Offense — B
The Broncos would have liked another crack at a first-and-goal situation in the third quarter that forced them to settle for a field goal, and two turnovers hurt, but guided an efficient effort that flashed big-play ability throughout the game.
Defense — B
Even with a battered defensive line, the Broncos kept running back in check and kept Chargers quarterback from finding a rhythm for most of the game.
Special Teams — A
The late blocked kick was the “kicker.” Big returns by Isaiah McKenzie (punt) and Cody Latimer (kickoff) helped create short fields. But Brandon McManus missed a field-goal attempt.
Coaching — A
won his home debut, which has essentially been a rite of passage for new Broncos coaches. He had to sweat the outcome, but left his first game victorious.
Game balls
Trevor Siemian: To open his second season as a starter, the Broncos quarterback spread the ball around, converted big third downs when he had to and accounted for three Denver touchdowns (two passing, one rushing).
: The wide receiver went a long way toward solidifying himself as a reliable target by catching two touchdown passes from Siemian — both on third down.
: After missing most of training camp while recovering from a hip injury, Barrett registered a sack of Philip Rivers and generally wreaked havoc in the pass rush.
