Why Broncos didn't fully celebrate clinching a playoff berth

The Denver Broncos (12-2) clinched a postseason berth and grabbed sole possession of the AFC's No. 1 overall seed via a 34-26 win over the Green Bay Packers (9-4-1) on December 14. 

Some were surprised that the Broncos didn't fully embrace a "hat and T-shirt" celebration in the locker room following the victory over Green Bay. According to Broncos tight end Evan Engram, head coach Sean Payton wants his players focusing on more than just participating in the upcoming tournament. 

What Sean Payton told Broncos after clinching playoff spot

"Sean's been very open and real about our goals," Engram told ESPN NFL insider Dan Graziano. "So now it's, 'Let's finish. Let's not back in.'"

The Broncos head into Week 16 holding a lead over the 11-3 New England Patriots and the 10-4 Jacksonville Jaguars in the battle for the AFC's top seed. Denver hosts Jacksonville this coming Sunday. 

Meanwhile, the 10-4 Los Angeles Chargers are trying to catch the Broncos in the AFC West standings. 

Evan Engram shares what makes Bo Nix special

Second-year Broncos quarterback Bo Nix was the subject of criticism earlier in the fall as some suggested the Denver defense was carrying the team to its impressive record. Against the Packers, Nix completed 23-of-34 passes for 302 yards and four touchdowns. 

"You know when you have a gamer," Engram said about Nix. "He's a guy who's going to go out there and make whatever play he needs to make, whether it's with his arm, with his feet, whatever is needed in that moment. He obviously has tremendous confidence. He's had games or moments he's wanted back, but the coolest thing about him is, when he makes a bad play, instantly it's like, 'I'm going to get this fixed.' So he has that confidence and that ability to make plays in the pocket with his arm, and he's also able to correct things in a very quick period of time."

As of Wednesday afternoon, DraftKings Sportsbook had Nix tied for fourth among the betting favorites at +7500 odds to claim the MVP Award. At that same time, DraftKings Sportsbook had the Broncos as three-point home favorites against the Jaguars. 

Nix likely won't receive many first-place MVP votes, but he could get his hands on a different trophy in February if the Broncos continue to prove doubters wrong.