Broncos Edge Raiders in AFC West Showdown Amid Special Teams Drama

LAS VEGAS — The Denver Broncos managed to pull off a 29-19 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders in a thrilling AFC West rivalry game held at Allegiant Stadium on November 24, 2024. The game was marked by significant contributions from special teams and key plays from both sides.

The Raiders, playing without their special teams coordinator Tom McMahon, who was absent for undisclosed reasons, made a bold decision on a fourth down play. Assistant special teams coach Derius Swinton stepped up, executing a daring fake punt that saw punter A.J. Cole throw a 34-yard pass to Divine Deablo. The play set up a field goal, contributing to the Raiders’ early 10-9 lead at halftime.

The Broncos, despite missing standout defensive lineman Zach Allen due to a heel injury, mounted a strong comeback. Safety Brandon Jones, who was a game-time decision due to illness, intercepted a pass from Raiders quarterback Gardner Minshew II. This pivotal interception positioned the Broncos offense at the Raiders’ 18-yard line and significantly shifted game momentum.

Broncos rookie quarterback Bo Nix had a commendable performance, completing 25 of 42 passes for 273 yards and two touchdowns. His standout moment came with a decisive touchdown pass to receiver Courtland Sutton, who also caught another vital touchdown in the fourth quarter. «When Sutton is on the receiving end, those 50-50 balls aren’t 50-50 anymore,» a spectator reportedly noted.

Wil Lutz, the Broncos’ kicker, had an exceptional outing, converting five field goals including a long 54-yarder. In contrast, Raiders kicker Daniel Carlson, a native of Colorado Springs, successfully matched Lutz’s efforts with four field goals.

The Raiders’ Gardner Minshew II delivered with 25 completions out of 42 attempts for 230 yards, one touchdown and an interception, until a sack forced Minshew out of the game. His replacement, Desmond Ridder, faced a challenging second half, including a strip-sack by Broncos linebacker Nik Bonitto, his tenth of the season.

Despite the Raiders coming into the game with a 2-8 record and a six-game losing streak, they showed resilience, especially on special teams. Their standout moments included a 59-yard kickoff return by Dylan Luebe, which set up an early touchdown.

The win kept the Broncos in favorable playoff contention, improving their record to 6-5 and positioning them as key contenders for the No. 7 AFC playoff seed, particularly as the Indianapolis Colts and Miami Dolphins continue to vie for playoff spots. «It’s a crucial win for us,» a Broncos fan commented.