The Denver Broncos are playoff-bound for the first time since their Super Bowl-winning 2015 season, and they couldn’t have done it more emphatically. A 38-0 annihilation of the Kansas City Chiefs sent a loud and clear message to the league: the Broncos are back.
Dominating every facet of the game, Denver capitalized on a weakened Chiefs squad, showcasing a lethal offense, suffocating defense, and the leadership of head coach Sean Payton.
Who stood tall in this playoff-sealing victory, and who fell short? Let’s break down the biggest winners and losers.
Winners
Bo Nix | QB
The rookie quarterback played like a seasoned veteran, completing 26-of-29 passes for 321 yards and four touchdowns. Nix also showcased his mobility with 47 rushing yards. His precise reads and ability to attack the Chiefs’ defense solidified his place as the franchise’s future. A 152.4 passer rating? Masterclass.
Marvin Mims Jr. | WR
The young wideout continues to thrive, reeling in all five of his targets for 51 yards and two touchdowns. His precise route-running and elusiveness were on full display, especially in his acrobatic second touchdown.
Courtland Sutton | WR
The veteran receiver delivered when it mattered most, recording five catches for 98 yards, including a dazzling 47-yard touchdown. Sutton’s connection with Nix is becoming the backbone of Denver’s offense.
Devaughn Vele | WR
The undrafted receiver had his moment of glory with a highlight-worthy, double-tipped three-yard touchdown catch. His four receptions for 50 yards showed his knack for stepping up in crucial moments.
Offensive Line | Pass Protection
Nix owes much of his success to an offensive line that delivered a perfect day in protection, allowing zero sacks. Their stellar play kept the Chiefs’ pass rush at bay, giving the rookie time to pick apart the secondary.
Nick Bonitto | OLB
Bonitto continued his breakout campaign with two sacks and relentless pressure that left Carson Wentz scrambling for answers. The second-year edge rusher is blossoming into a cornerstone for Denver’s defense.
Defensive Line
Denver’s defensive front turned the game into a nightmare for the Chiefs’ backup QB. They sacked Carson Wentz five times and held Kansas City to a mere 98 passing yards, utterly dismantling the Chiefs’ offense.
Sean Payton | HC
Payton’s game plan was a stroke of genius, blending creative play-calling with methodical game management. His ability to maximize Bo Nix’s strengths and exploit Kansas City’s weaknesses set the tone for Denver’s dominant performance.
Losers
Offensive Line | Run Game
While flawless in pass protection, the Broncos’ offensive line struggled in the run game. Denver’s backs managed just 104 yards on 34 carries (2.9 YPC), leaving room for improvement heading into the playoffs.
The Takeaway
The Broncos snapped their eight-year playoff drought in commanding fashion, riding Bo Nix’s stellar play and a rejuvenated defense. However, concerns linger about their run game, which could become a liability against playoff-caliber defenses.
Their next test? A wildcard showdown with the Buffalo Bills in frigid Orchard Park. While the Bills present a formidable challenge, the Broncos’ blend of youthful energy and veteran savvy gives them a fighting chance.
