LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – The Denver Broncos made it look routine on Sunday, cruising to a 24-17 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders to extend their winning streak to 10 games. Quarterback Bo Nix threw for 212 yards and rushed for a touchdown, helping Denver control the game from start to finish. Unlike many of their narrow wins this season, the Broncos led throughout and faced few late-game pressures, allowing coach Sean Payton to briefly remove his headset in relief.
The Raiders were without quarterback Geno Smith for part of the third quarter after he injured his right hand and shoulder, forcing Kenny Pickett into action. Despite the setback, Las Vegas hung close, but Denver’s top-five defense and ball control proved decisive. The Broncos held the ball for over 39 minutes, gained 356 yards, and racked up 27 first downs, while Las Vegas managed only 229 yards and 16 first downs. Veteran defensive end Nik Bonitto recorded two sacks, marking his second consecutive double-digit sack season, a feat last achieved by Von Miller.
Nix completed 31 of 38 passes, showing efficiency and poise, while Marvin Mims Jr. added a 48-yard punt return touchdown, and RJ Harvey scored on a 3-yard run in the third quarter to build a two-touchdown lead. Denver’s dominance extended to the opening drive, where Nix scored on an 8-yard scramble. The Raiders managed a touchdown on their opening possession, marking the first time Denver allowed an opening-series score this season. Maxx Crosby recorded two tackles for loss for Las Vegas, breaking his team record with 25 on the year.
Despite the win, the Broncos narrowly avoided covering the spread as Daniel Carlson converted a 46-yard field goal on the final play following a delay-of-game penalty. Injuries were a factor on both sides: Denver was without DT D.J. Jones and TE Nate Adkins, while Las Vegas lost CB Kyu Blu Kelly early, with additional injuries to TEs Ian Thomas and Michael Mayer, as well as WRs Alex Bachman and Dont’e Thornton Jr.
With the victory, Denver improves to 11-2, tied with New England for the top seed in the AFC but holding the tiebreaker, and looks poised to challenge Kansas City’s long-running dominance in the AFC West. The Broncos host Green Bay next week, while the Raiders travel to face Philadelphia.