The Denver Broncos lost big to the home team Buffalo Bills 42-15 in the second preseason game of 2022.
The Broncos continued to rest their offensive and defensive starters, with quarterback Josh Johnson getting the nod for the second straight game.
After a promising start to the game, where Johnson led the Broncos on a 12-play, 64-yard drive ending in a Brandon McManus field goal, the Bills never looked back.
Buffalo began the game with their first-team offense against the Denver backups, quickly going down the field for a 70-yard touchdown drive. The Bills went on to shred the Broncos defense for six straight touchdown drives, while the Denver offense stalled drive after drive.
After a tough game against the Dallas Cowboys last week, Brett Rypien rebounded nicely in the second half, going 22/26 for 191 yards and the Broncos’ only touchdown of the game to tight end Eric Saubert.
The Denver return game again shined, with Montrell Washington returning two kickoffs for 55 total yards, his longest going for 35 yards.
In addition, one of the few bright spots came in the form of receiver Jalen Virgil, who returned two kicks for 60 total yards, his longest going for 30 yards. Virgil also tacked on two receptions for 39 yards. Virgil is quickly climbing the receiving ladder in the absence of Tim Patrick.
Kicker Brandon McManus also finished the game 3/3 on field goals.
This week, every team must cut five players, trimming the roster from 85 to 80 by Wednesday, August 23. The Broncos play their final preseason game in Denver against the Minnesota Vikings on Saturday, August 27.