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FINAL | Broncos 24, Chargers 7

Ja’Quan McMillian still couldn’t believe his misfortune after the game. He thought he had a touchdown. No, not thought. “I know I did,” he said with a smile.

The grin, of course, came easily despite the fact that he’ll never watch tape of this game and believe Easton Stick’s hand was moving forward when McMillian rocked him, jarred the ball loose, picked it up on his own and ran it into the end zone. The grin came easily because the Broncos’ bottle rocket of a nickelback is writing himself a starring role in this defense’s Hollywood turnaround story.

A 24-7 win here against the Los Angeles Chargers marked the Broncos’ first divisional road triumph in 1,526 days but also the team’s sixth victory in their past seven games. It came on the strength of a defense embodied by its short-in-stature-only nickel, Parker Gabriel reports. Read the full story.

More Broncos coverage:

• PHOTOS: Denver Broncos trample Los Angeles Chargers 24-7 in NFL Week 14.
• Kiszla: It’s a horse race! The hot breath of the Broncos now on the neck of Patrick Mahomes in AFC West.
• Russell Wilson on Broncos WR Courtland Sutton: “He can catch everything.”
• Broncos WR Jerry Jeudy focused on team’s roll after frustrating outing: “I’m always confident.”
• Broncos RG Quinn Meinerz taken to hospital out of precaution after elevated heart rate, source says.
• Broncos report card: Dominant outing for Vance Joseph’s defense gives Denver offense time to get rolling in win vs. Chargers.
• Heroes and Zeros from Broncos’ 24-7 win over Chargers: Ja’Quan McMillian just keeps making plays.
• Broncos four downs: Russell Wilson sticks fork in Brandon Staley, Chargers. Raiders stick fork in themselves. Playoffs? Heck, yeah, we’re talking playoffs.

Fourth-quarter updates

Stop! They’re already dead. (5:24 p.m.): P.J. Locke just strip sacked Easton Stick. Josey Jewell recovered. Denver ball. But they’re taking kneels now. — Joe Nguyen

Ballgame (5:13 p.m.): Denver just faked out Los Angeles on that play. Russell Wilson fakes a hand off to Javonte Williams and then finds a wide-open Adam Trautman for a 10-yard touchdown. Broncos 24, Chargers 7 with 3:11 to go. — Joe Nguyen 

Tremendous drive from the Broncos.

4 for 4 on third down, punctuated by the easiest TD pass Russell Wilson will have all season to Adam Trautman. — Matt Schubert

Taking it home (5:13 p.m.): The Broncos are now 3 for 3 on this putaway drive. Impressive stuff from Russell Wilson on third down. — Matt Schubert

Run, Russ, run (5:09 p.m.): Another third-down conversion from Wilson, this time with his legs. The clock is running and the Broncos lead 17-7 with less than six minutes left. This thing is done. — Matt Schubert

Big third-down conversion (5:07 p.m.): Critical third-and-long conversion from Russell Wilson to Adam Trautman, who shed a tackler to give the Broncos a first down in Chargers territory. At this point, why throw the ball again? — Matt Schubert

Javonte with a statement (5:04 p.m.): The Chargers have built up momentum, but Denver answered with a 20-yard gain up the gut by Javonte Williams on the first play of the drive. — Joe Nguyen

Chargers with life (5 p.m.): Huge gain by the Chargers after Easton Stick connected Quentin Johnston for a 57-yard gain. The drive was capped off by a 3-yard touchdown run by Colorado’s own Austin Ekeler. Broncos 17, Chargers 7 with 10:37 to go in the game. — Joe Nguyen

The Broncos will NOT get a shutout today. Yes, the Chargers just scored quickly. But they also have just one timeout left and does anyone really believe they can do that again? — Matt Schubert

Meinerz hospitalized (4:57 p.m.): Broncos right guard Quinn Meinerz exited Sunday’s game against the Los Angeles Chargers because of concern about chest tightness and an elevated heart rate, a source told The Denver Post on Sunday. Read the full story. — Parker Gabriel

Injury update (4:55 p.m.): Locke and McMillian are back on the field. — Ryan McFadden

Defensive collision (4:50 p.m.): Broncos safety PJ Locke and cornerback Ja’Quan McMillian went down after colliding into each other on that fourth down play. Both players were able to walk off the field. — Ryan McFadden

Third-quarter analysis — Broncos 17, Chargers 0

Matt Schubert, sports editor: If ever there was a fourth quarter that didn’t need to be played, it’s this one. We all know how this is going to play out. A 17-0 lead on this Chargers team feels like 34-0. As great as the Broncos defense has been, Chargers head coach Brandon Staley has been just as awful. Sure feels like this might be the last time we see him on the L.A. sideline.

Third-quarter updates

Sutton’s magical hands (4:40 p.m.): He wasn’t in on the play, but Courtland Sutton catches everything. Russell Wilson threw it away, but Sutton — with a hand on his hip on the sidelines — effortless caught the pass one handed.

By the way, his last touchdown was his 10th on the season. It’s the 22nd time a Broncos player has caught at least 10 touchdowns in a season and first since 2014 when Thomases Julius and Demaryius each had at least 10. — Joe Nguyen

Struggling offense (4:35 p.m.): If you think the Chargers are bad, take a look at the Vikings-Raiders score in Las Vegas. — Matt Schubert

Touchdown, Broncos (4:24 p.m.): Russell Wilson had all day in the pocket to make that throw. He connected with, who else, Courtland Sutton on a 46-yard touchdown pass. Add another one for Sutton’s highlight reel. Broncos 17, Chargers 0 with 5:55 to go. — Joe Nguyen

How does he keep doing this @SuttonCourtland | : CBS pic.twitter.com/xlRoH9GGBk

— Denver Broncos (@Broncos) December 10, 2023

Courtland Sutton is insane. — Ryan McFadden

Courtland Sutton … all he does is catch touchdowns. — Matt Schubert

Standing tall (4:19 p.m.): The Chargers, on fourth-and-inches, could not convert. Denver’s defense stopped the run play. The Broncos will get the ball on their own 40-yard line. — Joe Nguyen

Brandon Staley keeps rolling the dice on fourth down, and the Broncos defense keeps making him look like a fool for doing it. The L.A. postgame presser is gonna be … interesting.

The best thing the Broncos defense can do is present Brandon Staley with a fourth-and-short situation. — Matt Schubert

The Broncos defense is making this as easy as possible for their offense and making the decision for Dean Spanos as easy as possible as it relates to Brandon Staley’s job performance. — Parker Gabriel

Quinn Meinerz injury (4:14 p.m.): Broncos RG Quinn Meinerz (illness) is also out the rest of the game, per the team. — Parker Gabriel

Bonitto update (4:12 p.m.): OLB Nik Bonitto (knee) has been downgraded to OUT, per the team. — Parker Gabriel

Defensive reliance (4:11 p.m.): With the way the Broncos D is playing, punting is winning for the rest of the afternoon. Just don’t turn the ball over and get out of L.A. with a W. — Matt Schubert

Third-quarter issues (4:06 p.m.): If the Broncos don’t go three-and-out here, is it considered an early Christmas miracle? — Parker Gabriel

Justin Herbert update (4:05 p.m.): Justin Herbert has been ruled OUT for the rest of the game.

Time for some really, really, really conservative play-calling from the Broncos. — Matt Schubert

Halftime analysis — Broncos 10, Chargers 0

Ryan McFadden, beat writer: Broncos’ defense is doing whatever they want to the Chargers. After Wilson struggled to get the ball to Jeudy last week, he has targeted the wideout quite a bit in the first half. However, Jeudy has failed to deliver.

Parker Gabriel, beat writer: Jerry Jeudy’s had better days. The Chargers might be bad enough that it doesn’t matter, but still, not great for Denver’s fourth-year wide receiver.

Matt Schubert, sports editor: If Jerry Jeudy is going to produce the same sort of closing kick he had to finish last season, he needs to have one heck of a second half. The Broncos lead 10-0 but drops and missed opportunities have kept the Chargers in this game.

Second-quarter updates

Field goal, Broncos (3:50 p.m.): Denver settles for a 23-yard field goal. Broncos 10, Chargers 0 with five seconds left in the half. — Joe Nguyen

Now, instead of 14-0 at the half, the Broncos take a 10-0 lead into the break. The good news (kinda)? They get the ball to start the second half. — Matt Schubert

No touchdown, Broncos (3:48 p.m.): Uh oh. Looks like that Jerry Jeudy TD catch is coming back.

What a dreadful first half for Jerry Jeudy. He HAS to know where he’s at on the field and get that second foot down. That’s a routine catch for an NFL wide receiver. — Matt Schubert

Krull gains (3:46 p.m.): Russell Wilson connects with tight end Lucas Krull for a 35-yard gain. It was Krull’s first NFL reception. — Joe Nguyen

It’s Perine time (3:43 p.m.): Is there such a thing as a closer in football? The Broncos open their drive with three straight plays to Samaje Perine. — Joe Nguyen

No touchdown (3:41 p.m.): The call was overturned. Chargers punt instead. — Joe Nguyen

Overturned. Gene Steratore seems to like it. Not entirely sure I agree. — Matt Schubert

McMillianaire (3:38 p.m.): Ja’Quan McMillian with a (surprise, surprise) big play. Strip sack into a touchdown. The play is under review right now. — Joe Nguyen

Ja’Quan McMillian … again! Strip sack, fumble recovery and touchdown return! All by himself. — Matt Schubert

Is Ja’Quan McMillian a Pro Bowler? — Ryan McFadden

It’s Easton Stick time (3:36 p.m.): Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert went back to the locker room. Backup Easton Stick is in now. Herbert has a finger injury and is questionable to return. — Joe Nguyen

Broncos now at three consecutive punts for the Broncos. And, yet, it feels like Denver is in complete control

Especially with Justin Herbert in the locker room getting treatment. Easton Stick, the North Dakota State product, is on the field in a really big spot. — Matt Schubert

Out of bounds? (3:34 p.m.): Sean Payton thought Perine got tackled out of bounds and he made his displeasure very clear to the officiating crew. — Matt Schubert

Spin-a-roonie (3:31 p.m.): Tight end Adam Trautman with a nice spin move after the catch. But it doesn’t count. Courtland Sutton was called with offensive pass interference. — Joe Nguyen

Defense stands (3:27 p.m.): Great pressure from Jonathon Cooper on Herbert, who throws an incomplete pass on fourth down. Chargers were called for illegal shift but Denver declined the call.

Broncos are back on offense. — Ryan McFadden

Feels like the Broncos defense pulled a Jedi mind trick allowing the Chargers to get just close enough to convince them to go for it on fourth down. L.A. now 0 for 2 on fourth down. This game could be 7-6. Instead, it’s still 7-0, Broncos. — Matt Schubert

Sack No. 4 (3:25 p.m.): Is this 2015? The Broncos have their fourth sack on the first half. Josey Jewell joins the party. — Joe Nguyen

Third-down woes (3:21 p.m.): The Broncos are now 1 of 4 on third down, which is currently OK because it isn’t as bad as the Chargers’ 0 for 5. — Matt Schubert

Missed opportunity (3:19 p.m.): Bad throw by Russell Wilson. Kinda bad drop by Jerry Jeudy. A deep ball that would’ve had the Broncos on the doorstep once again, instead falls incomplete and now the Broncos are punting again. — Matt Schubert

Low-scoring affair (3:18 p.m.): The way this game is looking, no one will score 20 points. — Ryan McFadden

Wide open. And missed. (3:14 p.m.): Russell Wilson had a wide-open Jerry Jeudy. It just went through his arms. That would’ve got the Broncos inside the 5-yard line. — Joe Nguyen

At least it’s double digits (3:12 p.m.): Justin Herbert’s QB rating at the moment: 10.4. — Matt Schubert

Sack party (3:08 p.m.): Denver got its third sack after Alex Singleton got to Justin Herbert. He couldn’t bring him down, but Zach Allen sure did. — Joe Nguyen

Alex Singleton looks motivated. — Matt Schubert

Justin Herbert is straight up not having a good time so far today. — Parker Gabriel

Zach Allen’s fifth sack of the season forces the Chargers to punt. Los Angeles is 0-for-5 on third down. — Ryan McFadden

Punt (3:03 p.m.): After a quarterback sneak to gain the first down on the second to last play of the first quarter, the Broncos gained just 3 yards in their next two plays. Riley Dixon punts it. — Joe Nguyen

First-quarter analysis — Broncos 7, Chargers 0

Ryan McFadden, beat writer: Denver is playing solid defense. The group had two sacks and three quarterback hits in the opening frame. Chargers have played some bad football, man. Still puzzled about them going for it on fourth down in the red zone instead of taking the points.

Parker Gabriel, beat writer: The Broncos defense showed up with a bad attitude today. The Chargers showed up … bad all around.

Matt Schubert, sports editor: Well, this is exactly the version of the Chargers the Broncos wanted to show up to SoFi. Denver’s ability to score a TD off its takeaway while the Chargers completely squandered theirs is essentially a 10-point swing. Given what we’ve seen from Justin Herbert and the Broncos defense so far today, that feels like a game-deciding swing.

First-quarter updates

Bonitto injury update (2:59 p.m.): Bonitto just got carted into the locker room after being ruled questionable to return with a knee injury. — Ryan McFadden

Nik Bonitto injury (2:52 p.m.): Broncos OLB Nik Bonitto just limped off the field with a trainer. — Ryan McFadden

Big sack (2:51 p.m.): Ja’Quan McMillian joins the sack party. His sprint off the left tackle got to Justin Herbert. He splits the sack with Nik Bonitto. — Joe Nguyen

Every week, Ja’Quan McMillian makes a play on defense. — Matt Schubert

Jonathon Cooper injury (2:49 p.m.): Following his interception, Jonathon Cooper is being evaluated in the injury tent. — Joe Nguyen

Touchdown, Broncos (2:47 p.m.): One play later, Javonte Williams runs in his first touchdown run in two years. 205 carries between scores.

So, for those scoring at home: Both defenses get a takeaway inside the other team’s 20. The Broncos turn it into seven. The Chargers get zero. This is why the Chargers are the Chargers. — Matt Schubert

Took advantage.

: CBS | @javontewill33 pic.twitter.com/PIiNn4ZVdO

— Denver Broncos (@Broncos) December 10, 2023

Defensive lineman interception (2:46 p.m.): Justin Herbert threw a pass that was batted by Baron Browning and snagged by Jonathon Cooper. Broncos with the ball at the 3-yard line. — Joe Nguyen

Tipped & picked!!!!

