Broncos score wild Hail Mary TD but still come up short on failed 2-point conversion

The Denver Broncos' last-second magic could only take them so far.

After watching the Washington Commanders erase an 18-point first-half lead and pull ahead in the fourth quarter, the Broncos engineered one of the most unlikely plays of the young NFL season with a twice-tipped, 50-yard Hail Mary as time expired. But Denver's ensuing two-point conversion attempt to force overtime fell incomplete, sealing the Commanders' 35-33 win.

The loss dropped the Broncos to 0-2 under first-year coach Sean Payton.

Trailing 35-27 with just three seconds left, Russell Wilson retreated and then heaved a pass deep downfield. His throw came down just inside the 5-yard line and was deflected twice before Broncos receiver Brandon Johnson snagged it out of mid-air at the goal line.

Yet on the two-point conversion attempt, Wilson was unable to connect with Courtland Sutton. The Broncos receiver pleaded for a penalty on Commanders cornerback Benjamin St-Juste, but officials did not throw a flag.

The Commanders moved to 2-0 for the first time since 2011.

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This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Broncos' Hail Mary TD gives hope before failed 2-point try seals loss