DENVER -- A look at a playoff-clinching victory for the Denver Broncos.
What it means: The AFC West is over. Denver just clinched it. It is the first time the Broncos have won back-to-back division crowns since 1986-87. The Broncos are 9-3 and have won seven straight games. It is their first seven-game win streak since the 1998 season.
Second half takeover: Tampa Bay led 10-7 at the half. Denver was sloppy in the first half, but the Broncos exploded for three touchdowns in the third quarter to run away from the Buccaneers. This continues an early-season trend of strong second-half play for Denver after slow starts.
Manning-Thomas combination shines: Denver quarterback Peyton Manning and receiver Demaryius Thomas are clicking at a high level. Thomas had eight catches for 99 yards and two touchdowns. Manning has thrown 29 touchdown passes this season, a team record.
Miller makes case: Denver second-year linebacker Von Miller had an interception return for a touchdown and forced a fumble. He continued to make a strong push for the NFL Defensive Player of the Year award. It was a good start to December for Miller, who was the AFC Defensive Player of the Month for November.
What’s next: Denver plays at Oakland on Thursday night in a short week. Even with the West clinched, the Broncos have plenty to play for. They still hope to get a first-round bye in the playoffs.