Hopefully, this was the wake-up call that Payton needed as a play-caller, even though he's had multiple other conspicuous snafus on a scale worthy of self-reflection. The Broncos need to be able to run the ball, as it can help them close out games and clinch that playoff spot.

The key sequence from a momentum standpoint in the Broncos’ 34-27 loss to the Chargers? A measly little three-and-out sandwiched between L.A.’s back-to-back second-half scoring drives. The Broncos’ efforts were undoubtedly hurt by the end-of-half sequence in which Payton turned the aggressive meter to 11,