NFL1 hour ago2 minute read

Sean Payton Takes Back Playcalling Duties as Broncos Edge Chargers 23-17

Sean Payton returned to playcalling duties as the Denver Broncos beat the Los Angeles Chargers 23-17 despite offensive struggles.

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Payton reclaims playcalling

Sean Payton took back playcalling duties for the Denver Broncos before Sunday's game against the Los Angeles Chargers. The head coach made the decision after a Week 4 loss to the San Francisco 49ers, taking over the role from offensive coordinator Davis Webb.

Payton announced the move publicly on Thursday. He said he did not hold a big team meeting about the switch, noting that the players compartmentalize things well. He also praised Webb for how he handled the change throughout the week.

Quarterback Bo Nix commended Webb for staying focused and helping prepare the game plan despite the difficult situation. Tackle Mike McGlinchey added that winning is all that matters, regardless of who calls the plays.

Offense stays quiet on stats

The Broncos entered the game near the bottom of the league in several offensive categories. They ranked 27th in scoring, 27th in total yards per game, and 29th in rushing yards per game.

The numbers did not improve much on Sunday. Denver finished with 224 net yards, which was their second lowest output of the season. The team converted just 1 of 12 third downs. Nix finished with 123 passing yards, marking the second lowest single game total of his career.

Payton wanted to simplify the plan for Nix and run the ball more. Denver finished with 29 rushing attempts and 27 passing attempts, but the offense still found limited success for most of the day.

Defense sparks fourth quarter comeback

Denver trailed 17-10 heading into the fourth quarter before the defense turned the game around. Four of the team's five scoring drives in the game started inside Chargers territory thanks to takeaways and defensive stops.

In the final quarter, the defense stopped Los Angeles on downs at the Chargers 41-yard line. They also intercepted Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert at the 34-yard line and recovered a Herbert fumble at the 23-yard line.

Those key plays allowed Denver to secure the 23-17 win and move to 3-2 on the season, while the Chargers stayed winless. Payton acknowledged after the game that he still needs to improve on some of his protection calls, but credited the defense for making big plays when needed.

What it means for the next game

Seattle Seahawks at Denver Broncos (NFL, Fri, 16 Oct): Denver Broncos win 42%, Seattle Seahawks win 58%; projected score Denver Broncos 20, Seattle Seahawks 22. Our safest pick: Under 49.5 points.