Offense — B-
A porous offensive line put quarterback in danger for most of the game, but the offense ran a season-high 83 plays and converted a season-high 11 of 19 third-downs attempts.
Defense — A+
Their two starting safeties accounted for four turnovers, with nabbing two interceptions and a fumble recovery (from a force) and recovered another (from a Jared Crick force).
Special teams — A
Their two backup safeties accounted for a game-winning defensive 2-point conversion, with Justin Simmons blocking a point-after kick attempt and Will Parks running it back to the end zone.
Coaches — B
They found perfect offensive balance to start the game, running six times and passing six more. And the defensive game plan stunted the high-flying Saints to only 51 snaps and 20:38 in possession time.
Game balls
Darian Stewart: Who needs in the defensive backfield when Stew steps up to intercept two passes and recover a fumble?
: Don’t look now, but the Broncos have themselves a major weapon again. Thomas had another receiving touchdown and averaged 10.9 yards on eight receptions.
Justin Simmons: Jumping Jehoshaphat! This rookie from Boston College has got our attention after showing off his 40-inch leaping ability to give the Broncos a second life by blocking a Saints extra-point attempt that Will Parks returned for the winning two-points.
The Denver Post
