Oakland Raiders vs. Denver Broncos: Oakland Grades, Notes and Quotes

In an imperfect game filled with drama, the Oakland Raiders logged a 15-12 victory over the Denver Broncos in their biggest win of the season to this point. 

The Raiders offense started off like a deer in headlights, producing a net minus-12 yards in the first half, per Associated Press writer Josh Dubow. Inaccurate throws, unimaginative play-calling and a ferocious Broncos’ pass rush contributed to Oakland’s offensive futility in the first 30 minutes.

Fortunately for Oakland, Denver settled for four field goals to keep the glass half-full for Raiders fans.

Defensive lineman Khalil Mack walked off the field as a human at halftime and returned as a rabid beast for the second half, recording five sacks and forcing a fumble that led to a safety. 

In addition to facing Mack’s spectacular play, the Broncos went from settling for field goals to completely giving away opportunities. Broncos wide receivers Demaryius Thomas and Emmanuel Sanders (on a punt return) fumbled in their own territory. 

The Raiders capitalized on Sanders' muffed punt with the final scoring drive of the game—a 16-yard touchdown pass to tight end Mychal Rivera.

The defense, led by Mack, shut out the Broncos in the second half en route to a 15-12 victory on the road.

We’ll delve into the record books and the locker room for details on this drama-filled contest.

 

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