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Chiefs dominate Broncos in season opener as Smith criticizes performance

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 16, 2026, 3:24 AM

Last updated Sep 16, 2026

Chiefs dominate Broncos in season opener as Smith criticizes performance

Summary

The Kansas City Chiefs prevailed over the Denver Broncos on September 14, 2026, in a disappointing season opener for Denver. Broncos quarterback Bo Nix struggled, managing only 131 passing yards, while Kansas City's Patrick Mahomes effectively returned from injury. Despite solid defensive efforts from the Broncos, Kenneth Walker III's 173 rushing yards led the Chiefs' offensive assault. ESPN's Stephen A. Smith criticized the Broncos, questioning their play-calling and performance amidst expectations for improvement after last season's successes. Head coach Sean Payton plans to review game tape and emphasize corrections as the Broncos prepare for their next matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Source Links

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Status Watch

•Chiefs defeat Broncos in Week 1 of the NFL season.
•Bo Nix records 131 passing yards and one touchdown.
•Kenneth Walker III totals 173 rushing yards for Kansas City.
•Stephen A. Smith criticizes Broncos' offensive strategy.
•Sean Payton emphasizes review and corrections before Week 2.

Latest Updates

3:24 AMYahoo Sports — ‘What the Hell Is Going On Here?’ — ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith Rips ‘Trash’ Broncos After Dreadful MNF Showing vs. Chiefs

What they're saying

"
The first week of the NFL season is officially in the books, and it ended with the Kansas City Chiefs getting the better of one of last year’s Cinderella teams, the Denver Broncos. It wasn’t a pretty night for Denver, and ESPN’s Stephen A.
— Yahoo Sports

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Denver Broncos Kansas City Chiefs NFL Football