“It’s a smaller market": Broncos HC Sean Payton shares blunt message for Trevor Lawrence's Jaguars ahead of Week 16 showdown

Denver Broncos coach Sean Payton sparked conversation this week with an observation about his next opponent. The Broncos coach held his regular media session following Denver's playoff-clinching victory over Green Bay on Monday.

"We've gotta be on point," Payton said. "As you look at (the Jaguars) and you watch the tape, you know, you see a smaller market but you see a really good team."

Sean Payton's team is at the top of the AFC standings with a 12-2 record. Jacksonville has posted a 10-4 mark in its debut season under Liam Coen, winning five straight games heading into Sunday.

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Sean Payton says there "are going to be bigger ones" than the Jaguars game

NFL: Green Bay Packers at Denver Broncos (Credits: IMAGN)

Denver coach Sean Payton tempered expectations about Sunday's significance during Wednesday's practice session.

“There’s that 24-hour rule, to some degree. It can happen after a tough loss. One of the challenges in this league, I think, is a gut-wrenching loss and then coming back in and trying to flush it and get on with the next goal,” Payton said. "I think it's about the leadership of the team and I think the momentum and the understanding each week ... We have this term, this is a big game, of course this is an important game, and there are going to be bigger ones."

Jacksonville has won above .500 by multiple games only twice in two decades. The Jaguars defense creates chaos by generating takeaways, a formula that has carried them through their current hot streak.

Sunday's game matters for both teams chasing January positioning. Payton's attack has clicked during an 11-game tear while the defense has stiffened considerably. Jacksonville wins through pressure up front and execution in all three phases.

The Broncos last tasted defeat in Week 3 against the Los Angeles Chargers.

Edited by nagpaltusharn25