Broncos will have extreme heat to contend with vs. 49ers

The Denver Broncos face a challenging road trip to play the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday, September 28, 2026, at Levi's Stadium. The temperature forecast for kickoff is in the mid to low 90s, the hottest temperature ever recorded at the stadium. Head coach Sean Payton acknowledges the extreme heat, stating, "92 [degrees], yes."

He emphasizes the team's preparedness, noting that the stadium is located 45-50 minutes away from the old venue, where temperatures were significantly cooler. Payton points out that it's rare for Denver to face such extreme heat, mentioning that the only two previous games with kickoffs above 90 degrees occurred in 2024, one of which resulted in a loss to the Kansas City Chiefs.

The Broncos have struggled with time of possession in recent games, and Payton believes that if this trend continues, the defense may struggle to stay fresh in the heat. The 49ers, on the other hand, are known for their potent offense, led by quarterback Bo Nix, who will need to sustain drives to give the Broncos any chance of winning.

Payton reflects on the unique atmosphere at the 49ers' first home game after Hurricane Katrina, highlighting the symbolic importance of the occasion. He also praises the growth of quarterback Quinn Meinerz, praising his athleticism, work ethic, and passion.