Home / Sports / NFL's Winless Watch: Ranking 0-2 Teams' Playoff Hopes
NFL's Winless Watch: Ranking 0-2 Teams' Playoff Hopes
22 Sep
Summary
- Only 12% of teams starting 0-2 since 2002 have made playoffs.
- Three teams in NFL history won the Super Bowl after an 0-2 start.
- Several 0-2 teams show recent promise despite tough schedules.
Historically, NFL teams that begin a season with an 0-2 record face a steep uphill battle to reach the postseason, with only 12% achieving this feat since 2002. Remarkably, three franchises have managed to win the Super Bowl after such a start: the 1993 Cowboys, 2001 Patriots, and 2007 Giants.
This season, several teams are looking to defy the odds. The Miami Dolphins, despite their current standing, have a favorable upcoming schedule against non-playoff teams from the previous year, focusing on foundational growth under new leadership.
The Tennessee Titans have shown marked improvement, nearly defeating a strong opponent in their recent game. Similarly, the Washington Commanders face uncertainty with quarterback injuries but possess a capable backup in Marcus Mariota.
Other teams like the Atlanta Falcons, Indianapolis Colts, and Los Angeles Chargers are also showing potential. The Falcons hope their offense sparks with Michael Penix Jr.'s return, while the Colts demonstrated resilience in an overtime loss. The Chargers, led by Justin Herbert, are working to find offensive rhythm.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans, both 0-2, have shown resilience in close losses. The Texans, in particular, have a history of overcoming slow starts, having made the playoffs after beginning 0-3 in a previous season and residing in a competitive division.
Despite the statistical improbability, these winless teams are striving to turn their seasons around, with some showing promising performances that suggest a potential playoff push is not entirely out of reach.
