### Sean Payton Defends Playcalling Amid Claims of Running Up the Score in Broncos' Win

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. — In the wake of the Denver Broncos' 28-14 win over the Carolina Panthers on Sunday, head coach Sean Payton has stood by his team's late-game tactics and his own strategic decisions. The Broncos, who led 28-7 in the fourth quarter, drew criticism for attempting a fake field goal and converting a fourth-down pass late in the game.

With just over 10 minutes left, Denver made an unconventional choice to fake a 60-yard field goal, opting instead for a pass from punter Riley Dixon to tight end Lucas Krull, which gained three yards on a fourth-and-8 play. Later, with 4:29 remaining, wide receiver Courtland Sutton threw a 28-yard pass to fullback Michael Burton on fourth-and-2 to maintain the drive, though it ultimately ended with Sutton fumbling near the Panthers' goal line.

Criticism from the Panthers' side was immediate. Carolina cornerback Jaycee Horn confronted Payton on the field, accusing the Broncos of trying to run up the score. Although Panthers' head coach Dave Canales commented that the fake field goal attempt was the Broncos' prerogative as they sought to "clock out the game," other Carolina players voiced their dissatisfaction publicly.

Addressing the backlash, Payton reiterated his commitment to finishing games strongly. "Listen, I said it Sunday night; we're trying to finish the game the right way. We're not trying to run up the score on anyone. It's the National Football League," Payton remarked on Monday. He emphasized his previous experiences of losing games despite having substantial leads and stressed the importance of "playing better."

Payton also clarified that his playcalling was part of a broader strategy to instill a winning mentality within the team, which hasn't seen playoff action since their Super Bowl 50 victory. "I want them to take on a winning personality," said Payton. "I say this all the time: 'Confidence is born only from demonstrated ability.'"

Currently holding a 5-3 record, their best start since 2016, Payton remains focused on building the team's confidence. He dismissed any notions of intentionally inflating scores, stating, "We're trying to extend a drive... trying to close a game out... I didn't look at [it] as trying to score."

Payton has consistently highlighted internal performance issues when discussing losses. Reflecting on a painful 70-20 defeat to the Miami Dolphins last season, the most points ever conceded by the Broncos, Payton termed the loss "embarrassing" and "not acceptable." He deflected questions about the Dolphins' approach, instead pointing to the need for his team and coaching staff to critically review their performance.

As the Broncos continue their season, Payton’s defense of his tactics underscores his commitment to fostering resilience and effectiveness in his squad.