Offense — A
Quarterback , accurately maligned during the four-game losing streak, looked like a different player against Arizona. He kept plays alive by leaving the pocket, even converting a third-and-6 via scramble, saw was uncovered 45 yards downfield (64-yard touchdown) and threw a couple of darts to on the sideline. For all the talk about run-pass balance, this is an offense whose most seasoned players are involved in the passing game (Keenum/Thomas/Sanders).
Defense — A
The Broncos’ defense had four interceptions in Weeks 1-6 (200 pass attempts). Against Arizona rookie quarterback , they had two interceptions in his first 11 attempts and returned both for touchdowns — (20 yards) and (53 yards). Zach Kerr and had first-half sacks. We never got a good look at how the Broncos would have solved their rush defense issues because the 35-3 halftime lead forced Arizona to become one dimensional. added a third-quarter sack/forced fumble.
Special teams — A
If he wanted to, could boom every kickoff into the end zone. But his first-half kickoffs went to the 4- and 2-yard lines and the goal-line and the Broncos’ coverage team raced downfield to stop the Cardinals at the 17-, 16- and 14-yard lines. It is something that should be implemented moving forward. got his first chance to return punts and had a 15-yard return. If DaeSean Hamilton (knee) misses time and Adam Jones (thigh) continues to be out, Lindsay is a nice option.
Coaching — A
All coaches look better when the defense produces two touchdowns in the first quarter. But the play-calling appeared to be all-around solid. Offensive coordinator dialed up a trick play that had Sanders throwing a 28-yard touchdown to and also re-introduced the screen game, something future opponents will have to acknowledge. On defense, the Broncos knew Arizona was playing without both starting guards and their two first-half sacks (by Zach Kerr and Shaq Barrett) came up the middle.
Game Balls
LB Todd Davis: On the game’s second play, posted his first career interception (off a deflected pass) and returned it 20 yards for a touchdown.
WR Emmanuel Sanders: In just the first half, he threw a 28-yard touchdown to Courtland Sutton and collected a 64-yard touchdown pass from Case Keenum.
CB Chris Harris: His first interception return for a touchdown since 2015 went for 53 yards.
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