High hopes after Bo Nix's brilliant performance in Tampa

Broncos Country can breathe a collective sigh of relief.

After two largely inconsequential starts to the 2024 season, Broncos quarterback Bo Nix showed why many believe he could be the future of the franchise we've all been waiting for.

We got a taste of what to expect in the preseason, easily defeating all challengers. The regular season, however, is a different story. The games between Seattle and Pittsburgh were played against great defenses. It's refreshing to see Nix apply what he learned early in the season to the Broncos' first win of the season.

When Nix was drafted, Broncos Country largely knew it would take some time for the young quarterback to take over the offense. While visions of a Super Bowl and a playoff run are nice, these things take time. Most Broncos fans, when asked about their expectations for the season, would say they just want to see the level of play improve at the quarterback position.

On Sunday in Tampa, Bo Nix did just that. With 25 of 36 throws for 216 yards and a QBR of 80.6, he had the best game of his young career in a matchup where the opponent had a clear advantage.

Enjoy the win, Broncos Country! They're building something in Denver and if Sunday is any indicator, they're going to be a lot of fun to watch. Keep building. Keep getting better.

Headlines

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Nix runs for a touchdown and Lutz kicks 4 field goals to lead the Broncos to a 26-7 victory over the listless Buccaneers – Clone
Rookie Bo Nix ran for an early touchdown and Wil Lutz kicked four field goals to help the Denver Broncos avoid an 0-3 start for the second straight season with a 26-7 win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Nix completed 25 of 36 passes for 216 yards without a single interception. The 12th pick in this year's NFL Draft has yet to throw a touchdown in three games. Denver's defense also did its part to help Nix rebound from the adversity of the past two weeks, sacking Baker Mayfield seven times and intercepting a pass from the Bucs quarterback once to set up a second-quarter touchdown.

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Skylar Thompson suffers 'painful' rib injury in loss to Seahawks – ESPN
Miami Dolphins quarterback Skylar Thompson left Sunday's game midway through the third quarter of a 24-3 loss to the Seattle Seahawks after suffering what coach Mike McDaniel called a painful rib injury.

Strong 'veteran presence' pays off for Dalton with big day in Panthers win – ESPN
Panthers quarterback Andy Dalton paid close attention to the player's poise and composure when he benched Bryce Young in favor of the 36-year-old veteran, who threw three touchdown passes in the first half of the 36-22 victory over the Raiders.

Geno Smith is not happy with his performance in Sunday's 24-3 win – NBC Sports
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Kyle Shanahan: The 49ers had a chance to get away, but instead we gave the Rams hope – NBC Sports
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Andy Dalton: That was a big win, it shows what we can do – NBC Sports
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Eagles DB accuses Saints of 'dirty play' after DeVonta Smith injured – ESPN
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49ers lament mistakes in “unacceptable” loss to Rams – ESPN
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Ravens praise 'phenomenal' Lamar Jackson after crucial performance – ESPN
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