The Denver Broncos opened their 2017 preseason schedule with a 47-6 loss to the visiting New Orleans Saints on August 5 at their home stadium. Under the direction of head coach Charles Reddick, the Broncos struggled offensively and defensively, falling behind early and unable to recover.

The Saints established control early. On their first possession, quarterback Walter Rose connected with Scott Pruitt on a 48-yard touchdown pass just over a minute into the game. The extra point by Kory Sanchez was good, giving New Orleans a 7-0 lead. They extended the lead with another field goal from Sanchez, pushing the score to 10-0 in the second quarter.

Denver’s offense could not find rhythm against the Saints defense. Quarterback Richard Simons completed 19 of 42 passes for 141 yards but threw four interceptions. Backup quarterback Robert Bruton added 60 passing yards but was intercepted twice. The Broncos also gained 90 yards on 16 carries, but no rushing touchdowns were recorded.

The Broncos’ defense forced six interceptions overall but was repeatedly overpowered by the Saints' offensive ground game. New Orleans rushed 42 times for 129 yards and three rushing touchdowns. Notable contributors included Bobbie Sims, who ran for 80 yards and scored two receiving touchdowns, while tight end Craig Acton added a rushing touchdown along with 51 receiving yards.

Several Saints players had standout performances. Walter Rose finished with 177 passing yards and two passing touchdowns, alongside 24 rushing yards. Wide receivers Scott Pruitt and Thomas Fielding each scored rushing touchdowns, adding to New Orleans' diversified scoring.

Turnovers plagued the Broncos throughout, highlighted by a critical interception returned 27 yards for a touchdown by Beau Clayborn in the second quarter. This contribution by the Saints defense helped them to build a commanding lead.

Denver’s special teams had moments of effectiveness, with kicker attempts resulting in two successful field goals. However, their offense was unable to capitalize in the red zone, finishing without any touchdowns.

Defensively, the Broncos recorded one sack and forced two fumbles but could not contain the Saints' multifaceted attack. Safety William Knight forced one fumble during the game.

Coach Charles Reddick called a timeout during the second quarter, attempting to regroup the Broncos, but New Orleans maintained the momentum for the entire contest.

The loss exposes areas that Denver must improve on before the regular season, particularly in ball security and offensive execution. The Broncos will look to rebound in their next preseason game as they continue to evaluate personnel and establish team chemistry.