The Denver Broncos dominated their division during the Peyton Manning era, winning the AFC West in each of the quarterback’s four seasons with the team (2012-2015).
During the four Manning years, the Broncos went 7-1 against the Las Vegas Raiders, 7-1 against the Kansas City Chiefs and 7-1 against the Los Angeles Chargers. That 21-3 overall record in the division helped Denver secure the No. 1 seed in the AFC playoffs three times in four years.
The Broncos, of course, reached two Super Bowls during that time, winning Super Bowl 50 following the 2015 season. After defeating the Carolina Panthers 24-10 to claim his second career Super Bowl victory, Manning retired during the 2016 offseason.
Denver dominated the division with Manning. Since his retirement, the Broncos have been an embarrassment in the AFC West.
Denver is 8-6 against the Los Angeles Chargers, 4-11 against the Las Vegas Raiders and 0-15 against the Kansas City Chiefs since Manning retired. That 12-32 overall record in the division has contributed to the Broncos missing the playoffs in seven-straight seasons since Manning hung up his cleats.
This season, Denver has started 0-2 in the AFC West and the Broncos are set to host the Chiefs in Week 8. It’d be nice to have Manning back under center these days.
Broncos vs. Raiders
With Peyton Manning: 7-1
Since Manning’s retirement: 4-11
Broncos vs. Chiefs
With Peyton Manning: 7-1
Since Manning’s retirement: 0-15
Broncos vs. Chargers
With Peyton Manning: 7-1
Since Manning’s retirement: 8-6
Broncos vs. AFC West (2012-2015)
Peyton Manning era: 21-3
Broncos vs. AFC West (2016-2023)
Since Peyton Manning’s retirement: 12-32