What was the worst loss in NFL history? This question has been debated among football enthusiasts for years, and the answer often varies depending on the criteria used to define “worst.” However, one game stands out as the most lopsided defeat in the history of the National Football League (NFL). In this article, we will explore the details of this historic defeat and the factors that contributed to it.

The game in question took place on September 24, 1967, between the New York Jets and the Baltimore Colts. This matchup was part of the first season of the AFL-NFL merger, which would eventually lead to the creation of the modern NFL. The Colts, led by legendary quarterback Peyton Manning’s father, Archie Manning, were considered the favorites going into the game, and they were not disappointed.

From the opening kickoff, the Colts dominated the Jets. They scored on their first possession, a 13-yard touchdown pass from Archie Manning to tight end Ray Smith. The Jets responded with a field goal, but the Colts quickly answered with another touchdown, this time a 16-yard run by running back Lenny Moore. The Colts’ lead continued to grow as they scored three more touchdowns in the first half, including a 64-yard run by Moore and a 12-yard pass from Manning to wide receiver John Mackey.

At halftime, the Colts led 35-3, and it seemed as if the game was over before it even began. However, the Jets were not ready to give up. They scored two touchdowns in the third quarter, cutting the deficit to 35-17. But the Colts responded with a 22-yard touchdown run by Moore and a 2-yard touchdown pass from Manning to tight end Tom Mendenhall, putting the game out of reach.

By the end of the game, the Colts had a final score of 64-10, which remains the worst loss in NFL history. This stunning defeat was due in part to the Colts’ dominant offense, which scored on 11 of their 15 possessions. The Jets, on the other hand, were unable to stop the Colts’ attack and managed only one touchdown and a field goal throughout the entire game.

Several factors contributed to the Jets’ loss. First, they were playing their first game in the newly merged league, which was still adjusting to the rules and style of play. Second, the Colts had a more experienced and talented roster, as they had won the previous season’s AFL championship. Finally, the Jets’ quarterback, Joe Namath, was injured in the game and was unable to lead his team effectively.

Despite the lopsided score, the Jets’ fans were proud of their team’s effort and resilience. The Colts’ historic victory remains a testament to their offensive prowess and the challenges faced by the Jets in their first season of the merger. What was the worst loss in NFL history? The answer is clear: the 1967 New York Jets vs. Baltimore Colts game, a game that will forever be remembered as one of the most one-sided contests in the history of professional football.