August 19th 2024.
Sean Payton was not impressed when the idea of naming a starting quarterback for Sunday night was brought up. He believed that actions would speak louder than words and it was clear that Bo Nix was on his way to becoming the official QB1. However, Payton did have high praise for all three quarterbacks, including rookie first-round pick Nix, Jarrett Stidham, and Zach Wilson, after the Denver Broncos' dominant 27-2 win over the Green Bay Packers.
Payton highlighted Nix's composure and comfort level at the line of scrimmage, as well as Stidham and Wilson's ability to lead the offense and score points. All three quarterbacks had touchdown drives and helped the team generate six scores and 24 first downs in just seven drives. Payton and the Broncos couldn't ask for much more from their quarterback room.
Nix, who played two possessions and took 20 snaps, had an impressive stat line of 8 of 9 for 80 yards, a touchdown, and a QB rating of 140.7. He also had three carries for 12 yards. His highlight was a trio of plays that set up a touchdown pass to Tim Patrick, including a third-and-9 conversion, a 10-yard run, and a 23-yard pass to Courtland Sutton. His only lowlight was losing track of his position on the field and throwing a touchdown pass to Javonte Williams after crossing the line of scrimmage. However, Nix's efficiency and performance against the Packers' backup defense was still impressive.
Stidham, who played four possessions and took 19 snaps, had a stat line of 7 of 11 for 65 yards, an interception, and a QB rating of 41.9. He also had one carry for nine yards and a touchdown. His highlight was a determined run on third-and-5 where he lowered his shoulder and stunned a linebacker to score a touchdown. His lowlight was an unfortunate tipped-ball interception, his second in two preseason games. However, Stidham's overall performance was steady and decisive, despite not being able to secure the starting job in training camp.
Wilson, who played five possessions and took 19 snaps, had a stat line of 2 of 6 for 29 yards, a touchdown, and a QB rating of 89.6. He also took two sacks and was responsible for a safety. His highlight was a perfectly timed screen pass to running back Tyler Badie for a touchdown. His lowlight was not being able to avoid a sack in his own territory, resulting in a safety for the Packers' only points of the night. Despite a rough start, Wilson showed why he deserves a roster spot with his performance, and this outing shouldn't have a big impact on the team's decision.
Overall, all three quarterbacks showed promise and helped the Broncos secure a dominant win. Nix, Stidham, and Wilson are all making a case for the starting job, but it will ultimately come down to their performance against stronger competition. Fans can look forward to seeing more of these quarterbacks in action during their next preseason game against the Arizona Cardinals.
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