Bo Nix ends Denver’s playoff drought

A look at how the Broncos rookies played in their 38-0 win over the Chiefs on Sunday.

Emphasize: A hot potato play in the back of the end zone led to Bo Nix’s third touchdown pass of the first half. His throw to tight end Adam Trautman was knocked down three times before rookie Devaughn Vele made the catch to extend Denver’s lead to 21-0 with 11:05 left in the second quarter. Nix had a forgettable game, going 26 of 29 with 321 yards and four touchdowns. He also ran for 47 yards on seven carries.

Weak point: Nix had too much fun in the first half…a little too much fun. On Denver’s final possession of the second quarter, Nix rushed downfield for a 27-yard gain, then threw the ball to running back Javonte Williams for an additional yardage gain. However, Nix was called for an illegal forward pass, pushing Denver back from the Kansas City nine to the 37-yard line.

Analysis: Nix had an impressive regular season. On Sunday, the first-round pick became the fifth rookie in league history to record at least 3,500 passing yards and 25 touchdown passes in a season. More importantly, he helped end Denver’s eight-year playoff drought. It’s clear the Broncos have found their man. No matter what happens in the playoffs, the Broncos need to maximize Nix being on a rookie contract and get more weapons. The fact that Nix threw 29 passing touchdowns while Lil’Jordan Humphrey was his No. 2 receiver for the first half of the season was remarkable. Now imagine if he has legitimate playmakers in Courtland Sutton and Marvin Mims Jr.

Unsung Hero

RB Javonte Williams: The Broncos gave Williams the role of Samaje Perine on Sunday and it worked. Williams had three catches for 50 yards on four targets. He was one of four Broncos players with at least 50 receiving yards. Williams had a regular season to forget in terms of individual performances. But against the Chiefs, he showed he could be useful against the Bills next week.