: CBS
pic.twitter.com/eiNEG9UMDd

— Denver Broncos (@Broncos) December 10, 2023

Team Takeaway returns. Baron Browning tip. Jonathon Cooper pick. And now the Broncos have the ball inside the Chargers 10. — Matt Schubert

Puts the specials in team (2:45 p.m.): Riley Dixon has been pretty solid for the last couple of weeks now. He hits a wedge shot from midfield to pin the Chargers inside their own 10. — Matt Schubert

Defense to the rescue (2:39 p.m.): As has been the case since Week 6: Vance Joseph’s team rises to the occasion when its called upon. They’ve bailed out Sean Payton’s offense far more frequently than the reverse. — Parker Gabriel

Fourth-and-nothing (2:37 p.m.): On fourth-and-3 at the Denver 6, the Chargers went for it. Justin Herbert could not connect with Gerald Everett. Broncos ball. — Joe Nguyen

Then the Chargers up the ante and go full Chargers with a fourth-and-short misfire from Justin Herbert. No points as the Broncos dodge an early bullet and now Javonte Williams has the Broncos on the move. — Matt Schubert

Bad error (2:36 p.m.): Welp, this is exactly the sort of start that this version of the Broncos absolutely has to avoid. Early giveaway that will almost assuredly lead to points for the Chargers. — Matt Schubert

Casa Bonitto (2:35 p.m.): Nik Bonitto is one fast man. Tackle for a loss of 2 on Los Angeles’ first play of that drive. — Joe Nguyen

Rough start (2:32 p.m.): That’s almost assuredly going to be a Russell Wilson interception. Marvin Mims Jr. never had control of that ball. — Matt Schubert

we'll take that

: @nfloncbs pic.twitter.com/YtHYXlySPp

— Los Angeles Chargers (@chargers) December 10, 2023

Empty backfield at the nine-yard line on first down? — Ryan McFadden

Big sack (2:29 p.m.): Alex Singleton ran down Justin Herbert on third down to force the Chargers to punt on their opening drive. Denver will start on its own 9-yard line after a holding call on the punt. — Joe Nguyen

.@alexsingleton49 with the sack!

: CBS pic.twitter.com/1OFMyU7I5q

— Denver Broncos (@Broncos) December 10, 2023

Alex Singleton out for redemption after last week’s four-point flub. Off to a good start with a sack to end the Chargers’ first drive of the game. — Matt Schubert

Coin toss (2:24 p.m.): Denver wins the toss and defers. Chargers will get the ball to start the game. — Ryan McFadden

Pre-game updates

In other games (1:51 p.m.): If you’re scoreboard watching today, it’s been a chaotic early slate of games for the back part of the AFC playoff race. Jets doing Denver a solid and leading Houston so far today. 6-6 Cincinnati is rolling over 7-5 Indy. 7-5 Cleveland’s up two scores over 8-4 Jacksonville.

If those scores hold, there will be four teams at 7-6, with Denver and Buffalo (at KC) each aiming to join the party this afternoon. — Parker Gabriel

Inactives (12:59 p.m.): Perine is indeed active. Bit of a scare with the knee issue forcing him to miss practice altogether on Friday, but he passed the pregame test and is good to go.

Denver’s inactive list:

• RB Tyler Badie
• OLB Thomas Incoom
• OLB Ronnie Perkins
• S JL Skinner
• C Alex Forsyth
• TE Nate Adkins
• DL Elijah Garcia

— Parker Gabriel

Next man up (12:21 p.m.): If Perine is unavailable, the Broncos elevated running back Tyler Badie from the practice squad. — Ryan McFadden

Good morning from SoFi Stadium (12:14 p.m.): The Broncos face a critical road test today against the Chargers. They need to stack AFC wins down the stretch in order to stay in the playoff mix. RB Samaje Perine (knee) is questionable, but he just worked out on the field and Denver is hopeful that he’ll be available to play, at least in some capacity.

Other than that, Denver is about as healthy as anybody could ask for this time of year. Perine’s status and the Broncos’ inactive list will be made official 90 minutes before kickoff. — Parker Gabriel

Scouting report (noon): Check out how the Broncos match up with the Chargers in Ryan McFadden’s scouting report.

Game predictions

Parker Gabriel, beat writer: Broncos 24, Chargers 21

Denver was its own biggest enemy in a loss last weekend at Houston. With a similar style game on tap — indoor stadium, an opponent that struggles to defend the pass — Sean Payton finds just enough patience to stick with the run plan and Russell Wilson doesn’t turn the ball over three times. Unless they really fail against Khalil Mack. … Yeah, it’s not likely to be easy.

Ryan McFadden, beat writer: Broncos 24, Chargers 21

The Broncos will get back into the win column and improve their playoff chances. It’s a divisional matchup, so things are going to be close. But I can see Sean Payton leaning on the run and using the play-action game to exploit Los Angeles’ pass defense. Denver doesn’t deserve to be in the playoffs if it can’t beat Los Angeles.

Sean Keeler, columnist: Broncos 22, Chargers 20

Somebody get the shepherd’s crook for Bolts coach Brandon Staley before he wastes any more peak years of Justin Herbert’s career. The Broncos’ pass-protection issues make you nervous in this one, granted, which is only one more reason why Sean Payton needs to let somebody other than Russ do the cooking.

Mark Kiszla, columnist: Broncos 20, Chargers 16

In Broncos Country takeover of Sofi Stadium, Denver beats the team the City of Angels never wanted. And Russell Wilson out-performs Justin Herbert, the most overrated player in the NFL.

Broncos-Chargers NFL Week 14: Must-reads

Task No. 1 for Broncos’ offensive front Sunday: Slow down Chargers pass-rusher Khalil Mack, who at 32 is “playing out of his mind”

By most general metrics, the Los Angeles Chargers’ defense isn’t particularly daunting. It ranks No. 24 overall in estimated points added per play and is relatively balanced against the pass (No. 23) and against the run (No. 20). Brandon Staley’s defense, however, does two things really well: Win third down and get after opposing quarterbacks.

Those two, of course, end up being related when teams are forced to throw the ball on third down. The Chargers are tied for third in the NFL with 41 sacks. Even in recent weeks without star defensive end Joey Bosa (on injured reserve with a foot injury), they’ve been able to generate heat. L.A. had two sacks against Baltimore on Nov. 27 and five last week in a 6-0 shutout win against New England.

The driving force: Who else but veteran Khalil Mack. The 32-year-old is putting together one of the most productive years of his storied career, racking up 15 sacks through the Chargers’ first 12 games. He’s at 99.5 for his career, so the next one will tip the register into triple digits. The Broncos will have a big task on their hands if they’re to keep him from hitting the milestone Sunday, Parker Gabriel reports. Read the full story.

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Live updates

FINAL | Texans 22, Broncos 17

It seemed fitting for The Undertaker’s gong to play in NRG Stadium because for the Broncos, the streak is over.

Denver fell short on a late comeback attempt, losing to the Texans, 22-17, on Sunday. Denver falls to 6-6 on the season and had its five-game winning streak snapped.

Full game story coming soon.

More Broncos coverage

• Broncos report card: As turnover trend reverses, Sean Payton’s offense takes too long to rev to life in last-second loss at Houston.
• Heroes and Zeros from Broncos’ loss to Texans: Alex Singleton’s costly penalty proves critical in close game.
• Broncos four downs: Russell Wilson’s three interceptions end Team Takeaway’s five-game win streak.

Fourth-quarter updates

Ballgame (2:10 p.m.): Wilson’s pass to Lucas Krull is intercepted in the end zone. Texans win. — Ryan McFadden

I mean, all credit to Russell Wilson for even being able to get that throw off. Valiant effort by the Broncos. Just short in Houston. — Matt Schubert

Another fourth-down conversion (2:08 p.m.): Wilson keeps the ball and gets the first down. Denver just used its final timeout with 23 seconds left in regulation. — Ryan McFadden

Another timeout (2:05 p.m.): It’s fourth-and-2 and Denver just used its second timeout. — Ryan McFadden

Fourth-down conversion (2:02 p.m.): Javonte Williams fought to get the 1-yard gain. — Joe Nguyen

Just short (1:58 p.m.): Wilson scrambles but is short of a first down. Broncos face a fourth and 1 with two minutes left in the game. — Ryan McFadden

Broncos have fourth-and-1 coming out of the two-minute warning.

With all three timeouts, Broncos will have a little life left if they don’t get this. But, obviously, this is a golden opportunity to convert, take the clock down low and score a go-ahead TD. — Parker Gabriel

Comeback? (1:55 p.m.): Here we go, y’all. Russell Wilson time in Houston. — Parker Gabriel

Courtland. Sutton. (1:54 p.m.): Russell Wilson connects with Courtland Sutton for a 32-yard gain. Denver in Houston territory. — Joe Nguyen

Meinerz injury update (1:53 p.m.): Meinrez is in the game. — Ryan McFadden

Locke’d down (1:51 p.m.): P.J. Locke with back-to-back huge plays. First he stops Dameon Pierce for a 4-yard loss. Then he sacks C.J. Stroud. — Joe Nguyen

PJ Locke has been playing some good football. He stopped Pierce for a 4-yard loss before sacking Stroud. Locke has a sack in back-to-back games. — Ryan McFadden

Meinerz injury update (1:51 p.m.): Meinrez is questionable with a shoulder injury. He is currently sitting on the bench with the rest of the offensive linemen. — Ryan McFadden

C.J. Stroud injury (1:49 p.m.): Stroud rushed into the medical tent. Davis Mills is now in the game at QB. — Ryan McFadden

Russell Wilson picked off (1:45 p.m.): Derek Stingley Jr. picks off Russell Wilson again. — Joe Nguyen

It looked like Wilson had Sutton open down the field but Stingley jumps in front and makes the interception. He has four picks in three games. — Ryan McFadden

Quinn Meinerz injury (1:44 p.m.): Broncos right guard Quinn Meinrez walks off the field with trainers and is going into the medical tent. Luke Wattenberg is in the game at right guard. — Ryan McFadden

That could be a significant blow to a Broncos offensive line that’s already had some pass protection issues today. — Matt Schubert

Three-and-out (1:41 p.m.): Pat Surtain II with the pass deflection to force fourth down. The Broncos ran into the kicker. Houston didn’t take the penalty. — Joe Nguyen

Sacked (1:40 p.m.): Alex Singleton, nearly untouched, sacks C.J. Stroud for a 10-yard loss. — Joe Nguyen

Touchdown, Broncos (1:35 p.m.): Maybe Wilson still has some magic in him. He throws a 41-yard pass to Jeudy then he scored on a QB sneak. Broncos are down 22-17 with 12:04 left in the game. — Ryan McFadden

Jerry. Jeudy. (1:35 p.m.): Russell Wilson connects with Jerry Jeudy on a 41-yard reception. — Joe Nguyen

The play that set up the TD.

: CBS | @jerryjeudy pic.twitter.com/Y1hbYmRcW0

— Denver Broncos (@Broncos) December 3, 2023

Brutal hit (1:31 p.m.): Jimmie Ward is dinged with an unnecessary roughness penalty on his hard hit on Russell Wilson. Denver ball its own 47-yard line. — Joe Nguyen

Touchdown, Texans (1:27 p.m.): C.J. Stroud to a wide-open Nico Collins for a 3-yard touchdown. Two-point conversion attempt picked off by Denver. Texans 22, Broncos 10 with 14:16 to go. — Joe Nguyen

Stroud to Nico Collins for a touchdown. Houston’s 2-point conversion attempt was unsuccessful. Denver is down 22-10 with 14:16 left in the game.

Collins has eight catches for 173 yards and a touchdown on 10 targets. — Ryan McFadden

Third-quarter analysis — Texans 16, Broncos 10

Parker Gabriel, beat writer: This game was that close to looking entirely different. But, as Sean Payton says, there’s a fine line between a groove and a rut.

Ryan McFadden, beat writer: Does Wilson have enough magic left in him to keep Denver’s win streak alive?

Mark Kiszla, sports columnist: Did I mention I once gave my Heisman vote to Will Anderson Jr? But the rest of you knuckleheads can keep voting for quarterbacks.

Matt Schubert, sports editor: This is a big next three downs for the Broncos. They absolutely need to hold the Texans to a field goal here. Two touchdowns feels like too much to ask from this Denver offense today.

Third-quarter updates

… Turnover (1:21 p.m.): Russell Wilson is picked off by Derek Stingley Jr. — Joe Nguyen

And now we have a Russell Wilson interception and it’s Houston ball in Broncos territory. — Matt Schubert

No turnover (1:20 p.m.): Broncos have now forced two fumbles and recovered neither of them. The turnover luck of the last four games has not been with Denver so far. — Matt Schubert

Milestone (1:19 p.m.): Per the Broncos, Russell Wilson’s touchdown pass moves him past Dan Marino into second for most touchdown by a quarterback through their first 12 seasons with 329. Who’s No. 1? Peyton Manning at 366. — Joe Nguyen

With that TD pass, @DangeRussWilson has passed QB Dan Marino for the second-most TD passes in a player's first 12 seasons in NFL history. pic.twitter.com/yUicE2ya6Z

— Denver Broncos (@Broncos) December 3, 2023

Sacked (1:18 p.m.): Zack Allen and Baron Browning take down C.J. Stroud to force third-and-13. — Joe Nguyen

Courtland. Sutton. (1:11 p.m.): Russell Wilson to Courtland Sutton for the 45-yard touchdown with this week’s highlight of the day. Extra point good. Texans 16, Broncos 10 with 4:47 to go. — Joe Nguyen

WHAT. A. CATCH.

: CBS pic.twitter.com/xzJ6Ugd3Lp

— Denver Broncos (@Broncos) December 3, 2023

And Courtland Sutton has completely redeemed himself for that first-quarter drop. What a catch by Sutton, who now only catches TD passes. — Matt Schubert

Courtland Sutton just gave the Broncos some life. His 45-yard touchdown catch cuts the deficit to 16-10. — Ryan McFadden

Russell Wilson had 54 yards passing on his first 13 attempts. 45 and a TD on his 14th, to Courtland Sutton. — Parker Gabriel

Now or never (1:08 p.m.): The Broncos and Texans are trading punts. At some point, Denver needs to start cashing in or this thing won’t be a game come the fourth quarter. — Matt Schubert

I feel like the Broncos need to score a touchdown on this drive or this game will be over. — Ryan McFadden

Welp (1 p.m.): Desmond King forces the fumble and recovers it for a scoop and run into the end zone. That said. It was ruled a stop on forward progress. Denver gets bailed out with the call. — Joe Nguyen

Three more (12:54 p.m.): Matt Ammendola with the 38-yard field goal for Houston. Texans 16, Broncos 3 with 8:51 to go in the third quarter. — Joe Nguyen

Another third down stop for the Broncos, but the Texans convert their third field goal of the game to take a 16-3 lead. — Ryan McFadden

Jonathan Harris (12:53 p.m.): Nice consecutive plays by Broncos lineman Jonathan Harris. He stopped Dameon Harris’ run and then sacked C.J. Stroud. — Joe Nguyen

Stroud to Collins. Again. (12:51 p.m.): And that’s a 39-yard gain for the combo again. — Joe Nguyen

Offensive woes (12:48 p.m.): Wilson is sacked twice on the first drive of the third quarter. Anderson is doing whatever he wants to Denver’s offense. — Ryan McFadden

A step back for the Broncos offensive line today following last week’s work against the Browns. — Matt Schubert

Will Anderson (12:45 p.m.): The Texans defensive end with a sack on Russell Wilson. He’s having a huge game, but it’s not hard to get to the QB if no one’s blocking you. — Joe Nguyen

Halftime analysis — Texans 13, Broncos 3

Parker Gabriel, beat writer: The Broncos have opened the second half with the ball nine times this year and scored zero points.

