If Bo Nicks denver broncos will pull off a big upset buffalo bills On the road, he will need to create some explosive plays in the passing game.
With that in mind, their first possession of Sunday's wild-card game was exactly what the doctor ordered.
With the Broncos facing No. 2 and No. 4 in Buffalo territory, Sean Payton reinforced the vertical concept for his rookie quarterback. Facing an unblocked defender in the pocket, the Knicks turned to former University of Oregon teammate Troy Franklin.
As you can see from this replay angle, pass rusher Dauan Smoot gave the rookie quarterback a free run thanks to a twist up front along Buffalo's defensive line. However, with free runners in front of him, Nix advanced to the pocket and gave a strike to Franklin deep downfield.
This perspective highlights how difficult it is to play quarterback in the NFL. Are you going to stand in the pocket while the 6-foot-3, 264-pound Smoot attacks you on free runs?
You can also see safety Taylor Rapp get caught in the backfield with his eyes, allowing Franklin to get behind Buffalo's two deep covers.
Knicks becomes the first rookie quarterback in Denver franchise history to start a playoff game.
Not a bad way to end the first drive for a first-year successful applicant.
