Denver Broncos rookie quarterback Bo Nix had a challenging game in their 13–6 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 2. For the second consecutive week, Nix did not manage to throw a touchdown pass, continuing his quest to score his first NFL touchdown. On Sunday, he had an opportunity to score but threw an interception in the end zone. When a reporter asked him to describe the play, Nix gave a blunt summary: “Uh, yeah. Dropped back. Threw it to the other team.”
Nix completed 20 of 35 passes for 246 yards, no touchdowns, and two interceptions, and he led the team in rushing with 25 yards on four attempts.
While Russell Wilson was receiving a game ball in the visitors’ locker room, head coach Sean Payton took responsibility for the Broncos’ faltering offense, which has led to an 0-2 start. Payton admitted the need for improvements and acknowledged that the issue starts with him.
“We need to clean up that side of the ball, and it begins with me,” Payton said after the loss, despite the defense limiting Steelers’ quarterback Justin Fields to just 110 passing yards.
Payton has been seeking better performance from the ground game. With rookie Audric Estime unavailable, practice squad player Tyler Badie made an impact with a 16-yard gain in the second quarter but didn’t see any more carries. Following that, Javonte Williams managed nine carries for 10 yards, Jaleel McLaughlin had one carry for 7 yards, and Nix gained 5 yards on a designed run.
Mike Garafolo from NFL Network reported that while evaluations are ongoing, McGlinchey’s recovery timeline is still being determined.
The Broncos’ offensive line had a tough game, allowing seven hits and two sacks on Nix. Payton expressed frustration with missed protections, acknowledging the need for better support around the rookie quarterback.
