The Indianapolis Colts beat Broncos 29-28 on Sunday in a nail-biting finish at Lucas Oil Stadium. Spencer Shrader converted a 45-yard field goal as time expired after Denver was penalized on his missed 60-yard attempt. This victory marks the Colts’ first 2-0 start since 2009, setting an early tone for the 2025 NFL season.
Dominant Drive Leads to Dramatic Finish
Trailing by two points with just over three minutes remaining, the Colts executed a conservative final drive. Jonathan Taylor carried the ball seven times, while quarterback Daniel Jones threw a single pass. The drive netted 26 yards and positioned Shrader for a seemingly impossible field goal from midfield. Denver’s Dondrea Tillman was flagged for leverage during the kick attempt, moving the ball 15 yards closer. Shrader’s subsequent 45-yard kick sailed through the uprights, securing the win.
Standout Performances
Daniel Jones finished with 316 passing yards, one touchdown, and added a rushing touchdown on a 1-yard run. Jonathan Taylor contributed 165 rushing yards on 25 carries, caught a touchdown pass, and notched his 25th career 100-yard game, surpassing Eric Dickerson in franchise history.
For the Broncos, Bo Nix threw three first-half touchdowns but also recorded one interception. Troy Franklin had a career-high eight catches for 89 yards, while J.K. Dobbins added 76 rushing yards and a touchdown. Wil Lutz missed a crucial 42-yard field goal late in the fourth quarter, leaving the door open for the Colts’ game-winning kick.
High-Scoring Battle Between Defenses
Despite both teams having strong defenses last week, Sunday’s matchup was surprisingly high-scoring. The Colts continued their streak from Week 1 of scoring on every possession until a fourth-and-1 play by tight end Tyler Warren was stopped. Penalties on both sides added drama, including an unsportsmanlike conduct call against Indianapolis following a disputed pass interference.
Injuries and Returns
Injuries played a minor role in the game. Broncos cornerback Patrick Surtain II briefly left the field with a taped ankle but returned quickly. Colts All-Pro guard Quenton Nelson also appeared injured in the first half but returned to action after halftime.
The Colts beat Broncos in a memorable Sunday showdown, highlighted by Spencer Shrader’s last-second field goal. With this 2-0 start, Indianapolis looks poised to make a strong push in the early season, while Denver will regroup for Game 3 against other NFC opponents.
