Broncos @ Panthers: Horsepower in the Jungle

I mean, how about the Broncos sticking it to the Chiefs on 4 straight downs inside the 5-yard line. Wow! The Broncos’ defense was on full display for that drive, as well as most of the game. They didn’t force any turnovers, but did force two fumbles there were unable to recover. Bo Nix played a pretty straight game, going for 222 yards and 2 TDs on 20/32 passes. Denver’s run game was missing again, but 4 receivers had 30+ yards in this game. I did say the Broncos offensive style was not going to be consistently effective throughout the season, and I stand by that. But they just beat the Chiefs with that formula, so I’m not so sure. Bo Nix still needs to push the ball downfield a little more, but he’s not turning the ball over and they are scoring. So, I can’t ask for much more. Bravo to the Broncos, they seemingly found their footing. I like them at Carolina this week.

         The Panthers had another one of those games that they did not play up to their potential. Jordan Love played well, so I can’t discredit that, but I expected a little more out of Bryce Young. Young finished with just 209 yards, 1 TD, and 1 INT. Chuba Hubbard had another stellar performance, going for 81 yards and 1 TD on the ground, and 7 catches for 38 yards in the air. But it’s this defense. They are 10^th in pass defense but are 23^rd in the league in total defense. And their pass defense was not up to snuff this game. If the Panthers can round out their defense and offense at the same time, this team will be a threat. But until that day, they are somewhat of a threat.