Broncos Grades

OFFENSE

BThe Broncos would have liked another crack at a first-andgoal situation in the third quarter that forced them to settle for a field goal, and two turnovers hurt, but quarterback Trevor Siemian guided an efficient effort that flashed big-play ability throughout the game.

DEFENSE

BEven with a battered defensive line, the Broncos kept running back Melvin Gordon in check and prevented Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers from finding a rhythm for most of the game.

SPECIAL TEAMS

AThe late blocked kick was the “kicker.” Big returns by Isaiah McKenzie (punt) and Cody Latimer (kickoff) helped create short fields. But Brandon McManus missed a field-goal attempt.

COACHING

AVance Joseph won his home debut, which has essentially been a rite of passage for new Broncos coaches. He had to sweat the outcome but left his first game victorious.

GAME BALLS

1. Trevor Siemian: To open his second season as a starter, the Broncos quarterback spread the ball around, converted big third downs when he had to and accounted for three Denver touchdowns (two passing, one rushing), though the interception he threw early in the fourth quarter turned momentum.

2. Bennie Fowler: The wide receiver went a long way toward solidifying himself as a reliable target by catching two touchdown passes from Siemian — both on third down.

3. Shaquil Barrett: After missing most of training camp while recovering from a hip injury, the linebacker registered a sack of Philip Rivers and generally wreaked havoc in the pass rush.