The Broncos did what they needed to do on Monday Night Football against the Bengals at Empower Field at Mile High.

Here are the grades for the 28-3 win.

Offense

The Broncos got right against the Bengals. Quarterback Bo Nix and the offense needed a game where they looked good, and they got it. Nix had over 300 yards passing, and it could have been more without a couple of drops. J.K. Dobbins became the first 100-yard rusher in Sean Payton’s tenure as Broncos coach. RJ Harvey, who scored a touchdown, was also much more involved in the offense on a night where the Broncos had 519 yards.

Grade: A

Defense

After Cincy had four first downs on its first drive, the Broncos’ defense stiffened up against backup quarterback Jake Browning. Denver’s secondary kept Bengals star receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins quiet. The Bengals were 2-for-11 on third down and did not cross midfield after that first drive. Nik Bonitto had another 1.5 sacks, and the Broncos surrendered just nine first downs to Cincinnati.

Grade: A

Special teams

Kicker Wil Lutz made all four of his extra points, but punter Jeremy Crawshaw averaged 49.8 yards a punt, but did have to go into the end zone. Not much excitement in the return game for Marvin Mims.

Grade: A

Coaching

Payton’s play-calling was the best of the season. The Broncos threw 42 passes and ran the ball 38 times. Penalties continue to be a problem and will need to be cleaned up before playing the defending Super Bowl champs next week. Denver had seven penalties for 72 yards in a game that was filled with flags.

Grade: B