Denver enjoyed a margin at least that big until the final minute of the game, when Washington closed the gap to 12 points.

Last year, would the offense have found the same success? Too often, those third-and-15's turned into missed opportunities that later left the Broncos staring up at the other team on the scoreboard.

Think back to last week against Chicago. After a three-and-out to start the game, Keenum and the offense managed to piece together two scoring drives. One of those came after a Chicago touchdown, which put the Bears up 7-5.

Didn't matter.

Keenum found Jeff Heuerman, then Sanders, then Sanders again, then Courtland Sutton, who was dragged down for a 45-yard defensive pass interference call.

Following the touchdown that came a few plays later, the first-team offense exited the game with a lead.

And the ability to rebound from adversity starts with the Broncos' new quarterback. Two rookies — who have each played a major factor in the offense's resurgence — have sensed that during their limited time in Denver.

"He always makes sure we get in the right situation to be able to execute," Sutton said. "He knows the whole progression, so he knows who is supposed to be open vs. what coverage. He puts us in the right situation to be able to execute and make those third downs and stay on the field because we know how important those are."

In the huddle, Sutton said, there's no pressure. Not on first-and-10. Not on third-and-15.

When No. 4 is calm, they all are.

"He's been in many of those positions," rookie running back Royce Freeman said. "Just knowing we've got it under control, we just need to execute."