The Denver Broncos relied on their stout defense to secure a 10-7 win against division rival Las Vegas Raiders on Thursday night. Despite a lackluster offensive showing, the Broncos' defense made key plays to keep the Raiders at bay.
This blocked punt set up the decisive field goal in the final seconds of the third quarter — a 32-yard attempt successfully converted by kicker Wil Lutz.
Denver limited the Raiders to just 188 yards and held them to 4-of-15 on third down conversions. Raiders quarterback Geno Smith was noticeably hampered due to injury in the second half.
Nik Bonitto contributed 1.5 sacks, pushing a Broncos defense on track to set the NFL season sack record through 10 weeks.
The lone touchdown came from a 53-yard drive in the second quarter. The Broncos then capitalized on the blocked punt near the end zone, setting up the winning field goal.
Denver closed out the game with a 47-yard drive that ran 4:26 off the clock, securing their narrow victory.
“A blocked punt by safety JL Skinner and recovered by Tyler Badie deep in Vegas territory led to the difference-making field goal,”
Author's summary: The Broncos’ dominating defense overcame offensive struggles to clinch a tight 10-7 win against the Raiders, highlighted by crucial sacks, a blocked punt, and timely stops.