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Payton's Bold Call Haunts Broncos in AFC Championship Loss

1/26/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton chose to go for it on fourth-and-1 in the AFC Championship Game against the New England Patriots.
The Broncos, leading 7-0, failed to convert and turned the ball over, shifting momentum.
Payton later expressed regret, saying, "I wish I'd stayed with the initial play call."
The Broncos ultimately lost 10-7, missing scoring opportunities and making the decision a focal point.

History

Historical Context

The 2016 AFC Championship Game saw the Denver Broncos narrowly defeat the New England Patriots 20-18, highlighted by a controversial fourth-and-1 decision by head coach Gary Kubiak. This game marked the fifth postseason meeting between the two teams, with the Broncos advancing to their second Super Bowl in three years, tying for the most appearances in NFL history with eight.

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Story summary

Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton chose to go for it on fourth-and-1 in the AFC Championship Game against the New England Patriots.
The Broncos, leading 7-0, failed to convert and turned the ball over, shifting momentum.
Payton later expressed regret, saying, "I wish I'd stayed with the initial play call."
The Broncos ultimately lost 10-7, missing scoring opportunities and making the decision a focal point.

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