Rookie QB Bo Nix's improved play is turning Broncos into a potential playoff team

In Week 8, Denver dismantled the Carolina Panthers 28-14. Nix completed 28-of-37 passes for 284 yards and three TDs. He also rushed for one TD. 

Per Dante Koplowitz-Fleming of NFL Research, Nix, Justin Herbert of the Chargers, Jalen Hurts of the Eagles and former Panthers star Cam Newton are the only rookie QBs since 1990 with at least three passing TDs, one rushing TD and no interceptions in a game.

The Athletic's Nick Kosmider noted the Broncos are 5-3 through their first eight games for the first time since 2016. Denver would have the No. 5 seed in the AFC playoffs if the season ended Monday. 

During his postgame news conference, Broncos head coach Sean Payton indicated he's pleased with Nix's progress. However, he added they'll face "better teams" than Carolina (1-7) and still have room for improvement. 

"For a rookie quarterback, all of these are steps — confidence steps," Payton said. "We've seen it. The key is around him. Are we good enough at those positions around him? That's what we're constantly working on. We have to paint the picture. When we do that, we'll have success. We'll move the ball."  

Denver ranks 20th in the league in points per game (21.6) and 25th in yards yards per game (307.3). The Broncos clearly need an offensive uptick, especially as they enter the teeth of their schedule. 

Over its next two games, Denver faces the Baltimore Ravens (5-3) and Kansas City Chiefs (7-0) on the road. 

The Broncos could continue to rely on their stingy defense, which has allowed the league's third-fewest points per game(15). 

If Nix stays on an upward trajectory for the rest of the season, the Broncos should remain in the thick of the playoff hunt.