The Broncos’ efforts were undoubtedly hurt by the end-of-half sequence in which Payton turned the aggressive meter to 11, leading to a punt, penalty and 57-yard free kick field goal to turn a two-score lead into a 21-13 advantage.

After the Denver Broncos lost 34-27 to the Los Angeles Chargers on Thursday Night Football, a nasty, collective feeling of dread has loomed large in the Mile High City with Christmas approaching. The Broncos fell to 9-6,

On a Riley Dixon punt, Tremon Smith was called for interference on Chargers returner Derius Davis at their 38, moving the ball to the Denver 48. With the Chargers allowed one more play with no time left on the clock, Cameron Dicker made a 57-yard free-kick field goal to cut the deficit to 21-13.