Game balls

1. Broncos’ No-Fly Zone — Mariota had little success in the passing game, completing just six passes against Denver’s smothering secondary. The DBs locked up the Titans’ receivers and allowed the offense multiple chances to come back.

2. Riley Dixon — The punter’s 16-yard completion was one of the biggest plays for the Broncos and would have garnered a lot more attention if it had led to a win. The rookie made a habit of executing fake punts in college at Syracuse.

3. Emmanuel Sanders/Demaryius Thomas — The Broncos’ star receiving duo had their best Batman and Robin day of the season, which was spoiled in a losing effort. Sanders (11 catches for 100 yards and a touchdown) and Thomas (10 catches for 126 yards) made huge, clutch grabs throughout the fourth quarter.