Denver Broncos Narrowly Lose to Colts Amidst Controversial Call

News Summary

In a closely contested matchup, the Denver Broncos fell to the Indianapolis Colts with a final score of 29-28. The game, defined by a controversial late penalty, showcased both teams’ strengths and weaknesses. Despite a strong performance from the Broncos, including a 76-yard touchdown from J.K. Dobbins, missed opportunities ultimately cost them the game. The Colts capitalized on a pivotal penalty that allowed them to secure the win with a last-minute field goal, leaving the Broncos with a challenging season start.

Indianapolis, Indiana — Denver Broncos Suffer Narrow 29-28 Loss to Indianapolis Colts Following Controversial Penalty

The Denver Broncos experienced a heartbreaking defeat on Sunday afternoon in Indianapolis, losing to the Colts by a final score of 29-28. The game, held at Lucas Oil Stadium and kicking off at 2:05 p.m. local time, was marked by a pivotal and controversial penalty in the closing moments that swung the outcome in favor of the home team.

Game Recap and Initial Performance

Both the Broncos and Colts entered the matchup sporting a victory from their respective Week 1 games. The Broncos had defeated the Tennessee Titans while the Colts secured a win against the Miami Dolphins. Prior to the clash, the Broncos were slight favorites, expected to continue their winning streak. However, the game proved closer and more contentious than anticipated.

The Broncos’ defense, which played well during their Week 1 win, faced increased pressure from the Colts’ offense. Led by quarterback Daniel Jones, the Colts executed an efficient offensive game plan, capitalizing on multiple opportunities to score. Despite holding a lead at different points in the game, Denver’s defense struggled to contain Indianapolis in the final quarter.

Scoring Breakdown

The Broncos mounted a solid offensive effort, scoring a total of 28 points. Their score was aided by notable performances, including a touchdown run from running back J.K. Dobbins, who rushed for 76 yards. The Broncos also benefitted from improvements in run blocking overall. Key offensive players, including tight end Evan Engram and wide receiver Courtland Sutton, did not make significant impacts during the game.

However, the team faced missed opportunities, notably a missed field goal and an interception in the red zone, which could have increased their lead. Broncos kicker Will Lutz attempted a 42-yard field goal late in the game but missed, a crucial setback in their efforts to secure a win.

Defensive Highlights and Challenges

Patrick Surtain II, reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year, performed strongly, despite frequent targeting by Indiana’s passing game. The Colts’ offense consistently tested him, but he held his ground with notable coverage and defensive plays. Yet, the Broncos’ defense did concede multiple offensive drives, especially in the critical moments of the fourth quarter.

The Controversial Penalty and Final Play

A defining moment came in the game’s closing seconds when a controversial leverage penalty was called against Denver linebacker Dondrea Tillman. The infraction involved Tillman placing his hand on a Colts player in an attempt to gain leverage while attempting to block a potential game-winning field goal. The penalty awarded Indianapolis a fresh set of downs and set up kicker Spencer Shrader for a 45-yard field goal attempt.

Shrader successfully converted the kick, resulting in a 29-28 victory for the Colts. The penalty was notable because the leverage rule, which was recently introduced, is rarely called, and its application here drew considerable attention within the game’s outcome.

Aftermath and Standings

Following the loss, the Broncos recorded a 1-1 season start. The defeat highlighted both the team’s offensive potential and defensive vulnerabilities, especially in the final quarter. Additionally, critical players’ performances and missed opportunities—such as the final missed field goal—played significant roles in the outcome.

Additional Notes

The game showcased Denver’s improve­ment in run blocking but underscored their need to capitalize on red zone opportunities. Meanwhile, the Colts demonstrated resilience behind their quarterback’s efficient play and the team’s strategic execution. The controversial penalty, a rarity since its inception, underscored the game’s competitive and often subjective nature of officiating calls.

Overall, the match was a closely contested encounter, but it ended with disappointment for Denver after narrowly falling at the final hurdle late in the fourth quarter.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Colts Secure Narrow Victory Over Broncos in Last-Second Thriller
Colts and Titans Clash in Key NFL Divisional Matchup
Dramatic Loss for Denver Broncos in Close Contest Against Colts
Colts Secure Narrow Victory with Last-Second Field Goal
Colts Edge Out Broncos in Controversial Close Finish
Broncos Suffer Heartbreaking Loss to Colts in Week 2
Colts Break Long Drought with Dominant Season Opener Victory

Additional Resources

• Mile High Report: Broncos at Colts Review
• CBS Sports: Referee Explains Leverage Penalty
• Broncos Wire: Did Broncos Use Leverage vs Colts?
• Sports Illustrated: Sean Payton’s Big Regret
• ESPN: Game Box Score
• Wikipedia: Denver Broncos
• Google Search: Denver Broncos vs Colts September 2025
• Google Scholar: Denver Broncos Football 2025
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Denver Broncos
• Google News: Denver Broncos Colts Game Recap

Author: STAFF HERE INDIANAPOLIS WRITER

The INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIndianapolis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Indianapolis, Marion County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Indianapolis 500, Indy Jazz Fest, and the Indiana State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Indy Chamber and Visit Indy, plus leading businesses in motorsports and healthcare that power the local economy such as Indianapolis Motor Speedway and IU Health. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Indiana's dynamic landscape.