The Denver Broncos had a dominating brand of defense on display during their last game against the Las Vegas Raiders. They squeaked out an agonizingly painful 10-7 win on the road in Empower Field at Mile High. Quarterback Geno Smith was under constant pressure from the fierce pass rush. He ultimately ended the game with 150 yards passing, one touchdown and two interceptions. Congratulations to the Broncos on winning their seventh straight championship! With this victory, they’ve improved their season record to an incredible 8-2, a mark they haven’t achieved since 2015.
Geno Smith was under siege all night long, getting sacked six times and pressured on over 50% of his dropbacks. This consistent pressure contributed to the Raiders’ offensive struggles, as Smith’s performance reflects the impact of the Broncos’ defensive strategy. The Broncos have now accumulated 46 sacks through their first ten games, placing them on track to challenge the single-season record of 72 sacks set by the 1984 Chicago Bears.
Impressive Defensive Performance
Perhaps just as surprising though, has been the play of the Denver Broncos’ defense, which has truly become a unit to fear this season. With 46 sacks after just ten games, it marks the highest total since the New Orleans Saints recorded 44 sacks in the same timeframe back in 2000. This impressive statistic underscores the efficiency and effectiveness of the Broncos’ defensive unit, which has been pivotal in their success this season.
Despite the Raiders’ efforts, Denver’s defense largely contained their offense, allowing only a single touchdown that came during a brief lapse in coverage on Las Vegas’ second possession. Then, the Raiders put together the most impressive 41-yard touchdown drive you’ll ever see. The Broncos bounced back with a stifling defense that repeatedly rattled Smith and obliterated the Raiders’ offensive series.
The Broncos’ defensive strategy has proven effective not only against Smith but against other key players on the Raiders’ roster. Smith’s two interceptions are illustrative of his struggles this season. He has now thrown 12 interceptions, the most for a Raiders quarterback through the first nine games since Kerry Collins tied that total in 2004.
Key Moments in the Game
The match produced multiple pivotal moments that changed the course of the match. Beyond Smith’s woes, special teams was present in the most prominent way. Kicker Wil Lutz failed on his one crucial 59-yard attempt. This potential miss would have completely turned the momentum in favor of the Raiders. On the most pivotal third-and-1 of the game, early in the third quarter, Courtland Sutton’s pass wasn’t quite enough. He was finally sacked once, illustrating the deep pressure that Denver’s defense brought all night.
Even with these difficulties, the Raiders’ defense exhibited their own force, limiting the Broncos to only 220 complete yards. That proved to be insufficient against the crude energy and oppression that Denver’s defense used to mercilessly pummel Boston. More than anything, it was the failure to take advantage of opportunities that proved most costly for Las Vegas in their pursuit of victory.
The Broncos’ victory puts an end to their losing streak. It’s advancing them closer to shattering decades-old records! With each game, they inch closer to eclipsing the historic total of 72 sacks set by the Chicago Bears in 1984, creating excitement among fans and analysts alike about what this season may hold.
Looking Ahead
As we move through this season, all eyes will be focused on the Denver Broncos. Just ask them — they’re hellbent on setting a record for fewest points scored! They indeed are in fine fettle and on message. If they continue this momentum, they very well may be the first!
The Broncos can’t ignore their recent successes and must continue to strengthen their weaknesses on the offensive end. As for the Raiders, they will have to regroup and find ways to improve their offensive strategies to support Smith better and avoid similar struggles in future matchups.
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