The Denver Broncos defeated the Atlanta Falcons in outlandish style to a tune of 51-21. This wasn’t your typical Denver Bronco victory, for a team that couldn’t run the ball very well last season, they ran for over 247 yards. Amassing 438 total yards, Denver was very well balanced on offense with a 58-42 run to pass ratio, I think it was the first game this cycle where that ratio favoured running the ball. What were the key moments that helped Denver secure such a dominating victory?
Jahdae Barron’s Pick Six!
Bo Nix threw a costly interception on the goal line the drive before where the Broncos could have gone up 14-3. During the ensuing possession, Atlanta drove down the field and caught Denver in a man-pressed defense. Atlanta had the matchup they wanted with Barron on the outside, and the receiver broke to the inside, but Penix Jr tossed the ball up where Barron was able to snag the ball in stride and race it back all the way for a touchdown. This momentous play opened the game up for the Broncos and they never looked behind. What was even more special is that Jahdae Barron had gone to the sidelines with an injury three plays prior, despite his ‘red’ stamina, he was able to muster the grit to leave it all on the field. Denver substituted Barron out after the touchdown and he didn’t return to the game.
Stifling Defense leads to Pick and City!
Denver’s relentless pressure forced the Falcons to turn the ball over 5 times, resulting in 4 interceptions and 1 forced fumble. Denver allows over 441 yards, but most of that yardage came in garbage time when Denver was up 28+ points. Nik Bonitto was a game wrecker amassing 4 solo tackles, 3 tackles for loss, 1 sack, and 1 interception. Bonitto’s lone interception came on a screen pass that he identified beautifully. Bonitto allowed the halfback to escape out of the backfield, pretended to rusher the passer, and jumped the route. Denver ranked almost dead last in pressures against opposing quarterbacks last season, they will definitely need Bonitto’s presence as the season progresses.
Barion Brown is too Fast!
The Falcons didn’t have an answer for Barion Brown, the rookie receiver had 5 receptions for 140 yards and 1 touchdown. Brown’s longest catch came for 47 yards, but Brown’s presence opened up running lanes that Denver failed to see last season. Brown is not a receiver that should be single covered and the rookie put the league on notice in this game. Single cover Barion Brown at your own peril!
Ty Chandler’s Rejuvenated Career!
Ty Chandler spent all of last season on the Minnesota Vikings where he rushed the ball 27 times for 174 yards and 2 touchdowns. Chandler had a visit with Denver with the understanding that he’d be in a backup role, but Chandler took advantage of every single touch against the Falcons. Chandler rushed the ball 4 times for 124 yards and 2 touchdowns. Chandler’s longest rush came on a 70 yard scamper where he ultimately broke multiple tackles. Chandler may be in store for an elevated role after his performance this week, especially considering he outperformed Sherrod and Harvey. Chandler’s astounding 31 yards per carry is one of the best performances that we may see all cycle. Chandler may be on the wrong side of 30 when his contract is up in Denver, but if he keeps up with performances like these, his next contract will feature a heavy bonus.