Seven punts (and one total first down), a missed FG and a blocked FG.

Two net yards on 10 plays in three tries since the bye week.

They very much need the 10th try to be the charm.

Ryan McFadden, beat writer: If Stroud hit Metchie on that throw, the game would’ve been over in my books.

Mark Kiszla, sports columnist: Broncos down 10 points in game that feels like the margin could be 20 in favor of Texans. So take that as small victory.

Second-quarter updates

Injury update (12:30 p.m.): Broncos tight end Chris Manhertz (shoulder) is questionable to return. — Ryan McFadden

Just missed (12:29 p.m.): Broncos just dodged a bullet on that CJ Stroud overthrow. — Matt Schubert

Third-down woes (12:27 p.m.): Denver is 0-for-6 on third downs. Not the recipe for success. — Ryan McFadden

On the board (12:25 p.m.): Wil Lutz with the 34-yard field goal. Texans 13, Broncos 3 with 1:24 to go. — Joe Nguyen

Chris Manhertz injury (12:22 p.m.): Tight end Chris Manhertz is now heading into the medical tent with an apparent injury. — Ryan McFadden

Trainers are looking at TE Chris Manhertz’s left shoulder/collar bone area. Landed squarely on it. — Parker Gabriel

Marvin Mims Jr. injury (12:19 p.m.): Broncos rookie wide receiver Marvin Mims Jr. went into the locker room with the training staff. — Ryan McFadden

Fourth-and-good (12:16 p.m.): Russell Wilson converts on the fourth down, but missed a wide open Jerry Jeudy. — Joe Nguyen

Broncos in Houston territory (12:14 p.m.): It took a while, but Denver’s offense is finally starting to move. — Joe Nguyen

Broncos trying to get back to what has worked for them on offense this season. Wilson throws a pass to Javonte Williams for a 15-yard gain before he rushed for 11 yards on the following play. — Ryan McFadden

Third time’s the charm (12:12 p.m.): After three punts, the Broncos will start on their own 28-yard line. — Joe Nguyen

The time is now (12:06 p.m.): This would really be a good time for the Broncos to score. — Ryan McFadden

Nearly picked (12:05 p.m.): Stroud’s pass on third down was way off and nearly intercepted by P.J. Locke. — Ryan McFadden

Big penalty (12:03 p.m.): A tripping call on the Texans forces Houston to a first-and-25. The next play, Dameon Pierce picks up 22 yards on a run. — Joe Nguyen

Missed call (11:57 a.m.): That’s a bad underthrow by Russell Wilson, but also 100% DPI.

About a 50-yard difference on the no call against Stingley, who was beat, didn’t play the ball and made contact before it arrived. — Parker Gabriel

If we count that obviously low hit on Russell Wilson on the Broncos’ first drive, the officials have missed two very big calls so far in Houston. — Matt Schubert

Rumble (11:56 a.m.): Javonte Williams rumbles down the gut for a 16-yard gain. — Joe Nguyen

Attack (11:55 a.m.): Will Anderson Jr. is unstoppable. — Ryan McFadden

Three more (11:51 a.m.): Matt Ammendola with a 38-yard field goal for Houston. Texans 13, Broncos 0 with 12:54 to go in the half. — Joe Nguyen

Denver manages to hold the Texans to a field goal after the drive started with a 59-yard pass from Stroud. The Broncos need to score and fast. — Ryan McFadden

First-quarter analysis — Texans 10, Broncos 0

Parker Gabriel, beat writer: This isn’t going well for the Broncos.

Ryan McFadden, beat writer: C.J. Stroud is the real deal. He is 5-for-9 with 149 yards. The Broncos avoided a scare with Surtain returning to the field but the defense is giving up too many explosive plays. Offensively, Denver can’t get anything going as the offensive line is having a hard time against Houston’s pass rush. It’s not over but the Broncos are not looking good all-around.

Mark Kiszla, sports columnist: Pat Surtain gets hurt. Alex Singleton gets baited into 4-point penalty. Sean Payton forgets winning streak built on running game. C.J. Stroud on fire. Other than that, a peachy start for your Broncos.

First-quarter updates

Another big play (11:45 a.m.): C.J. Stroud to Nico Collins again. This one was a 59-yard gain. — Joe Nguyen

Injury update (11:43 a.m.): Surtain is back on the field. — Joe Nguyen

Another punt (11:42 a.m.): Broncos punt for the third straight drive. This is not looking good. — Ryan McFadden

The Texans pass rush is getting home an awful lot. This offensive line, the receiver of many plaudits in recent weeks, needs to hold up better. — Matt Schubert

First down (11:40 a.m.): Denver just had its first first down of the game — a 12-yard pass to Lil’Jordan Humphrey. — Joe Nguyen

Extra point good (11:38 a.m.): Texans lead 10-0 with 3:49 left in the first quarter. — Ryan McFadden

Injury update (11:37 a.m.): Dell is now being carted off the field. — Ryan McFadden

Touchdown, Texans (11:34 a.m.): Dameon Pierce runs up the middle for a 3-yard touchdown. Texans 9, Broncos 0 before the extra-point try. Play is stopped with Tank Dell down on the field injured. — Joe Nguyen

Crowd is silent as Houston wide receiver Tank Dell is in the end zone with an injury. — Ryan McFadden

Costly penalty (11:33 a.m.): That is a MASSIVE mistake by Alex Singleton right there. Houston was about to be forced to kick a field goal. Instead, he can’t keep his head and it’s first and goal for the Texans. — Matt Schubert

Surtain still on the sidelines (11:30 a.m.): Surtain is now standing next to Russell Wilson on the sideline with his helmet in his hand. — Ryan McFadden

Surtain update (11:27 a.m.): That’s a scary video for Broncos fans. This does not work without Pat Surtain II holding down one half of the field.

They took away his helmet. I don’t want to be overly dramatic, but the Broncos’ season might hang in the balance over the next 60 minutes. — Matt Schubert

Broadcast showed Pat Surtain got his legs tangled up as he went up the field with Tank Dell. Awkward looking. Obviously the outcome of testing on the All-Pro’s leg will be critical for the Broncos. — Parker Gabriel

Broncos CB Pat Surtain II is questionable with a knee injury. — Ryan McFadden

Huge gain (11:23 a.m.): C.J. Stroud to Nico Collins for a 52-yard play. Pat Surtain II was injured on the play. — Joe Nguyen

Pat Surtain is being tended to on the field. Not a great development after CJ Stroud gashes the Broncos with a deep pass into Denver territory. — Matt Schubert

Will Anderson’s influence (11:22 a.m.): Affected Riley Dixon’s punt, run stop on Javonte Williams, third-down sack of Russell Wilson through Mike McGlinchey. Not bad.

Back-to-back three-and-outs (11:20 a.m.): Two drives for Denver, two straight three-and-outs. — Joe Nguyen

Another three-and-out for the Broncos. Ran the ball with Williams on back-to-back plays before Texans rookie Will Anderson Jr. sacks Wilson for an 11-yard loss. — Ryan McFadden

Not a great start for the Broncos offense. One big drop. A sack on third-and-short. This might be an uphill battle if Team Takeaway doesn’t show up at some point. — Matt Schubert

Red-zone defense (11:17 a.m.): Broncos defensive recipe has been takeaways and being stout in the red zone. Got the latter there after the 22-yard punt from Riley Dixon. — Parker Gabriel

Field goal, Texans (11:15 a.m.): Matt Ammendola connects with the 29-yard field goal. Texans 3, Broncos 0 with 10:11 to go in the first quarter. — Joe Nguyen

Broncos dodged a bullet there with CJ Stroud’s errant pass to Andrew Beck on third-and-1. Might be a touchdown if that’s on the money.  

Huge gain (11:12 a.m.): C.J. Stroud connects with Brevin Jordan for a huge 27-yard catch and run. — Joe Nguyen

Broncos’ opening drive (11:10 a.m.): The Broncos tried to test Houston’s defense, which is ranked 27th in passing yards allowed. Wilson took threw a pair of deep balls to Courtland Sutton but both were incomplete. — Ryan McFadden

Orange and blue (11:10 a.m.): Is it just me or are there an obscene amount of Broncos fans at this game in Houston? — Matt Schubert

Tipped punt (11:08 a.m.): Riley Dixon’s punt was slightly tipped. Houston will begin at its own 47-yard line. — Joe Nguyen

Big early hit (11:07 a.m.): That was a terrifying hit that Russell Wilson just took. — Matt Schubert

Three-and-out (11:05 a.m.): Denver’s defense stood strong on the opening drive, allow three plays and 9 yards for the Texans. Marvin Mims Jr. calls the fair catch on the punt. Denver will start on its own 18. — Joe Nguyen

Broncos defense getting a three-and-out to start. Not bad. Not bad at all. Run defense even held up OK. — Matt Schubert

Coin toss (11:02 a.m.): Broncos won the toss and chosen to defer. Houston will get the ball to start the game. — Ryan McFadden

Pre-game updates

Ben DiNucci (10:48 a.m.): It’ll be interesting to hear what Sean Payton says about the decision to use a practice squad elevation on Ben DiNucci, then have him inactive for the game. He can’t serve as the Broncos’ emergency third quarterback (the NFL’s rule change this offseason) because he’s a member of the practice squad. He would have had to be active and count against the gameday 48-man roster. Plus, neither Russell Wilson or Jarrett Stidham were on the injury report this week. That leaves two seemingly likely situations: 1) A team asked about signing DiNucci away from Denver late in the week and this was the agreement to keep him from signing somewhere else. Or 2) The Broncos didn’t have another player they felt was central to their roster construction today and used it as a way to reward DiNucci with a game check. — Parker Gabriel

Inactives (10:23 a.m.): Quarterback Ben DiNucci, safety JL Skinner, tight end Nate Adkins, outside linebackers Ronnie Perkins and Thomas Incoom, center Alex Forsyth and defensive lineman Elijah Garcia. — Ryan McFadden

Good morning from NRG Stadium in Houston (10:22 a.m.): The Broncos (6-5) are 40 minutes away from facing the Texans (6-5) with playoff implications on the line. Who would’ve thought? According the New York Times playoff simulator, the Broncos will have a 58% chance of making the playoffs with a win this afternoon. Their chances drop to 15% with a loss. So yeah, this is a big game. — Ryan McFadden

Scouting report (9 a.m.): Check out how the Broncos match up with the Texans in Ryan McFadden’s scouting report.

Game predictions

Parker Gabriel, beat writer: Broncos 28, Texans 24

The longer Denver’s winning streak goes, the more it becomes natural to figure it’s got to end at some point. But they’ve had some magic in them so far and this is the kind of game they can win… if they can stay patient enough to play the kind of style that has led them to five in a row.

Ryan McFadden, beat writer: Broncos 27, Texans 24

Sean Payton called the Texans a dangerous team. So are the Broncos. They have won five straight, and the defense is flying around and making plays. Denver’s win streak will continue, but it might take some late-game magic from Russell Wilson to do so.

Mark Kiszla, columnist: Texans 23, Broncos 20

Know what strikes me as odd? Broncos coach Sean Payton calls plays as if Russell Wilson is a rookie quarterback, while the Texans aren’t hesitant to turn loose 22-year-old C.J. Stroud. Can the Denver defense take advantage of Stroud’s pedal-to-the-metal tendencies and force two interceptions from him? If the answer is yes, the Broncos win. If not? Nope.

Sean Keeler, columnist:  Broncos 25, Texans 24

Logic says The Takeaway Train is about to burst like the real estate bubble 15 years ago. But when have these Broncos obeyed the laws of logic? Or precedent? Or sanity? Yeah, the Texans don’t turn the ball over. Yeah, Houston’s a tough out at home. So’s Buffalo.

Broncos-Texans NFL Week 13: Must-reads

Broncos prepare for Texans QB C.J. Stroud: “It’s unusual what he’s accomplishing as a rookie”

Russell Wilson understands what it’s like to set the league on fire in his first season. So when he said Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud “is having one of the best rookie years ever,” it might be wise to take the Broncos signal caller’s word for it.

Stroud’s numbers through 11 games have been impressive. He is second in the league in passing yards (3,266), tied for seventh in touchdown passes (19) and has the eighth-best adjusted quarterback rating at 62.7.

He added to his impressive resume when he was named the AFC Offensive Player and Rookie of the Month for November. Stroud is the second rookie quarterback in NFL history to win Player of the Month, joining the Browns’ Deshaun Watson, Ryan McFadden reports. Read the full story.

Broncos’ Quinn Meinerz just bought a telescope, collects “chill synth” vinyl and is on a quest to become the NFL’s most dominant guard

During his second pro season, Meinerz spent $1,000 on the Home record that started it all. Now his vinyl collection numbers in the hundreds. The expansion continues. It won’t ever stop, at least not entirely.

Meinerz has experienced growth in his day job, too.

In his third year as a pro, Meinerz is increasingly recognized as one of the best young interior linemen in football. He’s a long way from the fascinating but green draft prospect out of Division III Wisconsin-Whitewater he was in 2021, Parker Gabriel reports. Read the full story.

Kiszla: While Sean Payton struck it rich with Broncos, did DeMeco Ryans win better job in Houston?

While Sean Payton got big money from the crazy-rich Waltons to coach the Broncos, DeMeco Ryans won the coaching sweepstakes by landing the better job in Houston.

Although the Broncos and Texans bring identical 6-5 records to a game Sunday with huge playoff implications for this season, which of these teams is closer to winning the Super Bowl down the road?

You tell me: Would you rather build a championship contender around two established NFL veterans in quarterback Russell Wilson and Payton, each with a championship on distinguished resumes, or 22-year-old rookie C.J. Stroud and Ryans, in his first-year as a head coach? Advantage, Texans, Mark Kiszla writes. Read the column.

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Alma, CO — 9 inches at 3:52 p.m. – 12/3/2023

Arvada, CO — 1.3 inches at 11:45 a.m. – 12/3/2023

Berthoud Pass, CO — 19.5 inches at 3:52 p.m. – 12/3/2023

Blue River, CO — 12 inches at 3:52 p.m. – 12/3/2023

Breckenridge, CO — 17 inches at 4:05 p.m. – 12/3/2023

Cameron Pass, CO — 12 inches at 3:52 p.m. – 12/3/2023

Cedaredge, CO — 9 inches at 5:45 p.m. – 12/3/2023

Climax, CO — 12 inches at 3:52 p.m. – 12/3/2023

Colorado Springs, CO — 4 inches at 3:48 p.m. – 12/3/2023

Copper Mountain, CO — 18 inches at 4:04 p.m. – 12/3/2023

Craig, CO — 3 inches at 12:03 p.m. – 12/3/2023

Crescent Village, CO — 4 inches at 12:01 p.m. – 12/3/2023

Douglas Pass, CO — 4 inches at 5:30 a.m. – 12/3/2023

Eldora, CO — 17 inches at 4:11 p.m. – 12/3/2023

Georgetown, CO — 4.3 inches at 2:14 p.m. – 12/3/2023

Glendevey, CO — 4.5 inches at 3:52 p.m. – 12/3/2023

Gould, CO — 12 inches at 3:52 p.m. – 12/3/2023

Grand Lake, CO — 13.5 inches at 3:52 p.m. – 12/3/2023

Green Mountain Rese, CO — 13.5 inches at 3:52 p.m. – 12/3/2023

Gypsum, CO — 1.3 inches at 10:48 a.m. – 12/3/2023

Keystone, CO — 13 inches at 4:10 p.m. – 12/3/2023

Leadville, CO — 12 inches at 12:28 a.m.

