The Lead
The Broncos had a few bright spots on Sunday, despite being dealt their first loss of the season.
Perhaps the most impressive play that came from the loss to Baltimore was running back Javonte Williams' 31-yard run in the first quarter. The rookie dragged Ravens defenders with him as he bulldozed well past the first-down marker, setting up Denver's lone touchdown of the game.
Williams has flashed his angry running style a handful of times through the first three games, but this run was something special.
"Javonte Williams got the entire stadium on its feet — and set up the Broncos' first touchdown — with a thunderous 31-yard run late in the first quarter," the Denver Post's Ryan O'Halloran said. "Williams shed four would-be tacklers on the play."
Williams finished the game with 48 yards on seven attempts and three receptions for 11 yards.
Another rookie to make big plays on Sunday was safety Caden Sterns -- who recorded both his first and second career sacks during the game.
"Rookie fifth-round pick Caden Sterns recorded his first career sack at a critical time late in the first half," O'Halloran said. "He got to Ravens' QB Lamar Jackson on third down to force a field goal attempt with just seconds remaining. He had his second sack midway through the third quarter on third-and-11."
Sterns finished the game with two sacks for a total loss of 12 yards and a pass defensed. Sterns continues to build his role in Denver's secondary -- he had recorded two tackles, two passes defensed and an interception heading into the matchup with Denver.
As the Broncos look to bounce back against the Steelers next week, they will need their rookie playmakers to continue to step up. Big plays from their young playmakers will be crucial as they put this loss to Baltimore behind them.
