Skip to main content
Advertising

From the archive: Photos from the Broncos' three AFC Championship Games against the Browns

Flip through Broncos history with photos from the team's three AFC Championship victories against the Browns in the 1986, '87 and '89 postseasons.

Linebacker Tom Jackson tackles a Browns ball carrier during the January 11, 1987 AFC Championship overtime win (23-20) at Cleveland.
1 / 70

Linebacker Tom Jackson tackles a Browns ball carrier during the January 11, 1987 AFC Championship overtime win (23-20) at Cleveland.

Rod Hanna
Tom Jackson and Keith Bishop during the Conference Championship against the Cleveland Browns in January 1987. Photo by Rod Hanna
2 / 70

Tom Jackson and Keith Bishop during the Conference Championship against the Cleveland Browns in January 1987. Photo by Rod Hanna

Rod Hanna
Running back Sammy Winder runs the ball during the January 11, 1987 AFC Championship overtime win (23-30) in Cleveland.
3 / 70

Running back Sammy Winder runs the ball during the January 11, 1987 AFC Championship overtime win (23-30) in Cleveland.

Rod Hanna
Running back Sammy Winder runs the ball during the January 11, 1987 AFC Championship overtime win (23-20) at Cleveland.
4 / 70

Running back Sammy Winder runs the ball during the January 11, 1987 AFC Championship overtime win (23-20) at Cleveland.

Rod Hanna
Denver Broncos running back Gerald Willhite (47) carries the football during the Broncos 23-20 overtime victory over the Cleveland Browns in the 1986 AFC Championship Game on January 11, 1987 at Cleveland Municipal Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)
5 / 70

Denver Broncos running back Gerald Willhite (47) carries the football during the Broncos 23-20 overtime victory over the Cleveland Browns in the 1986 AFC Championship Game on January 11, 1987 at Cleveland Municipal Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)

Al Messerschmidt Archive
Denver Broncos linebacker Rickey Hunley (98) runs with the football after intercepting a pass during the Broncos 23-20 overtime victory over the Cleveland Browns in the 1986 AFC Championship Game on January 11, 1987 at Cleveland Municipal Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)
6 / 70

Denver Broncos linebacker Rickey Hunley (98) runs with the football after intercepting a pass during the Broncos 23-20 overtime victory over the Cleveland Browns in the 1986 AFC Championship Game on January 11, 1987 at Cleveland Municipal Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)

Al Messerschmidt Archive
Denver Broncos running back Sammy Winder (23) carries the football during the Broncos 23-20 overtime victory over the Cleveland Browns in the 1986 AFC Championship Game on January 11, 1987 at Cleveland Municipal Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio. (AP Photo/Vernon Biever)
7 / 70

Denver Broncos running back Sammy Winder (23) carries the football during the Broncos 23-20 overtime victory over the Cleveland Browns in the 1986 AFC Championship Game on January 11, 1987 at Cleveland Municipal Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio. (AP Photo/Vernon Biever)

Vernon Biever
Hall of Fame quarterback John Elway (7) of the Denver Broncos taking a break on the sideline during the Broncos 23-20 overtime victory over the Cleveland Browns in the 1986 AFC Championship Game on January 11, 1987 at Cleveland Municipal Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)
8 / 70

Hall of Fame quarterback John Elway (7) of the Denver Broncos taking a break on the sideline during the Broncos 23-20 overtime victory over the Cleveland Browns in the 1986 AFC Championship Game on January 11, 1987 at Cleveland Municipal Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)

Al Messerschmidt Archive
Denver Broncos linebacker Jim Ryan (50) runs with the football after intercepting a pass during the Broncos 23-20 overtime victory over the Cleveland Browns in the 1986 AFC Championship Game on January 11, 1987 at Cleveland Municipal Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)
9 / 70

Denver Broncos linebacker Jim Ryan (50) runs with the football after intercepting a pass during the Broncos 23-20 overtime victory over the Cleveland Browns in the 1986 AFC Championship Game on January 11, 1987 at Cleveland Municipal Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)

Al Messerschmidt Archive
Denver Broncos defensive end Rulon Jones (75) is ready for action at the line of scrimmage during the Broncos 23-20 overtime victory over the Cleveland Browns in the 1986 AFC Championship Game on January 11, 1987 at Cleveland Municipal Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)
10 / 70