Longs Peak, CO — 16.5 inches at 3:52 p.m. – 12/3/2023

Loveland Pass, CO — 16.5 inches at 3:52 p.m. – 12/3/2023

Manitou Springs, CO — 3.5 inches at 12:07 p.m. – 12/3/2023

Molas Pass, CO — 2 inches at 10:46 a.m. – 12/3/2023

Mount Crested But, CO — 4.5 inches at 8:15 a.m. – 12/3/2023

Nederland, CO — 2.8 inches at 11:30 a.m. – 12/3/2023

Oak Creek, CO — 10 inches at 11 a.m. – 12/3/2023

Parker, CO — 1.3 inches at 11:02 a.m. – 12/3/2023

Peterson Afb, CO — 1 inch at 11:45 a.m. – 12/3/2023

Peyton, CO — 1 inch at 9:30 a.m. – 12/3/2023

Ponderosa Park, CO — 1 inch at 12:27 p.m. – 12/3/2023

Rabbit Ears Pass, CO — 40.5 inches at 3:52 p.m. – 12/3/2023

Rand, CO — 12 inches at 3:52 p.m. – 12/3/2023

Red Mountain Pass, CO — 5 inches at 10:45 a.m. – 12/3/2023

Silverthorne, CO — 12 inches at 3:52 p.m. – 12/3/2023

Skyway, CO — 15 inches at 4:22 p.m. – 12/3/2023

Spicer, CO — 28.5 inches at 3:52 p.m. – 12/3/2023

Telluride, CO — 7.5 inches at 6 a.m. – 12/3/2023

Weston Pass, CO — 1.5 inches at 3:52 p.m. – 12/3/2023

Wheat Ridge, CO — 1.5 inches at 11:45 a.m. – 12/3/2023

Winter Park, CO — 18 inches at 3:52 p.m. – 12/3/2023

The 6-foot-1, 250-pound defensive end led the Mountain West in tackles for a loss (17) and sacks (13). Kamara, a graduate defensive end, is second in conference history in career sacks (30.5) and his total this season was fourth-most in the Mountain West record book.

He is the third CSU player to receive the award, joining linebackers Rick Crowell (2000) and Shaquil Barrett (2013).

Kamara is one four Rams named to the all-conference first team, joined by senior wide receiver Tory Horton, junior tight end Dallin Holker and junior defensive back Jack Howell. Horton was also named a second-team punt returner. He was joined by senior offensive lineman Jacob Gardner and junior linebacker Chase Wilson.

Air Force also has four first-team selections in senior offensive lineman Thor Paglialong, senior defensive lineman PJ Ramsey, senior linebacker Bo Richter and senior defensive back Trey Taylor. Three Falcons players were named to the second team: senior running back Emmanuel Michel, senior offensive lineman Adam Karas and linebacker Alec Mock.

Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty is the offensive player of the year. UNLV placekicker Jose Pizano is the special teams player of the year and Rebels quarterback Jayden Maiava is the freshman of the year.

All-Mountain West first team

• QB Chevan Cordeiro, Sr., San José State
• WR Tory Horton, Sr., Colorado State
• WR Ricky White III, Jr., UNLV
• WR Jalen Royals, Jr., Utah State
• RB Ashton Jeanty, So., Boise State
• RB Kairee Robinson, So., San José State
• TE Dallin Holker, Jr., Colorado State
• OL Thor Paglialong, Sr., Air Force
• OL Cade Beresford, Sr., Boise State
• OL JC Davis, Jr., New Mexico
• OL Tiger Shanks, Jr., UNLV
• OL Frank Crum, Gr., Wyoming
• PK Jose Pizano, Sr., UNLV
• KR Jacob De Jesus, Jr., UNLV
• DL PJ Ramsey, Sr., Air Force
• DL Ahmed Hassanein, Jr., Boise State
• DL Mohamed Kamara, Gr., Colorado State
• DL Tre Smith, So., San José State
• LB Bo Richter, Sr., Air Force
• LB Jackson Woodard, Jr., UNLV
• LB MJ Tafisi Jr., Sr., Utah State
• LB Easton Gibbs, Jr., Wyoming
• DB Trey Taylor, Sr., Air Force
• DB Jack Howell, Jr., Colorado State
• DB Emany Johnson, Sr., Nevada
• DB Ike Larsen, So., Utah State
• P James Ferguson-Reynolds, So., Boise State
• PR Jacob De Jesus, Jr., UNLV

All-Mountain West second team

• QB Jayden Maiava, R-Fr., UNLV
• WR Steven McBride, Sr., Hawai‘i
• WR Nick Nash, Jr., San José State
• WR Terrell Vaughn, Sr., Utah State
• RB Emmanuel Michel, Sr., Air Force
• RB Jacory Croskey-Merritt, Sr., New Mexico
• TE Mark Redman, Sr., San Diego State
• OL Adam Karas, Sr., Air Force
• OL Kage Casey, R-Fr., Boise State
• OL Jacob Gardner, Sr., Colorado State
• OL Mose Vavao, Sr., Fresno State
• OL Cade Bennett, Jr., San Diego State
• PK Jonah Dalmas, Sr., Boise State
• KR Terrell Vaughn, Sr., Utah State
• DL Jalen Dixon, Jr., UNLV
• DL Devo Bridges, Sr., Fresno State
• DL Soane Toia, Jr., San José State
• DL Jordan Bertagnole, Jr., Wyoming
• LB Alec Mock, Sr., Air Force
• LB Andrew Simpson, So., Boise State
• LB Chase Wilson, Jr., Colorado State
• LB Levelle Bailey, Sr., Fresno State
• DB Carlton Johnson, Sr., Fresno State
• DB Morice Norris Jr., Sr., Fresno State
• DB Noah Tumblin, Sr., San Diego State
• DB Cameron Oliver, Jr., UNLV
• P Jack Browning, Sr., San Diego State
• PR Tory Horton, Sr., Colorado State

Honorable mentions

Air Force: Matthew Dapore, PK; Jayden Goodwin, DB; Zac Larrier, QB.

Colorado State: Chigozie Anusiem, CB; Henry Blackburn, S; Brayden Fowler-Nicolosi, QB; Drew Moss, OL; Justus Ross-Simmons, WR.

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Live updates

FINAL | Broncos 29, Browns 12

Denver grows more cosmopolitan by the year, but what the Broncos have cooking up isn’t likely to earn any attention from the fancy folk at Michelin. On the menu these days at Casa Sean Payton: Meat. Potatoes. And a fresh-baked pile of turnovers every weekend.

Slowly but surely, Payton and the Broncos offense have learned to eat their vegetables. Vance Joseph’s defense will stick to your ribs or, more often than not, plow right through them.

The whole refrigerator of ingredients nearly spoiled in the September heat. They’re not exactly the most stocked pantry in the NFL. And it took a long time for the kitchen to find its rhythm. But at the tail end of Thanksgiving weekend, this team put together its most satisfying meal yet: A big, bad, rugged 29-12 victory over Cleveland, Parker Gabriel reports. Read the full story.

More Broncos coverage:

• PHOTOS: Denver Broncos beat Cleveland Browns 29-12 in NFL Week 12.
• Kiszla: Russell Wilson and Vance Joseph have gone from zeros to heroes during Broncos’ five-game winning streak.
• Keeler: Broncos LT Garett Bolles 1, Myles Garrett 0. As in, zero sacks for Cleveland Browns’ All-Pro defender. “You’ve just got to keep swinging.”
• Broncos rookie Drew Sanders gets snaps at outside linebacker for first time all season.
• Broncos report card: Turnover-mad Denver defense, powerful rushing attack power critical win over Cleveland.
• Heroes and Zeros from Broncos’ win over Browns: Samaje Perine breaks Denver’s run game woes in red zone.
• Broncos four downs: Team Takeaway strikes again, and now Denver’s right back in playoff hunt.

Fourth-quarter updates

Safety, Broncos (5:08 p.m.): Zach Allen sacked P.J. Walker in the end zone for a safety. Broncos 29, Browns 12 with 2:17 to go. — Joe Nguyen

Another sack (5 p.m.): Josey Jewell with the strip sack on Browns QB P.J. Walker. Cleveland recovered. — Joe Nguyen

Three more (4:56 p.m.): Wil Lutz nails the 34-yard field goal. Broncos 27, Browns 12 with 4:19 to go. — Joe Nguyen

Ball hawks (4:51 p.m.): P.J. Locke with the strip sack on P.J. Walker. Then Alex Singleton gets the recovery. Denver ball on its own 42-yard line. — Joe Nguyen

P.J. had 'em on Lock(e).

: FOX pic.twitter.com/3fkbcssrlV

— Denver Broncos (@Broncos) November 26, 2023

The Broncos defense is now at 15 takeaways after P.J. Locke’s strip sack. Incredible. — Matt Schubert

Amari Cooper down (4:49 p.m.): Another hurt Browns player after PJ Locke lays the wood in the secondary. The Broncos are hitting today, friends. — Matt Schubert

Casa Bonitto (4:37 p.m.): Nik Bonitto just got a sack on Browns backup QB P.J. Walker. He has 6.5 sacks this season.

And then the next play, he got a hand on the pass. Browns have to punt. — Joe Nguyen

Touchdown, Broncos (4:34 p.m.): It’s a touchdown. Broncos 24, Browns 12 with 13:29 to go. — Joe Nguyen

The Broncos are getting rushing TDs in the red zone and positive plays for the tight ends. What in the world is happening?!?!? — Matt Schubert

Touchdown, Broncos? (4:31 p.m.): Was Adam Trautman properly in the end zone on that 8-yard pass by Russell Wilson? Head coach Sean Payton is challenging the incompletion call. — Joe Nguyen

Count it.

: FOX pic.twitter.com/t3yVlduB9Y

— Denver Broncos (@Broncos) November 26, 2023

Ball don’t lie (4:27 p.m.): The Browns fumbled the ball on the first play in the fourth quarter. D.J. Jones recovers. Denver ball. — Joe Nguyen

HEY, MR. D.J.

: FOX pic.twitter.com/dzLwR5CiXm

— Denver Broncos (@Broncos) November 26, 2023

Third-quarter analysis — Broncos 17, Browns 12

Parker Gabriel, beat writer: Pretty simple this afternoon: The Broncos have to get this one across the finish line. Doesn’t matter how. A winning record is right there in front of them.

Sean Keeler, sports columnist: Holy soccer dives, Batman! I can only imagine what was going through the brains of the official on that DTR hit: “Am I gonna get it worse from the league office for eating the flag or worse from Broncos Country for calling it now?” Ummm … and the longer DTR stayed on the ground, striker-style, the “nastier” it looked. Did someone on the Browns com system scream at him to “Just stay down”? Ya wonder. Ya really do.

Mark Kiszla, sports columnist: With game on line during past 15 minutes, Russell Wilson has to be better than whoever the Browns trot out there at  quarterback, right?

Third-quarter updates

Broncos penalty (4:21 p.m.): You won’t see a later flag than the one just thrown on Baron Browning. He absolutely rocked Thompson-Robinson, who’s down around the Browns goal line. — Parker Gabriel

The locals are NOT happy after that flag on Baron Browning. Hard to blame them. That’s a bang-bang play and the flag came extremely late. As if the official was reacting to DTR being hurt. — Matt Schubert

Field goal, Broncos (4:14 p.m.): Wil Lutz with the 23-yard field goal. Broncos 17, Browns 12 with 1:25 to go in the third quarter. — Joe Nguyen

The Broncos get to the 3, but go no farther. Perhaps it would’ve been asking too much for the Broncos to quadruple their season rushing touchdown total in one week. It’s 17-12, and a red hot Dorian Thompson-Robinson is about to get the ball again. — Matt Schubert

Run game gains (4:12 p.m.): The Broncos are running off the right side at will right now. Massive holes. — Matt Schubert

Touchdown, Browns (4:03 p.m.): Dorian Thompson-Robinson connects with for a 2-yard touchdown. The two-point conversion is no good. Broncos 14, Browns 12 with 6:42 to go. — Joe Nguyen

Impressive drive from DTR, aided by a highly questionable flag on PJ Locke. PJ thought he was playing football. The refs disabused him of that notion.

And the Browns drop a gimme on the two-point conversion. It’s still a two-point game, and the Broncos are lucky that’s the case. — Matt Schubert

Costly penalty (4 p.m.): Instead of forcing fourth down, an unnecessary roughness penalty on P.J. Locke gives Cleveland a set of fresh downs at the Denver 5. — Joe Nguyen

Cleveland’s driving (3:58 p.m.): Eight plays for 65 yards on this drive for the Browns so far. They’re threatening at the Denver 14. — Joe Nguyen

Jerry Jeudy sighting (3:50 p.m.): The Broncos receiver picked up a 7-yard gain on his first touch of the game. However, on third-and-1, the Broncos went for a pitch to Javonte Williams, which resulted in a 3-yard loss and a punt. — Joe Nguyen

This will shock you, but the #Broncos went three-and-out to start a third quarter. — Parker Gabriel

Halftime analysis — Broncos 14, Browns 6

Parker Gabriel, beat writer: Broncos are 2/2 in the red zone, Browns are 0/2. That’s the difference so far. Would be a good time for Denver to kick its bad habit of starting the third quarter terribly offensively.

Ryan McFadden, beat writer: The Broncos seemed to fix their issues in last week’s win over Minnesota. They are 4-6 on third down and 2-2 in the red zone. The way Cleveland’s offense has performed a touchdown should put things away.

Sean Keeler, sports columnist: Russell Wilson, age 34, is outrushing Dorian Thompson-Robinson, age 24, by a count of 37-21 at the break. The Lord, He worketh in mysterious ways.

Mark Kiszla, sports columnist: If Russell Wilson keeps this up as run-pass option quarterback, I might have to seriously consider putting him on my Heisman ballot.

