The Denver Broncos lost their 2019 season opener. What happened and what needs to change going forward to get in the win column?

The Denver Broncos are now in the same frustrating position as 16 other teams in the NFL (the Cardinals and Lions tied) in that they did not win their season opener.

Unlike the Lions and Cardinals, however, the Broncos were one of 15 teams to actually lose their season opener.

The Broncos played their final game in Oakland on the Monday Night Football stage, and the Raiders responded by playing with fire from the opening kickoff. As is typical, the stadium was rocking and the fans were going nuts for their Raiders, who took the ball to start the game and had a long, painful touchdown drive followed by a three-and-out for the Broncos.

The Broncos went into the half down 14-0, looking a team that lost 10 games a season ago and without much of an improvement.

The second half started much better for the Broncos, who went on four scoring drives in their five possessions, but only one touchdown.

The Raiders took advantage of their red zone chances, and wound up beating the Broncos by a score of 24-16.

How did it happen?

Why did it happen?

Were there any positives to take away? What did we actually learn about the Broncos in this game?

What changes need to be made going forward?

Here are my top three reactions and instant analysis to the loss.