Bo Nix’s Meteoric Rise Puts Him in the OROY Conversation as Broncos Make Playoff Push

By 750 THE GAME STAFF

When the Denver Broncos selected quarterback Bo Nix with the 12th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, they knew they were betting on potential. After a shaky start to his rookie campaign, Nix’s performance has begun to reflect why the Broncos were so high on him. Over the last five games, Nix has been nearly flawless, throwing 11 touchdowns and only one interception. As a result, he’s gone from a distant long shot to a legitimate contender for the NFL’s Offensive Rookie of the Year (OROY) award.

Slow Start, But a Strong Finish

Nix’s early season struggles were not unusual for a rookie quarterback adjusting to the NFL. His first few games were filled with rookie mistakes, misfires, and inconsistency, as he worked to adapt to the speed of the professional game. But as the season has unfolded, Nix has turned the corner in a major way.

In the past five games, the former Oregon star has been on a tear. His 11 touchdowns and just 1 interception during this stretch have earned him recognition not only within Broncos Country but also from media and analysts around the league. What’s more impressive than the numbers is the timing—Nix has stepped up when his team needed him most. The Broncos have gone 3-2 in their last five games, climbing to a 7-5 record and securing a critical spot in the AFC playoff hunt. As of now, they sit 1.5 games ahead of the Miami Dolphins for the final wild-card spot.

Nix’s ability to execute under pressure has been a revelation. Whether it’s delivering pinpoint throws on third down or showing poise in the pocket with the game on the line, the rookie has looked more like a seasoned veteran than a first-year player. His accuracy has improved, and his deep-ball connection with receivers Jerry Jeudy and Courtland Sutton has become one of the most dangerous elements of Denver’s offense.

Shifting Odds: Nix Surges in OROY Race

Bo Nix’s surge in performance has not gone unnoticed in the world of sports betting. Just two weeks ago, Washington Commanders quarterback Daniels was the heavy favorite to win the OROY award with a commanding -3000 odds, while Nix was a distant contender at +1400. However, after a blistering stretch of games, the odds have flipped dramatically.

As of Week 12, Daniels’ odds have dropped significantly to -135, while Nix’s odds have jumped to +110, a near-even coin flip according to DraftKings. The shift in odds reflects Nix’s rapid rise, with many now considering him a genuine challenger to Daniels, the preseason favorite. Though Daniels remains a slight favorite, Nix’s impressive play over the last month has turned the race into one of the most exciting narratives of the season.

Broncos Playoff Push: Nix as a Key Contributor

For the Broncos, Nix’s growth has been integral to their playoff aspirations. At 7-5, Denver finds itself in a tightly contested AFC wild card race, with their playoff hopes hanging in the balance. Nix’s performance, particularly in wins against strong opponents like the Buffalo Bills and Kansas City Chiefs, has kept the Broncos competitive in what is shaping up to be a wide-open wild card race. His composure, leadership, and ability to make the big throws have given the team a newfound confidence.

As the Broncos continue their playoff push, the importance of Nix’s development cannot be overstated. If he can keep playing at a high level, he may not only lead the Broncos into the postseason but also capture the OROY award, cementing his place as one of the NFL’s brightest young stars.

The Road Ahead for Nix and the Broncos

With just a handful of games left in the regular season, the Broncos’ fate rests in the hands of their rookie quarterback. Nix has proven he can handle the pressure and deliver when it matters most. If he can continue his hot streak, the Broncos have a real shot at securing a wild card spot and potentially making a deep playoff run. And if his performance continues at this level, the OROY award could be within reach.

While Daniels remains the favorite, Nix’s performance over the last month has shown that he is more than capable of stepping up in the spotlight. The next few weeks will be crucial, not only for the Broncos’ playoff hopes but also for Nix’s case to be crowned Offensive Rookie of the Year. As things stand now, it’s a race that’s too close to call, and Bo Nix is making it one to watch.

@750TheGame