The Denver Broncos delivered a defensive masterclass on Sunday, creating Mile High Misery for Geno Smith and the Las Vegas Raiders in a brutal 23-13 victory at Empower Field. In a game where the Broncos’ pass rush was too much for Geno Smith and the Raiders’ offensive line, the quarterback was sacked six times, hit a dozen more, and never found a rhythm. The Raiders’ offense was reduced to a disjointed mess, while Denver’s defense announced itself as a legitimate force in the AFC West.
A Relentless Pass Rush Sets the Tone
From the opening snap, it was clear that the Broncos’ defensive game plan was to make Geno Smith‘s day a miserable one. Defensive coordinator Vance Joseph dialed up relentless pressure, mixing creative blitzes with a ferocious four-man rush that the Raiders’ offensive line simply couldn’t handle.
The standout disruptors were Randy Gregory and Baron Browning, who combined for four sacks and multiple quarterback hurries. Gregory, in particular, was a matchup nightmare, using his explosive first step to blow past Raiders tackle Thayer Munford Jr. Browning, meanwhile, showcased his versatility, collapsing the pocket from multiple angles. Even when Smith managed to get the ball out, Denver’s secondary—led by a lockdown performance from Patrick Surtain II—blanketed Las Vegas’ receivers, forcing check-downs and errant throws.
Geno Smith Under Siege: Raiders’ Offense Crumbles
For the Raiders, this was another frustrating chapter in a season that has yet to find consistency. Geno Smith, who had been efficient in previous weeks, struggled to find his rhythm under constant duress, completing just 52% of his passes for 179 yards. Star wideout Davante Adams was held to a quiet five catches for 52 yards, while Josh Jacobs found little room to run against a stout front, averaging a paltry 3.1 yards per carry.
Head coach Josh McDaniels tried to adjust with max-protection schemes and quick throws, but the pressure from the Broncos’ pass rush was simply too overwhelming. The few times Las Vegas threatened to score, Denver’s defense slammed the door—most notably with a crucial fourth-quarter red-zone stop that effectively sealed the game.
Russell Wilson Manages the Game Effectively
While Denver’s defense stole the show, quarterback Russell Wilson did just enough to lead his team to victory. Though his stat line wasn’t spectacular (18/30, 193 yards, 1 TD), Wilson protected the football, avoided turnovers, and made key throws when needed. His most important play was a 16-yard touchdown strike to Courtland Sutton in the third quarter. The Broncos’ ground game, led by Javonte Williams (76 yards, 1 TD), provided crucial balance, allowing Denver to control the clock and keep the Raiders’ struggling offense on the sideline.
AFC West Implications: A Statement Win for Denver
For Denver (2-1), this was a statement win. After a shaky start to the season, this dominant performance from the Broncos’ pass rush has put the league on notice. If they can maintain this level of defensive pressure, they will be a nightmare for any opposing quarterback.
For Las Vegas (1-2), concerns are mounting. The offensive line remains a glaring weakness, and Smith’s difficulty handling pressure is becoming a critical problem. If McDaniels can’t find answers to protect his quarterback soon, the Raiders risk falling behind in a highly competitive AFC West. Sunday’s game was a reminder of how quickly momentum can shift in the NFL. In the thin air of Denver, misery comes at you fast—just ask Geno Smith.
