Perhaps the Broncos had a champagne party in their heads a bit too soon. Denver scored three touchdowns in their first three drives Thursday against the Chargers, who owned the league’s No. 9 defense in terms of DVOA (Defense-adjusted value over average) entering the game.

It would be an understatement to say that Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton is pleased with rookie quarterback Bo Nix. Arriving via the No. 12 overall pick in this year's NFL draft, Nix won the Broncos' open quarterback competition,

Bo Nix smiled on the sideline, arms around the shoulders of friends and relatives. He took 20 pictures with an endless stream of groups, one after another, never losing his patience. Eventually, he held a baby in his arms — not his — as phones prepared to click.