To go or not to go, that is the question.
However, there is no question for many NFL coaches. When it's fourth down, it's time to go.
That's the logic that Sean Payton subscribed to during the first half of theAFC championship game. TheDenver Broncoshead coach kept his team on the field for a pivotal fourth-and-1 early in the second quarter. Already up 7-0 and playing a backup quarterback, many were quick to question the decision.
With the ball sitting on the New England Patriots' 14-yard line, Payton opted to trustJarrett Stidham's ability to pick up a yard for the first down. New England's defense quickly pressured Stidham up the middle, forcing an incomplete pass to keep the deficit at seven.
Patriots defense gets a stop on fourth down!NEvsDEN on CBS/Paramount+Stream on@NFLPluspic.twitter.com/ZyLwHtQVo9
— NFL (@NFL)January 25, 2026
The Patriots eventually used a Stidham turnover to get key field position for the game-tying score and took the lead later with a field goal of their own.
Week 1: Detroit Lions wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa (18) makes a catch for a touchdown against the Green Bay Packers during the fourth quarter at Lambeau Field. The play was originally ruled an incomplete pass, but the call was overturned. Despite TeSlaa's effort, the Packers won the game 27-13." style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" /> 
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Week 1: Detroit Lions wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa (18)makes a catch for a touchdownagainst the Green Bay Packers during the fourth quarter at Lambeau Field. The play was originally ruled an incomplete pass, but the call was overturned. Despite TeSlaa's effort, the Packers won the game 27-13.
Of course, Payton's decision came into focus later with his team trailing by three late in the second half.
Snow began to fall in Denver and conditions deteriorated quickly, making kicking appear nearly impossible. The game ground to a halt as both teams battled the elements in addition to each other, with a trip toSuper Bowl 60on the line.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY:Sean Payton's decision to bypass field goal vs. Patriots questioned
