Rookie Bo Nix and the Broncos are getting hot

The Denver Broncos are beginning to show why expectations were so high for head coach Sean Payton and rookie quarterback Bo Nix.

After a 34-18 routing of the Raiders, the Broncos are riding a three-game winning streak and beginning to feel good about themselves.

Nix has played solid football and done a much better job of protecting the football over the last three weeks. In Week 1 and Week 2, Nix was responsible for just one touchdown and four turnovers, which was a big reason for Denver's 0-2 start.

During the recent three-game winning streak, Nix has accounted for five touchdowns and has not turned the ball over. It has been an exceptional stretch for the Broncos franchise quarterback.

During this three-game win streak for Denver, the defense has been exceptional, allowing just 34 points over the three-game span.

Denver has shut down Baker Mayfield and the Buccaneers in Week 3 and well as Aaron Rodgers and the Jets in Week 4.

Denver cornerback Patrick Surtain II led the defense on Sunday with two interceptions, one of which he returned 100 yards for a touchdown. Surtain is considered one of the best defensive backs in football, and he's showing why.

Surtain has been one of the more lockdown defensive backs in football over the last few seasons and is continuing his stellar play this season.

After Week 5, Denver's defense ranks third in yards per game (271.2) and second in points per game (14.6), both huge improvements compared to just three weeks ago.

The offense still ranks towards the bottom of the league in yards per game (28th) and points per game (22nd) but that has also been trending in the right direction.

Denver faces off against the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 6 in a game that will tell a lot about both teams. A win for the Broncos would keep them within striking distance of the Chiefs in the AFC West and certainly among teams with wild-card aspirations.