In the history of the National Football League (NFL), there have been numerous instances where underdog teams have defied the odds and pulled off remarkable upsets against heavily favored opponents. From Super Bowl stunners to regular-season surprises, here are six of the most memorable upsets in NFL history, each leaving a lasting impression on fans and defying all NFL odds alike.
Super Bowl III – New York Jets vs. Baltimore Colts:
Super Bowl III remains one of the most iconic upsets in NFL history. The heavily favored Baltimore Colts, led by quarterback Johnny Unitas, faced off against the upstart New York Jets, led by quarterback Joe Namath. Despite being 18-point underdogs, Namath famously guaranteed victory for the Jets before the game. In a shocking turn of events, the Jets delivered on Namath’s promise, defeating the Colts 16-7 and solidifying their place in football lore.
Super Bowl XLII – New York Giants vs. New England Patriots:
Super Bowl XLII featured a David vs. Goliath matchup between the undefeated New England Patriots and the wild-card New York Giants. The Patriots, led by quarterback Tom Brady, were seeking to complete a perfect 19-0 season. However, the Giants, led by quarterback Eli Manning, had other plans. In a thrilling game marked by Manning’s miraculous escape from a sack and subsequent completion to David Tyree with the ball pinned to his helmet, the Giants stunned the football world by defeating the Patriots 17-14 and spoiling their perfect season.
Super Bowl XXXII – Denver Broncos vs. Green Bay Packers:
Super Bowl XXXII featured an unlikely showdown between the Denver Broncos and the defending champion Green Bay Packers. Led by quarterback Brett Favre, the Packers were favored to win their second consecutive Super Bowl. However, the Broncos, led by quarterback John Elway, mounted a determined effort. In a hard-fought game, the Broncos prevailed 31-24, with Elway securing his first Super Bowl victory and ending the AFC’s 13-game losing streak in the championship game.
Super Bowl XLIV – New Orleans Saints vs. Indianapolis Colts:
Super Bowl XLIV pitted the high-powered offense of the Indianapolis Colts, led by quarterback Peyton Manning, against the underdog New Orleans Saints, making their first-ever Super Bowl appearance. Despite the odds stacked against them in the bracket, the Saints, led by quarterback Drew Brees, executed a game plan that included a successful onside kick to open the second half. In a thrilling contest, the Saints emerged victorious 31-17, securing their first Super Bowl championship in franchise history.
Super Bowl XXXVI – New England Patriots vs. St. Louis Rams:
Super Bowl XXXVI featured the underdog New England Patriots facing off against the high-flying St. Louis Rams, known as the “Greatest Show on Turf.” Led by quarterback Tom Brady and a stout defense, the Patriots shocked the football world by defeating the Rams 20-17. The game-winning field goal by kicker Adam Vinatieri as time expired marked the beginning of the Patriots’ dynasty under head coach Bill Belichick and quarterback Tom Brady.
1980 NFC Championship Game – Philadelphia Eagles vs. Dallas Cowboys:
The 1980 NFC Championship Game between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Dallas Cowboys is remembered as one of the greatest upsets in NFL playoff history. The Cowboys, led by quarterback Roger Staubach, were heavy favorites to win. However, the Eagles, led by quarterback Ron Jaworski, dominated the game, defeating the Cowboys 20-7 to advance to Super Bowl XV. The victory solidified the Eagles’ place as legitimate contenders and remains a cherished memory for Philadelphia fans.
These six upsets serve as reminders that in the NFL, anything can happen on any given Sunday. From Super Bowl stunners to playoff surprises, these moments of triumph for the underdog continue to inspire football fans and showcase the unpredictable nature of America’s most popular sport.
