Los Angeles: Rookie Trevor Siemian ruined Brock Osweiler’s return to Denver as the Broncos outgunned the Houston Texans 27-9, after the visitors were rocked by a horrific injury to right tackle Derek Newton on Monday.
Siemian, who stepped up as Denver’s starting quarterback after Osweiler left the Super Bowl champions in the close season, completed 14 of 25 passes for 157 yards at Mile High Stadium.
As well as connecting with Demaryius Thomas for a four-yard touchdown, Osweiler piloted the Broncos on four other scoring drives as Denver improved to 5-2 after consecutive losses.
Siemian was thrust into the role of successor to Peyton Manning following the legendary quarterback’s retirement at the end of last season.
Osweiler was widely expected to replace Manning as Denver’s starting signal-caller but surprised the Broncos by signing for Houston.
Denver’s other touchdowns came from running backs CJ Anderson (16 carries, 107 yards) and rookie Devontae Booker (17-83), who both barrelled over from close range to score.
Osweiler meanwhile struggled with only 22 of 41 passes completed for 141 yards. He failed to find the end zone and also threw a costly turnover.
All of Houston’s points came via three field goals from Nick Novak.
A miserable night for Houston was compounded by a season-ending injury to offensive linebacker Newton midway through the first quarter.
The 28-year-old reportedly suffered torn patella tendons in both knees after crumpling to the turf as he shaped to block Von Miller. Newton needed lengthy treatment on the field and saw both legs placed in temporary casts before he was taken away on a medical buggy.
Results
Broncos 27 Houston Texans 9
