Broncos vs. Raiders: The Real Winners and Losers
In a clash of AFC West rivals, the Denver Broncos and the Las Vegas Raiders faced off in a game that showcased their contrasting trajectories. The Broncos, riding the momentum of a five-game win streak, aimed to solidify their playoff push, while the Raiders, searching for stability under interim head coach Antonio Pierce, hoped to spoil their rival’s party. Ultimately, Denver prevailed in a hard-fought 24-17 victory, but the game left us with a mix of impressive highs and frustrating lows.
Here’s a breakdown of the real winners and losers from this divisional showdown.
Winners
1. Russell Wilson’s Redemption Tour
Russell Wilson’s resurgence continued as he played a smart, efficient game. Wilson didn’t light up the scoreboard but made key plays when it mattered most, finishing with two touchdown passes and no turnovers. His chemistry with receivers like Courtland Sutton and Jerry Jeudy is improving, and his ability to extend plays brought flashes of his Seattle glory days.
Why He’s a Winner: Wilson is shaking off the “washed” label and leading the Broncos into playoff contention with veteran poise.
2. Javonte Williams and the Broncos’ Run Game
The Broncos’ offense leaned on their ground attack, and Javonte Williams delivered with a gritty performance. Williams ran for over 80 yards, breaking tackles and grinding out tough yardage to control the clock. His physical running style was complemented by Samaje Perine, who provided a change of pace and contributed in the passing game.
Why They’re Winners: A strong run game is the backbone of Denver’s offense, allowing them to dictate tempo and keep their defense fresh.
3. Denver’s Defense: Opportunistic and Resilient
The Broncos’ defense showed why it has been the catalyst for their turnaround. Led by a disruptive front seven and standout cornerback Pat Surtain II, Denver forced timely stops and pressured Raiders quarterback Aidan O’Connell into mistakes. While the defense wasn’t flawless, they came through in the clutch, particularly in the fourth quarter.
Why They’re Winners: Denver’s defense is playing complementary football, giving the offense opportunities to capitalize.
4. Courtland Sutton’s Clutch Factor
Sutton continues to emerge as Wilson’s go-to target in critical moments. His ability to make contested catches in tight windows was on full display, including a spectacular touchdown grab that helped shift momentum in Denver’s favor.
Why He’s a Winner: Sutton is proving he’s not just a reliable target but a game-changer in high-pressure situations.
5. Antonio Pierce’s Leadership
Even in a losing effort, Antonio Pierce’s impact on the Raiders was evident. The team played with intensity and fought until the final whistle, showing far more effort and cohesion than they did under Josh McDaniels. While the Raiders came up short, Pierce’s influence has reinvigorated the locker room.
Why He’s a Winner: The Raiders may not win many games this season, but Pierce’s leadership has given them hope for the future.
Losers
1. Aidan O’Connell’s Growing Pains
The rookie quarterback showed flashes of potential but struggled with consistency against Denver’s aggressive defense. O’Connell threw a costly interception in the red zone and missed key opportunities to keep the Raiders in the game. While he has talent, his inexperience was evident.
Why He’s a Loser: The Raiders need more from their quarterback to compete in games like this, but O’Connell isn’t quite ready to deliver.
2. Raiders’ Offensive Line
Denver’s defensive front exposed the Raiders’ offensive line, applying constant pressure on O’Connell and stifling Josh Jacobs’ impact on the ground. Penalties and blown assignments only added to the unit’s struggles, making it hard for the offense to find any rhythm.
Why They’re Losers: Poor line play disrupted the entire offense, leaving little chance for sustained drives.
3. Josh Jacobs’ Quiet Night
The Raiders’ star running back was bottled up by Denver’s defense, finishing with fewer than 60 rushing yards. While Jacobs has been the heart of Las Vegas’ offense this season, the lack of running lanes and Denver’s physical play limited his effectiveness.
Why He’s a Loser: Jacobs’ inability to break loose put more pressure on O’Connell, leading to a one-dimensional attack.
4. Raiders’ Red Zone Efficiency
Missed opportunities in the red zone were a recurring theme for the Raiders. Whether due to questionable play-calling or poor execution, they failed to capitalize on several scoring chances, leaving points on the field in a game that came down to one possession.
Why They’re Losers: Red zone inefficiency cost the Raiders a chance to pull off the upset.
5. Raiders’ Secondary
The Raiders’ defensive backfield had no answer for Courtland Sutton and Jerry Jeudy in key moments. While they made some solid plays early, they gave up big completions on third downs and allowed Wilson to operate comfortably in the pocket.
Why They’re Losers: Giving up critical plays to Denver’s passing game sealed their fate.
Honorable Mentions
Winner: Sean Payton’s Coaching Adjustments
Payton deserves credit for sticking with the run game and putting Wilson in favorable situations. His experience is showing as Denver climbs back into playoff contention.
Loser: Raiders’ Pass Rush
Maxx Crosby was active but didn’t have his usual game-wrecking impact, and the rest of the pass rush failed to generate consistent pressure on Wilson.
Key Takeaways
- Broncos Are Legitimate Playoff Contenders: Denver has now won six straight and boasts a balanced team capable of making noise in the AFC. Russell Wilson’s steady leadership and a smothering defense make them a tough out for any opponent.
Raiders Are a Work in Progress: Despite the loss, the Raiders showed fight under Antonio Pierce. However, they remain a team in transition, and their limitations, particularly on offense, were glaring in this matchup.
Divisional Battles Are Never Easy: Both teams played with intensity, showcasing the passion and unpredictability of AFC West rivalry games.
