The Denver Broncos’ 31-7 loss to the Buffalo Bills stirred up many emotions, including on the sideline between head coach Sean Payton and defensive coordinator Vance Joseph.
Buffalo was on a 14-play, 70-yard drive that drained 6:55 off the game clock. Bills quarterback Josh Allen had just missed a pass to wide receiver Keon Coleman when cameras cut to Joseph and Payton’s spirited discussion.
After a few exchanges, the two separated and continued coaching the game. But it was noticed.
“Sean Payton and Vance Joseph having a spirited discussion,” the CBS Sports handle posted on X on January 12.
Sean Payton and Vance Joseph having a spirited discussion
Denver struck first, getting a historic touchdown connection between Bo Nix and former Oregon Ducks teammate Troy Franklin Jr. They were outscored 31-7 after that, though, missing out on 3 more points on Wil Lutz’s missed field goal as time expired in the first half.
Sean Payton Under Fire After Sideline Interaction With Vance Joseph in Broncos Loss
GettyDenver Broncos head coach Sean Payton talks with former starting quarterback Russell Wilson #3 during a game against the Kansas City Chiefs.
“Vance Joseph is the REASON the Broncos made the PostSeason,” the Denver Gazette’s Mike Sanford posted on X in reaction to the video. “Don’t let Sean Payton pull the Wool over your eyes to distract from the fact that the Broncos OFFENSE was THE REASON for LOSSES against legit teams.”
Vance Joseph is the REASON the Broncos made the PostSeason.
Don’t let Sean Payton pull the Wool over your eyes to distract from the fact that the Broncos OFFENSE was THE REASON for LOSSES against legit teams. https://t.co/WRF3paq9bf
— Mike Sanford (@Coach_Sanford2) January 12, 2025
The Broncos were 2-5 against eventual playoff teams during the 2024 regular season.
Payton and the Broncos outscored their opponents in those games by an average score of 19.5-19.1, but they benefitted greatly from a 38-0 romp against the Kansas City Chiefs’ backups in Week 18. They were outscored 22.3 to 16.5 PPG in the other six games.
The Broncos averaged 28.8 PPG and allowed 17.7 PPG in their 10 games against non-playoff teams.
Their falloff was much steeper offensively than defensively against tougher competition.
“Sean Payton has never done anything wrong. Just ask him,” Cover 1’s Chris Seth posted, reacting to the scene. “His offense went 3 quarters w all of 5 plays on the Bills’ side of the field, but sure it’s Vance’s fault.”
Sean Payton has never done anything wrong. Just ask him.
His offense went 3 quarters w all of 5 plays on the Bills’ side of the field, but sure it’s Vance’s fault. https://t.co/Rn95diSvwO
— Chris (Low Ceilings) l Cover 1 🏈 (@LowBuffa) January 12, 2025
“Sean Payton has the audacity to yell at Vance Joseph when his offense only has 7pts,” one fan posted.
This is a repeat situation for Payton.
