Despite a thrilling 10-2 start, the Broncos eye the AFC's top seed, driven by a hungry mindset for greater achievements ahead.
The Denver Broncos are now 10-2 after a thrilling 27-26 win over the Washington Commanders in overtime. Even without quarterback Jayden Daniels, the Commanders gave the Broncos everything they can handle.
But, in the end, Sean Payton's team prevailed, and that's what matters most.
The Broncos are in the race for the No. 1 seed in the AFC at this rate, although they sit behind the New England Patriots for the time being.
Yet, they are not content, and they have much bigger goals on their minds.
Quarterback Bo Nix said that's an important mindset to have, via Aric DiLalla of Broncos.com
"I think it's important to not lose track of that," Nix said. "It's a good perspective to have — that no matter what's going on, you've worked hard and you've gotten yourself to a 10-2 record. We believe we could've been even better. It's all about moving forward. It's the next mentality. It's the next game."
In Week 14, the Broncos face the 2-10 Las Vegas Raiders. And, although the Raiders are having a down year, Nix knows they need to be ready for this game.
"We've got an important one this week, divisional game on the road. Those are always important to go out there and get. They're a tough team, they're a hungry team, they have veteran players who are going to play really hard, and I think at the end of the day, you've just got to keep moving on. But at the same time, don't forget how far you've come and where you are as a team."
Broncos cornerback Patrick Surtain II also knows that teams will bring an extra boost against them.
"We know teams are going to give us their best shot, just because [of] the record," Surtain said. "We know we're up [high on] the totem pole, and we've just got to keep on executing and keep on putting our best foot forward each and every week."
The Broncos have a difficult stretch after Week 14, with games against the Green Bay Packers, Jacksonville Jaguars, Kansas City Chiefs and Los Angeles Chargers. Three of those teams are currently in the playoff picture, and the Chiefs are the reigning AFC champions and can not be counted out just yet.
So, one week at a time for the Broncos before they can think about the top seed in the conference.