The Broncos defeated the Cardinals, 38-12, on Sunday at Empower Field in their final preseason game. Here are three takeaways from the victory:

Stidham vs. Wilson

Jarrett Stidham started the game and led one scoring drive that included a fourth-down conversion and running back Audric Estime’s rushing touchdown. Zach Wilson entered late in the first quarter and finished the game 16-of-25 passing for 251 yards and two touchdowns. He also ran for 22 yards and another TD. Wilson led four scoring drives for 24 points. Will Sean Payton keep three QBs on the roster? Will Stidham get cut? Stay tuned.

Defense ascending

The Broncos went undefeated in the preseason (3-0) with their defense allowing a combined 14 points allowed in their last two games. Let’s not overreact. That’s not a totally accurate barometer with the lack of starting-caliber offense in exhibition play. But it’s still a positive sign entering the regular season. Maybe the Broncos won’t give up 70 points like they did in Week 3 last year in Miami. Because it can’t get much worse than that. Against the Cardinals on Sunday, Levelle Bailey had a defensive score as he intercepted a Clayton Tune pass and returned 94 yards for touchdown with 3:57 left in the fourth.

Mathis injured

Cornerback Damarri Mathis was carted off the field after just the second play of the game. He suffered a right ankle injury and was later ruled out for return. It’s an unfortunate turn for a player competing to start opposite NFL All-Pro cornerback Pat Surtain. Payton said Friday that Mathis had “put together really good days” in practice. But it seems Riley Moss has the edge in their ongoing position battle. The Mathis injury doesn’t help his cause.