Broncos beat Panthers 26-21 in close game at Charlotte

The Denver Broncos defeated the Carolina Panthers 26-21 in a close game played in Charlotte, according to WBTV. Bo Nix threw for 237 yards and two touchdowns to lead the Broncos to their fifth consecutive victory.

A key moment came late in the third quarter when Broncos coach Sean Payton won a challenge that helped shift momentum. The Panthers had a first-and-goal at the Denver 1-yard line before the challenge reversed a call.

Denver's defense made a crucial play with 1:24 left when Nik Bonitto strip-sacked Panthers quarterback Bryce Young and recovered the fumble, preventing Carolina from regaining the lead. Nix then secured the win with a third-down QB sneak.

Panthers quarterback Bryce Young completed 28 of 39 passes for 276 yards with three touchdowns and one interception. Darren Waller caught eight passes for 90 yards and a touchdown for Carolina, who now have a 3-5 record.

The Broncos improved to 7-2 and lead the AFC West, continuing their streak of winning close games. Nix credited the team's comfort and toughness in tight moments for their success.

The Panthers took their only lead early in the third quarter on a 15-yard touchdown pass from Young to Waller, but the Broncos regained control after the coach's challenge and defensive stop.