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NFL Preseason Week 3 Game Recap: Denver Broncos 28, New Orleans Saints 19

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Denver Broncos
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New Orleans Saints
Denver opened with three scoring possessions behind rookie quarterback Bo Nix, who connected with Courtland Sutton for a touchdown and totaled 110 passing yards before exiting. The Broncos’ defense held late as New Orleans rotated through its quarterback competition.
Spencer Rattler started for the Saints and led a pair of field-goal drives before rookie Tyler Shough entered and added a rushing score on a designed keeper. Shough finished 12-of-20 for 102 yards, while Rattler went 5-of-8 for 43. Neither quarterback produced a big-time throw or turnover-worthy play, though Rattler narrowly graded higher on first review.
PFF’s dedicated team of graders was hard at work, analyzing every player on every play in real time. The comprehensive grades and data will be available after a thorough review tomorrow at 12 p.m. EST.
In the meantime, we’ve gathered some high-level data and snap counts from the game to give you an early look. Our expert graders have also nominated the standout player of the game, highlighting exceptional performance on the field.

PLAYER OF THE GAME
Sutton was a focal point in limited action, catching all four of his catchable targets for 83 yards, a touchdown, and two additional first downs. He averaged 5.8 yards after the catch per reception, forced a missed tackle, and produced two explosive gains. With an 11.7-yard average depth of target and a 50% target rate on his routes, Sutton generated a 138.7 passer rating when targeted.
BOX SCORE
Broncos | Saints | |
---|---|---|
Total points | 28 | 19 |
Total offensive plays | 75 | 58 |
Total net yards | 396 | 224 |
Avg yards per play | 5.3 | 3.9 |
Total first downs | 22 | 17 |
Rushing first downs | 5 | 5 |
Passing first downs | 16 | 11 |
Penalty first downs | 1 | 1 |
3rd down efficiency | 44% | 38% |
4th down efficiency | 38% | 0% |
Possessions | 10 | 10 |
Avg plays per drive | 7.9 | 6.4 |
Avg yards per drive | 36 | 20.4 |
Avg points per drive | 2.5 | 1.7 |
Red zone possessions | 6 | 1 |
Red zone plays | 20 | 3 |
Red zone TDs | 3 | 1 |
Red zone FGs | 3 | 0 |
RZ scoring efficiency | 100% | 100% |