Unbelievable NFL Playoff Comebacks: Ranking the Greatest Upsets in History
The NFL playoffs are synonymous with drama, intensity, and unforgettable moments. While some games unfold as expected, others defy all logic, etching themselves into the annals of football history as unbelievable comebacks and stunning upsets. These are the games that remind us why we love the sport – the never-say-die attitude, the improbable plays, and the sheer unpredictability that can turn a seemingly certain defeat into a glorious victory.
The Improbable Stampede: Bills Overcome Oilers in Epic Fashion
Topping our list is the “The Comeback” game between the Buffalo Bills and the Houston Oilers in the 1992 AFC Wild Card round. On January 3, 1993, the Bills, playing at home, found themselves in a seemingly insurmountable hole, trailing 35-3 early in the third quarter. Backup quarterback Frank Reich, replacing the injured Jim Kelly, orchestrated one of the most remarkable turnarounds in sports history.
Reich, who also engineered the largest comeback in college football history while at Maryland, led the Bills on an improbable scoring spree. The Bills scored 35 unanswered points to take a 38-35 lead. Although the Oilers managed to tie the game with a field goal, Steve Christie’s overtime field goal sealed a 41-38 victory for Buffalo. Reich finished the game with 21 completions on 34 attempts for 289 yards and four touchdowns. Wide receiver Andre Reed was the primary beneficiary, hauling in eight catches for 136 yards and three touchdowns. This 32-point comeback remains the largest in NFL playoff history and the second-largest overall, showcasing the Bills’ resilience and offensive firepower.
Luck’s Heroics: Colts Shock Chiefs in Thrilling Comeback
In the 2013 AFC Wild Card game, the Indianapolis Colts, led by quarterback Andrew Luck, pulled off a stunning 28-point comeback against the Kansas City Chiefs. Trailing 38-10 early in the third quarter, Luck led the Colts on a furious rally.
Luck threw for four touchdowns and even scored one himself on a fumble recovery. The defining moment came when Luck connected with T.Y. Hilton for a 64-yard game-winning touchdown, capping off a 45-44 victory. This game highlighted Luck’s exceptional talent and the Colts’ refusal to surrender, solidifying its place as one of the greatest playoff comebacks ever witnessed.
Jaguars Roar Back: Chargers Stunned in Jacksonville
More recently, the 2022 AFC Wild Card game saw the Jacksonville Jaguars mount an incredible 27-point comeback against the Los Angeles Chargers. After falling behind 27-0 in the first half, Trevor Lawrence, who had thrown four interceptions in the first half, turned the game around.
Lawrence led the Jaguars on a scoring spree, throwing four consecutive touchdown passes to four different receivers. Riley Patterson’s game-winning field goal as time expired completed the 31-30 victory. This comeback was the third-largest in NFL playoff history, demonstrating the Jaguars’ tenacity and Lawrence’s ability to overcome adversity.
Brady’s Super Bowl Magic: Patriots Erase Falcons’ Lead
Super Bowl LI witnessed one of the most improbable comebacks in Super Bowl history, as Tom Brady and the New England Patriots overcame a 28-3 deficit against the Atlanta Falcons. The Falcons dominated the first three quarters, but the Patriots, led by their unflappable quarterback, mounted a relentless comeback.
Brady led the Patriots to 31 unanswered points, tying the game in the final minutes and ultimately winning 34-28 in overtime. This victory showcased Brady’s legendary status and the Patriots’ unwavering belief in their ability to win, regardless of the circumstances.
Other Memorable Playoff Upsets
While the comebacks listed above stand out for their sheer magnitude, numerous other playoff games have featured stunning upsets:
- 2010 NFC Wild Card: Seahawks vs. Saints: The 7-9 Seahawks, led by Marshawn Lynch’s “Beast Quake” run, upset the defending Super Bowl champion New Orleans Saints 41-36.
- 2002 NFC Wild Card: 49ers vs. Giants: The San Francisco 49ers overcame a 24-point deficit to defeat the New York Giants 39-38.
- 2011 AFC Wild Card: Broncos vs. Steelers: Tim Tebow led the Denver Broncos to an overtime victory against the heavily favored Pittsburgh Steelers.
- 2023 NFC Wild Card: Packers vs. Cowboys: The Green Bay Packers defeated the Dallas Cowboys 48-32. Jordan Love threw for 272 yards and three touchdowns.
These games, along with many others, exemplify the unpredictable nature of the NFL playoffs and the potential for any team to rise to the occasion and achieve the seemingly impossible.
The NFL playoffs are a stage where legends are made, and history is written. The unbelievable comebacks and stunning upsets that have unfolded over the years serve as a testament to the enduring appeal of the sport and the unwavering spirit of the teams and players who compete for the ultimate prize.