The offensive production was emblematic of a knot in Denver all season. Payton’s Broncos have been above average in the league, ranking 14th in points and 10th in yards, but sometimes disappear for scary stretches. However, that hasn’t stopped Bo Nix and Co.
Nix produced five fourth-quarter comebacks and a league-leading seven game-winning drives this season, with an uncanny ability to come through in the clutch.
By making every game count more in the playoffs, hopefully Denver can use the post-blessing stakes to be laser-less from start to finish in the team’s upcoming game(s).
That’s a bit of a tall order for a club with so little postseason experience. The Broncos have made the playoffs two straight years after an eight-season hiatus, but the last trip lasted just one game. Nix is in his 2nd year. His primary quarterback, RJ Harvey, is a rookie, and aside from Courtland Sutton, his most prominent wide receivers — Troy Franklin, Marvin Mims Jr. and Pat Bryant all played three seasons or less.
But there is a veteran presence on both sides of the ball, ie. offensive lineman Mike McGlinchey and linebacker Dre Greenlaw, who Payton said he expects back from a hamstring injury before the playoffs. Both players reached the Super Bowl as members of the San Francisco 49ers and can be seen as leaders.
“Yeah, the whole crew, Greenlaw, those guys,” Payton said when asked about relying on such players for postseason success. “It’s positive because they understand the journey it takes. It’s not easy. Nothing is given or taken for granted. You know what I mean? These [No.] 1 seeds are not like car wash coupons. They are difficult. They’re just in their daily interactions with players who come from teams that have won.”
There’s also the Mile High atmosphere at Empower Field, where the Broncos are 8-1 this season. Any team that beats Denver will have to do so in the weather and at increased altitude.
“Hug on wood, we’ve been able to put ourselves in a position to play these important games in a tough environment for our opponent,” Payton said.
Given all the wins the Broncos have accumulated, everything—the clutch factor, their shutdown defense, some skill and home field advantage—could come together for Denver to be successful if it turns out to be.
For now, the Broncos are focused as they await their divisional opponent.