CINCINNATI — The Denver Broncos are facing a crucial moment in their season, as they strive to make it to the playoffs for the first time since their Super Bowl victory in 2015. With only one remaining opportunity to secure a spot, time is not on their side.
In a challenging matchup on Saturday, the Broncos (9-7) fell short against the Cincinnati Bengals, losing 30-24 in overtime. This defeat came after two consecutive losses, and now the Broncos must win their final regular-season game against the two-time Super Bowl-winning Kansas City Chiefs next week to keep their playoff hopes alive.
“It has been a tough couple of weeks,” stated Broncos quarterback Bo Nix. “We need to give everything we have to win this game.” Despite recent setbacks, the Broncos still hold the key to their playoff destiny — a victory next week guarantees them a spot without relying on other teams.
Broncos defensive end Zach Allen shared his thoughts on the situation, emphasizing the need to regroup for the upcoming game against the Chiefs. “We just need to return to practice on Monday, reset for the week, and take care of business against Kansas City. We had chances in previous games to seal our fate, and we should have capitalized tonight. I believe we will be fine.”
The Broncos are gearing up to face a Chiefs team that has already secured the No. 1 seed in the AFC, which means they may rest their starters, particularly quarterback Patrick Mahomes, who is dealing with a high ankle sprain. Earlier in the season, Denver lost to Kansas City 16-14 on November 10, a defeat that left them at .500 with a 5-5 record.
Head coach Sean Payton stressed the significance of the upcoming game, saying, “We need to focus on what’s next and prepare for a strong team in our final regular-season match. These are the moments we play for – meaningful games. It’s tough when the final games have little to no impact.”
Had the Broncos triumphed over the Bengals, they would have eased the pressure for next week. During the game, Nix made a remarkable effort, throwing three touchdown passes in the second half, including two to Marvin Mims Jr. One of these was a thrilling 24-yard touchdown catch that tied the game at 24 with just eight seconds remaining.
Although there was a consideration to go for a two-point conversion after Mims’ touchdown, Coach Payton opted for the extra point, sending the game into overtime. Following the touchdown, Nix raised two fingers in anticipation of the potential win.
“I definitely want the opportunity to win the game, and we had a shot in overtime,” Nix remarked. While a tie would have secured the Broncos a place in the playoffs, Denver punted twice in overtime—one sequence occurred after the Bengals’ Cade York had his 33-yard field goal attempt bounce off the upright.
In a crucial moment, Joe Burrow connected with Tee Higgins for a 3-yard touchdown pass, sealing the game for the Bengals with just 1:10 left on the clock, keeping their playoff ambitions alive.
“We need to transform ourselves into winners,” noted Broncos right tackle Michael McGlinchey. “When we have the power to control the outcome, we’ve got to finish strong. Cincinnati played like their postseason lives depended on it.”