Denver Broncos defensive end Rulon Jones (75) is ready for action at the line of scrimmage during the Broncos 23-20 overtime victory over the Cleveland Browns in the 1986 AFC Championship Game on January 11, 1987 at Cleveland Municipal Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)

Al Messerschmidt Archive
Hall of Fame quarterback John Elway (7) of the Denver Broncos runs with the football after being flushed from the pocket and gains 34 yards during the Broncos 23-20 overtime victory over the Cleveland Browns in the 1986 AFC Championship Game on January 11, 1987 at Cleveland Municipal Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)
11 / 70

Hall of Fame quarterback John Elway (7) of the Denver Broncos runs with the football after being flushed from the pocket and gains 34 yards during the Broncos 23-20 overtime victory over the Cleveland Browns in the 1986 AFC Championship Game on January 11, 1987 at Cleveland Municipal Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)

Al Messerschmidt Archive
Denver Broncos running back Steve Sewell (30) gives his team a first and goal during the Broncos 23-20 overtime victory over the Cleveland Browns in the 1986 AFC Championship Game on January 11, 1987 at Cleveland Municipal Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)
12 / 70

Denver Broncos running back Steve Sewell (30) gives his team a first and goal during the Broncos 23-20 overtime victory over the Cleveland Browns in the 1986 AFC Championship Game on January 11, 1987 at Cleveland Municipal Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)

Al Messerschmidt Archive
Quarterback John Elway (7) of the Denver Broncos talks over strategy with head coach Dan Reeves during a 23 - 20 overtime victory over the Cleveland Browns in the 1986 AFC Championship Game on Jan. 11, 1987 at Cleveland Municipal Stadium in Cleveland. (Al Messerschmidt via AP)
13 / 70

Quarterback John Elway (7) of the Denver Broncos talks over strategy with head coach Dan Reeves during a 23 - 20 overtime victory over the Cleveland Browns in the 1986 AFC Championship Game on Jan. 11, 1987 at Cleveland Municipal Stadium in Cleveland. (Al Messerschmidt via AP)

Al Messerschmidt Archive
Denver Broncos linebacker Tom Jackson (57) rushes upfield during a 23-20 overtime victory over the Cleveland Browns in the 1986 AFC Championship Game on January 11, 1987 at Cleveland Municipal Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)
14 / 70

Denver Broncos linebacker Tom Jackson (57) rushes upfield during a 23-20 overtime victory over the Cleveland Browns in the 1986 AFC Championship Game on January 11, 1987 at Cleveland Municipal Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)

Al Messerschmidt Archive
Cleveland Browns quarterback Bernie Kosar (19) runs with the football during the Browns 23 - 20 overtime loss to the Denver Broncos in the 1986 AFC Championship Game on January 11, 1987 at Cleveland Municipal Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)
15 / 70

Cleveland Browns quarterback Bernie Kosar (19) runs with the football during the Browns 23 - 20 overtime loss to the Denver Broncos in the 1986 AFC Championship Game on January 11, 1987 at Cleveland Municipal Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)

Al Messerschmidt Archive
Hall of Fame quarterback John Elway (7) of the Denver Broncos drops back to pass and looks for an open receiver during the Broncos 23-20 overtime victory over the Cleveland Browns in the 1986 AFC Championship Game on January 11, 1987 at Cleveland Municipal Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)
16 / 70

Hall of Fame quarterback John Elway (7) of the Denver Broncos drops back to pass and looks for an open receiver during the Broncos 23-20 overtime victory over the Cleveland Browns in the 1986 AFC Championship Game on January 11, 1987 at Cleveland Municipal Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)

Al Messerschmidt Archive
Hall of Fame quarterback John Elway (7) of the Denver Broncos throws a pass intended for tight end Orson Mobley (89) during the Broncos 23-20 overtime victory over the Cleveland Browns in the 1986 AFC Championship Game on January 11, 1987 at Cleveland Municipal Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)
17 / 70

Hall of Fame quarterback John Elway (7) of the Denver Broncos throws a pass intended for tight end Orson Mobley (89) during the Broncos 23-20 overtime victory over the Cleveland Browns in the 1986 AFC Championship Game on January 11, 1987 at Cleveland Municipal Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)

