Defensive Plays Define the Denver Broncos' Season

In the Denver Broncos’ remarkable 2024 season—one that has seen them surge from a 2-3 start to a nine-game win streak and a top spot in the AFC West—there’s no question that defensive plays have been the backbone of their success. This isn’t just a defense that stops opponents; it’s one that creates momentum, secures victories, and turns potential losses into memorable wins. From game-sealing interceptions to strip-sacks that lead to touchdowns, the Broncos’ defense has delivered when it matters most, defining the team’s identity and setting the tone for every game. Defensive Plays Define the Denver Broncos' Season explores the standout defensive moments that have shaped the season, the players behind them, and how these plays have turned the Broncos into legitimate Super Bowl contenders.

One of the most defining defensive plays of the Broncos’ season came in Week 6 against the Kansas City Chiefs—the game that sparked their historic win streak. With the Broncos leading 24-17 and the Chiefs driving for a potential game-tying touchdown late in the fourth quarter, defensive end Bradley Chubb made a play that would set the tone for the rest of the season. Facing a third-and-5 from the Broncos’ 25-yard line, Chubb beat Chiefs right tackle Jawaan Taylor with a quick speed rush, wrapped up quarterback Patrick Mahomes, and forced a fumble that was recovered by linebacker Alex Singleton. The play not only ended the Chiefs’ drive but also cemented the Broncos’ status as a threat in the AFC West. “That play changed everything,” said Broncos head coach Sean Payton after the game. “It showed our team that we could beat the best, and it gave our defense the confidence to keep delivering in big moments.” This type of clutch play has become a hallmark of the Broncos’ season, with the defense recording 12 game-sealing takeaways since Week 6. Defensive Plays Define the Denver Broncos' Season highlights that Chubb’s strip-sack wasn’t just a single play—it was the catalyst for a defensive revolution that has defined the team’s success.

Another set of defensive plays that have defined the Broncos’ season is their ability to shut down opposing offenses in the fourth quarter, turning tight games into wins and solidifying their reputation as a fourth-quarter force. During their nine-game win streak, the Broncos have outscored opponents 78-24 in the final quarter, and nearly every one of those wins has been secured by a critical defensive play. In Week 9 against the Los Angeles Rams, for example, the Broncos were tied 14-14 with just over two minutes left when safety Justin Simmons intercepted Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford’s pass near the Broncos’ end zone, returning it 35 yards to set up the game-winning field goal. In Week 12 against the Buffalo Bills, linebacker Nik Bonitto recorded a sack on fourth-and-10 with 30 seconds left, ending the Bills’ final drive and preserving a 27-23 win. These fourth-quarter plays aren’t just lucky breaks; they’re the result of the Broncos’ defensive preparation and their ability to stay focused when the pressure is highest. Defensive Plays Define the Denver Broncos' Season notes that the Broncos’ fourth-quarter defensive dominance has become a defining trait of their season, showing that they have the mental toughness to win even the closest games.

For the Denver Broncos, defensive plays have also defined their season by neutralizing some of the NFL’s top offensive threats, proving they can compete with the league’s best teams. One of the most impressive examples came in Week 10 against the San Francisco 49ers, who entered the game with the NFL’s third-ranked offense. The Broncos’ defense held the 49ers to just 17 points, recording 4 sacks and 2 interceptions, including a critical pick by cornerback Patrick Surtain II that stopped a 49ers drive in Broncos territory late in the third quarter. Surtain’s interception wasn’t just a takeaway; it was a statement that the Broncos’ defense could shut down even the most dynamic offenses. Similarly, in Week 14 against the Arizona Cardinals, the defense held Cardinals running back James Conner—who had rushed for over 100 yards in three straight games—to just 45 yards on 18 carries, limiting the Cardinals’ run game and forcing them to rely on a passing attack that the Broncos easily contained. For the Denver Broncos, these plays against top opponents have been crucial, as they’ve proven the team can compete with anyone in the NFL—not just beat lesser teams. Defensive Plays Define the Denver Broncos' Season explores how these wins over elite offenses have turned the Broncos from a good team into a great one, defining their season as one of resilience and dominance.

The Denver Broncos’ defensive plays have also been defined by their consistency, with the defense delivering strong performances week in and week out rather than just having occasional standout games. This consistency is reflected in the numbers: since Week 6, the Broncos have ranked first in the NFL in points allowed (16.3 per game), second in sacks (38), and first in takeaways (18). What’s even more impressive is that this consistency has come despite injuries to key players, including defensive tackle Mike Purcell and linebacker Josey Jewell. When Purcell missed three games, defensive tackle D.J. Jones stepped in and recorded 2 sacks and 15 tackles, continuing the Broncos’ strong run defense. When Jewell was sidelined, Singleton took on a larger role and recorded 3 interceptions, showing the depth of the Broncos’ defense. This consistency has been critical for the Broncos, as it has allowed the offense to play with confidence knowing the defense will keep games close. For the Denver Broncos, this steady defensive performance has defined their season as one of reliability—a trait that is often more important than flashy plays in the NFL. Defensive Plays Define the Denver Broncos' Season emphasizes that while individual plays get attention, it’s the defense’s ability to perform at a high level every week that has truly shaped the season.

Finally, the Denver Broncos’ defensive plays have defined their season by creating a team culture of toughness, resilience, and accountability that has spread to every part of the team. When the defense delivers a big play, it energizes the offense, and when the offense struggles, the defense steps up to keep the team in the game. This synergy was on full display in Week 8 against the Cleveland Browns, when the Broncos’ offense managed just 18 points. The defense stepped up, recording 3 sacks, 1 interception, and holding the Browns to just 10 points, securing a 18-10 win. This type of teamwork has become a hallmark of the Broncos’ season, with players on both offense and defense crediting the defense’s energy for their own success. “When you see the defense making plays like that, it makes you want to step up too,” said Broncos quarterback Russell Wilson. “They set the standard for this team, and we all follow it.” For the Denver Broncos, this culture of toughness—fueled by the defense’s plays—has defined their season as much as any win or stat. It’s a culture that will carry them into the playoffs, where mental and physical toughness are essential for deep runs. Defensive Plays Define the Denver Broncos' Season concludes that as the Broncos head into the postseason, their defense will continue to be the heart of the team. Every tackle, every sack, and every interception will be a reminder of how defensive plays have defined their season—and how they can lead the team to a Super Bowl title.