UNSUNG HERO
Nik Bonitto: The sack streak continues. Broncos outside linebacker Nik Bonitto has recorded a sack in six straight games after taking down Panthers quarterback Bryce Young for a 6-yard loss in the fourth quarter. He and outside linebacker Jonathon Cooper each recorded a sack on a strong afternoon from Denver’s defense.
Panthers special teams: The state of the Panthers organization was summarized in one play. Facing a fourth down with 8:28 to go in the third, Carolina tried to catch Denver off guard with a fake punt attempt. However, punter Johnny Hekker’s comically bad pass sailed over his intended target for an incompletion. Denver took advantage of the solid field position. Nix threw a 9-yard touchdown pass to Jaleel McLaughlin.