LANDOVER, Md. — The **Denver Broncos** secured their ninth consecutive victory in dramatic fashion on Sunday night, escaping FedExField with a thrilling **27-26 overtime win** against the **Washington Commanders**. The game was decided on the final play when Broncos linebacker **Nik Bonitto** batted away Marcus Mariota’s two-point conversion attempt, denying Washington the victory.
The AFC West-leading Broncos (10-2) continue their streak of one-score triumphs, while the Commanders (3-9) suffered their seventh straight loss, compounding their misery with consecutive overtime defeats.
🏈 Bonitto’s Clutch Play Saves the Day
After Denver’s R.J. Harvey scored on the first overtime possession, Commanders coach Dan Quinn decided to go for the win after **Terry McLaurin** scored a late touchdown. On the crucial two-point conversion, Mariota had an open receiver, but Bonitto made the game-saving play.
“I knew he was buying time,” Bonitto said. “At that point I was just trying to make it hard for him to throw the ball, and I ended up knocking it down and we ended up winning the game.”
Broncos coach Sean Payton declared: “We didn’t escape. We won. The journey of a good team’s season involves games like this.”
📊 Quarterback & Offensive Highlights
Both quarterbacks delivered key plays throughout the night:
- **Bo Nix (DEN):** Threw for **321 yards** with one touchdown, including an acrobatic strike to **Courtland Sutton** right before halftime.
- **Marcus Mariota (WAS):** Threw for **294 yards** and two touchdowns, including a major score to **Treylon Burks** on an incredible one-handed catch.
Commanders tight end **Zach Ertz** had a productive night with **10 catches for 106 yards**, surpassing Shannon Sharpe for the fifth-most receptions by an NFL tight end.
📈 Playoff Implications
The victory is massive for the Broncos, keeping them tied for the best record in the AFC and positioning them strongly for a potential first-round playoff bye.
