The Broncos' rookie QB delivers on the Raiders' path

Statistics line: 19 for 27, 206 yards, two touchdowns; five carries, 13 yards and a TD

Highlight: Nix shifted gears in the fourth quarter, leading two touchdown drives. Nix punctuated an eight-play, 58-yard scoring drive with a 1-yard rushing touchdown. With less than nine minutes left in regulation, Nix completed a 24-yard pass near the sideline to receiver Courtland Sutton and then found Josh Reynolds in the back of the end zone for a 9-yard score.

Low light: The flow of the game broke down in the third quarter. With 1:46 left, Nix threw the ball into the end zone to a wide-open Franklin, who dropped the touchdown catch. The ball was easily overturned, but it was a catchable pass that should have led to six points.

Analysis: Nix was efficient, completing 70% of his passes. At the same time, the game-deciding Sunday was conservative until late in the game. Most of Nix's passes occurred behind the line of scrimmage. He hit wide receiver Lil'Jordan Humphrey with a short pass that resulted in a 27-yard gain in the third quarter. A few plays later, his short pass to running back Jaleel McLaughlin led to a touchdown. After Nix switched sides with head coach Sean Payton, he played with fire – a positive sign from the rookie.

Unsung hero

WR Marvin Mims Jr.: Denver's second-year wideout made his presence felt on Sunday. He had one carry of 17 yards in the first quarter. In the third, Mims returned a punt 38 yards into Raiders territory. Denver has been waiting for Mims to make an impact. The win against the Raiders is a start.