How these Denver Broncos and the flexible quarterback can end the Chiefs' rule.
Former Buffalo Bills coach an analyst serves as an NFL pundit and represents the UK's national squad.
- Published
- 6 Comments
Week six of the 2025 NFL season
Real-time updates includes text commentary for the weekend matchups on various channels, starting with the Broncos-Jets clash at Tottenham (kicking off at 2 PM BST). Also, radio commentary is available through select stations covering a separate game (from 21:00 BST).
We're in the sixth week in the NFL season , following last week's talk about the Buffalo Bills and Philadelphia Eagles as a potential Super Bowl match-up, they both lost their unbeaten records.
Striking during those contests were the number of infractions both committed. The Eagles did so in key moments meaning they kind of beat themselves after leading 17-3 going into the fourth period versus the Denver Broncos, set to play overseas this weekend.
But it was good to see how Denver quarterback Bo Nix managed to overcome the shortfall before lead three successful possessions on three possessions in the fourth quarter, securing the victory 21-17.
Denver boast the top defender with cornerback Pat Surtain II. They rank number one in goal-line defense, whereas the Eagles are number one in scoring near the end zone, yet the Broncos prevailed in that contest.
They had effective strategies regarding simulated pressure. They did not necessarily rushing more than four defenders but they could plug two linebackers in the 'A' gap before drop them out and send a slot defender from the outside.
At the start of the season, it was noted during a show that Denver could be this season's dark horses. They finished last season well and did a good job of building upon that.
Could Denver be this season's dark horses?
Recently acquired TE their tight end has stepped up big and recent running back JK Dobbins is a player they believe in. He's currently fifth league-wide for rushing yards (over 400) as well as tied for fourth for rushing touchdowns (4).
It's impressive that the coach the Broncos' leader displays "RUSH!" prominently on his call sheet.
That shows that Denver are a team aiming to run first, since you can do a lot based on that approach. It reduces opposing rushes and keeps you in positive situations.
This has helped QB the young passer, who entered into the league as the 12th overall draft pick last year, passing for 29 TDs – just behind Justin Herbert for the rookie record (31 back in 2020).
Josh Allen and Herbert have the arm strength to throw anywhere, but they lack the mobility that Nix has. He has incredible passing ability, a unique trait, plus he's highly agile.
His assets include his movement, being able to throw on the run, and finding varied release points to make throws as he moves out of the pocket, the bootlegs. He is able to deliver precision throws over the middle and over the corner.
As a rookie QB, at 25, he displays a lot of poise in the pocket and is not bothered by extra rushers. He aims to evade a sack as much as possible and can throw under pressure. He possesses sharp intelligence and remains quick to decide.
When you constantly rush it consumes time and forces the opponent to stay on the field for longer, and when you have an athletic quarterback the defense must defend the field downfield side to side. This proves draining.
Nix has bitten back at Payton on the sideline at times and I think the coach appreciates that attitude, that he's such a competitor. I think it's fun for him to have a rookie QB who's similar to moldable clay. He can truly build something up how he desires to shape him. I believe it's a unique opportunity for the coach.
The head coach owns a Super Bowl and now surpassed Bill Parcells in all-time victories (173, tying for 14th). He has witnessed it all. I think the success Denver are having offensively is mostly due to his leadership, his schemes, his situational awareness – and the combination with the QB helps shape him what he is.
There's no better a better guy in your ear, to help you through difficult moments and boost self-belief.
I have faith in Denver's defence, in Bo Nix's tenacity and composure. Yet are they strong enough to face an elite team at its best? Because that was not a Super Bowl performance by the Eagles in their last game.
Right now, it's unlikely Denver are elite. They're working better than most, that's a solid position to be in their division. All they need is is maintain this path.
They're really good at leaning into their forte, which is running the ball, and that's exactly what they should do against the Jets at Tottenham. It will likely be a Dobbins-focused game, in essence.
New York have surrendered 140 rushing yards per game (sixth worst), five rushing touchdowns this season (10th worst), and they're the sole squad without a win any game.
Since the NFL began tracking turnovers in 1933, this team are also the first team to be without any turnovers through five games, this is surprising considering that the head coach Aaron Glenn a defensive coach at the Detroit Lions.
Patrick Mahomes says the Chiefs have 'already lost too many games' after Monday's defeat by the Jaguars.
Following this Sunday's game, the Broncos have a smooth-ish schedule until their break (in week twelve) - the Giants, the Cowboys, Houston Texans plus Las Vegas Raiders prior to the Kansas City Chiefs.
In the AFC West, Kansas City are 2-3 while Denver are tied with the Chargers on 3-2 meaning they could challenge for the top of the West.
This hinges upon what version Kansas City shows up they meet because Denver {beat|def