C.J. Anderson powers Broncos to victory over Bills

C.J. Anderson ran for three touchdowns, powering the Denver Broncos past the Buffalo Bills, 24-17.

Peyton Manning was held without a touchdown for the first time since November 2010. Manning went 14-of-20 for 173 yards and two interceptions, but the Broncos prevailed on a rare off night for the reigning MVP.

Buffalo's chances of contending for an AFC playoff spot were all but nullified with the loss. 

Here's what you need to know:

• Buffalo's Sammy Watkins fumbled on the first possession of the game, and the ball was recovered by Denver's Rahim Moore. Watkins ended up leading the Bills in receiving with seven catches for 127 yards.
• Anderson opened the scoring for the Broncos on a 6-yard touchdown run. Anderson added another 1-yard touchdown in the first half and scored again on a 3-yard run in the third quarter.
• Wes Welker led the Broncos with six catches for 82 yards.
• Watkins became the first Bills rookie with four or more 100-yard games.
• Buffalo's defensive line has been the strength of the team, but it failed to record a sack for the first time this season.
• Kyle Orton scored on a quarterback sneak with 55 seconds left, but it was too late to catch the Broncos. Orton went 38-for-57 for 355 yards, with one passing touchdown and two interceptions.
• Demaryius Thomas had a quiet night, catching two passes for 11 yards. Julius Thomas suited up for the Broncos but did not enter the game.
• Von Miller continues to make a strong case for All-Pro consideration, recording a sack in the victory.