The Denver Broncos achieved an extraordinary comeback on October 29, 2023, overcoming a 26-8 deficit in the fourth quarter to defeat the New York Giants 33-32 at Empower Field at Mile High. This remarkable victory not only marked the largest fourth-quarter comeback for a team that had not scored in the first three quarters in NFL history but also saw the Broncos score 33 points in the final quarter, a franchise record.
Defensive back Pat Surtain II expressed the disbelief felt by the team after the win. “We fought to the end,” he said. “In this league, no matter how much you’re down, there’s always a will, and there’s always a way.” Prior to this game, teams had lost 1,602 consecutive contests when trailing by at least 18 points with six minutes remaining.
The Broncos entered the fourth quarter in a challenging position, trailing by 19 points. The Giants had controlled the game, with rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart passing for 210 yards and two touchdowns by that point. The Broncos’ offense struggled significantly, punting six times in their first nine possessions.
A turning point occurred when Bo Nix connected with Troy Franklin for a 2-yard touchdown pass early in the fourth quarter, followed by a successful two-point conversion that narrowed the gap to 19-8. “I was thinking about how I was going to answer questions if we got shut out,” Nix admitted. “Once we scored and got the two-point conversion, it was like we knew how to play again.”
The Giants responded with a touchdown of their own, extending their lead to 26-8, but the Broncos remained undeterred. They initiated a decisive 13-play, 74-yard drive, culminating in another touchdown and another two-point conversion, bringing the score to 26-16.
Broncos linebacker Justin Strnad made a crucial interception, returning the ball to the Giants’ 19-yard line, which set up another touchdown. This play was pivotal in shifting momentum. Following a quick three-and-out by the Giants, Nix executed a six-play, 68-yard drive that concluded with an 18-yard touchdown run, giving the Broncos their first lead of the game at 30-26 with just over a minute remaining.
In a dramatic conclusion, the Giants responded with a touchdown of their own, pushing the score to 32-30 after a quarterback sneak from Dart. With only 37 seconds left, the Broncos needed a final push. Nix connected with Marvin Mims Jr. for a 29-yard gain, then found Courtland Sutton for another 22 yards, setting up kicker Brandon McManus for a 39-yard field goal that clinched the victory on the last play of the game.
“I’ve never been down by that much and been able to come back,” said linebacker Nik Bonitto. “It was crazy, I’m still geeked.” The loss was particularly painful for the Giants, with team captain Dexter Lawrence acknowledging the frustration of conceding 33 points in the fourth quarter. “Can’t give up 33 points in the fourth quarter,” he stated.
The game highlighted not only the resilience of the Broncos but also raised questions about the Giants’ defensive strategy during critical moments. Defensive end Brian Burns expressed his frustration over the decision to drop back into coverage instead of mounting a stronger pass rush in the game’s closing moments.
Overall, the Broncos’ thrilling victory serves as a testament to their determination and ability to adapt under pressure, leaving both teams with lessons to ponder as they move forward in the season.
