**Broncos Triumph Over Saints in Impressive 33-10 Victory**

On Thursday Night Football in Week 7, the Denver Broncos emerged victorious with a definitive 33-10 win against the New Orleans Saints. This game offered several notable moments and key performances that contributed to Denver's success.

**Cody Barton’s Stellar Performance**

Journeyman linebacker Cody Barton was a standout player for the Broncos. His stat line for the night was impressive, with eight tackles, one sack, one pass breakup, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery which he returned 52 yards for a touchdown. Barton even had another potential touchdown earlier in the game, though it was negated by a defensive penalty. His contributions have been vital for defensive coordinator Vance Joseph's unit.

**Dominant Ground Game**

Denver's ground game was historically potent, accumulating 225 rushing yards, marking the team's best single-game total since 2013. Leading the charge was Javonte Williams with 14 carries for 88 yards and two touchdowns, showcasing his best performance since his knee injury in 2022 against a weakened Saints defense. Quarterback Bo Nix also contributed significantly, adding 75 yards on 10 carries. However, rookie Audric Estime's performance was marred by a fumble in the fourth quarter, the second of his young career.

**Former Saints Shine for Denver**

Several former Saints players were instrumental in the Broncos' victory. Kicker Wil Lutz was perfect on the night, making all four of his field goal attempts and all three extra points, contributing a total of 15 points. Additionally, linebacker Kwon Alexander, elevated from the practice squad, made his presence felt with a tackle and a recovered fumble against his old team.

**Bo Nix’s Inconsistent Start**

While Bo Nix made notable contributions with his rushing ability, his performance in the pocket left much to be desired early in the game. He displayed anxious feet and threw several inaccurate passes, including a near-interception by Tyrann Mathieu just before halftime. Despite a rocky start, Nix settled down and completed 61.5% of his passes without any turnovers, indicating both promise and room for improvement.

**An Emotional Victory for Sean Payton**

Although Broncos players and Sean Payton himself downplayed the significance of facing his former team, it was clear the game held extra meaning. The players were motivated to secure a win for Payton in New Orleans, and the night turned out perfectly for him, delivering a well-earned and emotionally charged victory.

This dominant performance against the Saints has undoubtedly boosted the Broncos' morale as they continue through the season.