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Broncos at 49ers grades: Denver’s 30-9 win in preseason opener

Broncos 49ers Football

The Broncos began the preseason with a 30-9 win on Saturday against the San Francisco 49ers. Here are grades for the Denver victory:

Offense

Starting quarterback Bo Nix led three drives, completing 6-of-11 passes for 31 yards and gaining four first downs. He also got called for a safety for an intentional grounding penalty in the end zone. The positive spin? Nix rebounded to lead a field goal drive on his final possession. Backup QB Jarrett Stidham led two touchdown drives before halftime with scoring passes to tight end Lucas Krull and wide receiver Trent Sherfield. Third-string quarterback Sam Ehlinger closed with a touchdown pass to tight end Caleb Prieskorn.

Grade: B-

Defense

Denver’s starting defense gave up a touchdown on the opening drive against the 49ers’ backup offense. Broncos nickel back Ja’Quan McMillian got burned on a 50-yard reception to later set up a rushing score. McMillian got redemption later with a pick of 49ers quarterback Mac Jones. It was the first of four takeaways (three interceptions and fumble recovery). Outside linebacker Nik Bonitto recorded two sacks. The Broncos held the 49ers scoreless over the last three quarters.

Grade: A

Special teams

Kicker Will Lutz hit all three of his field goal attempts (42, 32 and 45 yards). Rookie punter Jeremy Crawshaw averaged 37 yards over three attempts with none downed inside the 20-yard line. Wide receiver Courtney Jackson broke loose for a 25-yard punt return and a 28-yard kick return.

Grade: B

Coaching

The point of preseason is not to win. Coach Sean Payton aimed to get starters a few snaps before evaluating roster depth. The first-team offense and defense failed to gain much traction, but they have plenty of game film to learn from moving forward in training camp. The second- and third-team units flashed talent and lots of penalties. So, let’s call it a wash for the first of three preseason games before the result actually matters.

Grade: B



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