Al Messerschmidt Archive
Cleveland Browns running back Kevin Mack (34) carries the football before being stopped by Broncos defensive end Rulon Jones (75) and linebacker Karl Mecklenburg (77) during the Browns 23-20 overtime loss to the Denver Broncos in the 1986 AFC Championship Game on Jan. 11, 1987 at Cleveland Municipal Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio. ( Al Messerschmidt via AP)
18 / 70

Cleveland Browns running back Kevin Mack (34) carries the football before being stopped by Broncos defensive end Rulon Jones (75) and linebacker Karl Mecklenburg (77) during the Browns 23-20 overtime loss to the Denver Broncos in the 1986 AFC Championship Game on Jan. 11, 1987 at Cleveland Municipal Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio. ( Al Messerschmidt via AP)

Al Messerschmidt Archive
Denver Broncos wide receiver Steve Watson (81) catches the football for a 28-yard gain during the winning drive in overtime of the Broncos 23-20 victory over the Cleveland Browns in the 1986 AFC Championship Game on January 11, 1987 at Cleveland Municipal Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio. (AP Photo/Vernon Biever)
19 / 70

Denver Broncos wide receiver Steve Watson (81) catches the football for a 28-yard gain during the winning drive in overtime of the Broncos 23-20 victory over the Cleveland Browns in the 1986 AFC Championship Game on January 11, 1987 at Cleveland Municipal Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio. (AP Photo/Vernon Biever)

Vernon Biever
Denver Broncos running back Sammy Winder (23) carries the football during the Broncos 23-20 overtime victory over the Cleveland Browns in the 1986 AFC Championship Game on January 11, 1987 at Cleveland Municipal Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)
20 / 70

Denver Broncos running back Sammy Winder (23) carries the football during the Broncos 23-20 overtime victory over the Cleveland Browns in the 1986 AFC Championship Game on January 11, 1987 at Cleveland Municipal Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)

Al Messerschmidt Archive
Denver Broncos wide receiver Vance Johnson (82) runs with the football after making a catch during the Broncos 23-20 overtime victory over the Cleveland Browns in the 1986 AFC Championship Game on January 11, 1987 at Cleveland Municipal Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)
21 / 70

Denver Broncos wide receiver Vance Johnson (82) runs with the football after making a catch during the Broncos 23-20 overtime victory over the Cleveland Browns in the 1986 AFC Championship Game on January 11, 1987 at Cleveland Municipal Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)

Al Messerschmidt Archive
Denver Broncos quarterback John Elway (7), inducted into the Pro Foorball Hall of Fame class of 2004, rushes eleven yards for a first down during the AFC Championship Game, a 23-20 overtime victory over the Cleveland Browns on January 11, 1987, at Cleveland Municipal Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio. (AP Photo/Vernon Biever)
22 / 70

Denver Broncos quarterback John Elway (7), inducted into the Pro Foorball Hall of Fame class of 2004, rushes eleven yards for a first down during the AFC Championship Game, a 23-20 overtime victory over the Cleveland Browns on January 11, 1987, at Cleveland Municipal Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio. (AP Photo/Vernon Biever)

Vernon Biever
Wide receiver Mark Jackson is tackled by a Browns defender during the January 11, 1987 overtime win (23-20 Ñ the Drive) over Cleveland in Cleveland. Wide receiver Mark Jackson is tackled by a Browns defender during the January 11, 1987 overtime win (23-20 — the Drive) over Cleveland in Cleveland.
23 / 70

Wide receiver Mark Jackson is tackled by a Browns defender during the January 11, 1987 overtime win (23-20 Ñ the Drive) over Cleveland in Cleveland. Wide receiver Mark Jackson is tackled by a Browns defender during the January 11, 1987 overtime win (23-20 — the Drive) over Cleveland in Cleveland.

