The Denver Broncos grabbed a 16-9 halftime lead over the New Orleans Saints in the third and final preseason game Saturday at the Caesars Superdome.

Denver scored on a Bo Nix touchdown pass to Courtland Sutton and three Wil Lutz field goals. The Saints scored on three Blake Grupe field goals (56, 49 and 48 yards).

Quarterback Spencer Rattler started and was five of eight for 43 yards. Rookie Tyler Shough entered the game in the second quarter and was three of five for 17 yards. Rookie running back Devin Neal saw his first action of preseason and had two carries for 11 yards and caught a pass for a yard.

Most of the starters played for both teams but the following Saints players did not suit up: defensive back Terrell Burgess, tackle Taliese Fuaga, tight end Taysom Hill, tight end Foster Moreau, defensive back Rico Payton, guard Trevor Penning, defensive tackle John Ridgway III, cornerback Alontae Taylor and wide receiver Devaughn Vele.

Right tackle Landon Young left in the second quarter with an injury.

The Saints will get the ball to start the second half.