The Denver Broncos defeated the Green Bay Packers 27-2 in their second preseason game of the season. It was a solid performance in all three phases. Here are some snapshots from today’s game.
Bo Nix continues his rise with a strong performance against the Packers
Broncos Country had some reasons to be optimistic after Bo Nix’s debut against the Indianapolis Colts last weekend. Sure, there were some hiccups and it wasn’t perfect, but he did well. After today’s game against the Packers, the euphoria increased even further as the first-round pick put on another impressive performance.
Nix was 8-for-9 for 80 yards and 1 touchdown as a passer. He was perfect on third downs and did a great job of getting the ball out quickly. I also thought he showed good improvisational skills. One of the biggest criticisms from analysts last year was that he threw from the platform and from a bad base, but he seemed much more composed in the pocket – so there has definitely been progress in that regard.
Keep in mind that the Packers didn’t make any of their defensive starts, but he still played like a starting-caliber quarterback. In fact, I wouldn’t be surprised if head coach Sean Payton finally named him the franchise’s starting quarterback sometime this week.
Through two preseason games, six of the Broncos’ seven Nix-led offenses have resulted in points. It’s unlikely that this trend will continue at such a high level in the regular season, but the offense certainly looks more impressive than we could have ever imagined. There’s no doubt that Nix still has a lot of growing to do as a player, but his skill, efficiency and lack of negative plays will benefit the Broncos’ offensive efforts in 2024.
Vance Joseph’s defense wreaks havoc on the Packers’ offense
The Broncos’ biggest problem on defense may prove to be their strength this season. Just like last week, the defense was able to stop the opponent’s offense. John Franklin-Myers and Zach Allen started the first few series and the Packers were unable to do anything on the ground.
Despite having the ball for 18 minutes in the first half, the Packers managed just 69 yards (37 rushing and 32 passing) for a measly 2.7 yards per play and just 6 first downs. They had the ball for 43 minutes all night and managed just 168 yards. They were unable to score any points – so kudos to Joseph and his players for the shutout – even if it wasn’t against starting quality players.
Speaking of encouragement, how about Nik Bonitto and Jonah Elliss? They’ve looked good setting the edge and playing against run and pass plays in the backfield. Elliss’s pass rush skills were able to force the first turnover of the game and make an impact in two consecutive weeks. That’s what you like to see from a rookie!
The duo’s efforts didn’t end there. Bonitto and Elliss also tackled Michael Pratt in the third quarter and Ellis was able to force a sack and a fumble, resulting in another turnover. Baron Browning and Jonathan Cooper may be the starters for the season at edge rushers, but don’t underestimate what the ultra-athletic combination of Bonitto and Elliss will do for this defense. They’ll bring some serious pressure – you bet on it!
The Broncos’ second and third offensive lines had big problems
One of the Broncos’ biggest problems last week was penalties against their offensive line. Unfortunately, this happened for the second week in a row. Alex Palczewski was penalized for multiple violations that brought down several offenses. He also didn’t get much pressure when opponents ran his way. Head coach Sean Payton has been very complimentary of the second-year pro, praising his experience and versatility. But if he wants to make the team’s final roster, he’ll need to put on a strong performance next weekend against the Arizona Cardinals.
In addition, Frank Crum and Will Sherman also received penalties and had some issues in pass defense that resulted in either sacks or pressure situations – including a missed pass defense by Sherman at the end of the third quarter that resulted in Zach Wilson being sacked for a safety. Alex Forsyth, who is battling with Luke Wattenberg for the starting center position, also received several holding penalties. This was definitely the low point of the night in an otherwise flawless team performance.
I was hoping for improved discipline from the offensive line against the Packers, but the backups struggled in that regard tonight. I would imagine Payton and offensive line coach Zach Strief will give these guys a tough dressing down throughout the week, given the issues we saw tonight.
Safety Keidron Smith continues to fight for a spot on the final 53-man roster
For the second week in a row, safety Keidron Smith was able to intercept a ball thanks to a pressure from Ellis. The former University of Kentucky cornerback may have just earned a spot on the Broncos’ final 53-man roster. He has great size, length and ball skills. In my humble opinion, he should be part of the ongoing overhaul of the franchise’s secondary. He didn’t have the speed to stay on the outside in the pros, but I think he can be a solid addition to the safety position.
Wide receivers Troy Franklin and Marvin Mims, Jr. were missing
Troy Franklin was a player I wrote about yesterday who needed to step up after being invisible in his pro debut. I should have made the same criticism of Marvin Mims, Jr., especially considering the Broncos also signed him two years ago.
While it’s not time to panic, it’s hard to imagine what roles they’ll play on offense in 2024. They have good skills and a lot to offer, but we haven’t seen them targeted at all. Franklin didn’t have the ball tonight and Mims Jr. was only targeted once. That’s a little concerning.
We know Sean Payton has a penchant for targeting backs in the passing game. Additionally, Courtland Sutton, Tim Patrick and Josh Reynolds are likely to have the highest target rate of receivers. Then there are the tight ends, be it Greg Dulcich or Lucas Krull, who will also play a role.
I’m not sure what to expect from them this season considering what we saw in the preseason and heard throughout training camp. It’s a disappointing turn of events, but hopefully that can change when the regular season begins.
