As the Denver Broncos prepare for their upcoming Divisional Round game against the Buffalo Bills, the team reflects on notable moments from past playoff appearances. Since their first postseason berth in 1977, the Broncos have recorded 10 wins at this stage.
In their inaugural playoff appearance in 1977, Denver secured a 34-21 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers. The game was tied in the fourth quarter before Denver scored the final 13 points to advance. Tom Jackson made three takeaways, and the Broncos intercepted Terry Bradshaw three times, limiting him to 177 passing yards.
Five years after “The Drive,” John Elway led another comeback known as “The Drive II” during the 1991 AFC Divisional Round. Trailing by one point with just over two minutes left, Elway started a drive from his own two-yard line and converted two fourth downs. This set up David Treadwell’s game-winning field goal, sending Denver to its fourth AFC Championship Game of Elway’s career.
The path to Denver’s first Super Bowl title included a significant road win during the 1997 Divisional Round at Arrowhead Stadium against the Kansas City Chiefs. Terrell Davis scored twice and Darrien Gordon defended a crucial pass in the final seconds to secure a 14-10 victory.
Champ Bailey’s memorable play came in the 2005 Divisional Round against New England. With Denver leading late in the third quarter, Bailey intercepted Tom Brady in the end zone and returned it for 100 yards. Mike Anderson scored on the next play, giving Denver an eleven-point lead. The Broncos forced five turnovers that day and handed Brady his first postseason loss while ending New England’s ten-game playoff winning streak.
Most recently, during their Super Bowl 50 run in 2015, Denver overcame both halftime and fourth-quarter deficits to defeat Pittsburgh 23-16. A key moment came when Bradley Roby forced a fumble from Fitzgerald Toussaint with DeMarcus Ware recovering. This turnover allowed Denver to take control of the game and hold onto their lead.
These moments highlight significant achievements as Denver seeks another successful chapter in its playoff history.
