It is rare that a loss can be boiled down to a single play in a game. But during the Denver Broncos’ matchup against the Indianapolis Colts, that turned out to be the case exactly. With one penalty right as time expired, the result of the game flipped in an instant.
Understandably, the entire Broncos fan base was upset, with calls against the referees mounting at an alarming rate.
Last Second Penalty Flips Denver Broncos vs. Indianapolis Colts
A competitive match between two 1-0 sides came down to the wire. With Denver holding a 28-26 lead, the Colts needed a field goal as time expired to get the win. Unfortunately, their try wasn’t good and the game came to a conclusion.
But Denver did not get any chance to celebrate as a flag was called on the play. Called for a rare “leverage” penalty. It gave Indianapolis another shot at the field goal. This time, they connected, and it gave them a 29-26 win to signal their first 2-0 start since 2009.
However, on the Broncos’ side of things, the only feeling across the fan base was anger. Some immediately claimed that the referees leaned toward the Colts in the game.
For others, the sheer anger at the call itself did not die down quickly. As one fan wrote, “Oh the refs handed this one to the Colts. Great job @NFL,” another fan agreed, “That’s not a flag. Refs gave the Colts the game #BroncosCountry.”
Oh the refs handed this one to the Colts. Great job @NFL
— WittPro (@WittProYT) September 14, 2025
However, it wasn’t just that one play that drew fans’ ire. As one fan pointed out, “The refs just gave the Colts two penalties that cost the Broncos the game. How TF did that happen?”
The refs just gave the colts two penalties that cost the broncos the game , HOW TF does that happen
— why not (@EsQubar_) September 14, 2025
Despite an excellent game between the two squads, the penalty soured the entire game. One fan commented, “What the f*** is that call? The refs just bailed the Colts out big time. WEAK CALLS.”
Some even wanted action from the league against the referee crew in particular, as they wrote, “Hey @NFL, look into these fu**ing refs. Gave the Colts the f***ing game.” For some fans, the feeling could be boiled down to one simple exclamation. “F*** the Colts, f*** the refs.”
Others pointed out that the controversy went on throughout the night. As one fan claimed, “The refs did everything they could to get the Colts a win,” another fan agreed, “Refs stole the game for Colts.”
The refs did everything they could to get the Colts a win
— Waves (@JustynWaves) September 14, 2025
Ultimately, though, it registers as a win for Indianapolis, and the Broncos are off to a 1-1 start, with their win an ugly battle against the Tennessee Titans. For a team many expected to take the leap this year, Denver hasn’t lived up to that billing.
After a heartbreaking loss, they’ll need to recover quickly as a Week 3 clash against the Los Angeles Chargers awaits.
Yup. The check in in the mail.
Refs PAID OFF.
WTH is ‘leveraging?!!! I am a fan, and I’ve NEVER heard of that!
And Logan does not EVER remember EVER calling that penalty! The refs should have to SHOW the film of the offense.
It’s a joke. No longer wasting my time. J