Broncos drop to 1-5 for season after 19-8 loss to Chiefs on Thursday Night Football

After a defeat against the Kansas City Chiefs with a score of 19-8 at Arrowhead Stadium for Thursday Night Football, the Broncos’ regular season record falls to 1-5.

In the game, Russell Wilson finished with a stat line of 13 out of 22 passes completed for 95 yards, including one touchdown and two interceptions. On the other hand, Patrick Mahomes, the Chiefs quarterback, completed 30 out of 40 passes for 306 yards, throwing one touchdown and one interception.

The game started with Denver on offense, launching their run game against the Chiefs’ defense. They managed to advance the ball to Kansas City’s 42-yard line. However, their progress was halted when Wilson was sacked for a 3-yard loss on fourth down.

After the turnover on downs, Kansas City assumed possession on their own 38-yard line. However, Denver’s defense demonstrated resilience and prevented the Chiefs from scoring a touchdown. Eventually, the Chiefs settled for a field goal, resulting in a 3-0 lead for them.

In the Broncos’ subsequent possession, Denver opted to stick with the run game following a challenging run by Javonte Williams. However, their attempt to execute a play-action pass was intercepted by Kansas City at the five-minute mark of the first quarter.

Following the turnover, the Chiefs advanced down the field utilizing impressive plays from Mahomes, Travis Kelce, and Isiah Pacheco. However, on third and eight, Broncos defensive back Justin Simmons intercepted a short pass from Mahomes, resulting in Denver gaining possession on their own 7-yard line.

After the interception, the Broncos resorted to their running strategy and managed to advance to the 26-yard line within a few plays. However, the Chiefs effectively prevented Denver from gaining any further ground, forcing them to punt after just three downs. Consequently, Kansas City’s offense regained possession of the ball on their own 43-yard line with 14 minutes and 19 seconds remaining in the second quarter.

The Chief proceeded to advance down the field for 12 plays, only to face a three-and-out scenario upon reaching Denver’s 6-yard-line. Following a timeout, Denver successfully prevented the fourth down conversion by halting Kansas City’s direct snap to Noah Gray. Broncos’ defensive end Matt Henningsen made the crucial tackle.

Following another swift three-and-out by the Broncos, the Chiefs swiftly retaliated by skillfully advancing down the field against Denver’s defense. They successfully executed a short pass, resulting in a touchdown and granting them a commanding 10-0 lead with only 3 minutes and 6 seconds remaining in the second quarter.

After both teams made successful stops, the Broncos faced another three-and-out following a sack by Chris Jones from the Kansas City team. Consequently, the Chiefs’ offense assumed control of the game with only 14 seconds remaining in the second half.

After Mahomes completed a short pass and scrambled, the Chiefs successfully kicked a 60-yard field goal, increasing their lead to 13-0 as halftime approached.

At the start of the third quarter, Kansas City extended their lead to 16-0 with a successful field goal. Shortly after, Wilson threw an interception at the 5:38 mark, granting Kansas City possession on defense. However, Denver’s defense managed to halt the Chief’s offense after just three plays, forcing them to punt. Consequently, the Denver offense took control of the ball on their own 3-yard line.

After a series of incomplete passes and an offensive holding penalty called on Denver, the Broncos were compelled to another three-and-out. Meanwhile, the Chiefs took possession of the ball at their own 22-yard line.

After a few run and passing plays, the Denver defense rose to the occasion, forcing Kansas City into a punting situation. Denver then gained possession of the ball on their own 39-yard line.

The Broncos executed a series of effective plays during their offensive possession, advancing to Kansas City’s 22-yard line.

Following a roughing the passer penalty against the Chiefs, Courtland Sutton made an incredible one-handed catch in the end zone from Wilson, resulting in a score. However, the catch was initially ruled incomplete. Upon review in the booth, the call was overturned, awarding the team with a score. Williams then successfully completed a 2-point conversion, bringing the score to 16-8 with 6:07 remaining in the game.

After gaining significant yardage with a series of successful plays, the Chiefs reached the Broncos’ 23 yard line. However, their progress was hindered when Mahomes was tackled by Denver’s defensive end Zach Allen, resulting in an 11 yard loss on third and 10. This unfortunate turn of events led to a fourth down situation. Nonetheless, the Chiefs managed to secure a 52-yard field goal, extending their lead to 19-8.

With only 1:37 remaining on the clock, the Chiefs secured their victory over the Broncos by forcing a fumble on Denver’s last series.

Williams had 53 yards on 10 carries, making him the leading rusher for the Broncos offense. Wilson followed closely behind with 31 yards on four carries. As for receiving, Sutton stood out with 46 yards on four receptions. Perine was the second leading receiver, catching two passes for 16 yards. Additionally, Perine made a significant contribution by forcing a fumble during the game.

In terms of tackles, Alex Singleton stood out as the top performer for the Broncos’ defense, securing 11 tackles, 10 of which were solo. Following closely behind was Josey Jewell, who claimed second place with a total of nine tackles, seven of which were solo.

After the loss, Broncos head coach Sean Payton faced the media and expressed his lack of discouragement.

Payton expressed his lack of discouragement and praised the team’s effort on the field. He specifically commended the defensive performance, highlighting the exceptional red zone defense. However, he acknowledged the offensive struggles, particularly the poor third down conversion rate and turnovers. Payton recognized the challenge of winning against a formidable opponent like the one they faced, but emphasized that they remained competitive throughout the game. Overall, he encouraged the team to maintain their determination and not let disappointment hinder their progress. Payton concluded by reminding them that they would have another chance to face the same team in two weeks.

After the game, Wilson addressed questions, shedding light on the offense’s progress and struggles against the Chiefs.

In terms of our offensive performance, I believe we executed some impressive plays. However, it is completely unacceptable that I personally caused two turnovers. Despite this setback, I observed that our team maintained a relentless attitude and unwavering faith. We effectively advanced down the field, narrowing the gap to just an eight-point game. Regrettably, luck was not on our side in the final moments.

On Sunday, October 22 at 2:25 p.m. MST, the Broncos will be facing off against the Green Bay Packers.