Second-quarter updates

Field goal, Browns (3:29 p.m.): Dustin Hopkins with the 24-yard field goal. Broncos 14, Browns 6 with 22 seconds to go. — Joe Nguyen

Looking like it’s going to take five field goals for the Browns to win this thing. Decent between the 20s, then disaster inside the red zone. It’s Broncos 14-6, and that’s what’ll probably be the score heading into halftime. — Matt Schubert

Cleveland threatening (3:27 p.m.): First-and-goal for the Browns with less than a minute to go. — Joe Nguyen

Referees (3:14 p.m.): MWC refs > Pac-12 refs > today’s refs? — Sean Keeler

Throwing woes (3:08 p.m.): Browns are in trouble whenever they have to throw it. Thompson-Robinson is 6/14 for 33 yards. — Parker Gabriel

Field goal, Browns (3:07 p.m.): Dustin Hopkins nails a 36-yard field goal to get Cleveland on the board. Broncos 14, Browns 3 with 5:59 to go in the first half. — Joe Nguyen

Run defense woes (3:03 p.m.): Denver has given up 46 yards rushing on four carries this drive. — Joe Nguyen

Broncos’ offense rolling (2:57 p.m.): Denver has outgained the Browns 139-34. — Ryan McFadden

Touchdown, Broncos (2:55 p.m.): Russ turning back the clock in the red zone with another read option keeper for a 2-yard TD. It’s all coming up Broncos today, friends. — Matt Schubert

@DangeRussWilson

: FOX pic.twitter.com/rR62V5WO5j

— Denver Broncos (@Broncos) November 26, 2023

Broncos in 10 games before today: One rushing TD. Broncos in 18:49 today: Two rushing TDs. — Parker Gabriel

Drive summary: 13 plays for 80 yards en route to the 2-yard touchdown run by Russell Wilson. Broncos 14, Browns 0 with 11:11 to go in the second quarter. — Joe Nguyen

Read option? (2:52 p.m.): Russell Wilson read option!?!?!

The Broncos are driving and a touchdown here just might be a death blow for the Browns. — Matt Schubert

Third-down conversions (2:50 p.m.): Denver is 4-for-5 on third downs today. Russell Wilson connected with Marvin Mims Jr. for a 16-yard gain on that latest one. — Joe Nguyen

First-quarter analysis — Broncos 7, Browns 0

Parker Gabriel, beat writer: Broncos in key areas through a quarter:

• 3/4 on third down
• 1/1 in the red zone
• Even in turnover battle (1-1)
• And, in the key-est area: They lead 7-0 against Cleveland.

Ryan McFadden, beat writer: Denver did a solid job at running the football in the first. The Broncos rushed for 68 yards on 13 attempts.

Sean Keeler, sports columnist: Me to a certain Broncos HOF-er a few minutes ago: “Have you been able to wrap your head around how this went from the worst defense in NFL history to the best, in about six weeks?” Broncos HOF-er laughs. “Nope,” he replies. “But I love it.”

Mark Kiszla, sports columnist: So the Broncos are going to visit Las Vegas in both January and February?

Matt Schubert, sports editor: Given what we’ve seen of the Browns’ offense, it feels like one more score from the Broncos just might be an insurmountable lead.

First-quarter updates

Broncos turnover (2:34 p.m.): Russell Wilson scrambled for a first down on fourth-and-2 but had the ball punched out. The Browns recover at their own 34-yard line. — Joe Nguyen

Russell Wilson gets the 1st down on 4th and 3, but the @Browns D punch it out and recover the ball.

: #CLEvsDEN on FOX
: Stream on #NFLPlus https://t.co/1dOevJjoZZ pic.twitter.com/PjLqdb5ju0

— NFL (@NFL) November 26, 2023

That’s Big Russ’ 6th fumble this season, already tying his tally in that category for all of 2022. Which is basically why you let the tailback cook. — Sean Keeler

Broncos force turnover (2:27 p.m.): And that’s turnover No. 1 for the Broncos defense on a botched fourth-and-short snap. On the Browns’ second possession of the game. A little off schedule from the previous two games, but I’m sure the Broncos will take it. — Matt Schubert

Another takeaway for this defense.

: FOX pic.twitter.com/6MnVMVuBpV

— Denver Broncos (@Broncos) November 26, 2023

Javonte Williams injury (2:24 p.m.): Broncos running back Javonte Williams is questionable with a neck injury. — Ryan McFadden

Touchdown, Broncos (2:20 p.m.): And the run stands.

As starts go, you couldn’t draw up a better one for the Broncos. A touchdown on the ground. Some deep passes producing chunk yardage for Russell Wilson, and a three-and-out from the defense. — Matt Schubert

Perine’s huge 3-yard push gives the Broncos a 7-0 lead with 8:06 to go in the first quarter. — Joe Nguyen

Touchdown, Broncos? (2:17 p.m.): And there it is, the Broncos’ second rushing touchdown of the season … maybe. Samaje Perine’s physical 3-yard run is under review. — Matt Schubert

First TD of the year for @samajp32!

: FOX pic.twitter.com/dwNBy8EEEc

— Denver Broncos (@Broncos) November 26, 2023

Another big gain (2:16 p.m.): Another deep pass to Courtland Sutton (this one actually caught) and the Broncos are at the 3. — Matt Schubert

Big gain (2:13 p.m.): When in doubt, throw the ball to Courtland Sutton. Good things generally happen.

The Browns defense already has two penalties, and the Broncos have the ball at the Cleveland 31. Solid start for the Broncos. — Matt Schubert

Locke-down (2:08 p.m.): Welcome back, P.J. Locke. The Broncos safety made a pair of nice defensive plays on the Browns’ opening drive. Denver forced a three-and-out. — Joe Nguyen

PJ Locke made his presence felt on the first drive. He tackles Jerome Ford for no gain then forces an incompletion on third down. — Ryan McFadden

Coin toss (2:05 p.m.): Broncos win the toss and defer. Browns and rookie quarterback Dorrian Thompson-Robinson will start with the ball. — Parker Gabriel

Pre-game updates

History (2:04 p.m.): Broncos-Browns. A lot of history here. You just have to be older than 40 to remember it. — Matt Schubert

Rookie watch (1:30 p.m.): One interesting role to watch today: Broncos rookie Drew Sanders is warming up with the outside linebacker group.

With Ronnie Perkins inactive (as he was last week), will be interesting to see if Sanders gets more run on the edge against Cleveland’s run-heavy attack. — Parker Gabriel

Inactives (12:40 p.m.): P.J. Locke is officially active. He’ll start next to Justin Simmons. Not a big surprise, but important nonetheless for Sean Payton’s team. Here’s Denver’s inactive players:

• RB Dwayne Washington
• OLB Ronnie Perkins
• OLB Thomas Incoom
• S JL Skinner
• C Alex Forsyth
• DL Elijah Garcia

The Broncos yesterday elevated WR David Sills and DL Tyler Lancaster for gameday from the practice squad. — Parker Gabriel

Game day (12:20 p.m.): It’s a beauty of an afternoon at Empower Field and a significant AFC matchup at hand between the surging Broncos and the 7-3 Browns. Keys for Denver are two-fold: Turn over Cleveland rookie quarterback Dorrian Thompson-Robinson and convert in the red zone. The Browns defense provides a stiff challenge — pick a metric and they’re at or near the top of the NFL — so it could be a slog of an afternoon.

On the injury front, Broncos safety P.J. Locke is on the field at the moment jogging around and stretching out. He practiced fully on Friday but is listed as questionable. We’ll know his status officially 90 minutes before kickoff. — Parker Gabriel

Scouting report (noon): Check out how the Broncos match up with the Browns in Ryan McFadden’s scouting report.

Game predictions

Parker Gabriel, beat writer: Browns 16, Broncos 13

The only surprise will be if this game turns into a track meet. The Broncos need to turn rookie quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson over a couple of times, because moving the ball against the Browns is going to be a rugged task. That, combined with Denver’s porous run defense and Cleveland’s powerhouse ground game, makes it easy to question if this is a good matchup for Sean Payton’s streaking team.

Ryan McFadden, beat writer: Broncos 17, Browns 14

The Broncos are rolling right now. Even though they haven’t played extremely well over the past two weeks, they still found ways to win. Cleveland’s defense will be a problem, but Wilson will unlock his clutch gene when it matters most on Sunday. Expect the Broncos to pick off Thompson-Robinson a couple of times.

Mark Kiszla, columnist: Broncos 15, Browns 10

This team is starting to take on a very 2011 vibe. You remember Tebowmania, don’t you? OK, be chill, all you supporters of Russell Wilson. I’m not making a quarterback comparison here. Well, maybe a little … as it applies to the relentless faith that something good — even if it requires something weird, wacky and entirely unexpected — will happen for the Broncos during the course of a game.

Sean Keeler, columnist: Broncos 17, Browns 16

Can the Orange & Blue string together their first five-game win streak in eight years? Heck, yeah. In a league where momentum is swung by confidence and takeaways, the Broncos are basking in both right now, with the holiday wind finally at their backs. In a tussle of two hot defenses, watch Russell Wilson string together one more big drive than Dorian Thompson-Robinson does at a Mile High. It’ll be ugly, but when ugly wins, it’s downright beautiful.

Broncos-Browns NFL Week 12: Must-reads

Four straight victories help Broncos bring extra energy to work week: “You get to see everyone’s will to win”

Pros are tasked with having the same approach to their jobs regardless of how a day or week or season is going. There’s no use denying, however, that the energy around a winning team is different.

Broncos players this week, on a four-game winning streak, are feeling the impact of that reality.

It’ll be no easy task for Denver to get to five straight Sunday against 7-3 Cleveland at home, but a victory would put Denver above .500 for the first time since the team started 2-1 last year, Parker Gabriel reports. Read the full story.

Could Broncos’ red zone demons ruin their playoff aspirations? Only if nothing changes: “There’s no excuse to not get it done.”

Courtland Sutton didn’t need a crystal ball to know what came next as he went in motion against Green Bay. The veteran wide receiver crossed the offensive formation to the left and settled briefly in the slot, creating a bunch with tight end Adam Trautman and receiver Marvin Mims, Jr. to his outside.

On the snap, Sutton let both of them clear across his face, worked his way up the left sideline and, voila, found himself all alone thanks to the traffic they created. Tried-and-true concept. Clean execution. Easy throw from Russell Wilson for an 18-yard touchdown.

Red zone clinic. If only it was always — or even usually — that simple, Parker Gabriel reports. Read the full story.

Broncos seek to improve run defense as they prepare for matchup against Cleveland Browns

If the Minnesota Vikings ran the ball the entire game against Denver, the outcome might’ve been different.

The Vikings, who had one of the worst rushing attacks in the league, ran the ball all over Denver’s defense, totaling a season-high 175 yards on the ground. Starting running back Alexander Mattison had 81 yards, while Ty Chandler had 73 yards despite rushing for a combined 87 in 10 games prior to Week 11.

Broncos defensive coordinator Vance Joseph has coached his tail off in recent weeks. Denver has gone from allowing 70 points to the Miami Dolphins to forcing 13 turnovers in four games. However, its run defense remains an issue, which doesn’t bode well against Cleveland on Sunday, as the Browns have one of the best rushing attacks in the NFL, Ryan McFadden reports. Read the full story.

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Three NFL games will be played on Thursday, beginning with the Packers at the Lions at 10:30 a.m. They are followed by an NFC East battle between the Commanders and the Cowboys at 2:30 p.m. Then Colorado’s own Christian McCaffrey and the 49ers will take on the Seahawks in the evening’s game at 6:20 p.m.

Here’s a look at what you need to know about the NFL’s Thanksgiving games:

Green Bay Packers (4-6) at Detroit Lions (8-2)

Time: 10:30 a.m. MT | TV: Fox

Line: Lions -7.5 (via BetMGM)

Thanksgiving Day record: Packers (14-20-2), Lions (37-44-2)

Last Thanksgiving Day game: Packers lost to the Bears, 17-13, on Nov. 26, 2015. Lions lost to the Bills, 28-25, on Nov. 24, 2022.

Packers team leaders: Passing — Jordan Love (2,331 yards). Rushing — AJ Dillon (405 yards). Receiving — Jayden Reed (463 yards).

Lions team leaders: Passing — Jared Goff (2,743 yards). Rushing — David Montgomery (577 yards). Receiving — Amon-Ra St. Brown (898 yards).

Washington Commanders (4-7) at Dallas Cowboys (7-3)

Time: 2:30 p.m. MT | TV: CBS

Line: Cowboys -11

Thanksgiving Day record: Commanders (4-8-0), Cowboys (32-22-1)

Last Thanksgiving Day game: Washington beat the Cowboys, 41-16, on Nov. 26, 2020. Cowboys beat the Giants, 28-20, on Nov. 24, 2022.

Commanders team leaders: Passing — Sam Howell (3,038 yards). Rushing — Brian Robinson Jr. (558 yards). Receiving — Terry McLaurin (644 yards).

Cowboys team leaders: Passing — Dak Prescott (2,604 yards). Rushing — Tony Pollard (590 yards). Receiving — CeeDee Lamb (1,013 yards).

San Francisco 49ers (7-3) at Seattle Seahawks (6-4)

Time: 6:20 p.m. MT | TV: NBC

Line: 49ers -6.5

Thanksgiving Day record: 49ers (2-2-1), Seahawks (2-2-0)

Last Thanksgiving Day game: For both, Seahawks beat 49ers, 19-3, on Nov. 27, 2014.

49ers team leaders: Passing — Brock Purdy (2,662 yards). Rushing — Christian McCaffrey (825 yards). Receiving — Brandon Aiyuk (831 yards).

Seahawks team leaders: Passing — Geno Smith (2,404 yards). Rushing — Kenneth Walker III (613 yards). Receiving — D.K. Metcalf (646 yards).

Other Thanksgiving Day facts

• The Broncos haven’t played a Thanksgiving game since 2009, when they beat the Giants, 26-6. Kyle Orton threw a touchdown pass to Brandon Stokley, and Knowshon Moreno ran one into the end zone.
• Denver has historically struggled on Thanksgiving, compiling just a 4-7 record.
• The Broncos hold a 2-0 edge over the Cowboys on turkey day, and a 1-2 record against the Lions.
• The Jacksonville Jaguars are the only team to have never played a game on Thanksgiving.
• Three teams have yet to suffer a loss on Thanksgiving — Ravens, Panthers and Texans. (Technically the Jaguars, too.)
• Four teams have yet to earn a win: Browns, Bengals, Buccaneers and Jaguars.

Want more Broncos news? Sign up for the Broncos Insider to get all our NFL analysis.

It was 25th start with the Broncos, giving him the most number of starts at quarterback for the franchise since Peyton Manning retired, surpassing former Denver seventh-round draft pick Trevor Siemian.

From Siemian to Wilson, here’s a look at who they are, how they fared in the role and where they are today.

Trevor Siemian

How he landed with the Broncos: Siemian was selected in the seventh round (250th pick overall) by the Broncos in 2015.

How he fared in Denver: Siemian played 25 games, making 24 starts for the Broncos, leading them to a 13-11 record. He completed 59.3% of his passes for 5,686 yards, 30 touchdowns and 24 interceptions. He was traded to the Vikings along with a 2018 seventh-round pick following the 2017 season for a 2019 fifth-round pick. The fifth-round pick would be used to select linebacker Justin Hollins.

Where is he now: The 31-year-old quarterback is the Jets’ No. 2 quarterback behind Tim Boyle after New York demoted Zach Wilson to No. 3 on Tuesday.

