The Denver Broncos, led by quarterback Bo Nix, have clinched the top seed in the AFC, paving their way to the playoffs with a bye through the wild card round. The Broncos are set to face off against the Buffalo Bills in the divisional round, marking a significant moment for Nix, who previously showcased his skills at the University of Oregon.
In anticipation of their first playoff game, Broncos head coach Sean Payton emphasized the importance of an aggressive offensive strategy. He expressed his growing confidence in Nix, indicating that a downward field approach would be tailored according to the opponent. “We want to be aggressive. We’ll definitely stretch the ball down the field,” Payton stated, highlighting the potential for big plays during the matchup against the seasoned Bills, who have a solid track record in the postseason.
Nix, now in his second year after being drafted in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft, will need to rely on the skill sets honed during his time with the Ducks. His collegiate career was marked by standout performances, including a stunning game against the No. 9 UCLA Bruins in 2022, where he threw for five touchdowns, proving he can handle high-pressure situations.
Underlining his versatility, Nix has demonstrated both strong passing capabilities—finishing his final season with the Ducks with 4,508 yards and 45 touchdowns—and exceptional mobility, which helps him escape pressure and create plays when necessary. This agility will be crucial for the Broncos as they aim to capitalize on opportunities against a formidable Bills defense.
Currently, Nix has amassed 3,931 passing yards and 25 touchdowns this season, complemented by 356 rushing yards and five touchdowns. This impressive performance has been pivotal in securing the No. 1 seed for the Broncos and winning the AFC West title, positioning him to make history as the first former Oregon quarterback to lead a Super Bowl-winning team.
The playoff journey for the Broncos is set, and should they triumph over the Bills, they are poised to host the winner of the showdown between the Patriots and the Texans. With a promising outlook ahead, Nix has the potential to elevate the Broncos’ postseason journey and solidify his legacy as a standout player.