Colts Edge Broncos 29-28

The Indianapolis Colts kicked off their 2025 season with a nail-biting 29-28 victory over the Denver Broncos on Sunday night, in a game that showcased exactly why football is America's favorite sport. Both teams entered the season with high hopes, the Broncos looking to build on their remarkable turnaround under coach Sean Payton, while the Colts are seeing that their decision to start veteran Daniel Jones over young Anthony Richardson will pay immediate dividends.

First Quarter: Trading Early Blows

The game started with both offenses finding their rhythm quickly. The Colts struck first when Daniel Jones, making his Indianapolis debut, connected with receiver Josh Downs for crucial completions that set up a 29-yard field goal by Shrader. Jones looked comfortable in the pocket, completing passes to his favorite targets and showing the accuracy that convinced Indianapolis to give him the starting job.

Denver answered right back with their own impressive drive. Second-year quarterback Bo Nix, building on his strong rookie finish, found his groove by connecting with receiver Marvin Mims Jr. for a spectacular 23-yard touchdown pass. The score capped off a drive that featured solid running from J.K. Dobbins, who was making his Broncos debut after joining the team's crowded backfield.

The Colts responded before the quarter ended, with Jones leading another methodical drive that resulted in a 33-yard field goal. At the end of the first quarter, Indianapolis held a 6-7 deficit, but both offenses looked ready for a high-scoring affair.

Second Quarter: Offensive Explosion

The second quarter belonged to the quarterbacks and skill position players. Daniel Jones punched in a 1-yard rushing touchdown to give the Colts a 13-7 lead, showing his dual-threat ability that adds another dimension to Indianapolis's offense.

Denver quickly responded with Nix finding receiver Troy Franklin for a 3-yard touchdown pass, completing a drive that showcased the young quarterback's improved decision-making. The Broncos' 14-13 lead demonstrated exactly why they have such high expectations this season.

But the Colts' ground game, led by star running back Jonathan Taylor, began to take control. Taylor, who entered the season facing questions about a weakened offensive line, silenced doubters by breaking off big gains and eventually scoring on a 7-yard touchdown reception from Jones. Taylor's versatility - something that wasn't always utilized in previous seasons - proved crucial as he accumulated both rushing and receiving yards.

Denver managed another touchdown before halftime, with Nix connecting with tight end Trautman for a 2-yard score, sending the teams to the locker room with the Broncos leading 21-20.

Second Half: A Defensive Battle with Clutch Moments

The third quarter saw Denver extend their lead when J.K. Dobbins powered in from 5 yards out, giving the Broncos a 28-20 advantage. However, the Colts' defense began to tighten up, and Indianapolis chipped away with a field goal to make it 28-23.

The fourth quarter featured crucial defensive plays, including a key interception by the Coltsthat gave Indianapolis excellent field position. Taylor then broke the game open with a spectacular 68-yard run that set up the Colts' final scoring opportunity.

With seconds remaining and Denver leading 28-26, Indianapolis faced a pressure-packed situation. After a penalty gave them better field position, Shrader nailed a 45-yard field goal as time expired, sending the Colts' fans into celebration.

Looking Ahead

This victory validates Indianapolis's decision to start Daniel Jones, who threw for 316 yards and two total touchdowns while showing great chemistry with Taylor (165 rushing yards, 50 receiving yards) and Josh Downs (51 receiving yards). For Denver, despite the loss, Bo Nix showed continued growth in his second season.

Both teams will look to build on this exciting opener as they prepare for their next challenges in what promises to be a competitive AFC season.