Paxton Lynch

How he landed with the Broncos: The Memphis standout was selected by the Broncos in the first round (26th overall) of the 2016 NFL draft. “He was the guy,” general manager John Elway said after selecting Lynch. “And we’re thrilled to have him.”

How he fared in Denver: Lynch didn’t live up to his first-round hype in Denver, playing just five games (starting four) in his two seasons with the Broncos. He had a 1-3 record while completing 61.7% of his passes for 792 yards, four touchdowns and four interceptions. He was cut prior to the start of the 2018 season.

Where is he now: Lynch, 29, last played professionally with the San Antonio Brahmas of the XFL after the Orlando Guardians waived him on April 5 following an 0-5 start.

Brock Osweiler

How he landed with the Broncos: Osweiler was originally selected by Denver in the second round (57th overall) of the 2012 NFL draft. Following the Super Bowl 50 win, he signed a four-year, $72 million deal with the Houston Texans. He was traded a year later to Cleveland but was released prior to the start of the 2018 season. Shortly after, he re-signed with Denver after Lynch suffered a shoulder injury.

How he fared in Denver: His second stint with the Broncos wasn’t as memorable as his first. He played in six games (starting four) and finished with a 0-4 record in his starts. He finished the year completing 55.8% of his passes for 1,088 yards, five touchdowns and five interceptions.

Where is he now: Osweiler, 32, is retired and watching a lot of football.

Case Keenum

How he landed with the Broncos: Keenum signed a two-year, $36 million deal with Denver prior to the start of the 2018 season.

How he fared in Denver: Keenum became the first starting quarterback to start every game in a season since Peyton Manning’s 2014 season. He opened strong, leading Denver to a 2-0 start, but the team finished the season 6-10. Keenum completed 62.3% of his passes for 3,890 yards, 18 touchdowns and 15 interceptions. He was traded along with a seventh-round pick to Washington for a sixth-round pick following the end of the season.

Where is he now: The 35-year-old Keenum re-signed with the Texans — his first team in the NFL — prior to the 2023 season. He is the No. 3 quarterback behind starter C.J. Stroud and backup Davis Mills.

Joe Flacco

How he landed with the Broncos: The former Super Bowl MVP was traded to Denver in February 2019 for a fourth-round draft pick.

How he fared in Denver: Flacco started eight games before the Broncos placed him on injured reserve for a herniated disc in his neck. Denver went 2-6 in his starts where he completed 65.3% of his passes for 1,822 yards, six touchdowns and five interceptions.

Where is he now: Flacco, 38, signed with the Browns’ practice squad on Tuesday.

Brandon Allen

How he landed with the Broncos: Allen was claimed off waivers from the Rams prior to the start of the 2019 season.

How he fared in Denver: He started in three games for the Broncos after Flacco suffered a season-ending injury in Week 9 of the 2019 season. He won his first game and lost the other two, completing 46.4% of his passes for 515 yards, three touchdowns and two interceptions.

Where is he now: The 31-year-old Allen signed with the 49ers prior to the start of the 2023 season. He is the No. 3 quarterback behind starter Brock Purdy and backup Sam Darnold.

Drew Lock

How he landed with the Broncos: Lock was selected in the second round (42nd overall) of the 2019 NFL draft out of Missouri.

How he fared in Denver: Lock made his first start during his rookie season in Week 13. In his five starts, he helped the Broncos to a 4-1 record to close out the season. He started 13 games in 2020 and three in 2021. He finished his time in Denver with an 8-13 record, 59.3% completion percentage, 4,740 yards, 25 touchdowns and 20 interceptions.

Where is he now: Lock, 27, is the backup to starter Geno Smith.

Jeff Driskel

How he landed with the Broncos: Driskel signed with Denver as a free agent prior to the 2020 season.

How he fared in Denver: Driskel made his first appearance in Week 2 of the 2020 season after Drew Lock suffered a shoulder injury early in the game against the Steelers. He started in Week 3 in a losing effort to the Buccaneers but was pulled in the fourth quarter. In three appearances (one start), he completed 54.7% of his passes for 432 yards, three touchdowns and two interceptions.

Where is he now: The 30-year-old Driskel is on the Arizona Cardinals’ practice squad.

Brett Rypien

How he landed with the Broncos: Rypien came to the Broncos as an undrafted free agent in 2019.

How he fared in Denver: He came on in relief of Jeff Driskel in Week 3 of the 2020 season during Denver’s loss to Tampa Bay. He earned the start in Week 4, leading the Broncos to a 37-28 road win against the Jets. He also had four appearances (two starts) in 2022, coming in for an injured Russell Wilson. In eight games (three starts) in Denver, he completed 61.5% of his passes for 778 yards, four touchdowns and nine interceptions.

Where is he now: Rypien, 27, signed with the Rams prior to the start of the 2023 season. After two appearances, including one start, he was waived. Seattle signed him to its practice squad.

Kendall Hinton

How he landed with the Broncos: Hinton signed as an undrafted free agent in April 2020. He was waived prior to the start of the season, but signed to the practice squad that November.

How he fared in Denver: Hinton was a quarterback at Wake Forest but projected to be a receiver in the NFL. He became the Broncos’ emergency starter in Week 12 of the 2020 season after all four of Denver’s quarterbacks were ruled ineligible to play due to COVID-19 protocol. He completed 1 of 9 passes for 13 yards and two interceptions in a 31-3 loss to the Saints.

Where is he now: After emerging as a depth receiver for the Broncos from 2021-22 (39 catches for 486 yards and a touchdown), he was waived during training camp in August 2023. He is currently a free agent.

Teddy Bridgewater

How he landed with the Broncos: Denver traded a 2021 sixth-round pick to the Panthers to acquire Bridgewater in April.

How he fared in Denver: The journeyman quarterback emerged as the team’s starter after beating out incumbent Drew Lock in the preseason. The Broncos’ record was 7-6 through his 13 starts. He has completed 66.9% of his passes for 3,052 yards, 18 touchdowns and seven interceptions.

Where is he now: The 31-year-old quarterback signed with the Lions prior to the start of the 2023 season. He is the backup to starter Jared Goff.

Russell Wilson

How he landed with the Broncos: In one of the biggest trades in Denver sports history, the Broncos traded for Wilson and a fourth-round draft pick in exchange for quarterback Drew Lock, tight end Noah Fant, defensive lineman Shelby Harris, two first-round picks, two second-round picks and a fifth-round pick.

How he fared in Denver: Wilson, 34, has been the most stable starter for the Broncos since Peyton Manning retired. As of Nov. 20, 2023, he has started 25 games for Denver, completing 63.7% of his passes for 5,589 yards, 35 touchdowns and 15 interceptions. The Broncos have compiled a 9-16 record during that span. In addition, he and his wife, Ciara, have bought a $25 million mansion in Cherry Hills Village and opened The House of LR&C, a clothing boutique.

Where is he now: He is Denver’s starting quarterback.

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Live updates

FINAL | Broncos 21, Vikings 20

Russell Wilson conjured some Sunday night magic. The Broncos quarterback dinked and dunked and scrambled. Then he lofted a pass to the back of the end zone and Courtland Sutton hauled in a go-ahead 15-yard touchdown with 63 seconds left in the game.

A failed two-point try kept the score at 21-20 and gave the Vikings a chance, but Denver’s defense came up with one more stop on Minnesota quarterback Josh Dobbs and company.

Winning streak? Alive and well. A team that started 1-5 is now back to level at 5-5, Parker Gabriel reports. Read the full story.

More Broncos coverage:

• PHOTOS: Denver Broncos come back to beat Minnesota Vikings 21-20 in NFL Week 11.
• Kiszla: Dancing on the brink and living on a prayer, Broncos beat Vikings and get back in playoff hunt.
• Winning streak has p-word is percolating in Broncos locker room despite long odds: “We have playoff aspirations”
• Heroes and Zeros from Broncos’ win over Minnesota Vikings: Courtland Sutton turns in another heroic effort.
• Ja’Quan McMillian continues turnover binge, becomes first Bronco to recover fumbles in back-to-back games since Von Miller in 2015.
• Broncos 4 downs: Courtland Sutton might want to keep his Pro Bowl week free after his catch sank the Vikings’ ship.
• Broncos report card: Perfume of takeaways and late offensive heroics provide pleasant cover for stinky underlying performance

Fourth-quarter updates

Ballgame (9:25 p.m.): The Vikings get one first down — barely — and the broncos bring the heat after that. On fourth and 25, Joshua Dobbs falls incomplete. That’s four wins in a row, folks. The first four-game win streak since 2016 — the very start of 2016. And now the Broncos are 5-5. Back to .500. Who saw this coming at 1-4?!?!? — Matt Schubert

What can Browning do for you? (9:21 p.m.): Baron Browning stopped Joshua Dobbs from reaching first down. by a matter of inches. The Vikings converted on the next play, though. — Joe Nguyen

No conversion (9:17 p.m.): And then the Broncos get absolutely stuffed out of a timeout. It’ll be on the defense to keep the Vikings from scoring.

All three timeouts and 63 seconds for Minnesota. The Broncos defense will have to earn this. — Matt Schubert

Fun fact: That was Courtland Sutton’s eighth touchdown reception of the year. His previous best? Six in 2019. — Joe Nguyen

Touchdown, Broncos (9:14 p.m.): Throw it up to Courtland Sutton, and good things often happen.

Russell Wilson finds the veteran receiver in the back of the end zone on a jump ball, and this place is going nutz.

RUSS TO SUTTON FOR THE LEAD.

: #MINvsDEN on NBC
: Stream on #NFLPlus https://t.co/XjBVd5cU8l pic.twitter.com/cxMwUt1T9i

— NFL (@NFL) November 20, 2023

With the score 21-20, Broncos, they will be going for two. And Sean Payton smartly calls a timeout to talk it over. — Matt Schubert

Almost game (9:12 p.m.): Samaje Perine fumbled the ball, but it bounced out of bounds before the Vikings could recover. Denver has the ball at the Minnesota 21. — Joe Nguyen

Courtland. Sutton. (9:07 p.m.): Despite the pass interference call, Courtland Sutton and his magical hands, well hand, pulled in the fourth-down catch to keep the drive going. — Joe Nguyen

Courtland Sutton makes an incredible one-handed catch on fourth down, and after Samaje Perine takes a short pass 10 yards, the Broncos have first-and-10 at the Vikings 45 at the two-minute warning. — Matt Schubert

Field goal, Minnesota (9:03 p.m.): OK, now it’s absolutely a fact: The Broncos will need to score a touchdown to win this thing after the Vikings kicked a field goal. It’s 20-15 Vikings with 3:17 left. — Matt Schubert

Converted (8:58 p.m.): Joshua Dobbs converts with the fourth-down sneak. — Joe Nguyen

Challenge (8:55 p.m.): Third-and-20, no problem for the Vikings.

Broncos totally lost Chandler in the flat and he’s credited with 22 yards. Sean Payton is challenging the spot, though. Don’t think he got 22, but it’s really close to being a first down. — Parker Gabriel

Zach Allen injury (8:50 p.m.): Broncos defensive end Zach Allen is down on the field with an apparent injury. — Ryan McFadden

Allen walked off on his own and did not go to the medical tent. Looks like he might be OK. — Matt Schubert

Fake punt (8:48 p.m.): The Broncos defense forces a three-and-out… almost.

A gutsy fake punt direct snap to Ty Chandler has the Vikings in business in Broncos territory. — Matt Schubert

Field goal, Broncos (8:42 p.m.): ANOTHER WIL LUTZ FIELD GOAL!

OK, so maybe that one didn’t need to be all-caps. It’s 17-15 Vikings with 10:37 to go. — Matt Schubert

18-17 Broncos as time expires, crowd storms the field and carries Wil Lutz to Meow Wolf. (Which is closed.) — Sean Keeler

With one more field goal, Wil Lutz would tie the Broncos’ franchise record of six field goals in a game, set by Brandon McManus on Oct. 18, 2020 against the Patriots. — Joe Nguyen

McMillianaire (8:38 p.m.): All he does is make plays. Ja’Quan McMillian snags an interception. It’s his second takeaway of the game. It’s his fourth in the last three games. — Joe Nguyen

PICKED. The @Broncos have the ball down 5.

: #MINvsDEN on NBC
: Stream on #NFLPlus https://t.co/XjBVd5cU8l pic.twitter.com/1OIYe8K6W7

— NFL (@NFL) November 20, 2023

ANOTHER TAKEAWAY. FROM JA’QUAN MCMILLIAN!!! AGAIN!

And the Broncos offense is moving backwards. — Matt Schubert

Field goal, Broncos (8:33 p.m.): Wil Lutz nails the 37-yard field goal. Vikings 17, Broncos 12 with 12:40 to go. — Joe Nguyen

It appears this game is going to come down to whether or not the Broncos can generate enough turnovers for Wil Lutz to kick two more field goals. — Matt Schubert

Offensive woes (8:32 p.m.): A procedural penalty from Garett Bolles takes away a Broncos first down, Russell Wilson is sacked on the next play, and it’s yet another field goal for Wil Lutz. At some point, you’d like to see the Broncos score a touchdown. — Matt Schubert

Third-quarter analysis — Vikings 17, Broncos 9

Parker Gabriel, beat writer: Significant 15 minutes of football upcoming.

Sean Keeler, sports columnist: An 18-17 win is still out there. Plenty of seats on that Wil Lutz Pro Bowl Train, boys and girls.

Matt Schubert, sports editor: The Broncos are living on the edge, but if the Vikings keep coughing up the ball, 5-5 just might happen. At some point, however, Denver needs to put one in the end zone.

Third-quarter updates

Defense skills (8:20 p.m.): Turnovers, turnovers, turnovers. — Parker Gabriel

Fumble! Broncos come up with another takeaway

: #MINvsDEN on NBC
: Stream on #NFLPlus https://t.co/XjBVd5cU8l pic.twitter.com/SviuySql8s

— NFL (@NFL) November 20, 2023

ANOTHER Broncos takeaway! Just as the Vikings were driving to put another nail in the Broncos’ coffin, DJ Jones gets a piece of Alexander Mattison’s arm to cause a fumble and Josey Jewell jumps on the ball. We’re now at 11 takeaways for the Denver defense over the last three games. Amazing? Yes. Sustainable? I dunno. — Matt Schubert

Local sounds (8:18 p.m.): NBC just played “Supermagical” by Denver’s own Wildermiss before the commercial break on Sunday Night Football. — Joe Nguyen

Stagnant offense (8:13 p.m.): A second straight three-and-out for the Broncos, and now the Vikings have a chance to grab this game by the scruff of its neck. — Matt Schubert

Touchdown, Vikings (8:07 p.m.): A bad PI from Pat Surtain takes away an interception and proves costly after Joshua Dobbs scrambles up the middle for a 10-yard touchdown run. It’s still a one-possession game at 17-9, but yet another bad start to a third quarter for the Broncos. — Matt Schubert

No pick (8:04 p.m.): Pat Surtain II came down with an interception, but it came back due to pass interference call. — Joe Nguyen

Rarity (7:56 p.m.): One of the rare times a Broncos wide receiver screen works, this time to rookie Marvin Mims Jr., it gets called back on a Nate Adkins hold. After a three-and-out, it’s Vikings ball. — Matt Schubert

Halftime analysis — Vikings 10, Broncos 9

Parker Gabriel, beat writer: Broncos defense settled in some in the second quarter. Offense is going to have to find the end zone at some point. To open the third quarter, ideally, though that’s been a sore spot for Sean Payton’s operation all season.

