Denver’s 23-17 Week 5 win over the Los Angeles Chargers improved the Broncos’ record, but another slow start left questions about the offense.

On Monday’s episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd, the NFL analyst questioned whether Denver should commit to Bo Nix long-term. He noted that Sean Payton had reclaimed playcalling duties, yet the offense still struggled against Los Angeles.

Cowherd argued that Denver’s problems extend beyond its supporting cast. He pointed to Nix’s recurring first-quarter difficulties before delivering his blunt warning:

“I watch Bo Nix and Sean Payton took over playcalling duties, and they still punted on their first series like this is what it is. Now, they come back and win. They do that a lot, but I don't think it's sustainable long-term.”

Cowherd also cast doubt on whether Denver should invest in the quarterback as its long-term solution:

“You can't extend Bo Nix, you let it play out. Again, they won, but you let the season play out. Mike Tomlin always says—the broadcaster—former Steelers coach, 'Two is a trend.' If you go to Bo Nix's last 20 starts, he's been awful in the first quarter in probably 17.”

Cowherd’s warning puts pressure on Denver to prove its quarterback can deliver consistently from the opening quarter.

Broncos' Week 5 win fails to hide Bo Nix's struggles and slow starts

Bo Nix completed 16 of 27 passes for 123 yards and a touchdown in Week 5. Denver recorded 224 total yards and converted just one of 12 third-down attempts.

The slow start fits the pattern Colin Cowherd described. He claimed Nix had struggled in the first quarter in roughly 17 of his previous 20 starts. Official situational stats listed Nix’s first-quarter passer rating at 72.7 through four games, compared with 83.2 in the fourth quarter.

Denver won, but its offense must find consistency earlier in games.

Written by

Sayantan