The
Denver Broncos have been one of the American
Football Conference's (AFC) most consistent
teams since the mid 70s. From 1977 to
1999 the team reached the playoffs thirteen
times and the Super Bowl six times. The
Broncos are also one of a few teams to
have won the Super Bowl in consecutive
years. The Denver Broncos have won two
Super Bowl titles, the XXXII and XXXIII
editions. The Broncos became charter members
of the American Football League (AFL)
in 1960. Despite strong defensive units
that included cornerback Goose Gonsoulin
and tackles Dave Costa and Bud McFadin,
Denver’s best AFL win-loss record
was 7-7 in 1962. The Broncos joined the
National Football League (NFL) in 1970.
In 1973 the Broncos posted a 7-5 win-loss
record behind head coach John Ralston,
who won the coach of the year award. Running
back Floyd Little and wide receiver Riley
Odoms powered the American Football Conference’s
(AFC) top-rated offense that year.
The Denver Broncos gradually improved
through the 1970s and surprised the league
in 1977 when they won a franchise record
twelve games behind head coach Red Miller.
The team captured its first-ever Western
Division title with the AFC’s top
defense, which was anchored by end Lyle
Alzado, linebacker Randy Gradishar, and
cornerback Louis Wright. Quarterback Craig
Morton piloted a steady offense, and the
Broncos advanced to the Super Bowl, where
they lost to the Dallas Cowboys. Denver
made the playoffs the following two seasons
but fell in the first round each time.
During the 11 years following the strike-shortened
season of 1982, Denver made 7 postseason
appearances. As a rookie, John Elway led
the team to a playoff berth in 1983 and
to 13 victories in 1984. In the latter
year, wide receiver Steve Watson and running
back Sammy Winder each enjoyed 1,000-yard
seasons. Buy
Denver Broncos Tickets.
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