The Denver Broncos dominated the San Francisco 49ers 30-9 in their NFL preseason opener on August 9, 2025, at Levi’s Stadium. Jarrett Stidham’s two touchdown passes sparked a comeback after an early safety, while Bo Nix’s debut showed promise amid struggles. This victory highlighted Denver’s depth against a backup-heavy 49ers squad.
Table of Contents
Game Overview
Broncos rallied from a 9-0 deficit, scoring 20 unanswered points in the second quarter to take control. Final tally: Broncos 30, 49ers 9, with Denver outgaining San Francisco 222-127 in total yards. The game tested second-year QB Bo Nix early, but backups like Stidham sealed the win.
Key moments included a safety from Nix’s intentional grounding and Stidham’s efficient relief. Broncos’ defense forced three turnovers, limiting 49ers to field goals. Attendance and weather favored a crisp preseason showcase.
Broncos Offensive Stats
Denver’s offense exploded post-halftime, averaging 8.5 yards per play. Passing dominated with 13 receptions for 127 yards, complemented by rushing efficiency.
| Player | CMP/ATT | YDS | TD | INT | RTG | Notable |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bo Nix | 6/11 | 31 | 0 | 0 | 60.0 | Fourth-down conversion to Franklin |
| Jarrett Stidham | N/A (reliever) | Key TDs | 2 | 0 | High | Shined after Nix exit |
| Team Totals | – | 222 | 3 | 0 | – | 26 first downs |
Rushing added balance, with totals supporting a 30-point output against 49ers backups.
49ers Offensive Stats
San Francisco managed 127 receiving yards on 13 catches but stalled after early field goals. No rushing touchdowns, averaging 9.8 yards per reception max.
| Player | REC | YDS | AVG | TD | LNG | TGT |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Team Totals | 13 | 127 | 9.8 | 0 | 50 | 23 |
Backup QBs struggled, sacked multiple times, highlighting Denver’s pass rush. Early 9-0 lead evaporated without sustained drives.
Defensive Breakdown: Broncos
Denver’s unit shone with 56 total tackles, 29 solo, 2 sacks, and 4 TFLs. Three interceptions and 6 passes defended stifled 49ers.
| Category | TCK | SOL | SCK | TFL | INT | PD | TD |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Team Totals | 56 | 29 | 2 | 4 | 3 | 6 | 0 |
Standouts included blitz pressure from Chase Lucas, tipping passes and forcing errors. Held opponents to 9 points.
Defensive Breakdown: 49ers
San Francisco’s backups allowed 30 points, facing sacks and pressures. Limited deep Broncos threats but couldn’t stop the rally.
Broncos capitalized on defensive stops, converting turnovers into scores. 49ers managed early safety but faded.
Standout Player Performances
Bo Nix debuted with 6/11 for 31 yards, converting a key fourth down to Troy Franklin despite a safety penalty. Jarrett Stidham threw two TDs, earning praise for poise.
Defensively, Broncos’ secondary logged 3 INTs, with linebackers racking tackles. 49ers’ receiving corps hit a 50-yard long but zero TDs.
Strategic Insights
Sean Payton’s Broncos emphasized depth, rotating QBs effectively. 49ers tested backups, revealing areas like third-down defense (36/35 conversions against).
Nix’s growth focused on avoiding pressures, per post-game analysis. Broncos’ 1-0 preseason mark boosted momentum into camp.
Season Implications
This win validated Denver’s offseason moves, with Nix building on rookie promise (61.2% completion, 18 TDs in prior logs). 49ers addressed injuries via preseason reps.
Fans eye regular season, where Broncos lead AFC West contention at 11-2 projection.
FAQs
What was the final score of Broncos vs 49ers preseason 2025?
Broncos won 30-9 on August 9, 2025.
How did Bo Nix perform against the 49ers?
6/11 for 31 yards, 60.0 rating; key conversion but safety penalty.
Who led Broncos scoring vs 49ers?
Jarrett Stidham with 2 TD passes post-Nix.
Broncos defense stats vs 49ers?
56 tackles, 2 sacks, 3 INTs, 6 PDs.
49ers total yards vs Broncos?
127 receiving, no TDs.
Where was the game played?
Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara.
