The Denver Broncos rookie quarterback impressed for the second week in a row, delivering a strong performance in a 27-2 win against the Green Bay Packers on Sunday night.
While head coach Sean Payton didn’t name him the regular-season starter, he praised the quarterback’s play.
“He’s played well,” Payton said. “I’m not announcing any starting quarterback tonight. But I thought he played well.”
“You feel his comfort level as he gets used to the calls. You can sense the poise when he’s playing.”
The rookie completed 8 of 9 passes for 80 yards with a 2-yard touchdown pass to Tim Patrick and a 140.7 QB rating. He led two scoring drives, with one ending in a field goal after a touchdown pass was negated due to stepping over the line of scrimmage.
His performance strengthened his case in the starting competition against Jarrett Stidham, who went 7-of-11 for 65 yards, with an interception and a 9-yard rushing touchdown.
“He was sharp,” Payton said. “He does a good job distributing the football, understanding coverages.”
The rookie’s footwork shone on a play where he scrambled and threw an off-balance pass that would have been a 14-yard touchdown if not for the line of scrimmage violation.
“When I looked to the side I had a feeling,” the rookie said, “but they didn’t throw a penalty so I thought I got by.”
Over two preseason games, he’s led six scoring drives, completing 23 of 33 passes for 205 yards and two touchdowns, with 29 rushing yards.
Stidham took over in the second quarter but struggled initially. He did score on a run, bowling over a defender.
The rookie’s quick release, decision-making, and accuracy were evident. He seems to fit well in Payton’s offense.
“I think it’s a really good fit,” the rookie said. “They were keeping it within my comfort level, which is huge for someone trying to execute.”