In the days leading up to Thursday night’s game against the Saints, Broncos head coach Sean Payton downplayed the significance of his return to New Orleans as an important part of his preparation for the competition.

After Denver’s 33-10 win was in the books, however, Payton admitted that being back in a place where he spent so much time and getting a game ball to lead his new team to victory made this more than just another competition.

“It meant a lot because there were a lot of moments here,” Payton said in his post-game press conference. “Because you get a chance to see old players and then be with this team, this ownership group, that’s the reason you miss it. That one year you miss relationships and you miss making memories.”

Payton won 161 games during his time with the Saints. It’s unlikely he’ll reach the same number in Denver, but he’s up to four this season and more appearances like Thursday night’s will give him a chance to take another team to play in his second year with his new team to bring offs.