Colts Stun Falcons in Overtime Thriller in Berlin

The Indianapolis Colts pulled off a dramatic 30–27 overtime victory against the Atlanta Falcons in Berlin, sealing one of the most thrilling finishes of the 2025 NFL International Series.

In a game that had everything - turnovers, explosive plays, and a comeback for the ages - quarterback Anthony Richardson led the Colts from a 10-point fourth-quarter deficit to snatch victory in front of a raucous European crowd at Olympiastadion.

“We just kept believing,” Richardson said after the win. “Coach told us to fight for every yard, and that’s what we did.”

How It Happened

The Falcons seemed in control for much of the game behind Desmond Ridder, who threw for 245 yards and two touchdowns, including a beautiful 40-yard strike to Drake London early in the third quarter. Atlanta’s defense also limited the Colts to field goals through much of the first half, heading into the break up 17–9.

But Indianapolis refused to fold. Richardson engineered a 10-play, 85-yard drive in the fourth quarter, capped by a Jonathan Taylor touchdown run that cut the deficit to 24–20.

Moments later, Zaire Franklin forced a fumble that flipped momentum entirely. Richardson capitalized with a precision pass to Michael Pittman Jr. in the back corner of the end zone, giving the Colts their first lead at 27–24.

The Falcons forced overtime with a last-second field goal, but in the extra period, the Colts’ defense stiffened. After stopping Atlanta near midfield, Richardson marched Indianapolis 62 yards downfield, setting up Matt Gay’s game-winning 33-yard field goal to seal the upset.

“We wanted to show Europe what Colts football is about,” Taylor said postgame. “Toughness, belief, and finishing strong.”

Key Performers

  • Anthony Richardson (QB, Colts) — 23/35, 287 yards, 2 TDs, 1 INT, plus 56 rushing yards.
  • Jonathan Taylor (RB, Colts) — 114 total yards, 1 TD.
  • Michael Pittman Jr. (WR, Colts) — 8 catches, 109 yards, 1 TD.
  • Desmond Ridder (QB, Falcons) — 22/31, 245 yards, 2 TDs, 1 INT.

The Atmosphere in Berlin

Sunday’s game marked the first-ever NFL regular-season overtime clash in Germany, with more than 67,000 fans in attendance. The neutral crowd brought Premier League-style energy, waving both Colts and Falcons banners as chants of “Defense! Defense!” echoed through the stands.

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell hailed the game as “a showcase of how international football has grown,” confirming plans for additional fixtures in Berlin and Madrid next season.

“The energy here was unbelievable,” said Colts head coach Shane Steichen. “You could feel the emotion from kickoff to the last snap.”

What It Means

The win keeps Indianapolis in the AFC playoff picture at 6–4, while Atlanta drops to 5–5, a costly loss for a team trying to stay in contention in the NFC South.

The Colts now return home to face the Houston Texans, while the Falcons will regroup before hosting the New Orleans Saints next week.

The Takeaway

The Colts’ Berlin victory wasn’t just a win — it was a statement. Against the odds, they turned a neutral-site showcase into one of the most unforgettable moments of the NFL’s global expansion.

“We came to Germany to play our hearts out,” Richardson said. “And we’re going home with something special.”

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