Anderson was everywhere, making tackles, shedding blocks, tag-teaming a goal-line stand and chasing quarterback Matt Barkley. He also recovered a fumble deep in Arizona territory in the first quarter.
How did the new offensive line look?
None of the starters played. The Broncos used Justin Murray, Robert Myers, Dillon Day, Connor McGovern and Lars Hanson to start the game. The most important on that list was Day. The long-haired No. 3 center was playing in place of backup James Ferentz (knee injury). Matt Paradis will be the starting center. The drop-off from there may be severe.
Any rookies grab our eyes?
Adam Gotsis was beastly at defensive end, and wide receiver Mose Frazier made some keen catches in the first quarter. But the most crucial rookie test belonged to punter Riley Dixon. After the Broncos cut veteran Britton Colquitt this week, they gave the job to Dixon, a seventh-round pick out of Syracuse. But Dixon miffed a wobbler late in the first half for just 18 yards. It led to an Arizona touchdown.
