Broncos’ Run Game Finds New Life Under Sean Payton
In a season marked by struggles on offense, the Denver Broncos’ run game has finally found its footing. Thursday night’s 33-10 victory over the New Orleans Saints saw the team rack up 225 rushing yards, the most since 2013.
A New Philosophy Takes Hold
Under the guidance of head coach Sean Payton, the Broncos have adopted a more hammer-to-nail approach on offense. By establishing a strong run game, the team aims to take pressure off rookie quarterback Bo Nix and create more opportunities for play-action passes.
“We’re building, we’re figuring it out,” Payton said after the game. “You don’t say this is how we’re going to play regardless. It’s based on who we were playing… that’s what we feel we had to do to win that game.”
Javonte Williams Leads the Charge
Running back Javonte Williams has been instrumental in the Broncos’ resurgence on the ground. Over the past three games, he has averaged at least 4.7 yards per carry, including a season-high 6.3 yards per carry against the Saints.
“Coach preached the whole week [about a] fast start,” Williams said. “That’s something that we wanted to do to get on them early… and our O-line just made big holes and we showed what we can do.”
Nix Finds Success with Designed Runs
Quarterback Bo Nix has also contributed to the team’s rushing success, with designed runs becoming an increasingly important part of the offense. Nix has rushed for at least 61 yards in each of the past two games and leads the team in rushing touchdowns.
“I think it’s just an added bonus,” Nix said of his rushing yards. “Obviously, you want to run the ball with running backs in special ways and get behind the O-line. At times, things break down and those hidden yards, I think, are really important.”
More Tests Ahead
While the Broncos’ run game has shown significant improvement, tougher challenges lie ahead. The team faces the Panthers, Ravens, and Chiefs in the coming weeks, all of whom boast stout run defenses.
“I feel like if we just keep grinding at it, putting in the work, we can be consistent,” Williams said. “But it takes all of us to do it.”
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