While he’s no longer part of the NFC South, Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton is still finding ways to treat the Atlanta Falcons like a rival, even in the preseason. The former New Orleans Saints head coach has dominated the Falcons with a 22-9 record that includes an 11-4 record in Atlanta over his career.
In Week 1 NFL preseason action on Friday night, the Broncos took a 24-0 lead over the Falcons into halftime at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. And after the first half came to an end, Payton was interviewed by Broncos reporter Cynthia Frelund on the 9News (Denver NBC affiliate) broadcast.
“We know you win here in Atlanta,” Frelund told Payton.
Payton responded with a comment mocking the attendance at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
“A lot of people dressed up as empty seats today,” Payton quipped.
“A lot of people dressed up as empty seats today.” – Sean Payton at halftime of the Broncos’ preseason game against the Falcons in Atlanta. pic.twitter.com/i3k1RNKKHZ
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) August 15, 2026
It’s hard to fault anyone for not wanting to show up for preseason games when factoring in cost, game quality, and how many starters won’t see the field at all (and in limited fashion if they do). All for a game that essentially means nothing, so that’s hard to get very excited about. And in terms of sticking around for a second half after already trailing 24-0? That’s no fun.
So, don’t let Payton’s shot sting too much, Atlanta.
Unfortunately, the Falcons’ performance might provide enough pain for Atlanta fans this season. Even if we want to ignore preseason results (Denver went on to win 27-7), oddsmakers have Atlanta’s over/under win total listed at 7.5 games, and the under is favored. Tua Tagovailoa and Michael Penix Jr. (who is still rehabbing from a torn ACL) are expected to battle for Falcons quarterback duties this season.
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