Bo Nix’s mechanics are garbage. And he played almost college football than almost anyone. So if Nix was going to fix it, wouldn’t he have done so already?

– Mike, H2O lover

Kiz: I don’t see his feet or arm mechanics as the big problem. I think his eyes are betraying Nix. Despite rock-solid pass protection by Denver’s offensive line, Nix is bailing on the pocket too quickly, hunting for a play that would often develop if he merely took a deep breath and relaxed. That flaw can be easily fixed. So better games are ahead for Nix. But kindly allow me to repeat my projection for Nix from the moment the Broncos drafted him in 2024. The experience gained from five dozen college starts prepared him to be an uncommonly polished and effective NFL rookie. The caveat: Nix arrived in the league as a nearly finished product, with his helmet already bumping against the ceiling of his potential. Yes,  Nix will improve with experience at the pro level. But huge upside? Sorry, I don’t see it.

My preseason prediction for the Broncos was 10-7. Not feeling great about it now. Changes needed. Run the darn ball more often. Stop saying that’s what is needed and just do it.

– K.G., actions speak louder

Kiz: The banged-up Bengals are exactly what Denver needs to find its mojo. My fearless prediction for Monday Night Football: J.K. Dobbins becomes the first back to rush for 100 yards since Sean Payton took over as coach, and folks across the country will turn off the game early and head for bed when they see Denver run roughshod over Cincinnati.

Disappointment is always the result of unmet expectations. Our disappointment in the Broncos’ 1-2 start is due in large part because our expectations exploded by their strong finish to make the playoffs last season, a draft that looked promising, and the national media fawning over the team during the summer. It didn’t help that Payton came out and basically said this was a potential Super Bowl team. I can’t help thinking maybe the players were reading the headlines, and they’ve been humbled enough to play with a chip on their shoulder for the rest of the year.

– C.E., holding coach accountable

Kiz: Buckle up, buttercups. The road ahead for the Broncos figures to be bumpy, but extremely entertaining. Whether they return to the playoffs will likely not be decided until the final game of the regular season against the Chargers. My story. Sticking to it.

Well, that didn’t take you long, Kiz. The media here in Colorado can’t wait to tear down a local team that isn’t perfect.

– Gary, rockin’ and rollin’

Kiz: Ahead of this season, Payton blew smoke, while I shared a clear-eyed truth about the Broncos that maybe you didn’t want to hear. Who do you trust more now?

And today’s parting shot is solid advice, whether the speaker in question is a football coach or anybody else in charge.

If somebody is blowing smoke up your backside, please remember: You can’t inhale it.

– Dennis, street philosopher