ENGLEWOOD, Colo. — Sean Payton emphasized that the failure to convert a game-winning field goal attempt against the Kansas City Chiefs should not fall solely on Alex Forsyth. Forsyth faced a host of Chiefs defenders, leading to a block by linebacker Leo Chenal that resulted in a missed opportunity for Wil Lutz. Payton reiterated on Monday, “This isn’t on the player. This is on all of us. We need to evaluate our strategies and see if we are prepared for those situations.” He expressed disappointment but acknowledged that setbacks, particularly at critical moments, are part of the game.
The Broncos, now sporting a 5-5 record, took some consolation from their competitiveness throughout the match with the undefeated Chiefs, ultimately losing 16-14. Payton noted the challenges in absorbing such a loss, stating, “I read all the comments afterward, and it’s tough to lose a game that way.” After the game, the Chiefs recognized a flaw in how the Broncos were aligning their field goal protections, which they capitalized on during the crucial moment.
Chenal mentioned his observations about Forsyth’s movement, indicating that Denver’s protection could have been stronger. The Chiefs’ special teams managed to penetrate the left side of the Broncos’ line not only for the game-winning block but also nearly succeeded on prior plays, highlighting a recurring issue. “We’re constantly making improvements weekly, from field goal units to our overall offensive protections. Kansas City successfully exploited a gap we thought had been addressed, but clearly, it wasn’t solid enough,” Payton remarked.
Payton is now focused on ensuring that this heart-wrenching defeat doesn’t derail the rest of the Broncos’ season. Even though they are currently sitting in the seventh and final playoff spot in the AFC, the need to recover swiftly is paramount. Following the game, he initially acknowledged the weight of the loss but shifted to a more optimistic outlook the next day, stating, “The sky is not falling. We have seven games left, and this team has shown resilience. Our current standing at 5-5 is not where we wanted to be, but we have to move forward and prepare for our next matchup.”
The head coach expressed confidence in the leadership present within the locker room. He remarked on the team’s growth compared to last year, pointing out the mental and physical challenges players face. “You talk to the players about tough losses and explain that it’s a part of their careers. You hope for those lucky breaks in games that could go either way and encourage them to bounce back,” he said.
Payton has noticed positive developments within the offense. Rookie quarterback Bo Nix has been improving week by week, and Payton has been incorporating more innovative plays. Notably, Sunday’s game featured receiver Marvin Mims Jr. taking hand-offs from the backfield, along with rookie Audric Estime stepping up as Denver’s primary running back.
However, closing out games remains a glaring issue. Although the Broncos demonstrated their potential against the Chiefs, the unfortunate ending illustrated how much work remains for them to truly contend with a championship-caliber team.
Individuals gaining recognition include Nix, who performed admirably against star quarterback Patrick Mahomes. He played effectively in the closing minutes, converting key third downs to control the clock, ensuring Mahomes didn’t get another chance with the ball. Unfortunately, Nix couldn’t prevent Chenal from making the decisive play at the end.
On the other hand, the performance of special teams coach Ben Kotwica’s unit is a concern; what had been a stellar season now risks being overshadowed by this significant misstep. This could have lasting repercussions if the Broncos cannot secure a playoff berth, especially with the competition being fierce against the Bengals and Colts for the seventh seed.
In injury news, the Broncos have activated C Luke Wattenberg from injured reserve. Historically, the Broncos struggle against Mahomes, possessing a dismal 1-13 record against him. To add to the pressure, the team now prepares to host the Atlanta Falcons, who hold a 6-4 record, during their next matchup.