Javonte Williams rushed two touchdowns and the Denver Broncos triumphed in coach Sean Payton's return to New Orleans, beating the banged-up and reeling Saints 33-10 on Thursday night.
Bo Nix passed for 164 yards and ran for 75 yards for Denver 4-3, which dominated statistically. The Broncos outgained New Orleans 389 yards to 271 while sending the Saints 2-5 to their fifth straight defeat.
With Saints quarterback Derek Carr oblique missing his second straight game, there were rookies under center for both teams.
Spencer Rattler made his second straight start for New Orleans and his lack of experience was exacerbated by injuries all across the the offense.
The Saints were missing top receivers Chris Olave concussion and Rashid Shaheed knee, the latter going on injured reserve earlier in the day. Two starting linemen, center Erik McCoy groin and guard Cesar Ruiz knee, were out. Versatile tight end Taysom Hill ribs missed his third straight game.
