The Denver Broncos pulled off one of the most stunning victories of the NFL season, erasing an 11-point fourth-quarter deficit to defeat the Kansas City Chiefs 28-24. Under head coach Sean Payton, the Broncos improved to 6-2 on the year and claimed the top spot in the AFC West, while also erasing the head-to-head advantage the Chiefs previously held.
Bo Nix and Fourth-Quarter Comebacks
Quarterback Bo Nix endured a difficult start through the first three quarters of the game, drawing boos from the broadcast crowd as the offense struggled to move the chains consistently. Entering the final frame, Nix had completed just 15 of 26 passes for 153 yards, with only one third-down conversion on eight attempts.
However, the fourth quarter brought a dramatic turnaround as Nix went 5-for-6 for 84 yards, capitalizing on crucial coverage lapses by the Kansas City defense. He connected with Nate Adkins for a touchdown and fired a quick pass to Jonah Coleman that broke free for another score.
Since entering the league in 2024, Nix has established remarkable late-game statistics:
- 15 game-winning drives, the most ever for a quarterback in his first three seasons.
- 12 fourth-quarter comebacks, tying Derek Carr for the most in a player's first three years.
- An average of 8.1 points per fourth quarter under Nix, marking the highest rate for any starting quarterback since at least 1950.
Broncos Defense and Improved Run Stopping
Denver's defensive unit played a pivotal role throughout the matchup, highlighted by a last-second goal-line stand that secured the win. The performance marked a massive season-long improvement in stopping the run compared to their Week 1 meeting, where Kenneth Walker III rushed for 173 yards and averaged 7.8 yards per carry after contact.
In this latest encounter, despite 16 missed tackles by the defense, Walker was held to just 69 yards total, averaging a mere 2.1 yards per carry after contact.
Chiefs Management and Patrick Mahomes' Performance
For the Chiefs, head coach Andy Reid faced criticism for late-game decision-making. Trailing by three points with under three minutes remaining, Reid opted to kick a 50-plus-yard field goal on fourth-and-8 from the Denver 36-yard line rather than going for it. Kicker Harrison Butker, who is 2-for-7 from beyond 50 yards this season, missed wide right in rainy conditions.
The missed opportunity overshadowed an otherwise stellar outing from Patrick Mahomes, who finished 30-for-41 for 321 yards, three touchdowns, and zero interceptions. Mahomes excelled on third downs, going 6-for-10 for 113 yards and a score, but the Chiefs' passing attack lacked downfield threats following an injury to Tyquan Thornton.
Emerging Rookie Running Backs
Both teams saw standout performances from mid-round rookie running backs who expanded beyond their expected complementary roles. Jonah Coleman led the Broncos with 11 carries, 41 rushing yards, and 63 receiving yards, including the game-winning touchdown catch.
For Kansas City, Emmett Johnson recorded a team-high five receptions for 128 yards, a 73-yard touchdown, a 15-yard carry, and a 44-yard kick return, providing a potent spark alongside Walker.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the final score of the Chiefs and Broncos game?
To close out the thrilling matchup, the Broncos defeated the Chiefs with a final score of 28-24.
What is the Broncos' record after beating Kansas City?
Following their fourth consecutive victory, Sean Payton and the Broncos improved their record to 6-2 on the season, taking sole possession of first place in the AFC West.
How many fourth-quarter comebacks does Bo Nix have?
Bo Nix has recorded 12 fourth-quarter comebacks in his career, tying Derek Carr for the most by any quarterback in their first three NFL seasons.