Broncos Rally Past Chargers 23-17 as Payton Takes Control
The Denver Broncos staged a furious fourth-quarter comeback on Sunday, scoring 13 unanswered points to defeat the winless Los Angeles Chargers 23-17 at SoFi Stadium. The victory marked Denver's first division win of the season and its first triumph at SoFi since 2023.
What changed for the Broncos?
Head coach Sean Payton assumed play-calling duties from offensive coordinator Davis Webb earlier in the week, and the move paid immediate dividends. The Broncos (3-2) overcame the absence of cornerbacks Pat Surtain II (ankle) and Riley Moss (ribs) to secure the win.
How did the Chargers lose another close game?
The Chargers (0-5) remain winless under coach Jim Harbaugh, who has now lost his first five games in Los Angeles. Justin Herbert completed 14 of 24 passes for 121 yards with a touchdown and an interception, while being sacked five times behind a makeshift offensive line featuring four rookies.
Courtland Sutton caught a 5-yard touchdown pass from Bo Nix to tie the game at 17 midway through the fourth quarter. The Chargers then stalled on fourth-and-1, and the Broncos capitalized on the ensuing possession.
Key moments in the fourth quarter
Wil Lutz kicked a go-ahead 19-yard field goal with 5:07 remaining, then added a 36-yarder with 1:08 left to seal the win. The Chargers' final drive ended when Brandon Jones intercepted Herbert on fourth down.
The Chargers had taken a 17-10 lead late in the third quarter on Kimani Vidal's 42-yard touchdown run, set up by Tuli Tuipulotu's forced fumble and recovery. Nix finished 16 of 27 for 123 yards and a touchdown.
What's next for both teams?
The Broncos host Seattle on Thursday night, while the Chargers travel to AFC West-leading Kansas City on Sunday.