Statistics line: 16 for 26, 164 yards; 10 runs, 75 rushing yards

Highlight: Javonte Williams wasn't the only one who found success in football. Nix set the tone on the first play, gaining 14 yards. In the third quarter, Nix made a targeted run-off left tackle 32 yards down the sideline to set up Williams' 5-yard touchdown run for a 26-3 lead. Nix averaged 7.5 yards per carry.

Low light: Even if Nix threw for 400 yards on Thursday, it wouldn't erase the memory of him missing two wide-open targets on Denver's first drive. Nix had tight end Lucas Krull and wide receiver Troy Franklin wide open in the red zone, but the rookie failed to get his feet right, leading to an incompletion that somehow ended up between both pass catchers. Nix threw two more incompletions before Denver had to punt.

Analysis: Nix's footwork and downfield accuracy continue to be problematic. In addition to his incompletion against Krull in the first quarter, he threw the ball to tight end Adam Trautman, forcing Denver to settle for a field goal in the second quarter. He almost changed the momentum of the night if safety Tyrann Mathieu didn't throw off an easy interception late in the first half. Still, Nix did some good things in the win. He ran the ball well and took advantage of design runs. He also had three impressive throws to Franklin, Krull and rookie wideout Devaughn Vele. Overall, Nix had a solid performance in his first primetime game, but it's clear he still has a lot of work to do as a pocket passer.

Unsung hero

Offensive line: The guys up front played an important role in Denver's overwhelming success against the Saints. According to Next Gen Stats, the Broncos had 94 yards from contact through three quarters. This is a product of the offensive line creating open lanes for Denver's running backs. On Javonte Williams' 8-yard touchdown run in the second quarter, he reached the end zone unscathed thanks to strong blocked balls at the top.

Goat of the game

DJ Jones: Even though the Broncos won, it felt like they missed points. Inside linebacker Cody Barton's fumble recovery for a touchdown in the second quarter was called back because Jones went offside. Barton could have scored two touchdowns on the night, but Jones' mental error prevented that from happening.