The Denver Broncos offense has struggled to find a rhythm for much of the 2024 season. But in their Week 11 matchup against the Atlanta Falcons, quarterback Bo Nix and company wasted no time getting on the scoreboard. On the game’s opening possession, Nix engineered an impressive 10-play, 70-yard touchdown drive – Denver’s first opening drive score since way back in Week 3.
Adkins Caps Methodical March
The Broncos came out attacking through the air, with Nix completing passes to a variety of targets as Denver steadily moved down the field. The drive was nearly derailed by an offensive pass interference call on receiver Jerry Jeudy that negated a first down catch. But Nix bounced right back, finding rookie wideout Devaughn Vele for an 8-yard gain on the very next play.
That catch proved crucial, as Falcons safety Richie Grant was flagged for a personal foul for a hit to Vele’s helmet. The 15-yard penalty gave Denver a first-and-10 at the Atlanta 12-yard line. On the next snap, Nix found tight end Nate Adkins all alone in the end zone for the score and an early 7-0 Broncos lead.
Wide. Open.
— Denver Broncos (@Broncos) November 17, 2024
📺: FOX pic.twitter.com/iLJAARRNKt
Nix Making Strides in Second Season
For Nix, the touchdown toss was his 11th of the year and his sixth in his last three outings. The second-year signal caller has made major strides after an up-and-down rookie campaign, showing improved accuracy and decision-making. His chemistry with young pass catchers like Vele and Adkins seems to be growing by the week.
While there is still a lot of football left to be played, the Broncos have to be encouraged by the early signs from their offense in this one. If Nix can continue to spread the ball around and generate touchdowns, it will go a long way toward keeping Denver in the AFC playoff picture. The team entered Week 11 just one game out of the final Wild Card spot.
Defense Looks to Maintain Momentum
Of course, the Broncos’ calling card in 2024 has been their elite defense. The unit ranked in the top five in most major categories coming into the game, including points and yards allowed. If the offense can find more consistency and put up points like they did on their first possession versus Atlanta, this Denver squad has the potential to be very dangerous down the stretch.
For now, Broncos Country will savor watching their team play with a lead – something that has been a rarity for much of the season. The fast start is a positive sign, but they know there is still plenty of work to be done to get this promising campaign back on track. The next step is maintaining the momentum from that crisp opening touchdown drive and finishing off the Falcons to secure a much-needed victory.
