September 12th 2024.
Bo Nix was on a mission to find the silver lining in his rookie debut. Despite throwing two interceptions and only managing 138 passing yards on 42 attempts in the Broncos' loss to the Seahawks in Week 1, Nix was determined to focus on the positive moments and use them as motivation for a better performance in their upcoming game against the Steelers.
"It was a great learning experience," Nix said with optimism after Wednesday's practice. "I believe the film showed some good things. When you go back and watch it, you can see that there were opportunities that we just need to capitalize on in a few more areas."
Nix pointed to the two scoring drives in the game as proof that he can produce better results in the future. In the second quarter, he made a clutch back shoulder pass to wide receiver Josh Reynolds for a 25-yard gain, setting up a 45-yard field goal by kicker Wil Lutz. Later in the game, Nix led a 7-play, 54-yard drive that resulted in a touchdown, bringing the Broncos within six points of the Seahawks in the fourth quarter.
"These moments were crucial in the game," Nix acknowledged. "They gave us points and big opportunities. Our two two-minute drives ended up scoring 10 points. We just need to find more ways to do that throughout the game."
While Nix's accuracy was called into question after some off-target throws, his mobility was praised by Pittsburgh coach Mike Tomlin, who admitted to being surprised by the rookie quarterback's ability to move around the field.
Many other rookie quarterbacks struggled in their Week 1 performances, but Nix sees it as a learning curve and a reminder to be patient with his progress. In contrast, Commanders' quarterback Jayden Daniels, the second overall pick, had the best showing out of all the rookies, completing 17 of 24 passes for 184 yards and rushing for 88 yards and two touchdowns.
But Nix refuses to make excuses for his performance and instead sees it as an opportunity to improve. After the game, wide receiver Courtland Sutton approached Nix to offer words of encouragement, reminding him that there will be ups and downs in the NFL and not every game will be a masterpiece.
"Sutton is a true student of the game," Nix praised his teammate. "I'm sure he has his own takeaways from the game, things he wants to improve on and build on. There is a lot of hope and promise for our future together."
Despite facing a tough opponent in the Steelers, Nix remains confident in his abilities and the team's potential. He credits his composure in the hostile environment of Seattle to his preparation and the team's efficient execution of plays.
Head coach Sean Payton shared that sentiment, praising Nix for his composure and efficient operation of the offense. Nix himself wasn't surprised by his debut, stating that the offense ran smoothly and they were able to avoid mental errors despite the loud crowd.
"We just need to work on being louder and more precise with our cadence," Nix acknowledged. "But overall, I think we did a good job against the noise and avoided costly mistakes."
With the support and encouragement of his teammates and coaches, Nix remains focused on improving and leading the Broncos to victory. And with that determination and support, the future looks bright for the rookie quarterback and the team.
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