Introduction: A Classic AFC West Rivalry Revisited
The NFL has no shortage of historic rivalries, but few carry the grit and legacy of the Las Vegas Raiders vs Denver Broncos. These AFC West foes have a long-standing rivalry that brings excitement, unpredictability, and high-stakes competition to the gridiron. The 2024 NFL season offered two compelling matchups between these two teams, providing fans with plenty to talk about—especially when it comes to individual player performances.
In this article, we dive deep into the match player stats from the 2024 season meetings between the Raiders and Broncos, analyzing key contributors, game-changing moments, and statistical highlights that defined both games. Whether you’re a fantasy football fan, a stats junkie, or just passionate about AFC West football, this comprehensive look will bring you up to speed.
First Clash: October 6, 2024 – Broncos 34, Raiders 18
The first meeting took place at Empower Field at Mile High, where the Denver Broncos dominated the Las Vegas Raiders with a convincing 34–18 win. After falling behind early, the Broncos rallied to score 34 unanswered points, with both offensive execution and defensive brilliance playing crucial roles.
Key Denver Broncos Player Stats
- Bo Nix (QB): 19 completions on 27 attempts, 206 passing yards, 2 touchdowns, 0 interceptions.
- Javonte Williams (RB): 13 carries for 61 yards.
- Josh Reynolds (WR): 1 touchdown reception (9 yards).
- Patrick Surtain II (CB): 100-yard interception return for a touchdown — the longest in franchise history.
Key Las Vegas Raiders Player Stats
- Gardner Minshew (QB): 12-of-17 for 137 yards, 1 touchdown, 2 interceptions.
- Ameer Abdullah (RB): 5 carries, 42 yards, 1 rushing touchdown.
- Brock Bowers (TE): 57-yard touchdown reception.
This game highlighted Denver’s defensive dominance and capitalized on turnovers, setting the tone for their season against Las Vegas.
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Second Showdown: November 24, 2024 – Broncos 29, Raiders 19
The second game, held at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, was a chance for the Raiders to even the season series. However, the Broncos once again came out on top with a strong offensive showing and precise kicking.
Key Denver Broncos Player Stats
- Bo Nix (QB): 25-of-42 for 273 yards, 2 touchdowns, 0 interceptions.
- Courtland Sutton (WR): 8 receptions, 97 yards, 2 touchdowns.
- Wil Lutz (K): 5 field goals (38, 53, 54, 45, and 33 yards).
Key Las Vegas Raiders Player Stats
- Gardner Minshew (QB): 25-of-42, 230 yards, 1 touchdown, 1 interception (before suffering a broken collarbone).
- Jakobi Meyers (WR): 10 receptions for 121 yards.
- Ameer Abdullah (RB): 8 carries for 28 yards; 6-yard touchdown reception.
This matchup cemented Denver’s first season sweep of the Raiders since 2014 and broke their winless streak in Las Vegas dating back to 2015.
Offensive Analysis: Comparing Quarterback Performances
Both games provided ample opportunity to analyze the quarterbacks and their effectiveness. Denver’s rookie QB Bo Nix stood out with his poised, efficient play.
Bo Nix (DEN) – Total Across 2 Games:
- 44 completions on 69 attempts
- 479 passing yards
- 4 touchdowns, 0 interceptions
Gardner Minshew (LV) – Total Across 2 Games:
- 37 completions on 59 attempts
- 367 passing yards
- 2 touchdowns, 3 interceptions
Conclusion: Nix’s clean play and ability to avoid turnovers were key in both wins. Minshew had moments of brilliance but struggled under pressure and was ultimately injured during the second matchup.
Defensive Game-Changers
While offensive stats grab headlines, both matchups showcased standout defensive performances, especially from Denver.
- Patrick Surtain II (DEN): 100-yard pick-six that completely flipped momentum in Game 1.
- Denver’s Front Seven: Pressured Minshew consistently, contributing to forced throws and limited rushing lanes.
