No Von Miller, no problem for the Denver Broncos’ defense.
In their first game in the post-Miller era, the Broncos’ defense held the Cowboys scoreless on their first eight possessions in Week 9. Dallas didn’t score until late in the fourth quarter as Denver’s defense dominated the game from start to finish, securing a 30-16 win.
Starting at Miller’s former position, seventh-round rookie Jonathon Cooper recorded his first two career sacks, and fellow rookie safety Caden Sterns also intercepted a Dak Prescott pass.
On offense, the Broncos’ ran over the Cowboys’ defense, with rookie Javonte Williams rushing 17 times for 111 yards, marking the first 100-yard performance of his NFL career. Fellow back Melvin Gordon added 21 carries for 80 yards and a touchdown.
That productive rushing attack opened things up for quarterback Teddy Bridgewater, who connected with wide receiver Tim Patrick on a 44-yard touchdown pass in the second quarter. Bridgewater finished the game 19-of-28 passing for 249 yards with one touchdown pass and no turnovers. Bridgewater also rushed for a one-yard touchdown in the win.
Denver’s big game was marred by a multiple injuries: Broncos right tackle Bobby Massie (ankle), guard Graham Glasgow (leg), tight end Albert Okwuegbunam (knee), cornerback Pat Surtain (knee) and defensive lineman McTelvin Agim (knee) all left the contest and did not return.
Denver was already without left tackle Garett Bolles (ankle) going into the game, so Calvin Anderson started in Dallas and Cam Fleming filled in for an injured Massie. Broncos top backup guard Netane Muti (Reserve/COVID-19 list) was not active, so rookie Quinn Meinerz filled in for Glasgow.
Denver was also without Noah Fant (COVID-19), so when Okwuegbunam left the game, Eric Saubert and Andrew Beck filled in at tight end. Kyle Fuller and Nate Hairston got more playing time after Surtain left.
Despite all those injuries, the Broncos got a huge win on the road. Denver is now 5-4, putting the team back in playoff contention.
Up next for the Broncos is a home game against the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 10. After that, Denver will have a bye in Week 11.
[listicle id=666521]
[listicle id=666668]