ENGLEWOOD – The Denver Broncos are gearing up for their Week 2 matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Empower Field at Mile High this Sunday, seeking to bounce back after a tough 26-20 loss in their season opener in Seattle. Head Coach Sean Payton and several key players addressed the media after practice on Wednesday, focusing on areas for improvement and the challenge that awaits them in Pittsburgh.

Adjustments After Week 1

Coach Sean Payton highlighted several areas of focus following the Week 1 defeat, particularly emphasizing the need for better efficiency on early downs. “We struggled with early down efficiency,” Payton explained. “We didn’t run the ball well enough, and that led to difficult third-down situations.” Payton noted that improvements in these areas are key to easing the burden on rookie quarterback Bo Nix, who made his NFL debut in Seattle.

Nix, who showed flashes of potential but faced constant pressure from the Seahawks’ defense, is expected to grow from the experience. Payton was quick to acknowledge that Nix handled the challenges well, especially given the hostile environment of Lumen Field. “He was calm and poised,” Payton said. “We’ve got to be better around him.”

The Broncos struggled to finish drives in the red zone, a critical area for improvement heading into Week 2. “We had a penalty on the first drive and didn’t execute well enough on first and second downs,” Payton explained. “That’s something we’ll continue to address.”

Challenges Ahead Against Pittsburgh

Looking ahead to their matchup against the Steelers, Payton acknowledged the defensive prowess of Pittsburgh, particularly linebacker T.J. Watt. “He’s disruptive in both the run and pass game,” Payton said. “He’s exceptionally smart and athletic, and he’s someone we have to account for on every play.”

The Broncos are also preparing for the possibility of facing two different quarterbacks for Pittsburgh—Justin Fields and Russell Wilson. “You have to have a plan for both,” Payton said. “Each player presents different challenges, and we’ll be ready for whoever lines up under center.”

Payton also praised Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin, emphasizing their mutual respect and friendship. “He’s done a great job for a long time,” Payton said. “His body of work is really impressive.”

Bo Nix Reflects on NFL Debut

Rookie quarterback Bo Nix took time to reflect on his NFL debut in Seattle, focusing on the positives while acknowledging areas for improvement. “It was a great learning experience,” Nix said. “I thought our two-minute drives were key, and we were able to score 10 points from them.”

Nix also expressed excitement about his first home game at Empower Field. “I’ve been looking forward to this since the Draft,” he said. “I’m excited to play in front of the home crowd and not have to travel this week.”

Despite the challenges he faced in his debut, Nix remains confident and determined to improve. “I felt confident going into the game,” he said. “We just need to be more efficient and capitalize on our opportunities.”

Player Perspectives

Wide receiver Courtland Sutton praised Nix’s composure in his first game and emphasized the importance of in-game communication between the quarterback and his receivers. “I told Bo after the game that he handled himself really well,” Sutton said. “We’ll continue to work on being more efficient and making sure everyone is involved in the game plan.”

Cornerback Pat Surtain II also spoke highly of Nix, noting the rookie’s growth potential. Surtain, who faced a tough challenge covering Seattle’s DK Metcalf in Week 1, is now preparing for another elite receiver in Pittsburgh’s George Pickens. “He has great body control and ball skills,” Surtain said of Pickens. “I’m looking forward to the challenge.”

Focus on Improvement

As the Broncos head into their home opener, the focus is on correcting mistakes and building on the positives from Week 1. “We have a perfect opportunity to set the tone for the season,” Surtain said. “We’re confident in this team, and we’re ready to get a win in front of our home fans.”

With a young roster and a promising quarterback, the Broncos are eager to show they can compete at a high level. As Nix put it, “We’re going to come out and be firing on all cylinders.”

The Broncos will look to even their record and give their home crowd something to cheer for when they face the Steelers this Sunday at Empower Field at Mile High.

Key Matchup:

• Bo Nix vs. Steelers Defense: Nix will face one of the NFL’s top defenses, led by linebacker T.J. Watt. The Broncos’ ability to protect Nix and establish the run will be critical in this matchup.

What to Watch:

• Red Zone Efficiency: After settling for field goals in key moments last week, the Broncos will need to improve their red zone performance to convert opportunities into touchdowns.
• Containing Justin Fields or Russell Wilson: The Broncos’ defense will have to be prepared for either quarterback, both of whom present unique challenges with their mobility and playmaking ability.

Injuries: