Broncos Grades

OFFENSE B+ Trevor Siemian rebounded from a dreadful performance at Miami with a turnover-free outing that kept Denver in control. The offensive line did a serviceable job protecting its quarterback, and the running game, though certainly not prolific, remained consistent enough to give the Broncos some long-absent balance.

DEFENSE A The Broncos forced two turnovers, constantly harassed quarterback Josh McCown (four sacks) and put up a stone wall against the run game. Finally granted a healthy lead, Denver simply dominated the Jets, holding them to minus-14 yards in the first quarter and to 40 yards in the first half. Shelby Harris and Brandon Marshall were among the stars.

SPECIAL TEAMS B+ Brandon McManus’ missed 29-yard fieldgoal attempt was a head-scratcher, but he made three other kicks — including a 53-yarder. Jordan Taylor was strong in his return to the role as the team’s punt returner, and the Broncos were solid in punt and kickoff coverage.

COACHING A Interim offensive coordinator Bill Musgrave helped Siemian by moving him out of the pocket and creating easier connections with Demaryius Thomas. Defensive coordinator Joe Woods drew up an attacking game plan that flummoxed McCown. And firstyear head coach Vance Joseph helped the Broncos avoid a nine-game losing streak, which would have tied a franchise record.

GAME BALLS Demaryius Thomas: The veteran wide receiver moved to second on the team’s alltime list in receiving yards and receiving touchdowns behind Rod Smith. Thomas’ ballet twirl of a scoring catch in the first quarter was among the team’s biggest highlights this season.

Shelby Harris: His first-quarter sack of McCown and his batted pass a drive later set the tone for a dominating effort by Denver’s defensive line, which flourished even without missing starters Derek Wolfe and Domata Peko.

Brandon Marshall: Marshall made an athletic tackle for a loss on the defense’s first play of the game. He then sacked and stripped the ball from McCown a few moments later, forcing a turnover the Broncos quickly turned into a 10-0 lead.