Broncos vs. Raiders: NFL Week 1 live updates and highlights

The Sean Payton era begins as the Denver Broncos face off against the Las Vegas Raiders. Expect a tough game and potential victory for Payton's team.

Get ready, Broncos fans, because the Sean Payton era is about to begin! This Sunday, the Denver Broncos will face off against their division rivals, the Las Vegas Raiders, and we'll be here to bring you live updates and analysis from Empower Field at Mile High.

The anticipation is high as Payton takes the reins and aims to end the Broncos' losing streak within the division. With his hand-picked kicker, Wil Lutz, playing a crucial role, the outcome of this game will rely on an offensive performance that may not be pretty, but will be enough to secure the win.

According to beat writer Ryan McFadden, he predicts a final score of Broncos 24, Raiders 20. Payton's determination to prove himself will shine through as the team emerges victorious against Las Vegas. Quarterback Russell Wilson will deliver a solid performance, and the defense will step up and force a turnover when it matters most, solidifying the victory.

Columnist Mark Kiszla shares his belief that the Broncos will not only win this game but also demonstrate their potential for playoff-worthy football under Payton's leadership. He reminds us that the team showed promise towards the end of last season after parting ways with Nathaniel Hackett. With Payton at the helm, the Broncos are poised to take their game to the next level.

Sean Keeler, another columnist, predicts a close matchup with the Broncos prevailing over the Raiders by a score of 23-20. Keeler highlights Payton's competitive nature, suggesting that despite downplaying the significance of the rivalry publicly, Payton is fully invested in defeating the Raiders. Keeler draws attention to Payton's previous success in home openers and expects him to continue that trend in the AFC West.

Before Payton's arrival, he found himself going through the motions of coaching interviews. However, his encounter with 28-year-old Davis Webb for the quarterbacks coach position at Denver's training facility brought a new level of excitement. Payton almost dismissed Webb too quickly but ultimately recognized his potential. This meeting marked a turning point for Payton and set the stage for his journey with the Broncos.

Wide receiver Davante Adams is known for his exceptional skills, and even Broncos cornerback Pat Surtain II found himself momentarily lost on the field against him. During a game against the Raiders last season, Adams' footwork and precise route running left Surtain flat-footed and amazed many Broncos players. Surtain acknowledges that moments like these happen in the position, but it serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by defensive players.

As Payton takes control of the Broncos franchise, he must deliver results from the start. The pressure is on as he faces the Raiders in his debut as the Broncos' coach. Mark Kiszla emphasizes that this game is a must-win for Payton, who cannot afford to make a mediocre first impression. The success of the team rests on his ability to get the retooled orange-and-blue bandwagon rolling at full speed.

So, Broncos fans, get ready for an exciting and pivotal game as the Sean Payton era begins. Stay tuned for updates and analysis as we witness the Broncos take on the Raiders in what promises to be a thrilling showdown.