- Las Vegas Defense: Failed to contain Bo Nix or prevent third-down conversions, especially in the red zone.
The Broncos’ ability to create turnovers and convert them into points gave them a substantial edge in both games.
Special Teams Impact
Special teams played a pivotal role in the November game. Wil Lutz, Denver’s kicker, was perfect from the field and instrumental in maintaining the lead.
Lutz’s Stats:
- 5-for-5 on field goals, including two from beyond 50 yards
- Accounted for 15 of Denver’s 29 points
In contrast, the Raiders failed to match Denver’s efficiency in this area, settling for fewer scoring opportunities and struggling to flip field position when it mattered.
Step-by-Step: How to Analyze Player Stats Post-Game
For fans interested in breaking down player stats like a pro, here’s a quick step-by-step method:
Step 1: Review Box Scores
- Start by reading the official game summary or box score.
- Focus on key stats: passing yards, completion %, rushing yards, receiving targets, turnovers, etc.
Step 2: Identify Game-Changing Plays
- Look for big moments (e.g., turnovers, long touchdown passes, sacks).
- These plays often determine the game’s momentum.
Step 3: Compare Across Positions
- Match QBs vs. QBs, RBs vs. RBs, etc., to get a feel for positional advantages.
Step 4: Watch the Highlights
- Numbers tell part of the story—watching the film helps you understand context (e.g., was a 50-yard TD blown coverage or a great throw?).
Step 5: Follow Advanced Metrics
- Sites like PFF or Next Gen Stats provide deeper insights (e.g., QB rating under pressure, yards after contact).
Also Read: Lakers vs New Orleans Pelicans Match Player Stats: A Detailed Breakdown
Conclusion: A Tale of Two Wins for Denver
The Las Vegas Raiders vs Denver Broncos matchups in 2024 showcased the Broncos’ ability to capitalize on turnovers, control the pace of the game, and execute across all three phases—offense, defense, and special teams. From Bo Nix’s composed quarterback play to Patrick Surtain II’s historic interception, Denver outclassed Las Vegas in both contests.
For fans and analysts alike, these games were a showcase of team development, coaching discipline, and standout individual performances that influenced playoff positioning and team morale. If you’re tracking stats for fantasy leagues or just love the strategic side of football, these matchups delivered plenty to dissect.
FAQs: Las Vegas Raiders vs Denver Broncos Match Player Stats
1. Who were the standout players in the 2024 Raiders vs Broncos matchups?
For the Denver Broncos, quarterback Bo Nix and cornerback Patrick Surtain II were key contributors. Nix threw a combined 4 touchdowns across both games, while Surtain had a 100-yard interception return for a touchdown. For the Las Vegas Raiders, Jakobi Meyers stood out with a 121-yard receiving game, and Brock Bowers delivered a 57-yard touchdown catch.
2. How did the quarterbacks perform in both games?
Bo Nix (DEN) was efficient and turnover-free, totaling 479 yards and 4 touchdowns over two games. Gardner Minshew (LV) showed flashes but struggled with turnovers, throwing 3 interceptions and eventually suffering a collarbone injury in the second matchup.
3. Which defensive play had the biggest impact in the rivalry games?
The most impactful defensive moment came from Patrick Surtain II, who returned an interception 100 yards for a touchdown during the October 6, 2024 game. It was the longest interception return in Broncos history and shifted the momentum in favor of Denver.
4. How did special teams affect the outcome of the games?
Special teams played a major role, especially in the November matchup. Broncos kicker Wil Lutz was a perfect 5-for-5 on field goals, contributing 15 points and helping Denver secure the win despite limited offensive touchdowns.
5. When was the last time the Broncos swept the Raiders in a season before 2024?
The 2024 season marked the first time since 2014 that the Denver Broncos swept the Raiders in the regular season. It also included their first road win against Las Vegas since 2015, ending a multi-year losing streak.
