The Broncos’ Hail Mary isn’t enough, the two-point conversion fails and the Chiefs win

After a 2022 season filled with disappointing losses, change was supposed to come to Denver in 2023. It certainly doesn’t look like that now.

The Broncos completely collapsed today against the Leaders, jumping out to a 21-3 lead only to fall behind late, then scoring a Hail Mary as time expired, but failed to convert the 2-point conversion and lost 35-33.

The Commanders appeared to get away with pass interference on the Broncos’ two-point conversion attempt on the final play of the game, but it wasn’t called and Washington got away with the win.

Leading quarterback Sam Howell was very impressive, completing 27 of 39 passes for 300 yards, with two touchdowns and no interceptions. Also impressive was running back Brian Robinson, who had 87 rushing yards and 42 receiving yards.

Broncos quarterback Russell Wilson had a tough game, throwing an interception and taking seven sacks. The arrival of Sean Payton was supposed to revitalize Wilson, but in two weeks we haven’t seen that. The final numbers — 309 yards and three touchdowns — look good, but Wilson isn’t where the Broncos want him to be.

The bright spot for the Broncos was the performance of rookie receiver Marvin Mims, who showed big-play ability as a receiver and returner. But after a strong start for Mims, the Broncos couldn’t get the ball to him in the second half.

The Leaders, who entered this season with such optimism for the post-Dan Snyder era, have rewarded their fans’ optimism with a 2-0 start. The Broncos, who were also optimistic about a major improvement, look as bad as they did last year.