Horse Tracks: Nix improving his ‘defensive’ game too

It’s not just becoming more comfortable with the offense; it’s understanding defenses better as well.

Good morning, Broncos Country!

For all the obvious reasons, Bo Nix’s second year at the helm of the Broncos’ offense should reveal a quarterback poised to build off a very successful rookie campaign — comfort with the playbook, ability to add even more plays to his call sheet, even better chemistry with the receivers, and hopefully a more dynamic run game to incorporate.

But an interesting comment from Nix last week during OTAs pointed to possibly the most important area for a QB to improve — understanding defenses. It’s talked about all the time during games, but doesn’t get as much attention in the offseason as most of the focus is on connecting with receivers downfield.

When talking about how he feels about the progress from his rookie year, Nix highlighted this aspect, noting he can spit out play calls a lot easier.

But he can also process what is happening on the field a lot quicker — aka, he can read the defense better. And he credits defensive coordinator Vance Joseph.

“[Just] being around ‘VJ’ for a year and understanding the defense that I’m going to get,” Nix said. “It’s a lot better and a lot more enjoyable not thinking right now as opposed to what I was doing last year.”

That point right there is why Nix and the Broncos’ offense will take a big step forward this year. Not because of his throws or his chemistry with the receivers or an improved run game — though, obviously, those won’t hurt.

Because he has better knowledge of whatever is coming at him, Nix can prepare even more precisely each week and not just rely on his quick feet and good reactions.

Interestingly, Sean Payton was asked about defenses having more tape on Nix now and whether that requires altering his game some. And the head coach pointed to Nix’s ability last year to escape pressure and prevent defenses from taking too much advantage of his rookie status.

“One of his traits that I think serves him well is his feet. He can move. It’s not always a clean pocket. I think when it gets a little muddy, he makes good decisions,” Payton said, noting his low sack numbers. “So again, each week within the framework of our gameplan, we’ll understand what we’re trying to do against the defense we play.”

The good news is that Nix seems to already be a step ahead of that. He’s been paying attention to defenses too.

In fact, Nix said it’s “fun” being in the know.

“It’s fun to have a little more of an understanding of what’s going on so I can be a little more beneficial to others and help them out along the way,” he added. “I feel good. We’re in a good spot.”

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