The Denver Broncos defeated the Las Vegas Raiders 29-19 on Sunday on the road and improved to 7-5 on the season. Here are five quick takeaways from Denver's big win in the AFC West.
1. Good luck predicting backfield rotation: Two weeks ago it was the Audric Estime Show. Last week, Javonte Williams led the way. On Sunday, Jaleel McLaughlin led the Broncos' backfield with 44 rushing yards despite getting one fewer carries than Williams. It's really a three-man backfield. This may be frustrating for fantasy football managers, but it works for Denver's offense.
2. Maxx Crosby was held without a sack: Mike McGlinchey had a few penalties early in the game, but overall he did well against one of the AFC's best pass rushers. Crosby finished the day without a sack, snapping a 10-game streak with at least one sack against the Broncos.
3. Zach Allen was missing: Denver's defensive line – and the entire defense – missed Allen, who was sidelined with a heel injury. Before the game, Allen was seen wearing a hiking boot. The team's Week 14 farewell can't come soon enough.
Zach Allen in a hiking boot
— Romi Bean (@Romi_Bean)
4. Courtland Sutton burst into tears: Over the last five games, Sutton has 36 receptions for 467 yards and three touchdowns. With 1,054 receiving yards and seven touchdowns, he is on pace to set a career high in receptions (81) this fall. He was Mr. Reliable for rookie quarterback Bo Nix.
5. Speaking of Bo Nix: He's on track to win the Offensive Rookie of the Year award. Jayden Daniels has more total yards (3,169) than Nix (2,848), but Nix has more total touchdowns (21) than Daniels (17). Nix has been red-hot over the last few weeks and if he continues like this, awards will follow at the end of the season.