Despite scoring just five points in the second half, three passing touchdowns from Tom Brady, two receiving touchdowns from Mike Evans and a 23-10 halftime lead was enough to carry Tampa Bay to a 28-10 victory over the Denver Broncos.

The Bucs were able to escape Denver with their second win of the season, moving Tampa Bay to 2-1 one the season, but it didn’t come without sacrifice. Both cornerback Sean Murphy-Bunting and wide receiver Chris Godwin left the contest with hamstring injuries. For the time being, safety Antoine Winfield Jr. – who finished the game with six tackles, one sack and a pass defended – moved into the nickel position and second-year safety Mike Edwards took over at free safety across from Jordan Whitehead. Edwards took advantage of the situation, coming up with the first interception of his year late in the fourth quarter. Altogether the Bucs’ defense allowed just 10 points while racking up two interceptions and six sacks. Linebacker Lavonte David added an interception of his own and outside linebacker Shaquil Barrett had a strong performance in his return to Denver, leading the team with two sacks including one for a safety.

With the win, Tampa Bay takes over the top spot in the NFC South and can potentially take that title into Week 4 if the New Orleans Saints fall to the Green Bay Packers on Sunday Night Football and move to 1-2.