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Patrick Mahomes doesn't have a late-game miracle, Broncos get goal-line stand to hold onto win over Chiefs

The Denver Broncos snapped a long-standing curse against Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs with a clutch goal-line stand, securing a 28-24 victory in a hard-fought AFC showdown. Trailing 24-13 late in the fourth quarter, Denver’s offense finally broke through with two key drives, including a 5-yard touchdown by Jonah Coleman that cut the deficit to 24-21.

The Chiefs responded with a drive to the 1-yard line, but Denver’s defense held firm, forcing a fourth-and-goal situation from the 6-yard line. After a false start penalty, Mahomes was sacked under pressure, sealing the Broncos’ improbable win and ending a 14-2 Chiefs record in regular-season matchups against Denver.

The victory also propelled Denver to a 6-2 record, taking the division lead over the 5-2 Chiefs for the first time this season.

Early in the game, the Chiefs’ rookie running back Emmett Johnson became a focal point, breaking free twice for long gains—a 73-yard touchdown catch and a 38-yard reception that set up a field goal. Meanwhile, Bo Nix and Jaylen Waddle provided Denver’s only bright spots in the first half, with Nix’s 1-yard touchdown pass to Waddle being the Broncos’ lone scoring drive.

The Chiefs dominated the first three quarters, outscoring Denver 24-13, but a late offensive surge and defensive resilience turned the tide in Denver’s favor. The win marked a rare bright spot for the Broncos, who had been outmatched by Mahomes in their previous 14 meetings.

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