Broncos' Late-Game Strategy Ignites Postgame Controversy Over Scoring Approach

Monday, October 28th, 2024

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. -- Denver Broncos coach Sean Payton stood by his team's performance and his own playcalling on Monday, denying any intent to run up the score during their 28-14 win over the Carolina Panthers on Sunday.

The Broncos had a 28-7 lead in the fourth quarter when they attempted a fake field goal instead of what would have been a 60-yard attempt by kicker Wil Lutz. Later in the quarter, Broncos wide receiver Courtland Sutton successfully completed a fourth-down pass to fullback Michael Burton, extending a drive.

Following the game, Carolina cornerback Jaycee Horn approached Payton in what appeared to be a tense exchange, accusing the Broncos of trying to "run up the score." Horn later expressed that he found the fourth-quarter trick plays "disrespectful."

"It wasn't necessarily directed at him," Horn clarified regarding his verbal exchange near the Denver sideline. "I just felt personally ... they ran a fake field goal and a double screen pass on fourth down in the fourth quarter -- they were within their rights, but I'm allowed to express my opinion too. I thought it was disrespectful, so I was exchanging words with some players, and Coach Payton stepped in. There was no heated exchange between us."

Panthers coach Dave Canales commented that the fake field goal was "their decision to make," adding that the Broncos seemed to aim to "run down the clock." Some other Carolina players also aired similar grievances about the controversial playcalls.

Payton addressed the Panthers' reactions by saying, "I know, I know, I know, I know, I know, I know," as questions arose on Monday. "We're not trying to embarrass anyone. It's the NFL. I've experienced leads like 28 points in the fourth quarter evaporate, so we're focusing on closing out games strongly. ... Play better."

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