Ryan McFadden, beat writer: Wilson began to take more shots down the field, but he got a little to eager on that attempt down the middle to Jeudy. Broncos have to do a better job on third down in the second half. They went 0-for-5 on third down conversions in the first half.

Sean Keeler, sports columnist: Hey, if it takes five field goals to win this bad boy 15-13, you take it. Ain’t no tiebreaker for style points in the AFC standings, kids. And those standings are mental.

Mark Kiszla, sports columnist: Another tilt that shakes down the Rocky Mountain Thunder with echoes of the Orange Crush. It ain’t pretty. But the Broncos got a fightin’ chance to get to .500 with a solid second half.

Second-quarter updates

Field goal try (7:37 p.m.): Russell Wilson couldn’t connect with Jerry Jeudy for the touchdown (it was almost picked), so Denver has to settle for a 52-yard field-goal attempt. Wil Lutz nails the kick. Vikings 10, Broncos 9 at the half. — Joe Nguyen

Jerry Jeudy just saved three points with the best pass breakup you’ll see all season. Not sure what Russell Wilson was thinking there, but the Broncos only trail 10-9. All things considered, that’s OK. — Matt Schubert

Marching (7:32 p.m.): After a Broncos defensive stop, the offense is on the march once again. Get another field goal and 10-9 at halftime doesn’t look bad. — Matt Schubert

Conversions (7:24 p.m.): Vikings have converted four of their past five third-down chances on a TD and gains of 15, 29 and 17. — Parker Gabriel

Field goal (7:17 p.m.): Wil Lutz hits the 31-yard field goal for Denver. Vikings 10, Broncos 6 with 4:08 to go in the half. — Joe Nguyen

Settling (7:16 p.m.): Three plays later, the Broncos have to settle for a field goal. — Matt Schubert

Big gains (7:14 p.m.): Finally, the Broncos decide to open things up with a pair of long strikes to Jerry Jeudy and Courtland Sutton. First and 10 at the Vikings 20. The first meaningful drive of the game for Denver. — Matt Schubert

Sack (7:08 p.m.): Broncos’ defense stands strong. Jonathon Cooper slipped through the line and sacked Joshua Dobbs, forcing Minnesota to attempt a 34-yard field goal. It’s good. Vikings 10, Broncos 3 with 8:09 to go. — Joe Nguyen

Run defense (7:05 p.m.): The Broncos run defense continues to be bad. That’s been the one constant of this entire season. — Matt Schubert

Touchdown, Vikings (6:56 p.m.): Joshua Dobbs shrugged off a sack attempt and connected with Josh Oliver for a 3-yard touchdown. Vikings 7, Broncos 3 with 14:53 to go. — Joe Nguyen

First-quarter analysis — Broncos 3, Vikings 0

Parker Gabriel, beat writer: The Broncos have done nothing offensively and can’t stop the run. Oh, and the punting’s been suspect. Other than that, no reason to worry.

Sean Keeler, sports columnist: If you’re the Vikes, why throw?

Mark Kiszla, sports columnist: And Kareem Jackson is not a dirty player?

First-quarter updates

Running game (6:53 p.m.): If I’m the Vikings, I will run the ball for the entire game. Denver gave up 72 rushing yards in the first quarter. — Ryan McFadden

Wide open? (6:46 p.m.): It looked like Wilson had tight end Nate Adkins wide open down the right sideline but didn’t look in that direction. — Ryan McFadden

Field goal, Broncos (6:31 p.m.): Wil Lutz nails the 31-yard field goal to give Denver the early lead. Broncos 3, Vikings 0 with 10:28 to go in the first. — Joe Nguyen

Dobbs went in the tent and is back out again. As the hit was Kareem Jackson’s, the league office probably winced a little. Still, 3-0, Broncos. — Sean Keeler

Broncos couldn’t take advantage of solid field position, as they were forced to settle for a field goal. Danielle Hunter’s sack on Russ was costly. — Ryan McFadden

Danielle Hunter racks up his 12th sack of the season

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— NFL (@NFL) November 20, 2023

I’m on record as saying any play that involves a tight end taking a snap probably shouldn’t happen. The Broncos benefit from the Vikings’ stupidity. I’m sure they’ll take it. — Matt Schubert

Injury update (6:29 p.m.): Joshua Dobbs is in the injury tent following the hit by Kareem Jackson. — Joe Nguyen

Turnover (6:26 p.m.): Broncos came up with another turnover. Kareem Jackson knocks the ball out of Joshua Dobbs’ hands. Denver ball on the Minnesota 30. — Joe Nguyen

The @Broncos defense continues its hot streak!

: #MINvsDEN on NBC
: Stream on #NFLPlus https://t.co/XjBVd5cU8l pic.twitter.com/nfbr2iFofr

— NFL (@NFL) November 20, 2023

Coin toss (6:22 p.m.): Broncos win the toss and defer to the second half. Let’s roll. — Parker Gabriel

Pre-game updates

Inactives (4:52 p.m.): Broncos rookie S JL Skinner is up for the first time this season with S P.J. Locke out.The rest of Denver’s inactives:

• OLB Ronnie Perkins
• ILB Ben Niemann
• C Alex Forsyth
• OLB Thomas Incoom
• DL Elijah Garcia

Hello from Empower Field (4:33 p.m.): The Broncos take on Minnesota tonight in prime time. Denver’s looking for its first four-game winning streak since 2016, while the Vikings are aiming for their sixth straight win. Remarkably, neither of these teams has lost in more than a month. Not only that, but if the Broncos win and get to 5-5 on the season, they’ll jump from last in the AFC West to second thanks to losses today by Las Vegas (now 5-6) against Miami and Los Angeles (4-6) at Green Bay. Big opportunity, then, for Sean Payton’s team. — Parker Gabriel

Scouting report (4 p.m.): Check out how the Broncos match up with the Vikings in Ryan McFadden’s scouting report.

Game predictions

Parker Gabriel, beat writer: Broncos 23, Vikings 21

Two weeks ago this matchup seemed primed to get flexed out of Sunday night. Now? Neither team has lost since Kansas City beat the Vikings on Oct. 8 and then Denver four days later. Sean Payton’s side has won three straight, has good vibes (vulnerabilities, too) and a home crowd that should be juiced for prime time. This team might just have figured out how to avoid what would be a real letdown.

Ryan McFadden, beat writer: Broncos 27, Vikings 24

I’m sticking with the Broncos for the second straight week because of their defense. They have managed to contain Josh Allen and Patrick Mahomes, so I’m confident defensive coordinator Vance Joseph will figure out how to slow down Joshua Dobbs. The Broncos will head into Thanksgiving week with a .500 record. Crazy, right?

Mark Kiszla, columnist: Vikings 24, Broncos 16

Hey, don’t get ticked at me for raining on the Orange & Blue Bandwagon. Blame that heartless dastard, Mr. Law of Averages. While the Denver D has made an amazing comeback from that 70-burger in Miami, Mr. Law of Averages tells us not to expect the Broncos to force four or five turnovers every week.

Sean Keeler, columnist: Vikings 21, Broncos 20

The Lazarus Bowl? The Risner Bowl? AFC New Money (Broncos) meets NFC New Money (Vikes) in a battle of two 0-3 teams left for dead on Columbus Day. Minnesota’s thrown only one interception in its last six games, while the Broncos have picked off eight passes over their last six. The Orange & Blue have the hottest secondary in the NFL right now, but can Denver win a game in which it doesn’t also don’t win big when it comes to the turnover margin?

Matt Schubert, sports editor: Broncos 20, Vikings 17

Minnesota doesn’t have the run game to expose the Broncos’ one glaring defensive weakness, and as solid as Joshua Dobbs has been over the past couple of weeks, there’s a reason he was available for a sixth-round pick. It’s been established over the past three games: Denver doesn’t need a good offense to win, just a competent one. As scary as this Minnesota defense is, Russell Wilson and Co. should do just enough to get to .500.

Broncos-Vikings NFL Week 11: Must-reads

How have the Broncos revamped a historically bad defense on the fly? Tough conversations, turnovers galore and the Justin Simmons effect.

A third straight win could hardly have been forecast even a month prior. Doing it on the strength of a defensive surge? Unthinkable.

How did it happen? How did a defense off to one of the worst starts in NFL history turn into a potential top-10 group? Why did it take so many weeks to make a series of moves that have panned out so well?

And does this group have the chops to take a four-game run and turn it into a real playoff chase? The next two weeks will tell a lot, but the Broncos defense has already turned its season around in a major way, Parker Gabriel reports. Read the full story.

Broncos prepare for Minnesota’s blitz-heavy defense: “It’s about being on the same page”

Broncos right tackle Mike McGlinchey is happy to face Minnesota at home on Sunday night, because communication will be essential against the Vikings’ pass rush.

Minnesota has the highest blitz percentage in the league (49%) under first-year defensive coordinator Brian Flores. And with the various looks the Vikings present, the Broncos will have their hands full trying to protect quarterback Russell Wilson.

Head coach Sean Payton said he and the team spent 48 hours studying Minnesota’s pass rush. He thinks Minnesota forces opponents’ hands with six- and seven-man blitzes, Ryan McFadden reports. Read the full story.

Broncos sense Sean Payton Way is starting to take hold. “You’re like, Holy (crap), it’s working”

Adam Trautman has seen this movie before.

The Broncos tight end started his career in New Orleans playing for Sean Payton. His rookie year in 2020, they went 12-4 and secured the NFC’s No. 2 seed.

Payton is an intense coach by nature. Start winning, his reputation goes, and there’s no sense of a lighten up. He only gets more demanding. Like several of his core coaching principles, this one comes from the years he spent with Bill Parcells, Parker Gabriel reports. Read the full story.

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What about Super Bowl talk? The saying goes “any given Sunday,” but sportsbooks aren’t fully bullish on Denver’s odds to bring home the Lombardi Trophy this year.

DraftKings Sportsbook has the most optimistic odds at +12,000 — meaning a $100 bet would win $12,000 — for the Broncos to win Super Bowl LVIII. Denver has the 18th-best odds among the 30 NFL teams.

Caesars Sportsbook is next among the five betting sites surveyed at +12,500, followed by BetMGM (+15,000), Fanduel Sportsbook (+17,000) and SI Sportsbook (+25,000). Denver is ranked between 18th and 27th among the sites.

It’s a big drop-off from the team’s initial odds prior to the start of the season, ranging from +3,300 to +4,500.

The defending champion Chiefs (+450 to +500) are either tied or have sole possession as the favorites, followed by the 49ers (+480 to +500) and the Eagles (+500 to +575).

The Broncos will look to extend their winning streak when they host the Vikings (6-4) on Sunday Night Football. Kick-off is scheduled for 6:20 p.m. MT.

Want more Broncos news? Sign up for the Broncos Insider to get all our NFL analysis.

Live updates

Final | Broncos 24, Bills 22

ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. — When the Broncos needed it most, Russell Wilson delivered.

In prime time.

With a chance at a potential run toward playoff contention teetering.

The football world watching.

Wilson engineered a fourth-quarter touchdown drive to take the lead and then a last-minute dash into field goal range to help propel the Broncos past Buffalo, 24-22, on Monday night, Parker Gabriel reports. Read the full story.

More Broncos coverage

• PHOTOS: Denver Broncos upset Buffalo Bills 24-22 in NFL Week 10.
• Kiszla: Can bizarre ending to 24-22 victory be beginning of miraculous playoff run for Broncos?
• Heroes and Zeros from Broncos’ win over Buffalo Bills: Ja’Quan McMillian one season’s biggest surprises.
• Broncos report card: Defense’s big-time run continues in win over Buffalo on Monday night.
• Broncos lineups similar coming out of bye week, including feisty, play-making nickel Ja’Quan McMillian.
• Broncos four downs: Russell Wilson just cooked Josh Allen, Bills in their own dang kitchen.

Fourth-quarter updates

Game (9:28 p.m.): What a bizarre finish. Wil Lutz is almost the goat, but the Bills do him one better with 12 men on the field for his game-ending missed field goal. Lutz nails the second try, and now the Broncos have won three straight … somehow. — Matt Schubert

This ending (9:22 p.m.): The Bills did consecutive all-out blitzes. They sacked Russell Wilson the first time. The second? A pass-interference call on Buffalo. Denver’s at the Buffalo 17-yard line. — Joe Nguyen

Big gain (9:17 p.m.): ANOTHER shovel pass to Samaje Perine and the Broncos are near midfield. There’s 1:39 to go and the Broncos just need a field goal — however tenuous that might seem right now. — Matt Schubert

Last chance (9:16 p.m.): Welp, it’s now or never for Russ and the Broncos. — Matt Schubert

Touchdown, Bills (9:13 p.m.): After some huge runs from James Cook, Josh Allen takes it into the end zone on a 6-yard run. Bills 22, Broncos 21 with 1:55 to go. — Joe Nguyen

Touchdown, Broncos (9:02 p.m.): Russell Wilson connected with Javonte Williams on a quick 3-yard touchdown pass. A bobbled catch on the extra point snap leaves a point. Broncos 21, Bills 15 with 5:06 to go. — Joe Nguyen

Russ to Javonte! Broncos take the lead with 5:06 remaining

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— NFL (@NFL) November 14, 2023

Finally, the Broncos cash in. What a gutty drive. Multiple third-down conversions, some Russell Wilson magic and Javonte Williams running angry. And then …. another botched extra point. The Broncos left the door open. Can the defense close it? — Matt Schubert

Broncos offense threatening (9:01 p.m.): After a first down catch by Courtland Sutton (that didn’t end up being another fumble), Javonte Williams had back-to back runs to get it to the Buffalo 3-yard line. — Joe Nguyen

Russ clutch on 3rd & 7.

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— NFL (@NFL) November 14, 2023

Another chance for the offense (8:52 p.m.): The Broncos get the ball near midfield yet again thanks to another great return from Marvin Mims Jr. Can they actually do something with it this time? — Matt Schubert

Third-quarter analysis — Broncos 15, Bills 15

Parker Gabriel, beat writer: Buckle up. It’s just whether a playoff run is realistic or not hanging in the balance for the Broncos.

Matt Schubert, sports editor: Are either of these teams interested in winning this game? Hard to tell through three quarters.

