Broncos Surge In Latest Power Rankings After Beating Chiefs

The Denver Broncos continue to flex their muscles and prove why they are AFC contenders. In Week 11, the Broncos defeated the Kansas City Chiefs, 22-19, in a close AFC West battle. 

Wil Lutz hit a pair of field goals in the final minutes of the fourth quarter, and the Denver defense again did just enough to hold down the talented Kansas City offense. 

Suddenly, the Broncos have a two-game lead over the Los Angeles Chargers for first place in the AFC West, and the Chiefs are now 5-5 and are in danger of missing the playoffs altogether. 

ESPN dropped its new NFL power rankings, and the Broncos are now at No. 5 after the win over the Kansas City Chiefs. 

In the rankings, ESPN said that it is head coach Sean Payton who is feeling the pressure, and here's why. 

"It was Payton before the season, and it's Payton now. He unapologetically touted his team's Super Bowl worthiness in training camp, and lo and behold the Broncos are tied for the NFL's best record amid the team's longest win streak since 2012 (eight games). But among the narratives that continue to swirl -- narratives Payton joked after Sunday make him want "to cry" -- are the team's balky offense and his handling of quarterback Bo Nix. The Broncos have a title-worthy defense that keeps them in position for Nix's clutch fourth-quarter performances. So if the offense can't pick up the pace, a lot of eyes will be on Payton, his playcalling and Nix's performance. "

So, Denver is at No. 5, and although Payton is feeling the pressure, the signs in Denver are positive across the board. 

While there have been some ugly wins (for example, the one against the Raiders and the Jets), the Broncos have been able to find ways to win, and at the end of the day, that's what matters most. 

The Broncos have a Week 12 bye and then finish the year against the Washington Commanders, Raiders, green Bay Packers, Jacksonville Jaguars, Chiefs and Chargers.