Nix faces 9-blitz test in AFC West rematch

ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky called the Broncos' upcoming rematch against the Kansas City Chiefs a critical test for quarterback Bo Nix. Speaking to The Denver Post before the game, Orlovsky said a strong performance against Chiefs defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo could help Nix recapture the form of previous seasons.

The Week 1 meeting between these two teams was Nix's worst game of his young career. He completed 17 of 28 passes for 131 yards, one touchdown and one interception. His 69.2 passer ranking tied for the 10th-lowest of his career. Nix was sacked four times and fumbled three times, both career highs. His expected points added for that game was minus 18.9.

The Chiefs' strategy focused heavily on pressure. Kansas City blitzed Nix nine times in the season opener. According to Next Gen Stats, he completed only two passes for 13 yards against the blitz. Since then, Nix has the second-lowest passer rating in the NFL against extra rushers. His 40.5% completion rate in those situations is the worst in the league, six percentage points below the next closest quarterback.

Head coach Sean Payton noted that teams are trying to copy Spagnuolo's approach. Payton said it is harder for Nix to identify defensive alignments on the road because the opposing team can watch for pre-snap tells. At home, the Broncos can use motion to reveal which defenders are actually blitzing. Payton described this process as trying to undress the coverage.

Orlovsky said the constant threat of pressure puts quarterbacks on edge before the snap. He warned that trying to solve complex defensive looks can be choking for a player. He pointed to Nix's recent games against the Cardinals as a sign of progress. Nix completed four of 12 passes for 61 yards and a touchdown when blitzed in that game. The Broncos' offensive line has allowed a 36.6% pressure rate against blitzes, which is the sixth-lowest mark in the NFL.

Nix said he has watched the Week 1 tape several times to prepare. He acknowledged that the previous game did not look right but emphasized that he cannot play the same game twice. He said the upcoming matchup will be completely different. Orlovsky identified moments from the Cardinals game, such as a throw to Courtland Sutton and a pass to Jaylen Waddle, as encouraging steps. However, he still sees Nix playing too fast and missing open receivers.

Orlovsky said Nix must have the guts to throw the ball downfield while also threatening the defense with his legs. The Broncos' standing in the AFC West will depend on how Nix responds to Spagnuolo's pressures on Sunday.