Sean Payton does NOT TRUST Bo Nix

Shannon Sharpe and Chad Johnson say Sean Payton’s handling of Bo Nix reflects a lack of trust in his quarterback, after Denver’s 17-14 overtime win over the Seattle Seahawks on Thursday night.

Their Nightcap discussion began with Johnson asking how often Nix had attacked downfield. Sharpe answered, “None.” Johnson then asked why Payton was protecting his quarterback and argued that the coach was trying to keep Nix from putting the ball in danger.

“He’s not even opening up the playbook because of his quarterback decision-making,” Johnson said. “That’s why it look the way it do tonight.”

Johnson acknowledged that Nix was facing a Super Bowl defense. Sharpe questioned whether the strength of the opponent justified an apparent lack of confidence in the quarterback, particularly when considering what teams expect from a highly paid starter.

Later in the discussion, Sharpe described Payton as protecting his quarterback “because he doesn’t trust him.” The hosts were interpreting Denver’s playcalling; the clip contains no statement from Payton about his confidence in Nix.

Nix completed 17 of 27 passes for 107 yards, with no touchdowns or interceptions. That worked out to just under four yards per attempt. Denver finished with 168 total net yards, compared with Seattle’s 353.

Jaylen Waddle caught four passes for 24 yards. Running back RJ Harvey led Denver with 31 receiving yards on three catches. The Broncos’ touchdowns came on second-quarter runs by J.K. Dobbins and Harvey.

Wil Lutz’s 53-yard field goal in overtime gave Denver the win and a 4-2 record. Denver’s defense had forced the opportunity with an interception, leaving the offense to gain eight yards before the winning kick.

Sharpe also questioned Nix’s movement. He criticized the quarterback’s failure to step up in the pocket and described hesitation on a designed run involving a fake to Waddle and a pulling guard. Sharpe wanted Nix to commit to getting outside: “Bro, race him to the corner.” Nix finished with two rushing yards on four attempts.