Metro Denver residents who suspect they’re spending more time stuck in traffic are correct.

Drivers here over the past year faced the fastest increasing traffic delays in the nation, according to a global transportation data firm’s latest analysis. While Denver ranks 15th among the most congested U.S. cities (New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles top the list), the delays increased by 19% between 2023 and 2024.

Drivers on metro Denver roads during 2024 lost an average of 44 hours to traffic jams, up from 37 hours in 2023, the analysis by the Seattle-based company INRIX found. In New York and Chicago, residents lost an average of 102 hours in traffic. In Los Angeles, they lost 88 hours.

The average speed of a vehicle moving toward downtown Denver decreased by about 7% to 13 miles per hour, said Bob Pishue, senior analyst for INRIX and author of a report released Monday morning.

“That’s a pretty rapid change,” Pishue said.

“A lot of restaurants and retail stores have been waiting for this. They want the traffic. Traffic shows there’s growth and activity. On the other hand, it gives us less time with our friends and family. It gives us frustration. It gives us higher costs to move goods and services around.”

The Denver Regional Council of Governments estimates the metro Denver population will increase by 1 million people within 30 years. City and state transportation planners have been wrestling with how to contain traffic, looking to public transit and densification — by encouraging more housing concentrated around bus and train hubs — so that workers don’t have to drive as much.

The INRIX analysis shows that metro Denver traffic delays were typically worst on westbound Interstate 270, South Colorado Boulevard, Pena Boulevard, and northbound I-225 between the interchanges with I-25 and I-70.

Time lost in traffic lowers money and productivity. INRIX analysts calculated the average Denver driver lost $788 a year. Nationwide, they estimated traffic delays over the past year cost the U.S. economy more than $74 billion.

The Denver Broncos are heading to the playoffs for the first time since 2015, and they made it happen emphatically with a 38-0 dismantling of the Kansas City Chiefs. Facing a depleted Chiefs squad, the Broncos showed no mercy, dominating both sides of the ball and solidifying their place in the postseason.

This victory showcased the Broncos’ growth, resilience, and readiness for playoff football. Who were Denver’s biggest winners and losers from this playoff-clinching victory?

Let’s dive in.

Bo Nix | QB

Nix was flawless, completing 26-of-29 passes for 321 yards and four touchdowns while adding 47 yards on the ground. His command of the offense was masterful, resulting in a 152.4 passer rating. Nix’s ability to stretch the field and keep the chains moving was the driving force behind Denver’s offensive explosion.

Marvin Mims Jr. | WR

Mims continues to ascend, catching all five targets for 51 yards and two touchdowns. He displayed excellent footwork on his second touchdown, leaving defenders grasping at air in the corner of the end zone.

Courtland Sutton | WR

Sutton was a reliable target again, recording 98 yards and a 47-yard touchdown on five catches. His chemistry with Nix has made him the team’s go-to option in critical situations.

Devaughn Vele | WR

Vele had a highlight-reel moment, hauling in a double-tipped pass for a three-yard touchdown. His four catches for 50 yards showcased his ability to make clutch plays when called upon.

O-Line (Pass Protection)

The offensive line was a fortress, allowing no sacks and giving Nix ample time to pick apart the Chiefs’ secondary. The unit’s dominance upfront also created rushing lanes for Nix to scramble effectively.

Nick Bonitto | OLB

Bonitto continued his breakout season with two sacks, three tackles, and multiple pressures. His speed and relentless pursuit were too much for Kansas City’s offensive line to handle.

D-Line

The Broncos’ defensive line feasted on Chiefs quarterback Carson Wentz, sacking him five times and limiting him to 98 passing yards. Their ability to collapse the pocket and clog running lanes completely stifled Kansas City’s offense.

Sean Payton | HC

Payton called a near-perfect game, blending aggressive play-calling with methodical clock management. His preparation and focus on execution were evident as the Broncos dominated every phase of the game.

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O-Line (Run Game)

While the Broncos’ offensive line excelled in pass protection, its run blocking left much to be desired. Denver’s running backs combined for just 104 yards on 34 carries, averaging a meager 2.9 yards per attempt. 

The Broncos’ playoff drought is over, and they’re entering the postseason with momentum and confidence. Nix’s development has been extraordinary, and the offensive balance created by Payton’s system gives Denver a dangerous edge.

Defensively, the Broncos look like they have gotten back to center and are ready to take on any challenge, as their pass rush and secondary are firing on all cylinders. However, the run game remains a concern. Denver’s inability to establish consistent rushing lanes could become an issue against more balanced defenses in the playoffs.

Next up for the Broncos: a wildcard clash against the Buffalo Bills in Orchard Park. While the challenge is daunting, this team has shown the grit and growth necessary for a sliver of hope for a deep playoff run.

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The Denver Broncos are being gifted a berth into the AFC playoffs by the Kansas City Chiefs today. As you can see from the below inactives list, they will be resting all of their best players and likely will limit the snap counts of those that remain active for this game.

There is literally no excuse for Sean Payton in this game. The Broncos should win by double-digits, but I don’t care how they win as long as they win. It has been a long nine year wait for Broncos Country.

Here are your gameday inactives for the Broncos-Chiefs game in Week 18.