Breaking News: Denver Broncos’ incredible player Bo Nix has been placed on……..Read more

When the Denver Broncos took on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, it was reasonable to wonder if they would end up with a 0–3 record. With quarterback Baker Mayfield off to a strong start and a strong defense, the Bucs were 2-0 after defeating the Washington Commanders and a strong Detroit Lions squad.

But in Week 3, the Broncos triumphed and picked up a much-needed road victory. It’s also true that the Broncos were without a number of starters, even though the Bucs were missing a few important players, most notably defensive lineman Vita Vea.

However, the Broncos forced a three-and-out on the opening drive, drove the ball 70 yards for a touchdown, and then got an interception on the Bucs’ second drive to give the offense excellent field position.

By the end of the first quarter, the Broncos were ahead 17 to 0. And even though the Bucs scored the game’s first points thanks to a Javonte Williams blunder, the Broncos kept them scoreless in the second half.

The Broncos’ strong start and ability to take advantage of early opportunities was encouraging, considering they were lacking in those areas against the Seattle Seahawks in Week 1. And it was encouraging to see the Broncos offense get up more steam in Week 3, especially on the road, after producing almost no offense against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Let’s examine five factors that should inspire hope among Broncos supporters that the team may succeed in winning more games than some may anticipate.

Bo Nix Is Moving Forward

Nix had greater pocket awareness versus the Bucs, despite his occasional mistakes. The Bucs were able to apply pressure and wear him down a few times, but he managed to elude tackles and gain yardage.

Nix’s masterful planned run plays are unlikely to be initiated by Broncos head coach Sean Payton, but the rookie did demonstrate his ability to generate yardage in the open field. It also suggests that he can eventually learn how to prolong plays for downfield shots given his agility.

Although Nix almost had an expensive interception, he also shown his ability to make wise choices. Although it was a run-pass option play, he saw an opening to run and took it for his rushing touchdown. Nix will continue to make errors, but he has demonstrated that he is growing from them.

O-Line Depth Could Be Present

Given that starting right tackle Mike McGlinchey of the Broncos went down with an MCL sprain, there was reason to question how well Alex Palczewski would fare in his first NFL start. There may have been some who questioned the Broncos’ decision to start Matt Peart instead of the veteran.

Although Palczewski was inexperienced, he performed admirably in such situation. Even though the Bucs were without a few important defensive players, the Broncos’ former right tackles had a history of making depth players appear like world beaters.

Once more, it’s just one game, but if Palczewski keeps getting better, the Broncos may have a long-term option at swing tackle. He would also ease the minds of Broncos supporters regarding the depth of the O-line.