Audric Estime’s first career touchdown gives the Broncos an early 7-0 lead

The Broncos will clinch a playoff spot with a win over the Chargers on Thursday night and started the game that way.

After forcing a quick three-pointer from the defense, Denver put the ball in the box for Audric Estime’s first career touchdown. That gave the club an early 7-0 lead against Los Angeles.

The Broncos converted third-and-2 with a 15-yard run by Javonte Williams, giving Denver a first down in Los Angeles territory. Quarterback Bo Nix followed with a 13-yard pass-off play to fullback Nate Adkins, beating Denver to the LA 24.

The club got into the red zone on a 7-yard run by Blake Watson – the fourth player on the first possession. After a false start, Watson caught a screen for a 13-yard gain and came within half-yard with an unnecessary roughness penalty against the Los Angeles defense.

Both safeties Tony Jefferson and Watson lowered their helmets during the play, but only Jefferson was cautioned for the foul. Prime Video rules analyst Terry McAuley determined that there should not have been a foul.

On the next play, Estime took a handoff to the right side for a 3-yard score.

Denver averaged 7.4 yards per play on that first drive and picked up six first downs.

Chargers safety Marcus Maye is questionable to return due to an ankle injury.