The NFL Divisional Round is where the cream of the league rises, but it’s also where dreams can shatter. History has shown that even the most dominant teams can be humbled by determined underdogs, leaving fans with unforgettable moments.
Here’s a ranking of the four biggest upsets in NFL Divisional Round history, showcasing underdog stories and game-defining performances.
4. 2019 AFC Divisional Playoffs: Tennessee Titans Topple The Top-Seeded Baltimore Ravens
The 2019 Baltimore Ravens were a juggernaut. With a 14-2 record, they had the league’s highest-scoring offense, averaging 33.2 points per game. Quarterback Lamar Jackson was the unanimous MVP, thanks to his record-breaking season, which included 3,127 passing yards, 36 touchdowns, and over 1,200 rushing yards. Baltimore set an NFL record with 3,296 team rushing yards, and their 12-game win streak had many penciling them in for a Super Bowl run.
Enter the Tennessee Titans, a 9-7 wild-card team led by Mike Vrabel. After dethroning the defending Super Bowl champion Patriots in the Wild Card Round, Tennessee carried their momentum into Baltimore. Running back Derrick Henry was unstoppable, bulldozing the Ravens’ defense for 195 rushing yards while averaging 6.5 yards per carry. He even threw a jump-pass touchdown to Corey Davis in a clever trick play. Meanwhile, Tennessee’s defense contained Jackson, forcing two interceptions, a fumble, and multiple fourth-down stops. The Titans won convincingly, 28-12, as Baltimore was outgained and outplayed. This upset reminded fans that playoff football is a different beast.
3. 2012 AFC Divisional Playoffs: Baltimore Ravens Shock The Denver Broncos In Double Overtime
Peyton Manning’s arrival in Denver transformed the Broncos into instant contenders. The team finished 13-3 in 2012, riding an 11-game win streak into the playoffs. Manning, with over 4,600 passing yards and 37 touchdowns, revived Denver’s offense, while their defense, led by Von Miller and Champ Bailey, ranked second in points allowed per game (18.1). As the AFC’s top seed, the Broncos seemed destined for the Super Bowl.
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Facing the Baltimore Ravens, who had limped into the playoffs with a 10-6 record, Denver was a clear favorite. But Baltimore quarterback Joe Flacco had other ideas. Down 35-28 with under a minute left in regulation, Flacco launched a miraculous 70-yard touchdown pass to Jacoby Jones, tying the game and silencing the Mile High crowd. In the second overtime, Justin Tucker nailed a 47-yard field goal to seal a 38-35 victory. The Ravens’ defense also held its ground, intercepting Manning twice, including a crucial pick by Corey Graham. Baltimore’s determination in this marathon game set the tone for their eventual Super Bowl XLVII victory.
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2. 1996 AFC Divisional Playoffs: Jacksonville Jaguars Stun The Denver Broncos (1996)
The Denver Broncos dominated the 1996 regular season under head coach Mike Shanahan, finishing with a 13-3 record. Quarterback John Elway threw for 26 touchdowns while running back Terrell Davis added 1,538 rushing yards. Denver’s defense was equally formidable, finishing fourth in points allowed. As heavy favorites, the Broncos were expected to steamroll the Jacksonville Jaguars, an expansion team in only their second year of existence.
The Jaguars, who entered the playoffs at 9-7, were unfazed. After falling behind 12-0 in the first quarter, Jacksonville mounted a remarkable comeback. Quarterback Mark Brunell was clutch, throwing for 245 yards and a touchdown while adding 44 yards on the ground. Running back Natrone Means was the workhorse, rushing for 140 yards and a score. Jacksonville’s defense forced two turnovers and held Denver to just 66 rushing yards. The Jaguars’ 30-27 win was one of the greatest upsets in playoff history, propelling the team to the AFC Championship Game.
1. 1979 AFC Divisional Playoffs: Houston Oilers Overcome The San Diego Chargers (1979)
The 1979 Houston Oilers faced an uphill battle before even stepping onto the field against the San Diego Chargers. Star running back Earl Campbell, who had rushed for 1,697 yards during the regular season, was sidelined with an injury. Quarterback Dan Pastorini and wide receiver Kenny Burrough, two other important players, were also unavailable. Meanwhile, the Chargers were 12-4, boasting the NFL’s top offense behind quarterback Dan Fouts, who threw for 4,082 yards and 24 touchdowns.
Despite being heavy underdogs, the Oilers delivered a defensive masterclass. Safety Vernon Perry had a career-defining performance, intercepting Fouts four times and blocking a field goal attempt. Houston’s offense capitalized on these turnovers, with quarterback Gifford Nielsen throwing a crucial 47-yard touchdown to Mike Renfro. The Oilers’ 17-14 victory shocked the football world as they overcame overwhelming odds to topple the AFC’s top seed.
Also Read: Top 6 Biggest Upsets In NFL History
