Top 5 Unforgettable NFL Comebacks: Reliving the Magic
The NFL is a league defined by its unpredictable nature, where fortunes can change in an instant. While dominant victories are memorable, it’s the improbable comebacks that truly etch themselves into the annals of football history. These are the games where teams stared defeat in the face, only to rise from the ashes and snatch victory from the jaws of defeat. Get ready to relive the magic of the top 5 most unforgettable NFL comebacks.
1. Minnesota Vikings vs. Indianapolis Colts (2022)
The Setup: Week 15 of the 2022 season saw the Minnesota Vikings hosting the Indianapolis Colts. What transpired was nothing short of historic. The Colts, led by quarterback Matt Ryan, stormed to a 33-0 lead by halftime, seemingly putting the game out of reach. The Vikings looked lifeless, with turnovers and defensive breakdowns plaguing their performance.
The Comeback: Quarterback Kirk Cousins spearheaded an epic resurgence. The Vikings began chipping away at the deficit, scoring 36 points between the third and fourth quarters while holding the Colts to just 3 points. A blocked punt returned for a touchdown and an interception returned for a touchdown contributed to the Vikings’ early woes, but the second half was a different story. Cousins threw for 460 yards and four touchdowns, including a crucial 64-yard touchdown pass to Dalvin Cook. Greg Joseph’s 40-yard field goal in overtime sealed the deal, completing the largest comeback in NFL history with a final score of 39-36.
The Magic: This game was a testament to resilience and never giving up. The Vikings’ ability to overcome a 33-point deficit, coupled with the sheer improbability of the situation, makes this comeback an instant classic.
2. Buffalo Bills vs. Houston Oilers (1992)
The Setup: The 1992 AFC Wild Card game between the Buffalo Bills and the Houston Oilers is simply known as “The Comeback.” The Oilers, led by quarterback Warren Moon, dominated the first half, building a seemingly insurmountable 35-3 lead early in the third quarter. Bills’ starting quarterback Jim Kelly was out with an injury, and backup Frank Reich was under center.
The Comeback: Reich, despite his limited experience, orchestrated a comeback for the ages. He threw four touchdown passes in the second half, three of them to Andre Reed, igniting the Bills’ offense and electrifying the home crowd. The Bills scored 28 points in the third quarter alone. While the Oilers managed to tie the game with a late field goal, the Bills ultimately prevailed in overtime, winning 41-38.
The Magic: This game is legendary for its sheer improbability and the Bills’ unwavering determination. Reich’s performance, coupled with the electric atmosphere at Rich Stadium, cemented this comeback as one of the greatest in NFL history.
3. New England Patriots vs. Atlanta Falcons (Super Bowl LI, 2017)
The Setup: Super Bowl LI between the New England Patriots and the Atlanta Falcons appeared to be a one-sided affair for much of the game. The Falcons, led by quarterback Matt Ryan, built a commanding 28-3 lead midway through the third quarter. The Patriots’ offense, led by quarterback Tom Brady, struggled to find its rhythm, and the Falcons’ defense seemed impenetrable.
The Comeback: Brady, however, had other plans. He led the Patriots on an improbable comeback, scoring 25 unanswered points to tie the game late in the fourth quarter. Key plays included a crucial forced fumble by Dont’a Hightower and a spectacular catch by Julian Edelman. James White’s touchdown run in overtime sealed the victory for the Patriots, completing the largest comeback in Super Bowl history with a final score of 34-28.
The Magic: This game is iconic for its dramatic swings and the Patriots’ unwavering belief in themselves. Brady’s performance, coupled with the magnitude of the Super Bowl stage, elevated this comeback to legendary status.
4. Indianapolis Colts vs. Kansas City Chiefs (2013)
The Setup: In the 2013 AFC Wild Card game, the Indianapolis Colts, led by quarterback Andrew Luck, faced off against the Kansas City Chiefs. The Chiefs jumped out to a 38-10 lead early in the third quarter, appearing to have the game firmly in hand.
The Comeback: Luck orchestrated a remarkable comeback, throwing for 443 yards and four touchdowns. The Colts chipped away at the deficit, scoring 35 unanswered points to take the lead late in the fourth quarter. A crucial fumble recovery by the Colts’ defense helped swing the momentum, and Luck’s touchdown pass to T.Y. Hilton with just over four minutes remaining proved to be the game-winner. The Colts won 45-44.
The Magic: This game was a showcase of Luck’s talent and the Colts’ resilience. Their ability to overcome a 28-point deficit, coupled with the high-scoring nature of the game, made this comeback a memorable one.
5. Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Los Angeles Chargers (2022)
The Setup: The 2022 AFC Wild Card Playoff game between the Jacksonville Jaguars and the Los Angeles Chargers looked like a route. The Chargers jumped out to a 27-0 lead after the first half, with Trevor Lawrence throwing four interceptions.
The Comeback: Lawrence bounced back in the second half, throwing four touchdown passes. The Jaguars scored on their final five possessions and rallied for a 31-30 victory after a game-winning field goal.
The Magic: This game was a testament to the Jaguars’ resilience and Lawrence’s ability to overcome a poor start. The Chargers’ inability to hold onto a big lead added to the drama, making this comeback one of the most memorable in recent playoff history.
These unforgettable NFL comebacks serve as a reminder that in football, anything is possible. They showcase the resilience, determination, and sheer magic that make the game so captivating. These games will continue to be replayed and discussed for generations to come.