Broncos rally to defeat Texans 18-15, marking sixth straight win and AFC West lead

The Denver Broncos secured a thrilling 18-15 victory over the Houston Texans, marking their sixth consecutive win and solidifying their position at the top of the AFC West.

Why it matters: This win not only extends the Broncos' winning streak but also highlights their resilience as they continue to mount comebacks, showcasing their growth under head coach Sean Payton's leadership.

  • The Broncos have now won four games this season after trailing at the start of the fourth quarter.
  • Their record stands impressively at 7-2, a significant improvement from previous seasons.

What’s new: The game featured a pivotal moment when Broncos kicker Wil Lutz booted a 34-yard field goal that clinched the victory.

  • Despite being down 15-7 entering the final quarter, the Broncos rallied to secure the win, displaying both offensive and defensive prowess.
  • Backup quarterback Davis Mills, filling in for C.J. Stroud (concussion), struggled against a formidable Broncos defense.

By the numbers: The Broncos defense continues to shine, having not allowed a touchdown in four games this season.

  • They limited the Texans to just one first down and a mere 33 yards of offense in the fourth quarter.
  • Houston was held to 0-for-3 in the red zone and converted only 3-of-17 third downs throughout the game.

Yes, but: While the Broncos' offense has shown flashes of brilliance, questions remain regarding their consistency.

  • Quarterback Bo Nix emphasized the team's resilience, stating, "You're never out of the fight," which reflects their determination but also hints at the need for sustained offensive performance.
  • With injuries sidelining key players like Pat Surtain II and Marvin Mims Jr., depth will be tested in upcoming matches.

What to watch: The Broncos’ next challenge will be maintaining this momentum as they face increasingly tougher opponents in the coming weeks.

  • As the season progresses, how they adapt to injuries and maintain their winning mentality will be crucial.
  • Coach Payton's strategy will likely focus on building on their strong defensive performances while enhancing offensive execution.

The bottom line: The Denver Broncos ability to come back from deficits, complemented by a robust defense, positions them as serious contenders in the AFC. As they continue to build on their recent success, the focus will remain on consistency and overcoming challenges presented by injuries and opponent defenses.

whiproute logo