The Denver Broncos were dominated by the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday at M&T Bank Stadium.

Here are three takeaways from Denver’s 41-10 loss:

Denver defense humbled

A Baltimore Ravens squad with Super Bowl-or-bust aspirations delivered a stern message to Bo Nix and the Broncos: hold your horses. Baltimore’s top-ranked offense smashed Denver’s proud defense in building leads of 7-0, 17-7 and 31-10. Since Week 1, the Broncos ‘D’ had not allowed more than 23 points in a game. The Ravens flew past that mark in the second quarter. The outcome was never in doubt. The Broncos must regroup before a visit to Kansas City.

Jackson shines 

Two-time NFL MVP Lamar Jackson showed Nix what a Hall of Fame-caliber, dual-threat quarterback looks like. Jackson was spectacular with a 158.3 (perfect) passer rating through three quarters. The Ravens opened with a punt. The next six possessions looked like this: touchdown, field goal, touchdown, touchdown, touchdown, touchdown. Woo, boy. CBS brought its top announcing crew of Jim Nantz and Tony Romo. The Broncos played the role of punching bag.

Product of easy schedule

Denver’s loss did nothing to quell the sentiment the 5-4 Broncos are a product of their schedule. They’ve beaten teams with .500 or worse records (Jets, Raiders, Saints, Panthers, Bucs) and lost to teams in the playoff hunt (Seahawks, Chargers, Steelers, Ravens). Food for thought: Will a playoff spot come down to Denver’s remaining games against the AFC North? After losses to Pittsburgh and Baltimore, the Broncos still must face Cleveland (2-6) and Cincinnati (3-5). Now past the midway point, physical football has not agreed with the Broncos.