Nix leads Broncos to fifth straight win
A late defensive stop and a successful coaching challenge helped Denver overcome Carolina's third straight loss.
By Lucia Herrera ·
Bo Nix threw for 237 yards and two touchdowns as the Denver Broncos defeated the Carolina Panthers 26-21 on Sunday. The win marks the fifth consecutive victory for Denver, improving their record to 7-2.
The Broncos' defense sealed the win with 1:24 remaining in the fourth quarter. Nik Bonitto forced a fumble by sacking Bryce Young and recovered the ball near midfield. Denver secured a first down to run out the clock and protect the lead.
A pivotal coaching challenge altered the momentum in the third quarter. Carolina faced first and goal from the Denver one-yard line. Bryce Young threw a pass toward the corner of the end zone that officials initially ruled incomplete. The Panthers ran a second down play before officials intervened, noting that head coach Sean Payton had challenged before the snap.
Upon review, officials determined that Denver cornerback Devon Key had intercepted a deflected pass from tight end Tommy Tremble. The turnover gave the Broncos possession at their 20-yard line. This stop prevented Carolina from extending their lead by eight points.
Carolina took an early third-quarter lead when Young connected with Darren Waller on a 15-yard touchdown pass to the middle of the field. Waller finished the game with eight receptions for 90 yards and a score. The Panthers, now 3-5, dropped to a three-game losing streak.
Nix completed passes for touchdown scores to Courtland Sutton and Pat Bryant. Running back Jonah Coleman added a ground score and 57 rushing yards for Denver. Young completed 28 of 39 passes for 276 yards and three touchdowns while throwing one interception for Carolina. He was sacked three times, improving upon the six sacks he allowed in last week's loss to Green Bay.
