Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton reflected Monday on the team's historic 70-20 blowout loss to the Miami Dolphins in Week 3.
Sean Payton: “To the fans, we’re going to work our tail off and get this ship straightened away. That’s going to happen.” #9sports
— Mike Klis (@mikeklis) September 25, 2023
Payton also immediately put to rest any questions of whether there would be firings or demotions coming, adding that despite the defense allowing 10 touchdowns, he put some of the blame on the offense.
31 people on conference call with Sean Payton this morning following 70-20. First question: Any jobs in jeopardy, coaches or players?
— Mike Klis (@mikeklis) September 25, 2023
Payton: “No. And that wouldn’t be something I’d share on a conference call if that ever were the case. So, no, to answer your question.” #9sports
A day later, Sean Payton re-directed more blame for Miami debacle on offense: “The 3 turnovers all led to touchdowns. That’s 21 points. Typically when you see a score that high the one thing that has to exist is turnovers and all three of them led to points for Miami.’’ #9sports https://t.co/8IqsgxELDy
— Mike Klis (@mikeklis) September 25, 2023
Payton admitted to reporters that the game tape was "tough film to watch" and the only bright spot of the contest was special teams.
Rookie wide receiver Marvin Mims Jr. had two kickoff returns for 121 yards, including a 99-yarder for a touchdown.
The former New Orleans Saints Super Bowl champion leader said he considered not showing the players the game film, but the team would "be remiss if (they) didn't."
"As unpleasant as it's going to be, we've got to get these things cleaned up," Payton said.
Mims Jr. agreed with the decision.
Marvin Mims Jr: “It was kind of hard to watch the film. But at the end of the day, we need to learn from it.”
— Zac Stevens (@ZacStevensDNVR) September 25, 2023
The Broncos have surrendered 7.2 yards per play, 458.3 yards per game and 40.7 points per contest through three tilts, all of which lead the NFL by a wide margin.
All hope may seem lost at this point for fans in the Mile High City, but Payton's squad faces a very forgiving upcoming schedule.
They go on the road to face a fellow 0-3 team in the Chicago Bears in Week 4 at 1 p.m. ET on Sunday before hosting the Zach Wilson-led New York Jets in Week 5. Those will be crucial games for Denver to win because they follow that with two out of three against the defending Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs.
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