Broncos Upset Cowboys, Improve to 5-4

 I have to admit that I did not see this coming. The Broncos marched into Dallas on Sunday and absolutely dominated the 6-1 Cowboys en route to a 30-16 upset win. The win improved the Broncos record to 5-4, and it was maybe their biggest win in the Vic Fangio era. This was the kind of game that could turn the Broncos season around. Here are my thoughts on the game...

1) The Cowboys failed on two 4th and short conversions in the first quarter, and Denver never looked back after that. It changed the complexion of the game.

2) The Broncos built an early 13-0 lead with the help of Melvin Gordon and Javonte Williams. The Broncos combined for almost 200 yards rushing and held the ball for over 40 minutes in time of possession. It was a dominating performance.

3) Teddy Bridgewater played great and his TD pass to Tim Patrick to make it 13-0 was a backbreaker for Dallas because Patrick beat Trevon Diggs on the deep ball. Diggs has been Dallas' best corner and the Broncos went after him.

4) The key play in the game was when Denver was up 16-0 in the 3rd quarter and Dallas blocked a punt in Denver territory. But, the ball went past the line of scrimmage, touched a Dallas player, and was recovered by Denver. This gave the Broncos possession of the ball and a first down. I have never seen that happen in all my years of watching football. It was a huge break for Denver.

5) The Broncos were up 30-0 in the 4th quarter in this game and it felt like it could have been 50-0. They completely dominated the game from the outset and this was the type of game they can play. Solid and stuffing defense, running the ball effectively, and Bridgewater making timely and big throws in the passing game. Everyone on offense and defense stepped up in this win.

6) It seems like the Broncos were tired of hearing about the Cowboys all week and tired of hearing about how the Von Miller trade was going to end their season. They played inspired from the beginning and you could tell they kept that energy up all game long-especially when they got an early lead. 

7) This is one of the biggest wins for the Broncos in the Vic Fangio era, and they improved to 5-4 and right in the mix in the AFC Wild Card race. This is the first time Denver is over. 500 in November since 2016!. They get a chance to get to 6-4 with a home game against the Eagles next week.