Overview
- Denver edged Houston 18-15 on a last-second 34-yard field goal by Will Lutz, with the defense keeping the Texans out of the end zone.
- Payton said Denver "controlled the line of scrimmage," highlighting a planned advantage for the Broncos’ front against the Texans’ offensive line.
- Multiple special-teams errors — a blocked 51-yarder after a late substitution, a Michael Bandy muffed punt, and a poorly downed kickoff by Mitchell Fraboni — drew Payton’s warning that players will be replaced if assignments aren’t met.
- Clarifying postgame remarks, Payton specified his criticism was directed at players rather than special-teams coordinator Darren Rizzi.
- With the trade deadline on Nov. 4, Payton said the team will only pursue a deal if it clearly helps them win, and Denver now prepares for a short-week home game against the Raiders on Thursday night.