In one of the weirder games in recent memory, the Broncos were able to grind out a 20-point victory over the Buccaneers, despite losing Trevor Siemian in the second quarter to a shoulder injury.

The Broncos moved the ball fairly well through the air. The rushing game was inconsistent though, and the offense struggled immensely on third down, converting only 3-13 opportunities.

In his NFL debut, Paxton Lynch looked like a legitimate starting quarterback. After Siemian struggled to deal with the Tampa Bay pass-rush, Lynch’s mobility was instantly a factor, as the rookie was able to escape the pocket and avoid pressure. Lynch looked calm and collected as a passer, showing the ability to read defenses and make good decisions with the football on a consistent basis.

In general, both of the young QBs performed well and Gary Kubiak may once again have a quarterback controversy brewing. Neither made any crucial mistakes, but Lynch’s arm strength and athleticism was clearly a boost to the offense, which had been stagnant for the majority of the second quarter.

The Broncos defense dominated Jameis Winston and the Bucs’ offense, forcing three turnovers, including a pair of interceptions from Aqib Talib in his return to Tampa Bay. Besides one 13-play drive sustained by Winston and the Buccaneers offense in the first quarter, Denver dominated them for four quarters.

Derek Wolfe was an animal, recording 2.5 sacks and five total hits on the QB. Wolfe consistently created pressure up the middle and was a factor in stopping both the pass and run.

Wolfe, Brandon Marshall and Shaq Barrett each recorded six tackles on the day, tying for the team-lead. After Shane Ray was the one to pick up the slack in the absence of DeMarcus Ware last week, Barrett stepped up today. Barrett recorded two tackles for loss and a sack and was all over the field Sunday afternoon.

The weather delay in the fourth quarter was less than ideal, but the Broncos handled the situation well. Coming into this game, I had some reservations about Tampa Bay being a trap game. Everybody expected the Broncos to win after starting the season so impressively, and those are games where teams can play down to their competition. Instead, the Broncos executed when it mattered most and improved to 4-0 on the season.

This team appears to be on a mission to repeat as Super Bowl champions and the way they are executing early, I like their odds. Twenty-five percent through the season, the Broncos have proved they can execute through adversity and have the mindset to win. The team has cut down on stupid mistakes and post-play fouls that cost the Broncos last season.