Denver secured a decisive 34-6 victory over Minnesota on Friday night, with quarterback Sam Ehlinger throwing for 233 yards and three touchdowns to close out the preseason campaign.
The Denver Broncos concluded their preseason schedule with a dominant 34-6 victory over the Minnesota Vikings at home on Friday night. The final score reflected a complete disparity in execution, as Denver’s offense exploited gaps in the secondary while the Vikings struggled to generate any sustained momentum. The result improved Denver’s preseason record to 2-1, while Minnesota finished their exhibition slate at 1-2.
Denver Broncos Offensive Efficiency
Quarterback Sam Ehlinger was the primary architect of Denver’s success, delivering a highly efficient statistical performance that highlighted his readiness for the regular season. Ehlinger completed 15 of 20 pass attempts for 233 yards, accounting for three touchdowns against just one interception. His connection with tight end Justin Joly proved particularly devastating; Joly caught two passes for 95 yards, including an 88-yard touchdown strike that stretched the field and shifted the game’s dynamic early.
While the passing game provided the highlight reel, the Broncos maintained balance through the ground attack. Running back Cody Schrader handled the bulk of the carries, recording 13 rushes for 42 yards. Schrader also contributed in the passing game, adding a 14-yard touchdown reception from Ehlinger. The scoring summary indicated a mix of rushing and passing scores, including a 1-yard rush by Adam Prentice and a 20-yard touchdown pass to Jaleel McLaughlin. Wil Lutz converted all extra points, anchoring the scoring output.
Minnesota Vikings Offensive Struggles
In stark contrast, the Minnesota Vikings offense failed to find its rhythm throughout the contest. With starter J.J. McCarthy sidelined due to an ankle injury, Max Brosmer took the snaps and finished 20-of-35 for 165 yards. While Brosmer avoided turnovers, his 57% completion rate and lack of deep connections left the Vikings reliant on field goals. They managed only six points, all coming from Will Reichard, who kicked a 46-yard field goal, a 28-yard field goal, and a 43-yard field goal.
Running back Jermar Jefferson served as the primary offensive catalyst for Minnesota, carrying the ball six times for 59 yards. In the receiving corps, Dontae Fleming led the team with four receptions for 55 yards, but he lacked the support needed to sustain drives. The inability to convert third downs or move the chains consistently allowed Denver’s defense to control the tempo of the game.
Defensive Standouts and Key Metrics
Both defenses recorded notable individual statistics, though neither could fully stop the opposing offense’s best players. For Denver, linebacker Karene Reid led the defensive effort with five total tackles, helping to contain Minnesota’s limited rushing threat. On the other side, Vikings linebacker Bangally Kamara was the defensive anchor, recording a team-high 10 total tackles. Despite Kamara’s efforts, the Vikings’ secondary struggled to cover Ehlinger, allowing him to exploit seams for significant gains.
- Sam Ehlinger achieved a 75% completion rate (15/20) with a 151.9 passer rating.
- Justin Joly averaged 47.5 yards per catch, including one play of 88 yards.
- Max Brosmer’s 165 passing yards were the lowest single-game total for a Vikings QB in this preseason window.
- Bangally Kamara accounted for nearly half of the Vikings’ defensive tackle production.
Turning Point of the Game
The pivotal moment arrived when Ehlinger connected with Justin Joly on the 88-yard touchdown pass. This play not only expanded Denver’s lead but also demoralized the Vikings’ defense, which had previously held them to field goals. Following this explosion, Denver added another touchdown via Jaleel McLaughlin, effectively putting the game out of reach. Minnesota’s subsequent field goal attempts came too late to alter the outcome, leaving the Broncos in control for the remainder of the fourth quarter.
What It Means Moving Forward
This game marked the final roster-cutting deadline for both teams, setting the stage for the 2026 regular season opener. For Denver, the win validates the chemistry between Ehlinger and his receiving targets, though Head Coach Sean Payton must address injury concerns. Several key players, including Marvin Mims Jr., Riley Moss, and Jacob Roberts, are listed as questionable for the upcoming season. Additionally, outside linebacker Jonathon Cooper is ruled out following legal issues, while Caleb Lohner, Frank Crum, and Michael Jurgens have landed on Injured Reserve.
For Minnesota, the loss raises immediate questions about the quarterback situation. The Vikings kept J.J. McCarthy on the initial 53-man roster despite his injury, creating uncertainty regarding his role versus Brosmer’s performance. With Brosmer struggling to replicate efficiency, the coaching staff faces a critical evaluation period before Week 1. Both teams now shift focus from exhibition metrics to finalizing depth charts and preparing for competitive play.
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