The Denver Broncos secured a hard-fought victory against the Las Vegas Raiders on November 7, 2025, thanks to a formidable defensive performance. The Broncos recorded six sacks, blocked a punt, and intercepted a pass, leading to a tight 10-7 win in an AFC West showdown at Empower Field in Denver. This victory marked the Broncos’ seventh consecutive win after starting the season with a 1-2 record.
Both teams struggled offensively, with the Broncos gaining 220 total yards to the Raiders’ 188. Each team recorded 10 first downs and was penalized 11 times. The time of possession was nearly equal, with each team holding the ball for about 30 minutes. Broncos head coach Sean Payton reflected on the game, stating, “When you play a divisional opponent, those type of games can go a lot of different directions. This one certainly unfolded differently than we would have thought.”
The Raiders initially took control of the game, scoring a touchdown with a 4-yard rushing play from running back Ashton Jeanty with just under three minutes left in the first quarter. However, the Broncos responded just before halftime when quarterback Bo Nix connected with wide receiver Troy Franklin for a 7-yard touchdown pass, leveling the score at 7-7.
The game’s turning point came late in the third quarter when Broncos safety JL Skinner blocked a punt from A.J. Cole. Tyler Badie recovered the loose ball, setting up a 32-yard field goal by kicker Wil Lutz shortly thereafter, which ultimately provided the final points of the night.
Nix completed 16 of 28 passes for 150 yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions. Broncos running back JK Dobbins contributed significantly on the ground, rushing for 77 yards on 18 carries. For the Raiders, Jeanty finished with 60 rushing yards and a touchdown on 19 attempts. Raiders quarterback Geno Smith completed 16 of 26 passes for 143 yards, along with one interception. Smith also sustained a quad/thigh bruise in the fourth quarter and will be assessed for his availability in the upcoming game.
The Broncos’ defense played a crucial role in the victory, with linebacker Nik Bonitto leading the charge with 1.5 sacks. Additional sacks were recorded by safety Talanoa Hufanga, defensive tackle Malcolm Roach, and defensive lineman Zach Allen. Linebacker Jonathan Cooper and defensive linemen Eyioma Uwazurike and John Franklin-Myers contributed with half-sacks.
Looking ahead, the Raiders, now 2-7, will host the Dallas Cowboys (3-5-1) on November 17 in Las Vegas. Meanwhile, the Broncos, now 8-2, will face off against the Kansas City Chiefs (5-4) on November 16 in Denver. This victory not only boosts the Broncos’ confidence but also positions them strongly as they continue their pursuit of playoff contention.