On January 5, 2025, the Denver Broncos punched their ticket to the playoffs with a commanding 38-0 victory over the Kansas City Chiefs at Empower Field at Mile High. With this win, the Broncos secured the final AFC wild-card spot for the first time since their Super Bowl victory nearly eight years ago, showcasing their determination and skill under pressure.
The game was of utmost importance for the Broncos, as they were aware of the stakes following the Cincinnati Bengals' win the previous day. With no margin for error, Denver needed to defeat their long-time rivals, the Chiefs, who entered the game with rest on their minds after already securing the No. 1 seed. Patrick Mahomes, the star quarterback for Kansas City, was among the key players rested for this matchup.
Denver's rookie quarterback Bo Nix stepped up to the challenge, executing exceptionally throughout the game. His performance included four touchdown passes and breaking the franchise record for completion percentage, finishing with 89.7%. "It’s been the goal since day one and we made it happen today," he said afterwards, clearly proud of the team's effort.
The Broncos wasted no time, seizing momentum immediately on their first drive. Denver faked two jet sweeps, and Nix delivered a perfect screen pass to Marvin Mims Jr., who sprinted down the field for the opening touchdown. This early assault set the tone, and by the end of the first quarter, the Broncos had established a 14-0 lead.
Kansas City struggled throughout the game, unable to find any rhythm as the Denver defense routinely stifled their attempts. Chiefs quarterback Carson Wentz, filling the shoes of the rested stars, was sacked four times as the Broncos achieved their season-high of 62 sacks, underscoring their defensive dominance.
The Broncos continued their offensive onslaught, with Courtland Sutton making significant plays, including another touchdown reception. Sutton's scoring grab increased the lead to 14-0, and as the desperate Chiefs tried to respond, their mistakes compounded the challenge. A failed field goal attempt just before halftime signified their struggle to capitalize on any potential opportunities.
This misfortunes compounded rapidly. Denver's Devaughn Vele caught another touchdown pass, benefiting from confusion within the Kansas City defense, which led to the score ballooning to 21-0. With Nix enjoying his early success, he hit on 17 consecutive passes, and by halftime, the score sat comfortably at 24-0 after Denver added another field goal.
When the second half commenced, the Broncos were able to maintain their dominance, executing drives with precision. Another touchdown from Nix to Mims extended the lead to 31-0. The rout continued when Audric Estime found the end zone, sealing the 38-0 shutout. This was particularly notable as it marked the first time Kansas City had been held scoreless under head coach Andy Reid's reign.
With the game well out of reach, the Broncos embraced their success, allowing backup quarterback Jarrett Stidham some meaningful snaps as they began to prepare for their upcoming matchup against the Buffalo Bills.
The result is not only historic for the franchise, bringing them back to playoff affairs for the first time since winning Super Bowl 50, but it also stamped the Broncos’ authority as they head down the playoff trail. Nix's records positioned him alongside Broncos legend Peyton Manning, whose single-game completion record he impressedively challenged with 89.7% completion rate.
On the other side, the Chiefs must regroup after such uncharacteristic performance before they face their own playoff run. The rout highlighted the gap between resting starters and maintaining competitive momentum, especially heading toward the postseason.
The playoff berth means Denver will head to Buffalo to face the formidable Bills and their quarterback Josh Allen, marking the start of another chapter for Broncos fans who hope to see their team return to its former glory. With their eyes on the silverware again, this win over Kansas City could just serve as the spark for what lies ahead.
Indeed, the Broncos' season has transformed, and the road to the playoffs based on solid performance like this denotes hope and excitement for the future. The franchise aims to complete the season with even greater achievements following their triumphant return to postseason football.