Denver Broncos QB Bo Nix is good enough to help his team win with his arm.
But like any quarterback, it’s easier when he has help in the running game.
That was the case on Monday Night Football against the Bengals, in which the Broncos had their first 100-yard rusher of the Sean Payton era. Obviously, it was also the first time Nix has had that kind of production from a back during his NFL career.
J.K. Dobbins went for 101 yards on the ground, while RJ Harvey chipped 58 yards.
When Bo Nix met with the media on Thursday, he was asked about that running game, particularly Dobbins usually delivering five or six yards on first-down.
“It’s massive, because then you’re in second-and-five, then you’re in third-and-manageable. Those first and second-down runs are really important,” Nix said.
The Broncos will need them this weekend when they face the defending champion Eagles. It’s unlikely, but possible, they’ll have the lead late. If so, Bo Nix will lean heavily on the backs to help close out the contest.
“I think at the end of the game when you’re able to run the ball when the defense knows you’re running it is important. That’s how you put games away. That’s how you win,” Nix said.
Denver did that against Cincinnati, taking a 28-3 laugher in a game that never felt in doubt. They’ll likely need big performances once again from Dobbins and Harvey to have a shot against Philadelphia.
“Between J.K. and RJ and the rest of the backs, whoever’s out there getting touches, I think they’re going to be able to give us an explosive opportunity, give us chances to keep the chains moving,” Nix said.
It’s too early to call running the football the identity of this Broncos offense, but it’s clear Bo Nix is a fan of moving the ball on the ground effectively.
Here’s to hoping that’s something Denver leans into the rest of the season.