The Denver Broncos won the toss and deferred, giving the Las Vegas Raiders the ball to start the game. Right out of the gate, the Raiders’ offense came alive. On just the third play of the game, quarterback Gardner Minshew II connected with rookie tight end Brock Bowers for a 57-yard touchdown. Bowers continues to show why he’s considered a special talent, with his explosive playmaking ability giving the Raiders an early 7-0 lead.
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The Broncos’ first drive showed some promise after they converted a 4th and 1 from their own 34-yard line, but their progress stalled at their own 47, forcing a punt. The Raiders took over deep in their own territory at the 10-yard line. A balanced drive, featuring an 18-yard catch from Jakobi Meyers and some solid runs, brought them into Denver territory. Unfortunately, a false start by rookie offensive tackle DJ Glaze derailed the momentum, and the Raiders had to settle for a field goal. Raiders 10, Broncos 0.
The Broncos’ offense found some rhythm on the next drive, as quarterback Bo Nix connected with Lil’Jordan Humphrey for a 21-yard gain, getting them into scoring range. However, a key sack by Maxx Crosby and a few costly penalties forced Denver to settle for a field goal, cutting the Raiders’ lead to 10-3.
Stop giving up explosive plays! Raiders are giving the game away! Shii is winnable.
— Raidernation (@raidernationcal) October 6, 2024
Just as the Raiders seemed poised to extend their lead after a big gain from Ameer Abdullah, disaster struck. Minshew made a critical error, throwing an interception in the end zone to Broncos’ star cornerback Patrick Surtain II, who returned it 100 yards for a touchdown. The Broncos’ pick-six tied the game at 10-10 and completely flipped the momentum.
The Raiders’ offense faltered after the interception, going three-and-out following a dropped pass by Meyers on third down. Denver took over at their own 8-yard line but was unable to capitalize, as their offense went three-and-out, handing the ball back to Las Vegas with great field position at midfield.
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Despite starting in prime territory, the Raiders couldn’t cash in. Minshew missed a wide-open Bowers for what would have been an easy touchdown. The drive sputtered, but a beautiful punt from AJ Cole pinned the Broncos at their own 3-yard line as the first half came to a close.
Halftime Score: Raiders 10, Broncos 13
