Can the Broncos Offense Step Up?
Denver has excelled in the AFC, thanks mostly to a tough defense. They’ve been excellent at shutting down opponents, especially in critical red-zone situations. With 68 sacks, the Broncos set a franchise record this season. Their defense is strong enough to compete for a championship, along with teams like Seattle, Philadelphia, and Houston.
But the offense? That’s another story. Second-year quarterback Bo Nix has gained a reputation for inconsistency. He can struggle for most of a game, only to pull off clutch plays when the pressure is on. This season, Nix has the highest number of passing attempts in the league—612—yet his passer rating sits at a concerning 87.8, placing him 26th overall.
The running game has also faced challenges since J.K. Dobbins suffered a season-ending injury in Week 10. Rookie RJ Harvey has done well, rushing for 540 yards and scoring seven touchdowns, but he lacks the physical presence Dobbins brought to the field.
This begs the question: what if Denver’s defense falters in the upcoming Divisional Round against the Buffalo Bills, and Nix is left leading a one-dimensional offense? The Broncos have proven resilient, boasting an impressive 11-2 record in close games this season. They excel at converting third downs, ranking 11th in the league, and head coach Sean Payton has a talent for designing crucial plays for receivers like Courtland Sutton, Troy Franklin, and tight end Evan Engram.
However, the Broncos have also faced tough losses, like a 34-20 defeat to Jacksonville in Week 16. That game highlighted their vulnerabilities, even at home. If Nix and the offense can’t step it up for a whole game, they’ll be in trouble against stronger teams.
Interestingly, teams can turn things around quickly in the playoffs. Recent statistics show that playoff performances often differ from the regular season. Players who excel in pressure situations can help elevate the team’s chances. As fans and analysts follow this journey, it will be intriguing to see if Denver’s offense can rise to the occasion.
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