Conclusion
The Broncos’ victory over the Raiders was another step in their remarkable midseason turnaround, while the Raiders remain competitive but clearly outmatched against playoff-caliber teams. With the season nearing its end, Denver’s postseason hopes are alive and well, while Las Vegas shifts focus to evaluating talent and building for the future.
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5 Ageing NFL Stars Who WILL WIN A Super Bowl Before They Retire…And 5 who WON’T
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5 Aging NFL Stars Who WILL Win a Super Bowl Before They Retire…and 5 Who WON’T
The NFL is a league where careers can be fleeting, and winning a Super Bowl is the pinnacle for every player. For some aging stars, the clock is ticking on their quest for a championship ring. Here’s a look at five seasoned veterans poised to hoist the Lombardi Trophy before they hang up their cleats—and five who likely won’t taste Super Bowl glory.
Will Win a Super Bowl
1. Aaron Donald (Los Angeles Rams)
At 32, Aaron Donald remains one of the most dominant defensive players in NFL history. He’s already tasted championship success with the Rams in 2021, but with Sean McVay and a competitive front office, there’s still a window for another title run. If the Rams reload their roster wisely, Donald could add a second ring to his résumé before retiring.
Why He’ll Win: Proven leadership and the Rams’ commitment to staying competitive.
2. Von Miller (Buffalo Bills)
Von Miller already has two Super Bowl rings (with the Broncos and Rams), but he’s chasing one more with the Buffalo Bills. Despite his injury struggles, Miller remains a game-changer when healthy. If the Bills can solve their late-season woes and surround Josh Allen with better support, Miller’s veteran presence could help deliver a title.
Why He’ll Win: The Bills are perennial contenders, and Miller knows how to elevate his game in the playoffs.
3. Travis Kelce (Kansas City Chiefs)
Kelce has already won two rings with Patrick Mahomes, and there’s no reason to think his trophy case won’t grow. At 34, Kelce is still playing at an elite level and has a partnership with Mahomes that makes the Chiefs perennial favorites in the AFC.
Why He’ll Win: As long as Mahomes and Andy Reid are in Kansas City, Kelce will remain in the hunt.
4. Jason Kelce (Philadelphia Eagles)
The elder Kelce brother is 36 and nearing the end of his Hall of Fame-worthy career. He came heartbreakingly close to a second ring in Super Bowl LVII but returned for another shot with the loaded Eagles roster. With Jalen Hurts, a dominant offensive line, and a stacked team, Jason Kelce has a legitimate shot at going out on top.
Why He’ll Win: The Eagles are built to contend for years, and Kelce has the talent around him to secure another title.
5. DeAndre Hopkins (Tennessee Titans)
Hopkins’ Super Bowl hopes hinge on finding the right situation. His talent is undeniable, but he’s currently stuck on a Titans team far from contention. If he signs with a contender in the twilight of his career, Hopkins has the skill set to be a difference-maker on a championship team.
Why He’ll Win: His next move could put him in a perfect position to chase a ring.
Won’t Win a Super Bowl
1. Derek Carr (New Orleans Saints)
Carr has had a solid career, but he’s never proven himself as a true difference-maker in the playoffs—or even as a consistent regular-season performer for contending teams. The Saints are stuck in mediocrity, and Carr’s window for leading a team to a championship is closing fast.
Why He Won’t Win: Lack of playoff pedigree and a team that’s not close to contention.
2. Khalil Mack (Los Angeles Chargers)
At 32, Mack is still a productive pass rusher, but the Chargers have repeatedly fallen short in big moments. While Justin Herbert’s talent keeps them in the conversation, the team’s inconsistency and lack of playoff success make Mack’s chances of winning a ring slim.
Why He Won’t Win: The Chargers seem perpetually stuck in “almost there” mode.
3. Matt Ryan (Free Agent)
The former MVP is currently out of the league but hasn’t officially retired. Even if Ryan finds a backup or spot-starter role, his chances of being part of a championship-caliber team are incredibly slim. His best opportunity came and went with the Falcons’ infamous collapse in Super Bowl LI.
Why He Won’t Win: His playing days are likely behind him, and no contender is calling.
4. Julio Jones (Philadelphia Eagles)
Jones joined the Eagles this season in hopes of finally capturing the elusive ring, but his role on the team is minimal. While Philadelphia is a contender, Jones’ declining production and lack of availability over recent years suggest he’s unlikely to be a significant factor in a Super Bowl run.
Why He Won’t Win: His best years are behind him, and he’s not a key contributor.
5. J.J. Watt (Retired)
Watt retired after the 2022 season and has made it clear he’s not planning a return to the field. Despite a Hall of Fame career, the three-time Defensive Player of the Year never reached the Super Bowl during his time with the Texans and Cardinals.
Why He Won’t Win: He’s retired, and even if he came back, the odds of him landing with a contender are slim.
Honorable Mentions
Will Win: Patrick Peterson (Pittsburgh Steelers) – If the Steelers continue to build around Kenny Pickett and their defense, Peterson could ride the wave to a title.
Won’t Win: Adam Thielen (Carolina Panthers) – Despite being productive in Carolina, the Panthers are far from contention, and time isn’t on Thielen’s side.
Final Thoughts
The pursuit of a Super Bowl is often as much about timing and team dynamics as it is about individual greatness. While stars like Travis Kelce and Aaron Donald are well-positioned to add more hardware to their collection, others, like Derek Carr and Julio Jones, may find the dream of a championship forever out of reach. For NFL fans, the question remains: which veteran stars will seize their last opportunity, and who will be left wondering what could have been?
