The Arizona Cardinals came into the Mile High City on Oct. 5 undefeated, but left with a shredded and tired group. In their most complete game of the season, the Denver Broncos emerged victorious with a 41-20 win. After posting 568 yard of offense, the team is rolling on all cylinders.

DU student Lars Bentley attended the game. 

“Demaryius Thomas was the best player of the game,” he said.

“The turning point of the game was his 80-some yard touchdown catch. [Ronnie] Hillman [Broncos’ back-up running back] came in and changed the Broncos’ run game. It changed the game because it opened up the passing game more for Peyton. I’m not sure if he was less fatigued, or just better than [Montee],” Bentley said.

Thomas erupted for a franchise record 226 yards. He also posted eight catches and two touchdowns. 

His monster day was a much needed boost for a guy who has failed to post more than 70 yards in his previous three games so far this season.

Another breakout performer was Von Miller, who has also had a slow start this year. He accounted for 1.5 sacks and held consistent pressure on the Arizona quarterbacks. 

Miller knocked the Cardinals’ starting quarterback, Drew Stanton, out of the game with a concussion.

Montee Ball left the game with a groin injury. He was replaced by Ronnie Hillman, who ran well and accounted for 64 yards on 15 rushes. 

Undrafted rookie running back Juwan Thompson also got in on the fun, scoring his first professional touchdown. 

He will look to make an impact as the year progresses if Ball is forced to miss more game time.

Not to be lost in the shuffle are Peyton Manning’s four touchdowns. He threw his 500th touchdown and joined an elite club of only him and Brett Favre. 

Now sitting at 503, he is only five scores short of tying the record. He will be looking to reach that number next week against the struggling New York Jets.