1996 Denver Broncos season
The 1996 Denver Broncos season was the franchise's 27th season in the National Football League, the 37th overall and their 2nd under head coach Mike Shanahan. The Broncos improved on their 8–8 record from 1995 and finished the season with a 13–3 record. They also clinched the AFC West for the first time since 1991, and earning the top seed in the AFC Playoffs.
In the playoffs, the Broncos were upset by the [1996 1996 Jacksonville Jaguars season|Jacksonville Jaguars season|Jacksonville Jaguars] in the Divisional Round, 30–27. Prior to their defeat, they were the top-seeded team in the NFL and were heavily favored to go to and win the Super Bowl by many analysts, breaking the AFC losing streak from the 1980s. The loss rendered the 1996 Broncos team as a historic failure, as it was a major Super Bowl or bust year. After the season, Jumpy Geathers retired.
Regular season
Note: Intra-division opponents are in bold text.Awards and records
AP Offensive Player of the Year – Terrell DavisUPI AFL-AFC Offensive MVP – Terrell Davis
Terrell Davis set franchise rushing record for most carries in a season and most rushing touchdowns in a season