Broncos' Bo Nix Problem & Seahawks' Offensive Woes

Segment Spotlight: Quick Hits From Game Time Decisions

Denver and Seattle’s Offensive Struggles Take Center Stage

Neither Denver nor Seattle has an offense that inspires much confidence right now. Both defenses appear to be above average and were on display last night, but Denver has a Bo Nix problem. Coordinators can change, yet something still is not right with the Broncos’ offense. Their defense deserves tremendous credit for helping them win four games through six weeks.

Denver may be the luckiest four-win team in the league. The offense is not scaring anyone, with an ineffective passing game, little production on the ground and a receiving group that has failed to stand out. Sean Payton has proved through the years that he is one of the NFL’s better head coaches, especially compared with Denver’s struggles before his arrival, but this team may not be as good as its record.

Last night may have represented rock bottom for the Broncos’ offense. It could improve as the season progresses, although that would not necessarily lead to more wins or an extended run. The offense was excellent during the second half of last season, but changes involving the quarterback and play-calling situations have not made a difference so far.

Denver also needs to rediscover its running game. The Broncos previously relied on backs such as Terrell Davis, Orlandis Gary, Mike Anderson and Clinton Portis, but that kind of leading runner is missing now. Dobbins was solid and scored a touchdown, but without a great running back or strong receivers, it is difficult to determine how good Bo Nix really is.

Seattle faces similar concerns. Without a running game, Sam Darnold becomes far more vulnerable to interceptions. Trading Walker left the offense relying even more heavily on Darnold, which looked like a recipe for disaster as he threw two interceptions.

There is at least hope that Seattle will get its expected starting running backs healthy again. Charbonnet is expected back, and the hope is that Price will also return healthy. That could give the offense more balance, while the defense remains championship quality.

Seattle also has a difficult schedule ahead, including games against Kansas City and Chicago. Last night’s contest felt emblematic of an unappealing Thursday night game and was described as one of the worst games of the season.

For Denver, the defense remains the saving grace. It should give Bo Nix and Sean Payton enough time to search for answers, even if there is no guarantee they will find them.