Broncos Overcome Slow Starts in 30–9 Preseason Win Against 49ers

Getty Images

SANTA CLARA, Calif. – In their preseason opener on August 9, 2025, the Denver Broncos ultimately took a 30–9 win over the San Francisco 49ers—but not without early turbulence.

Denver’s starting defense was underwhelming on the opening drive. Facing Mac Jones and the 49ers’ second-stringers, the Broncos allowed a swift 71-yard scoring drive, punctuated by a 50-yard bomb to rookie Jordan Watkins and a fourth-down conversion, culminating in a touchdown by Patrick Taylor Jr. Second-year QB Bo Nix showed signs of preseason rust. He went 6-of-11 for just 31 yards, with his second drive ending disastrously after being pressured in the end zone—an intentional grounding call resulted in a safety. Nix did manage to lead one more series, finishing with a field goal, but his performance lacked rhythm and accuracy, especially on deeper passes. After the sluggish start, edge rusher Nik Bonitto delivered a much-needed jolt.

On Denver’s second defensive series, he generated relentless pressure—recording a sack, a half-sack, and forcing a punt in just a three-play span. His efforts sparked the defense to rebound, ultimately shutting out San Francisco after the first drive. Interceptions by Ja’Quan McMillian, Karene Reid, and Joshua Pickett further bolstered the defensive response. With Nix pulled, Jarrett Stidham took over and delivered a polished performance. He connected on two touchdown passes—first a short TD to Lucas Krull, then a deep 36-yarder to Trent Sherfield—propelling Denver to the convincing victory.