The Broncos are winless after two games for the first time in two decades. What does that mean for their playoff chances this year?
A total of 98 teams have started a season 0-2 since 2007, per OddsShark.com. Among that group, just 12 have reached the postseason (12.2 percent).
Now, a quick history lesson. The 2019 Broncos join four other teams in the team’s NFL history to start a season 0-2. The Broncos also lost at least their first two games during the 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966 and 1968 seasons while playing in the AFL.
Here are the four 0-2 starts during the Broncos’ NFL era:
1999: The John Elway retirement hangover was real. After winning back-to-back Super Bowls, these Broncos started the year 0-4. Denver rebounded to win six of its final 12 games.
1994: In Wade Phillips’ second and final season as head coach, the team opened 0-4. Denver finished 7-9.
1974: Running back Otis Armstrong gained 1,812 yards rushing/receiving and scored 12 touchdowns that season but Denver started 0-2-1, including a 35-35 tie against Pittsburgh. The Broncos finished 7-6-1.
1971: In the team’s second year of NFL play, it started 0-3-1. The Broncos opened the year with a 10-10 tie against the Dolphins. Denver finished 4-9-1.
Today, those in apountry still searching for hope can look to the 2007 Giants for a glimmer. Their season began 0-2 with double-digit losses to the Cowboys and Packers. But Eli Manning quarterbacked an unlikely turnaround and the Giants upset New England in the Super Bowl.
UPHILL CLIMB
NFL teams since 2007 to start the season 0-2 and reach the playoffs.
2018 — Seahawks, Texans
2017 — Saints
2016 — Dolphins
2015 — Texans, Seahawks
2014 — Colts
2013 — Panthers
2009-12 — None
2008 — Chargers, Dolphins, Vikings
2007 — Giants*
*Won Super Bowl XLII
