Bucky Brooks’ scouting report: Week 12 vs. Broncos

Bo Nix might have been the least heralded prospect in the 2024 rookie class, but the Broncos’ QB1 could be the crown jewel of the class based on his sensational debut season. Nix currently leads all rookies with 19 offensive touchdowns, including 14 touchdown passes against just two interceptions. The rookie’s effectiveness and efficiency in directing the Broncos’ quick rhythm offense has allowed Sean Payton to control the game with a complementary football approach. With Nix also producing “splash” plays like runs on designed QB runs and impromptu scrambles, the Broncos quarterback will test the discipline of the Raiders defense as a dual threat on the perimeter.

The Broncos’ aggressive defense is sparked by a ferocious pass rusher: Nik Bonitto. The third-year pro leads the team with nine sacks, and uses various speed-rush maneuvers to harass quarterbacks in the pocket. While defensive coordinator Vance Joseph dials up exotic pressures designed to create one-on-one matchups across the line, Bonitto exploits inferior blockers with his exceptional speed, quickness and burst.

Zach Allen is the perfect sidekick to Bonitto as an energetic power rusher with heavy hands. The veteran routinely whips blocks with jiu-jitsu moves that take advantage of over-aggressive blocks in the pass pro. With the Broncos upping the pressure to create more opportunities for Allen to go to work, the veteran defensive lineman could produce a game-changing strip sack despite being listed as questionable to play.