Denver Broncos: 4 takeaways from win over Panthers

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - DECEMBER 13: Drew Lock #3 of the Denver Broncos celebrates after throwing a 37-yard touchdown pass against the Carolina Panthers during the third quarter at Bank of America Stadium on December 13, 2020 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images)
CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - DECEMBER 13: Drew Lock #3 of the Denver Broncos celebrates after throwing a 37-yard touchdown pass against the Carolina Panthers during the third quarter at Bank of America Stadium on December 13, 2020 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images)
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Denver Broncos
Denver Broncos. (Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images)

4. Denver Broncos’ depth on full display

The Denver Broncos have dealt with injuries all season, but they took another big hit on Sunday. Garett Bolles was a surprise name on the inactive list with a non-COVID illness, and Noah Fant quickly left the game for the same illness.

To go along with Bolles’ absence, right guard and right tackle were both filled by backups Netane Muti and Elijah Wilkinson respectively. The two performed well enough considering the circumstances, with Muti having a strong performance overall.

The absences extend to the defensive side of the ball as well, where starters A.J. Bouye and Bryce Callahan were missing, along with Essang Bassey. Rookie Michael Ojemudia and De’Vante Bausby stepped in, along with Duke Dawson in the slot, who left mid-game with an injury.

Former Bronco Will Parks saw his first action of the season with the injury to Dawson after being signed off of waivers. Parks performed well in his first action, along with Bausby who had a key tackle to end the Panthers’ chances of a comeback.

In spite of the numerous starters missing, the Denver Broncos played arguably their most complete game and looked great in all areas. The coaching staff has done an excellent job adapting to the tough hands they’ve been dealt, and absolutely deserve another year to show their value.

Sunday’s game just goes to show the value of John Elway, and his ability to find talent in the back-end of the roster. Elway should certainly be given credit for his ability to build up a strong roster, one that gives the Broncos a chance even without key starters missing all over.

The Broncos depth pieces showed off against the Panthers and were a key reason why the Denver Broncos left Carolina with a win.

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