Colts Snag Last-Minute Win Over Broncos After Controversial Penalty

The Indianapolis Colts secured a dramatic 29-28 victory over the Denver Broncos on March 15, 2024, thanks to a last-second field goal by kicker Spencer Shrader. The tension-filled game concluded with a controversial personal foul penalty against the Broncos, which provided the Colts with an unexpected opportunity to clinch the win.

In the final moments, Shrader initially missed a 60-yard field goal attempt, which would have been a career-long for the second-year player. However, a personal foul penalty on Broncos linebacker Dondrea Tillman for leveraging during the kick allowed the Colts to retry from 45 yards. This time, Shrader successfully converted, delivering a crushing blow to the Broncos and securing the Colts’ victory.

Head coach Shane Steichen faced scrutiny for his conservative play calling as the game neared its conclusion. After crossing midfield, the Colts did not attempt a pass during their final possession and allowed the clock to dwindle down at the Denver 40-yard line. This strategy led to a challenging situation for Shrader, who had never kicked beyond 50 yards in the NFL.

The penalty against Tillman was pivotal. Referee Craig Wrolstad explained that the rule prohibits defenders from using their hands on opponents to gain height for blocking kicks. Tillman’s attempt to leap over Colts guard Dalton Tucker resulted in a 15-yard penalty, giving Indianapolis one final untimed opportunity.

After the initial miss, Shrader regrouped and confidently struck the ball from 45 yards, sending it through the uprights. His teammates quickly surrounded him in celebration as the Colts improved to 2-0 for the season, marking their best start since 2009.

Shrader reflected on the emotional rollercoaster of the final sequence. “I felt that disappointment right after the kick,” he said, recalling the chaos immediately following his first attempt. “But then I saw the flag was thrown and it was like, ‘Reset your mentality. You’re getting another opportunity.’”

The Colts’ victory was not without its challenges. Although they advanced to the Denver 43-yard line with a key third-down conversion, the team faced difficulties in their final plays. Running back Jonathan Taylor, who rushed for a total of 165 yards, was stopped for a loss on a crucial third-and-7, making Shrader’s task even more daunting.

Steichen later addressed his decision-making during the final moments, stating, “We were in field goal range there. Felt good about it.” He acknowledged the risks involved but emphasized the unexpected advantage provided by the penalty.

Colts tight end Mo Alie-Cox expressed his surprise at the conservative play calling, stating, “I just thought we would throw it at least one time.” The win, however, was welcomed with enthusiasm from the Colts’ players and fans alike.

The game showcased not only the unpredictable nature of the NFL but also the emotional highs and lows that define competitive sports. As the Colts celebrate their triumph, the Broncos will be left to reflect on a game that slipped through their fingers in dramatic fashion.