The Denver Broncos secured their first win of the 2024 NFL season, defeating the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 26-7 in Week 3, thanks to a stellar performance from kicker Will Lutz. Lutz, who was instrumental in Denver avoiding a winless start for the second consecutive year under head coach Sean Payton, connected on four field goals, including two from 43 yards and others from 38 and 33 yards. His reliable leg helped Denver establish a comfortable lead throughout the game.
Rookie quarterback Bo Nix, the 12th overall pick in the 2024 draft, played a crucial role in the Broncos’ win. Nix completed 25 of 36 passes for 216 yards, avoiding the costly mistakes that plagued his first two NFL starts, where he threw four interceptions. Although he has yet to throw his first NFL touchdown pass, Nix demonstrated maturity and poise in guiding the Broncos’ offense, especially after his struggles in the first two games.
Nix showcased his athleticism by running for an early touchdown, his first score as a professional, helping Denver seize control of the game. His calm decision-making and error-free performance were pivotal in ensuring that the Broncos didn’t fall to 0-3 for a second straight season under Payton.
The Buccaneers, coming off a strong road win against the Detroit Lions in Week 2, had hoped to start 3-0 for the first time since 2005. However, they were limited to just 223 yards of total offense by a swarming Denver defense that kept veteran quarterback Baker Mayfield and the Bucs’ running game in check.
Mayfield completed 25 of 33 passes for 163 yards, including a 6-yard touchdown throw to wide receiver Chris Godwin in the second quarter. Rookie running back Bucky Irving was one of the few bright spots for Tampa Bay, setting up the Buccaneers’ lone score with runs of 32 and 13 yards.
Denver’s defense was dominant, applying constant pressure on Mayfield and forcing Tampa Bay into several stalled drives. Despite a solid performance from the Bucs’ defense early on, they were unable to hold off Denver’s methodical offensive approach, which was consistently boosted by Lutz’s accurate kicking.
For the Broncos, this victory is a crucial turning point in a season that started with two difficult losses. For Nix, it’s a chance to build momentum, as he aims to record his first passing touchdown and lead the Broncos back to playoff contention. Meanwhile, Tampa Bay, now 2-1, will look to bounce back in Week 4 as they seek to maintain their position atop the NFC South.
Denver improves to 1-2 with the win and hopes to use this game as a springboard for the rest of the season as they play the New York Jets next Sunday. The Buccaneers, who had been looking strong through the first two weeks, will need to regroup and refocus if they want to best the Philadelphia Eagles and stay on track in their quest for a fourth consecutive NFC South title.
