Six straight wins later, Denver might have found its formula...or its flaw

The Denver Broncos keep finding ways to win, but rarely the easy way. Through nine games, Sean Payton’s team has built a six-game win streak and climbed to first place in the AFC West. Yet what’s been just as notable as the wins themselves is how they’re happening: in dramatic, fourth-quarter fashion.

Denver has scored nearly 43% of its points this season in the final quarter, often waiting until the last stretch to turn on the jets. That kind of comeback energy can electrify a fan base, but it’s also a dangerous game to play.

Bo Nix’s late-game magic

Quarterback Bo Nix’s composure in clutch situations has been impressive. In the fourth quarter, Nix owns a 7–1 touchdown-to-interception ratio, a 105.3 passer rating, and nearly a full yard more per attempt than earlier in games.

It’s the kind of poise Payton has long valued in his quarterbacks. But for all of Nix’s heroics, there’s an underlying question... Can the Broncos afford to keep waiting until crunch time to figure things out?

Through the first three quarters, Nix’s numbers tell a completely different story. A modest 5.8 yards per attempt and an 81.6 rating. That’s not bad, but it’s clearly inconsistent if the Broncos want to prove they are more than just a clutch team.

There’s still plenty to like about Denver’s attack. The backfield duo of J.K. Dobbins and RJ Harvey has added reliability, while wideouts Courtland Sutton and Troy Franklin have emerged as consistent playmakers. The offensive line, ranked among the NFL’s best, has given Nix time to work late in games, which has been key to those comeback drives.

Payton’s challenge now is to start with that energy in the early quarters. Denver has been skating by on thin margins, with four of its six straight wins coming by just one score. That formula can’t hold forever...right?

The Broncos’ next test comes Thursday night against the struggling Las Vegas Raiders, who are looking for a comeback after two straight losses. The matchup gives Denver a chance to prove they can control a game from start to finish.

If the Broncos can start fast and maintain their late-game focus, they’ll not only solidify their AFC West lead, but also send the message that they’re legitimate contenders. Because while drama makes for great television, sustainable success in November and beyond requires something steadier than a fourth-quarter spark.

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