The Broncos secured a 30-16 victory over the Cardinals in Glendale, Arizona, marking a significant turn in their 2026 season. This win broke several tendencies for the Denver squad, featuring quarterback Bo Nix’s long touchdown run, an overall efficient ground game, and a decisive multi-score margin – all firsts for the current season. Now boasting a 5-2 record and winners of three consecutive games, Denver faces a formidable challenge next Sunday at home against Kansas City.
Despite the recent success, a coherent offensive identity for the Broncos remains elusive seven games into the season. The reasons are numerous, including an unexpected change in play callers four games into the season when head coach Sean Payton reassumed duties from offensive coordinator Davis Webb. Quarterback Bo Nix also experienced a slower start than anticipated by many within the organization, and the initial schedule presented a difficult defensive gauntlet, hindering offensive development.
While the offensive performance against Arizona was not flawless and did not yield “eye-popping numbers,” as noted in post-game analysis, it demonstrated the team's capacity for elements likely vital to future success. The Broncos connected on several “chunk plays” in the passing game, with four completions exceeding 20 yards – a notable improvement given Nix had only three such plays in the previous three games combined. The team also ran the ball efficiently, though Nix's 62-yard touchdown sprint significantly boosted the 6.1 yards per carry average. Crucially, Denver avoided turnovers, despite a near miscue at a critical moment. Persistent questions remain, however, particularly regarding the team’s struggles on third down, where they have converted only 18.9% of attempts (30 missed out of 37) since Payton took over play-calling.
Post-victory observations highlighted the growing impact of two specific players: rookie running back Jonah Coleman and wide receiver Marvin Mims Jr. When these individuals are involved in the offense, positive results often follow.
Coleman, a rookie fourth-round pick, made a strong return after missing four games due to an ankle injury. Against Arizona, he ran effectively between the tackles and demonstrated his versatility by performing well on third downs, a role he hadn't held earlier in the season before his injury. He again proved his capability as a “closer” in the latter stages of games. Coleman himself articulated his diverse skill set, stating, “I feel like that’s what makes me special and different, that I can do it all.” Despite the team’s affinity for J.K. Dobbins, there is a strong case for Coleman to receive a more substantial role. The rookie averaged 6 yards per carry on nine touches, capably pass-protected, and caught both targets for 15 yards. His play shows good vision and a natural feel for running between the tackles, combined with the burst and agility to hit holes and create additional yardage after contact. Coleman has generated five runs of 10-plus yards in just 19 carries this season, with three coming against the Cardinals, in contrast to Dobbins' five such runs on 87 carries. Head coach Payton noted Coleman's impressive play and expressed the need for him to receive more touches. Dobbins, despite declining to speak with reporters, remains a valuable asset, finding the end zone for a third consecutive game. Coleman's value was underscored in Sunday's game when he was on the field for a drive with 6:15 remaining and Denver holding a two-touchdown lead, contributing significant gains before a “dumb” reverse play, as described by Payton, stalled the possession.
Marvin Mims Jr. also consistently proved to be a generator of big plays, despite limited playing time. Against the Cardinals, he delivered the biggest wide receiver play of the day with a 47-yard reception, showcasing his ability to evade defenders. Both Nix and Mims noted they hadn’t practiced that specific route during the week, attributing its execution to the dynamic nature of NFL play. Mims has contended with injuries, including a foot injury that caused him to miss two games and part of the season opener, resulting in only five catches for 29 yards before Sunday's game. Nevertheless, whenever he is on the field offensively, he consistently makes impactful plays. Mims articulated that explosive offenses are the best in the league and emphasized the need for consistent execution from the team's players.
On the defensive side, the Broncos have shown remarkable resilience. Notably, star cornerback Pat Surtain II has missed seven full games due to injury since the 2024 season, yet Denver has maintained an undefeated 7-0 record in those contests. Furthermore, the defense has restricted opponents to no more than 19 points in any of these games, surrendering an average of just 14 points per game. Coach Payton lauded the defense's effort, calling it “Pretty impressive” and expressing gratitude for the team's depth and the players who have stepped up. He specifically mentioned Ja’Quan McMillian's near-interceptions. Denver has benefited from high-quality relief play from cornerbacks Jahdae Barron and Kris Abrams-Draine in recent years, and this season, veteran practice squad safety Taylor Rapp has admirably filled the role of the number three safety for the past two weeks, following Talanoa Hufanga's absence. Rapp credited defensive coordinator Vance Joseph for his rapid integration into the scheme and his effective communication. The collective effort underscores the defense's ability to perform at a high level even when key players are sidelined.
