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Broncos vs. Packers grades: Denver clinches playoff berth with big second half

The Broncos (12-2) defeated the Packers (9-4-1) on Sunday at Empower Field at Mile High.

Here are the grades from the 34-26 victory:

Offense

The Broncos’ Bo Nix silenced some critics with his 302-yard and four-touchdown performance against the Packers. The second-year quarterback was clutch every time Denver needed a play, including a big fourth-down throw to Courtland Sutton that helped score Denver’s final touchdown. Sutton finished the game with 113 yards on seven catches. RJ Harvey fumbled early but rebounded and had 65 yards on the ground. The offensive line didn’t give up a sack, and Nix made plays with his feet.

Grade: A

Defense

This group struggled at times against the high-powered Packers but made the play that changed the momentum of the game. While trailing by nine, reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year Patrick Surtain picked off quarterback Jordan Love. The Broncos took over from there. Riley Moss had a pick and Denver had three sacks in the second half to ice the game.

Grade: B+

Special teams

Kicker Wil Lutz was a perfect 4-for-4 on extra points and didn’t attempt a field goal. Punter Jeremy Crawshaw punted twice and pinned the Packers inside the 20 both times. Green Bay kept the ball away from Marvin Mims on returns.

Grade: A

Coaching

Coach Sean Payton opened up the playbook and let Nix go on offense. While there were some strange decisions like going for two when up 27-23 and going for it on fourth down late in the game, Payton has this team believing they can win a championship and made a lot of the right calls at the right time.

Grade: A



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