The Broncos' first possession began at the Washington 43-yard line after they recovered a fumble. Denver wasted little time scoring, needing four plays for a 7-0 lead after tailback Tatum Bell ran for a 34-yard touchdown. The Redskins answered with one of their best drives of the season, going 72 yards on 13 plays and tying it on a two-yard pass from Mark Brunell to H-back Mike Sellers.

The Broncos battered the Redskins' defense with a 78-yard scoring drive that ended with a five-yard touchdown pass from Jake Plummer to wide receiver Ashley Lelie in the right side of the end zone. Plummer completed a 31-yard pass to tight end Jeb Putzier on the drive. The Redskins got a 34-yard field goal from Nick Novak late in the quarter to cut it to 14-10.

The Redskins had a great scoring opportunity midway through the quarter after forcing the Broncos to punt from deep in their territory. Washington got the ball at the Broncos 49-yard line and moved to the 20, but Nick Novak's 38-yard field goal attempt was blocked. On Denver's ensuing possession, Tatum Bell broke loose for a 55-yard touchdown run on third and five for a 21-10 lead.

The Redskins cut the lead to eight when Novak kicked a 36-yard field goal midway through the quarter. They got the ball back soon after, thanks to a defensive stand. Washington then mounted a 94-yard drive culminating in an 11-yard touchdown pass from Brunell to H-back Chris Cooley. The Redskins went for two points to tie, but Brunell's pass was tipped and fell incomplete.