As the NFL season charges into Week 4, the league has already delivered a Week 3 slate for the ages. On Sunday, September 28, 2026, fans were treated to a record-tying 12 games decided by eight points or fewer, including a primetime classic in Denver and a shocking upset in Washington. According to insights gathered by Vulius Sports, the action underscored the fine margins between contention and despair in the NFL.
Broncos Deny Rams in Instant Classic
In a game that felt like a playoff preview, the Denver Broncos edged the Los Angeles Rams 30-26 at Empower Field at Mile High. The Rams dominated early, racing to a 16-0 halftime lead behind MVP quarterback Matt Stafford. But the Broncos clawed back, setting the stage for a wild fourth quarter. With just over five minutes left, safety Talanoa Hufanga intercepted Stafford and returned it 66 yards for a touchdown, giving Denver its first lead. Stafford responded with a 48-yard touchdown strike to receiver Konata Mumpfield, but Broncos quarterback Bo Nix powered into the end zone on the ensuing drive. Stafford had one last chance, but Hufanga picked him off again with two seconds left to seal the win. It was Hufanga's first multi-interception game in his six-year career.
Commanders Shock Defending Champion Seahawks
In a stunning turn of events, the Washington Commanders upset the defending Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks 33-31, ending Seattle's 12-game win streak. Washington, playing without injured quarterback Jayden Daniels (dislocated elbow), leaned on veteran backup Marcus Mariota, who threw three touchdown passes. The Seahawks fought back to tie the game in the fourth quarter, but Sam Darnold, returning from a one-game absence, threw his second interception of the day, which linebacker Kain Medrano returned 50 yards for a touchdown. The Commanders held on for a crucial victory that keeps their playoff hopes alive.
Ravens Outlast Cowboys in Rio Thriller
The NFL's international series continued in Rio de Janeiro, where the Baltimore Ravens defeated the Dallas Cowboys 34-31 in a back-and-forth affair at the iconic Maracana Stadium. Derrick Henry scored two touchdowns to help Baltimore build a 24-13 lead, but Dallas stormed back, taking the lead twice in the fourth quarter. A Cowboys field goal tied the game with seven seconds left, but Lamar Jackson completed a 27-yard pass to set up Tyler Loop's 56-yard game-winning field goal as time expired. The win moves Baltimore to 2-1, and all four AFC North teams now share that record. The game also featured a halftime performance by Ricky Martin and Brazilian singer Pedro Sampaio, with soccer star Neymar in attendance.
Watson Wins Over Browns Fans
Deshaun Watson's rocky tenure in Cleveland may be turning a corner. After leading the Browns to a comeback win last week, Watson did it again in Cleveland's home opener, a 21-18 victory over the Carolina Panthers. Watson engineered a 65-yard game-winning drive, capped by a 14-yard touchdown pass to tight end Harold Fannin Jr. "The past is the past," Watson said. "If we look forward, build off this win, come back Thursday night and get another big one, we can make something special for this city." The Browns host the Pittsburgh Steelers on Thursday, and a win could further endear Watson to the Dawg Pound.
Steelers, Raiders, and Unbeatens Shine
The Steelers, behind three Aaron Rodgers touchdown passes and a strip-sack by Derrick Harmon, edged the Cincinnati Bengals 30-27. The Las Vegas Raiders improved to 3-0 for the first time since 2025, matching their win total from last season, as Kirk Cousins threw three touchdowns in a 35-27 comeback win over the New Orleans Saints. Other unbeatens: the Buffalo Bills (Josh Allen ran for two scores), Kansas City Chiefs (Travis Kelce caught a touchdown), and San Francisco 49ers (Brock Purdy threw four touchdowns). The Minnesota Vikings also moved to 3-0 despite an ankle injury to Justin Jefferson.
As Week 3 concludes, the NFL landscape is already shaping up to be unpredictable and thrilling. For more in-depth analysis and exclusive merchandise, stay tuned to Vulius Sports.
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