DENVER — Bo Nix delivered an impressive performance by passing for 307 yards and achieving a personal best of four touchdowns, leading the Denver Broncos to a dominant 38-6 victory over the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday.
Nix, completing 28 of his 33 attempts, joined the elite ranks of Hall of Famer Peyton Manning, becoming only the second rookie quarterback in NFL history to throw for over 200 yards and two or more touchdowns in four straight home games.
The win snapped a two-game losing streak for the Broncos, now at 6-5, while it marked a disappointing return for safety Justin Simmons. Simmons, who previously spent eight seasons with Denver before his $18.5 million contract was traded last winter, signed a one-year, $7.5 million deal with the Falcons, now also at 6-5, who have lost two consecutive games.
In an intense moment during the game, Simmons attempted to tackle Javonte Williams at the 5-yard line. After a brief struggle resembling a rugby scrum, Williams managed to punch through with the help of his teammates, capping a 14-yard scoring drive that gave the Broncos an early 14-3 cushion.
Nix added two more touchdown passes in the first half, one to tight end Nate Adkins and another to speedy receiver Marvin Mims Jr., putting the Broncos firmly in control at 21-6 by halftime. He continued his onslaught with a 7-yard touchdown toss to rookie Troy Franklin, extending the lead to 28-6 early in the third. Nix concluded his standout day with a 41-yard touchdown pass to Lil’Jordan Humphrey, bringing the score to 38-6.
Facing increasing pressure, Falcons coach Raheem Morris decided to bench starter Kirk Cousins, who finished with 173 yards, no touchdowns, and an interception. Rookie Michael Penix Jr. took over and quickly connected on a 20-yard pass to Ray-Ray McCloud III, finishing the day going 2 of 4 for 24 yards.
The Falcons managed to score in the first half with field goals from Younghoe Koo, measuring 41 and 51 yards. Koo’s prior performance had been underwhelming, as he missed three times in a narrow loss to the Saints.
Denver’s victory was particularly sweet as it ended a three-game losing streak against the Falcons and marked their first home win over Atlanta since September 10, 2000.
On the defensive side, Kaden Elliss led Atlanta with nine tackles, but his brother Jonah Elliss stole the spotlight for Denver with a critical sack during the third quarter, in addition to a quarterback hit and tackle for loss.
Injuries were a concern for both teams, with Falcons cornerback Kevin King exiting due to a concussion and receiver Darnell Mooney suffering a hamstring injury. Atlanta had already ruled out eight players before the game, including several defensive starters. In the fourth quarter, defensive lineman Zach Harrison left the field with a knee injury, and receiver Casey Washington sustained an undetermined injury following a deep incompletion. The Broncos also faced injuries, ruling out safety Brandon Jones with an abdominal issue, who was replaced by Devon Key.
Looking ahead, the Falcons will host the Los Angeles Chargers on December 1 after a bye week. The Broncos are set to face the Las Vegas Raiders next Sunday.