ENGLEWOOD, Colo. — Following the Denver Broncos’ 28-14 win over the Carolina Panthers, head coach Sean Payton had a straightforward reply for the disgruntled Panthers players: “Play better.”
Payton stood firm on his decision to execute a fake field goal and other trick plays while leading by three touchdowns late in the game, emphasizing that his approach was about finishing the match correctly rather than showcasing poor sportsmanship. “We’re trying to finish the game the right way,” he stated when questioned about the Panthers’ grievances regarding the tactics used.
Despite some frustration among his players about the attempts, Panthers head coach Dave Canales opted to downplay the issue. He recognized that Payton was simply trying to secure the victory, yet he admitted that some of his team members were irked, particularly since the Panthers had also attempted a fake punt during the competition. “I think they were a little bit frustrated,” Canales mentioned. “At the same time, we got to put ourselves in a better position by playing well throughout the whole game.” According to him, he doesn’t blame opposing coaches for their decisions during the match.
The Broncos’ fake field goal occurred with 14 minutes left in the game when holder Riley Dixon passed to tight end Lucas Krull, who was stopped short of the first down marker. Later, with under five minutes remaining, Bo Nix executed a clever play where he passed to Courtland Sutton, who then launched a 28-yard throw to fullback Michael Burton on a crucial fourth down.
“It’s the National Football League,” Payton remarked. He added that he has experienced losing games while ahead by 28 points in the fourth quarter, underscoring the need to remain focused, particularly late in the game. “Play better,” he reiterated as his mantra for both the players and himself.
During a film review the day after the victory, Payton expressed his displeasure over key turnovers that occurred during the match, including a fumble by Lil-Jordan Humphrey that allowed the Panthers to score and Sutton’s crucial fumble near the end zone that shifted momentum back to Carolina.
Payton’s postgame assessment, instead of celebration, highlighted his determination for improvement. “It’s not the perfect game we’re searching for,” he acknowledged, stressing the importance of maintaining a higher standard given that missed opportunities can cost them significantly against stronger opponents. He cited the potential consequences of such errors, warning that players could face premature exits during the season if the team does not improve. “So, we have to get better at that.”
As the Bronco’s season progresses, Payton’s commitment to building a strong team culture is becoming evident, marking a shift from a previous era where wins were celebrated regardless of performance due to their rarity. This unyielding approach suggests that the current season is not merely a rebuilding phase but rather a call for significant improvement.
In terms of individual performances, rookie quarterback Bo Nix enjoyed a standout game, achieving new personal bests in completions, yards, touchdown passes, and passer rating, setting a franchise record among rookie quarterbacks. Meanwhile, tight ends Adam Trautman and Nate Adkins celebrated their first touchdowns of the season. Conversely, tight end Greg Dulcich did not play, remaining a healthy scratch for the fourth successive week, although Payton praised his attitude and work ethic as he contributed positively in practice.
For the Broncos, the outcome of this recent match didn’t come with notable injuries, presenting an opportunity to build momentum as they gear up to face the Baltimore Ravens next Sunday, aiming to enhance their winning streak.
In terms of statistics, defensive player Nik Bonitto extended his streak of consecutive games with a sack to six, the longest for a Denver defender since Von Miller in 2018, while Nix made history with five wins this season, beating the previous record set by Broncos legends John Elway and Drew Lock.