The Broncos just came off a game where they pummeled the Atlanta Falcons, and Bo Nix showcased to the NFL World that he has arrived. He is the first-ever rookie to throw for more than 300 yards, complete more than 75 percent of his passes, and throw for 4 TDs and no interceptions. His passer rating of 145.0 is the second-highest ever in the Broncos History and was the highest since Manning in 2013. It is more than two fair to say that it is a two-man race for rookie of the year between him and Jaden McDaniels. Nix has 18 total TDs on the season, which leads all rookies.
The Defense was incredible, holding a Falcons offense that was playing very well the last few weeks to just 6 points. The defense sacked Kirk Cousins 4 times and intercepted him once. Nik Bonitto may have had his best game as a pro, as he had 2 of the sacks, and that defensive front deserves so much credit for holding the Falcons to just 50 yards of rushing and limiting Bijan Robinson's impact on the game. And, of course, you know the secondary had to ball out with the No Fly Zone in attendance.
So why is the title of this article "Finish Strong!"? Well, the Broncos find themselves in familiar territory after 11 games. Including this year, the Broncos have been 6-5 in 3 of their last 4 years, in the 2021 season, last year, and now this year. I bring this up because they have failed to make the playoffs the previous 2 times they were 6-5. In 2021, they went from 6-5 to 7-10. In 2023, they went from 6-5 to 8-9. I am hoping there will not be another late-season collapse this year. If Denver can follow through and make the postseason, it is safe to say that Denver has officially found their guy at QB. So now let's take a look at their reaming schedule.
Their next three games are against the Raiders, Browns, and Colts. I think the Broncos need to win all three and give themselves more wiggle room for the final three games when they face the Chargers, Bengals, and Chiefs. If they win their next three games, they'll only have to win one of the remaining three, which would get them to 10 wins, normally good enough for a playoff spot. Denver sits at number 7 right now, with the Colts and Dolphins being their biggest threats. They control their own destiny. If they can take care of business, they'll be back in the dance for the first time since 2016.
Let's take care of business in Vegas next week.
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