The Broncos’ defense has carried the team. Now QB Bo Nix wants to shoulder the load vs. Cardinals

GLENDALE, Ariz. (AP) — Denver's dominant defense has been a key factor in the Broncos' successful season thus far. Now, quarterback Bo Nix is stepping up to help the offense, as he and his teammates aim to become one of the NFL's elite teams. The Broncos (4-2) will take on the Arizona Cardinals (2-4) on Sunday, with many questions surrounding their offense and the performance of Nix, who has struggled in his third season as the team's quarterback.

The 26-year-old has thrown for just 1,049 yards and six touchdowns this season, with a completion rate of 60.3%, which are all on track to be career lows.

Broncos coach Sean Payton has acknowledged Nix's shortcomings, stating that he needs to provide a better game plan and leadership for Nix as each game unfolds. Nix himself has appreciated Payton's support, but emphasized that he must also take responsibility for his mistakes. "He’s been a really good leader right now," Nix said.

"We need that. I think it goes back to us. I have to play better. We have to play better. The offense has to play better. He’s going to take his (blame) and that’s what great leaders do. I feel like I can overcome some of the stuff that is putting us in a bad spot, and I feel like I can play better."

The Cardinals, on the other hand, have managed to snap a four-game losing streak with a surprising 18-16 road win over the Los Angeles Rams. Their defense was aggressive in their best performance of the season, with kicker Chad Ryland kicking six field goals, including the game-winning 43-yarder in the final moments. Quarterback Jacoby Brissett, who praised his team's performance, referenced his coach Mike LaFleur's favorite saying, "Humility is a week away."

The Broncos are aware of the challenge ahead, knowing that the Cardinals are determined to win and don't care about their previous losses.