Rookie Bo Nix Strengthens Case for Broncos’ Starting QB in 27-2 Victory Over Packers
Rookie quarterback Bo Nix made a compelling argument for securing the Denver Broncos’ starting QB role Sunday night, leading the team to a 27-2 victory over the Green Bay Packers’ backups in his first NFL start. Nix, the former Oregon standout and the sixth quarterback selected in the 2024 NFL Draft, continued his impressive preseason performance by guiding the Broncos to scores on both of his drives.
Nix showcased his skills with a 2-yard touchdown pass to Tim Patrick, who is making a strong comeback bid after missing the last two seasons due to leg injuries. Nix also connected with Javonte Williams for a 14-yard strike, although the play was overturned upon review, as Nix was ruled to have thrown just past the line of scrimmage. Despite the setback, the Broncos settled for one of Wil Lutz’s two field goals.
Nix completed the game with an impressive stat line, going 8 of 9 for 90 yards, earning a stellar 140.7 passer rating. He also added three rushes for 12 yards. Patrick, one of Nix’s primary targets, caught four passes for 30 yards.
Nix had relieved incumbent Jarrett Stidham in the previous week’s game against Indianapolis and had been given the bulk of first-team work leading up to his first pro start, which included a joint practice on Friday.
The game was less competitive than anticipated, as Packers coach Matt LaFleur opted to sit out 31 players, including all regular starters, after a lackluster effort during the Broncos’ practice session.
Denver’s defense also shined, with Keidron Smith intercepting a deep pass from Packers backup quarterback Sean Clifford and returning it 56 yards to set up Stidham’s 9-yard scramble into the end zone, making it 17-0 just before halftime. Zach Wilson mopped up for the Broncos, and the Packers finally scored in the final minute of the third quarter when Wilson was sacked in the end zone for a safety.
The game also featured the first post-safety kickoff under new NFL rules, with Lutz using a tee to kick off from the 20-yard line, a change that could have unexpected consequences for field position in the future.
Another standout rookie for Denver was linebacker Jonah Ellis, a third-round pick from Utah, who forced an interception for the second straight game and had a strip-sack and recovery in the third quarter, leading to a field goal.
Denver’s strong preseason performance, led by rookies like Nix and Ellis, is building excitement as they prepare for the regular season.
