Broncos Steal Victory from Raiders in Defensive Battle

by Matt George – Sports 1140 KHTK Reporter

After a disappointing second half in Week 1, leading to a loss to the Los Angeles Rams, the Oakland Raiders looked to win their first game for head coach Jon Gruden in Denver. Touted as an offensive-minded coach, Gruden’s defense has surprisingly been the most consistent part of the Raiders thus far. Sunday, in a gritty battle with their division rival Broncos, it came down to a last-second field goal for a winner to be decided.

WHAT A WIN FOR THE @BRONCOS!!!!

BRANDON MCMANUS' GAME WINNING FIELD GOAL IS EVEN BETTER WITH TITANIC MUSIC!!! A+ CELEBRATION FROM THE MASCOT TOO!!!

🏈🚢🎶 pic.twitter.com/4q9Oyl4m5f

— 🏈🚢🎶TITANIC TD🏈🚢🎶 (@TitanicTD) September 16, 2018

Off the foot of Brandon McManus, the Broncos stole a victory away from the Raiders who had been in control for most of the game. Oakland managed to shut out Denver in the first half, leading 12-0 at the break, only to falter again in the 3rd and 4th quarters. The difference in the game ended up being a blocked at the end of the first half. Seemingly meaningless at the time, that saved extra point was the difference between the Broncos win and overtime.

The Denver defense is known for their all-around talent and difficulty to contain. Raiders quarterback Derek Carr managed a nice performance after his disastrous three-interception debut. He finished the day with 288 yards and a touchdown, completing all but three of his passes. It was clear to see Gruden’s intent was to get wide receiver Amari Cooper more involved; the 2015 4th overall pick finished with 10 receptions and 116 yards. Running back Marshawn Lynch also found his way in the end zone for the 2nd time in as many weeks, he finished with 65 total yards on 18 carries.

Touchdown Carr to Roberts pic.twitter.com/N7Y4tLs0zl

— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) September 16, 2018

Oakland’s defense appeared to frustrate Denver quarterback Case Keenum for a majority of the game. Keenum completed only 54% of his passes for 222 yards and no touchdowns. He did however throw an interception, falling victim to the quick hands of Rashaan Melvin.

Unfortunately, the Raiders offense didn’t manage to reward their hard-working defense with enough separation in the first half. The Denver Broncos now sit at the top of the AFC West, tied with the Kansas City Chiefs at 2-0. The Raiders, now 0-2, are the only team in the division without a win. They look to correct that next weekend in Miami against the 2-0 Dolphins.

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