Third-quarter updates

Another turnover (8:39 p.m.): And then the Denver defense gets another takeaway. This one a fumble by Josh Allen that was recovered by Alex Singleton. The Broncos’ offense will start on the Bills’ 48-yard line. — Joe Nguyen

Huge play (8:38 p.m.): Josh Allen connected with Gabe Davis for a 37-yard pass. — Joe Nguyen

Pair of sacks (8:34 p.m.): Russell Wilson was looking to throw on second and third downs, but Buffalo registered a pair of sacks. A Riley Dixon punt has the Bills starting on their own 11-yard line with 2:30 to go in the third quarter. — Joe Nguyen

Mims’ return (8:30 p.m.): The Broncos’ offense is getting good field position to start again after Marvin Mims Jr.’s 31-yard kickoff return to the 39-yard line. — Joe Nguyen

Touchdown, Bills (8:26 p.m.): Latavius Murray’s 3-yard run caps off Buffalo’s seven-play, 54-yard drive off Courtland Sutton’s fumble. Broncos 15, Bills 15. New ball game with 6:42 to go in the third quarter. — Joe Nguyen

The Bills have been functional for a total of two drives, and this is now a tie game.

The Bills kept presenting their chin to the Broncos to deliver a haymaker, and they just kept throwing jabs. This is what happens as a result. — Matt Schubert

Buffalo threatening (8:24 p.m.): Josh Allen connects with Khalil Shakir for a 24-yard gain. Buffalo in the red zone. — Joe Nguyen

Broncos fumble (8:19 p.m.): On third-and-6, Russell Wilson threw a short pass to Courtland Sutton, who fumbled the ball as he was turning to reach the first-down marker. — Joe Nguyen

However many more stops you think the Broncos defense needs to win this game tonight, it’s probably one more than that. — Parker Gabriel

Penalties galore (8:07 p.m.): Denver’s opening drive on the half was laced with penalties. A hold, a false start and then on the punt, another hold. — Joe Nguyen

Locke update (8:03 p.m.): P.J. Locke (ankle) is questionable to return. — Parker Gabriel 

Halftime analysis — Broncos 15, Bills 8

Parker Gabriel, beat writer: The Broncos forced three turnovers, which is a recipe for winning. Only quibble, they turned into just six points after Ja’Quan McMillian’s fumble recovery and Fabian Moreau’s INT set Denver up inside Buffalo’s 30-yard line twice.

Ryan McFadden, beat writer:  Broncos held Josh Allen and company to eight points and forced three turnovers. Yeah, this unit is good again.

Mark Kiszla, sports columnist: Broncos take 15-8 lead over Bills to intermission for one primary and stunning reason. Russell Wilson has been better quarterback than Josh Allen, and it it hasn’t been particularly close.

Second-quarter updates

Great execution (7:49 p.m.): A quick pass by Russell Wilson to Jerry Jeudy gets the ball in the center of the hash marks, and Wil Lutz nails a 40-yard field goal with the clock winding down to zero. Broncos 15, Bills 8 at the half.

Another pick (7:44 p.m.): Josh Allen gets picked off again, this time by Fabian Moreau. Denver gets one more shot before the half. — Joe Nguyen

Three more (7:41 p.m.): Wil Lutz with the 49-yard field goal to give the Broncos a 12-8 lead with 45 seconds to go. — Joe Nguyen

Wil Lutz figured out the wind going that direction and snuck a 49-yarder over the upright to put the Broncos up 12-8 with :45 left in the first half. — Parker Gabriel

Will Lutz gets a measure of redemption with that 49-yarder. But, boy, was that close. — Matt Schubert

Rare chance (7:36 p.m.): Another wild stat from Next Gen Stats: That service had the TD to Sutton graded as, “a completion probability of 3.2%, the most improbable completion of the Next Gen Stats era.” — Parker Gabriel

Russell Wilson's 7-yard touchdown pass to Courtland Sutton had a completion probability of 3.2%, the most improbable completion of the Next Gen Stats era.

Scramble Distance: 16.3 yds
Air Distance: 37.8 yds
Sideline Distance: -0.7 yds

Powered by @awscloud pic.twitter.com/1rO4I6h7aR

— Next Gen Stats (@NextGenStats) November 14, 2023

Vintage Russ (7:35 p.m.): We are seeing vintage Russ in the first half. He is 9-for-11 for 105 yards and a touchdown despite getting pressured on 53.8% of his dropbacks according to Next Gen Stats. — Ryan McFadden

Locke update (7:33 p.m.): P.J. Locke tried to jog and get loose on the sideline but didn’t look comfortable. Heading to the locker room now with trainers at the 2-minute warning. — Parker Gabriel

Russ cookin’ (7:32 p.m.): Russell Wilson’s been harassed quite a bit tonight, but in between that he’s dealing. — Parker Gabriel

P.J. Locke injury (7:28 p.m.): Trainers are working on P.J. Locke’s left ankle area on the sideline after he hobbled off the field in the middle of that drive. Looks like they’re taping it up. — Parker Gabriel

Touchdown, Bills (7:27 p.m.): Eight plays, 81 yards in 3:41 capped off by a 22-yard pass from Josh Allen to Dalton Kincaid. An offsides penalty puts the ball on the 1-yard line for Buffalo’s extra-point attempt. They convert it. Broncos 9, Bills 8 with 3:36 to go. — Joe Nguyen

Allen to Kincaid puts the @BuffaloBills on the board!

: #DENvsBUF on ESPN/ABC
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— NFL (@NFL) November 14, 2023

Starting to feel like the Broncos missed their chance to land a haymaker, and now they are paying for it. — Matt Schubert

James Cook returns (7:24 p.m.): Making his first appearance since getting the ball stolen out of his hands on the Bills’ first play, James Cook has been given the ball four straight times for 26 yards. — Joe Nguyen

Touchdown, Broncos (7:18 p.m.): And it’s a completion: An 8-yard touchdown pass to Courtland Sutton. Extra point pinged off the uprights. Broncos 9, Bills 0 with 7:23 to go. — Joe Nguyen

The perfect throw from Russ. And Sutton's left foot placement.

Precision from the @Broncos duo. pic.twitter.com/assFSJydy3

— NFL (@NFL) November 14, 2023

Is it? (7:15 p.m.): Russell Wilson had immense pressure from Buffalo’s defense and still connected with Courtland Sutton in the end zone. The play was ruled incomplete, but it sure looked good with his toe dragging. — Joe Nguyen

Going for it (7:14 p.m.): It’s fourth down. Denver’s going for it. — Joe Nguyen

Big gain (7:11 p.m.): Courtland Sutton got the first down on a quick slant for 6 yards. Then Dorian Williams delivered a helmet-to-helmet hit that places Denver at the Bills’ 26-yard line. The Broncos got 11 yards on the next play on a pass from Russell Wilson to Jerry Jeudy. — Joe Nguyen

Another punt (7:05 p.m.): Denver’s defense stays strong, forcing a punt. Marvin Mims Jr. returns it to the Denver 48 on a 17-yard return. — Joe Nguyen

Run, Russell, run (6:56 p.m.): Denver continues its reliance on the run game. Russell Wilson takes off for a 10-yard gain. — Joe Nguyen

Russ is movin'

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— NFL (@NFL) November 14, 2023

First-quarter analysis — Broncos 3, Bills 0

Parker Gabriel, beat writer: The Broncos are doing a splendid job of mucking this game up early. Feels like they need another score, though, to really be in control of it despite the two early forced turnovers.

Ryan McFadden, beat writer: The way the first quarter went, it’s hard to imagine either team scoring more than 20 points tonight. Denver’s defense continues to ball out. The Broncos had two turnovers in the opening quarter and 13 since Week 4.

Mark Kiszla, sports columnist: So if the Broncos finish with a 12-5 record, where will their first playoff game be played? I’m hoping for Miami. Good weather in January. And good chance to avenge that 70-burger loss.

First-quarter updates

Stout (6:46 p.m.): Buffalo’s first three drives have resulted in two takeaways and a punt that was nearly blocked. Denver’s defense is rolling. As for the offense… — Joe Nguyen

Really says a lot about Randy Gregory how much better the Broncos edge rushers have been since he left town. — Matt Schubert

Can’t capitalize (6:40 p.m.): Two turnovers by the defense result in just three points by Denver’s offense. The Broncos had to punt on their second drive. — Joe Nguyen

Just like wide receiver screens, Denver might have to throw away those end around plays. — Ryan McFadden

Simmons with the pick (6:31 p.m.): Josh Allen threw a helluva fastball that deflected off of his receiver into the hands of, who else, Justin Simmons. Denver will start on its own 12-yard line with 8:30 to go in the first.

It’s Simmons’ third interception of the year and 30th of his career in Denver. That moves him into a tie for seventh all time with Dennis Smith.  — Joe Nguyen

Justin Simmons INT! The @Broncos defense has back-to-back takeaways.

: #DENvsBUF on ESPN/ABC
: Stream on #NFLPlus https://t.co/J3bHxYOoK2 pic.twitter.com/DVJEeLJAYI

— NFL (@NFL) November 14, 2023

Justin Simmons with a big time interception. Denver has forced 13 turnovers since Week 4. — Ryan McFadden

Turnaround (6:28 p.m.): We’re an Alex Singleton foot drag away from the Bills turning the ball over on consecutive offensive snaps. Instead, the Bills get a first down and are now at midfield. — Matt Schubert

Josh Allen’s 18-yard completion to Gabe Davis has Buffalo’s offense rolling. Damarri Mathis, who has struggled this season, was in coverage. — Ryan McFadden

Nearly another turnover (6:25 p.m.): Alex Singleton snagged a Josh Allen pass, but he only had one foot in. The Bills were also penalized for a holding call. Rough start for Buffalo’s offense. — Joe Nguyen

On the board first (6:21 p.m.): Wil Lutz with the 40-yard field goal. Broncos 3, Bills 0 with 12:39 to go.

Denver leaning on its run game early. Three carries for 11 yards on that first drive. — Joe Nguyen

False start (6:20 p.m.): Mike McGlinchey with a false start on third-and-7. Now third-and-12 for Denver. — Joe Nguyen

Mike McFlinchey costs the Broncos a shot at third-and-manageable. An opportunity to grab this game by the throat is squandered. — Matt Schubert

Takeaway (6:18 p.m.): We’re off and running and Ja’Quan McMillian, one of the surprise stories of the season, forced and recovered a fumble on Buffalo’s first offensive snap of the night. Wow. — Parker Gabriel

RIPPED AWAY ON THE FIRST PLAY.

: #DENvsBUF on ESPN/ABC
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— NFL (@NFL) November 14, 2023

OK, then. Ja’Quan McMillian, impact player. — Matt Schubert

Coin toss (6:15 p.m.): Big hug between Von Miller and Courtland Sutton at midfield before the coin toss. Buffalo wins the toss and wants the ball. — Parker Gabriel

Pre-game updates

Opening song (6:15 p.m.): That Monday Night Football song? A cover of Phil Collins’ “In The Air Tonight” by Chris Stapleton, Snoop Dogg and Cindy Blackman Santana. — Joe Nguyen

Inactives (5:30 p.m.): On the inactives list for the Broncos tonight include tight end Nate Adkins, nose tackle Keondre Coburn, center Alex Forsyth, defensive lineman Elijah Garcia, outside linebacker Thomas Incoom, inside linebacker Ben Niemann and safety JL Skinner. — Joe Nguyen

Good evening from Orchard Park, New York (3:25 p.m.): This will shock all of you, but the wind is blowin’ something fierce in Western New York. Straight off of Lake Erie. The flags at the top of Highmark Stadium and on the goal posts are whipping around. Certainly has a chance to impact the field conditions tonight as the Broncos return from their bye week looking to run a win streak to three games. The Bills, now 5-4, also really need a win. Should be a fun one on a chilly — but at least not frigid — night here. — Parker Gabriel

Scouting report (3:25 p.m.): Check out how the Broncos match up with the Bills in Ryan McFadden’s scouting report.

Game predictions

Parker Gabriel, beat writer: Bills 27, Broncos 20

Denver’s got the feel-goods coming off a bye week, and Buffalo’s been erratic. Even still, a win in prime time on the road against a team that’s more talented and has reached the point where it can’t do too much more messing around without threatening its playoff status is a tall order. Too tall, in this case. Von Miller & Co. get the job done.

Ryan McFadden, beat writer: Broncos 23, Bills 20

Let’s get wild. The Broncos are healthy and playing their best football. Yeah, Buffalo is hungry, but so is Denver. The Broncos will shock the world and pull off an upset on the road in prime time.

Sean Keeler, columnist: Bills 27, Broncos 18

The Bills are mortal away from Orchard Park, but at home? In front of the Mafia? Under the lights? They’re basically Kansas City North. No NFL squad sported a better home passer rating (117.5) than Buffalo heading into the weekend. Only the Chiefs have as many passing first downs at home (72) and only the Dolphins have as many home passing TDs (13). You can run on the Bills, absolutely. And you should. But Josh Allen probably gets the last word in. Again.

Mark Kiszla, columnist: Bills 20, Broncos 16

You will be able to feel the desperation on a Monday night in upstate New York, where everyone is already grumpy because the darkness of winter has arrived and the snow that doesn’t melt until spring looms just around the corner. Did the Bills miss their Super Bowl window? Was that victory against Kansas City more than a temporary reprieve in another lost Broncos season? Desperation turns to panic for the loser of this game.

Broncos-Bills NFL Week 10: Must-reads

Broncos need a long winning streak or two in quest to rejoin playoff picture, but Bills represent tough task: “There’s no better script to get a season turned around”

There’s never a bad time for a bye week in the NFL, especially in the middle of the season.

But if ever a team might have wanted to play through, it’d be the Broncos. They finally put back-to-back wins on the board late last month. Their active roster is almost entirely healthy. They finally vanquished Kansas City. They finally, maybe, figured out their recipe for winning.

Then they went 15 days between games.

So, what will Denver look like when it takes the field Monday night in Western New York? Like a group that flashed and reverts to early-season form? Or like a team on an upward trajectory? Parker Gabriel reports. Read the full story.

Despite injuries to Bills defense, Broncos will have their hands full against Buffalo rush: “These guys are really good”

The Bills defense in 2023 has faced a torrent of injuries.

Von Miller missed the beginning of the season. Defensive lineman DaQuan Jones is on injured reserve currently. Inside linebacker Matt Milano was lost for the year. So, too, was top cornerback Tre’Davious White.

Through all of that, though, Buffalo’s defense has retained the ability to impact opposing quarterbacks.

The Bills enter Monday night’s game against Denver sixth in the NFL in sack rate (8.3%) and seventh in total pressure rate (26.7%), and they’ve done it thanks to a seemingly endless supply of rushers, Parker Gabriel reports. Read the full story.

Broncos OLB Baron Browning’s sack celebrations reflect energy he brings to the field: “You can tell he’s having fun”

It’s rare to sack Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes. That’s why Baron Browning had to do his dance.

As Mahomes attempted to escape pressure on third-and-long in the fourth quarter of the Broncos’ 24-9 win in Week 8, he ran into his offensive lineman, and Browning came from behind to record his second sack.

The third-year outside linebacker then dashed near the goal line and went crazy. He moved side-to-side before falling to the ground and started pumping like Hingle McCringleberry from the “Key and Peele” skit, Ryan McFadden reports. Read the full story.

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