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Sports are often defined by the incredible comebacks, where athletes and teams overcome seemingly insurmountable odds. These comebacks not only captivate fans but also become legendary tales of perseverance and determination. Here are the top five greatest comebacks in sports history, spanning the NFL, NBA, MLB and more.
Super Bowl LI is widely regarded as the greatest comeback in NFL history. The New England Patriots faced the Atlanta Falcons on February 5, 2017. By halftime, the Patriots were trailing 21-3, and the deficit grew to 28-3 midway through the third quarter. However, Tom Brady and the Patriots orchestrated an incredible comeback, scoring 25 unanswered points to tie the game at 28-28 by the end of regulation. In overtime, the Patriots secured a 34-28 victory with a James White touchdown. This marked the first overtime game in Super Bowl history and solidified Brady’s legacy as one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time.
On January 3, 1993, the Buffalo Bills, led by backup quarterback Frank Reich, staged one of the greatest comebacks in NFL playoff history. Facing the Houston Oilers in the AFC Wild Card game, the Bills were down 35-3 early in the third quarter. Reich, stepping in for the injured Jim Kelly and led the Bills on a remarkable run, scoring five touchdowns in the second half to tie the game at 38-38. The game went into overtime, and the Bills won 41-38 with a field goal by Steve Christie. This comeback is often referred to as “The Comeback.”
Tiger Woods’ victory at the 2019 Masters is one of the most inspiring comebacks in sports history. After enduring personal scandals and numerous injuries, including multiple back surgeries, Woods’ career seemed to be over. However, on April 14, 2019, Woods defied the odds and captured his fifth Masters title, his first major championship in 11 years. His final-round 70 at Augusta National Golf Club culminated in a one-shot victory, evoking memories of his dominance in the late 1990s and early 2000s. This comeback not only revitalized Woods’ career but also inspired millions of fans worldwide.
On October 21, 2006, Michigan State made an incredible comeback against Northwestern in college football. Trailing 38-3 in the third quarter, the Spartans seemed destined for a blowout loss. However, they staged a remarkable turnaround, scoring 38 unanswered points to win the game 41-38. Quarterback Drew Stanton led the charge with three touchdown passes, while the defense tightened up to shut down Northwestern’s offense. This comeback set a record for the largest deficit overcome in Division I FBS history and remains one of the most astonishing feats in college football.
In 2004, the Boston Red Sox achieved one of the most dramatic comebacks in MLB history during the American League Championship Series (ALCS) against the New York Yankees. After losing the first three games of the series, the Red Sox faced elimination in Game 4. Down 4-3 in the bottom of the ninth inning, they tied the game and went on to win in extra innings. The Red Sox won the next three games to clinch the series 4-3, becoming the first team in MLB history to overcome a 3-0 deficit in a best-of-seven series. They went on to win the World Series, ending an 86-year championship drought and breaking the “Curse of the Bambino.”
Zach has been a published sports writer since 2018 specializing in college football & basketball, MLB and NFL content for multiple publications.