[mm-video type=playlist id=01eqbw4jm5c2wscg4g player_id=none image=https://broncoswire.usatoday.com/wp-content/plugins/mm-video/images/playlist-icon.png]
The Denver Broncos ran over the depleted Detroit Lions at home in Week 14, securing a 38-10 win to improve to 7-6, keeping their playoff hopes alive. Detroit dropped to 1-11-1 with the loss.
Following the death of Demaryius Thomas last week, the Broncos honored Thomas before and during Sunday’s game. Denver opened the game with just 10 players on offense, leaving the “X” wide receiver spot — Thomas’ former position — vacant.
The Broncos then took a delay of game penalty and the Lions declined the foul. It was a classy display from both teams in remembrance of Thomas.
Denver jumped out to an early 14-0 lead in the first quarter following touchdown runs from Javonte Williams and Melvin Gordon. Detroit then scored 10 unanswered points before the Broncos added a field goal and took a 17-10 lead into halftime.
After halftime, Denver forced and recovered a fumble at the Lions’ 35-yard line. Several plays later, Williams caught a 10-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Teddy Bridgewater to extend the lead to 24-10.
After forcing a turnover on downs, the Broncos then got the ball back and Gordon scored on a 14-yard run to make it 31-10.
Denver scored again late in the fourth quarter when Bridgewater connected with tight end Albert Okwuegbunam on a four-yard touchdown pass that extended the lead to 38-10.
Williams and Gordon carried the Broncos’ offense, totaling 198 yards from scrimmage while combing to score four touchdowns.
Dre’Mont Jones was Denver’s star on defense, totaling three tackles (all of them behind the line of scrimmage), two sacks and a fourth-down pass breakup in the victory. Safety Justin Simmons also had an impressive performance, recording five tackles and an interception.
Next week, the Broncos will host the Cincinnati Bengals in an AFC showdown that will have big implications in the Wild Card race.
[vertical-gallery id=660259]
[lawrence-related id=669118,669110,669106,669114,669102,669098]
Follow the Broncos Wire Podcast:
Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Google Podcasts