NFL Week 2 Game Recap: Washington Commanders 35, Denver Broncos 33

The Denver Broncos went up 21-3 early on the Washington Commanders and looked completely in control, but Washington scored 11 unanswered points to close out the first half and then was able to build a 35-24 lead before a late charge from Russell Wilson and company. The Broncos are now 0-2, with both losses at home. Mile High Stadium early in the season generally provides one of the biggest home-field advantages, but not this year.

Offensive spotlight: Commanders running back Brian Robinson finished with 19 carries for 93 yards and two touchdowns, forcing seven missed tackles on the ground and weaving his way through the outstretched arms of Broncos defenders all afternoon. Robinson added two receptions for 42 yards.

Broncos wide receiver Brandon Johnson had two receptions for 66 yards, and both went for touchdowns, including a miracle heave at the buzzer that got Denver within striking distance — down 35-33. Ultimately, a two-point conversion attempt to Courtland Sutton was incomplete, with a defensive pass interference not called but arguably earned.

Defensive spotlight: Commanders off-ball linebacker Jamin Davis forced a fumble on a scrambling Russell Wilson that really seemed to turn the tides in this game. It was a savvy play where he poked at the ball while also making the tackle and bringing Wilson to the ground. From that point on, the two teams moved in opposite directions.

Broncos linebacker Josey Jewell racked up four defensive stops and eight total tackles, and while the Broncos' defense did have four sacks on the afternoon, that had far more to do with Commanders quarterback Sam Howell holding onto the ball for too long as opposed to Denver winning pass-rush reps quickly.

Rookie spotlight: Commanders first-round rookie cornerback Emmanuel Forbes Jr. had an interception of Russell Wilson in the third quarter while otherwise blanketing opposing wide receivers, allowing just one reception for five yards and often lining up opposite wide receiver Courtland Sutton, who was very quiet until the tail end of the game.

Broncos rookie wide receiver Marvin Mims showed why the team traded up for him in this past year’s draft. He flashed his speed and downfield catch ability with two receptions for 113 yards, with one going for a 60-yard touchdown over the middle where he was just too much for the safety over the top to handle.

Box Score

Passing

Rushing

Receiving