Offense: One TD is enough
The Broncos’ offense didn’t exactly sprint across this season’s finish line. They started poorly (three punts in their first four possessions) and finished badly (fumble, punt and missed field goal) to allow the Raiders back in the game. eclipsed 1,000 yards rushing despite averaging only 2.9 yards per carry Sunday. Drew Lock played turnover-free for the second consecutive week and was 17-of-28 passing for 177 yards.
Defense: Red zone saves
Oakland rolled up 477 yards but scored only one touchdown on ’s 3-yard pass to Hunter Renfrow with seven seconds remaining. It was a classic bend-but-don’t-break game. The Broncos allowed big plays, but bowed up in the red zone. The Raiders were 1 of 5 once they reached the 20-yard line. The Broncos also sacked Carr twice and safety Trey Marshall forced a takeaway.
Special teams: Wadman shines
Colby Wadman had a whopping 49.8-yard net average, which meant it was one of the best games of his two-year Broncos career. was good on field goals of 43, 49 and 51 yards, but missed a 57-yard attempt that gave the Raiders a final chance. Diontae Spencer had only one punt return. On coverage, Josh Watson missed a chance to recover a muffed punt in the first half, but recovered the onside kick in the final seconds.
Coaching: Forgettable fourth quarter
The Broncos’ ability to win games with three starting quarterbacks and finish with wins in seven of their last 12 games is commendable. But the fourth quarter wasn’t very pretty and that has to fall at least a little bit on the coaching staff. The Broncos tried to give this game away, but the Raiders didn’t want it, either. Going for the 57-yard field goal from McManus was a gamble that nearly backfired.
Overall: 0-4 to 7-9
The Broncos can enter the new year knowing they have a quarterback (Lock) in place for 2020, a No. 1-type receiver () who can stress defenses and the return of from ACL surgery to anchor the pass rush with . The draft will be huge for general manager , who must hit on multiple starters but also improve the team depth.