Rod Hanna
Quarterback John Elway (7) of the Denver Broncos talks over strategy with coach Dan Reeves during a 23 - 20 overtime victory over the Cleveland Browns in the 1986 AFC Championship Game on Jan. 11, 1987 at Cleveland Municipal Stadium in Cleveland. (Al Messerschmidt via AP)
24 / 70

Quarterback John Elway (7) of the Denver Broncos talks over strategy with coach Dan Reeves during a 23 - 20 overtime victory over the Cleveland Browns in the 1986 AFC Championship Game on Jan. 11, 1987 at Cleveland Municipal Stadium in Cleveland. (Al Messerschmidt via AP)

Al Messerschmidt Archive
Denver Broncos wide receiver Mark Jackson (80) celebrates after scoring a 5-yard touchdown catch with 0:37 seconds remaining in regulation time of the Broncos 23-20 overtime victory over the Cleveland Browns in the 1986 AFC Championship Game on January 11, 1987 at Cleveland Municipal Stadium in Cleveland. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)
25 / 70

Denver Broncos wide receiver Mark Jackson (80) celebrates after scoring a 5-yard touchdown catch with 0:37 seconds remaining in regulation time of the Broncos 23-20 overtime victory over the Cleveland Browns in the 1986 AFC Championship Game on January 11, 1987 at Cleveland Municipal Stadium in Cleveland. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)

Al Messerschmidt Archive
Denver Broncos wide receiver Steve Watson (81) catches a pass during the Broncos 23-20 overtime victory over the Cleveland Browns in the 1986 AFC Championship Game on January 11, 1987 at Cleveland Municipal Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)
26 / 70

Denver Broncos wide receiver Steve Watson (81) catches a pass during the Broncos 23-20 overtime victory over the Cleveland Browns in the 1986 AFC Championship Game on January 11, 1987 at Cleveland Municipal Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)

Al Messerschmidt Archive
Denver Broncos place kicker Rich Karlis (3) approaches the football and is about to kick the winning 33-yard field goal at 5:48 of overtime to give the Broncos a 23-20 victory over the Cleveland Browns in the 1986 AFC Championship Game on January 11, 1987 at Cleveland Municipal Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio. (AP Photo/Vernon Biever)
27 / 70

Denver Broncos place kicker Rich Karlis (3) approaches the football and is about to kick the winning 33-yard field goal at 5:48 of overtime to give the Broncos a 23-20 victory over the Cleveland Browns in the 1986 AFC Championship Game on January 11, 1987 at Cleveland Municipal Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio. (AP Photo/Vernon Biever)

Vernon Biever
Denver Broncos place kicker Rich Karlis (3) jumps in celebration after kicking the winning 33-yard field goal at 5:48 of overtime to give the Broncos a 23-20 victory over the Cleveland Browns in the 1986 AFC Championship Game on January 11, 1987 at Cleveland Municipal Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio. (AP Photo/Vernon Biever)
28 / 70

Denver Broncos place kicker Rich Karlis (3) jumps in celebration after kicking the winning 33-yard field goal at 5:48 of overtime to give the Broncos a 23-20 victory over the Cleveland Browns in the 1986 AFC Championship Game on January 11, 1987 at Cleveland Municipal Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio. (AP Photo/Vernon Biever)

Vernon Biever
Denver Broncos place kicker Rich Karlis (3) jumps in celebration after kicking the winning 33-yard field goal at 5:48 of overtime to give the Broncos a 23-20 victory over the Cleveland Browns in the 1986 AFC Championship Game on January 11, 1987 at Cleveland Municipal Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio. (AP Photo/Vernon Biever)
29 / 70

Denver Broncos place kicker Rich Karlis (3) jumps in celebration after kicking the winning 33-yard field goal at 5:48 of overtime to give the Broncos a 23-20 victory over the Cleveland Browns in the 1986 AFC Championship Game on January 11, 1987 at Cleveland Municipal Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio. (AP Photo/Vernon Biever)

Vernon Biever
Holder Gary Kubiak celebrates after Rich Karlis' January 11, 1987 game winning field goal (23-20) in Cleveland that sent the Broncos to the Super Bowl.
30 / 70

Holder Gary Kubiak celebrates after Rich Karlis' January 11, 1987 game winning field goal (23-20) in Cleveland that sent the Broncos to the Super Bowl.

Rod Hanna
Denver Broncos backup quarterback and holder Gary Kubiak (8) jumps into the arms of Vance Johnson (82) after the winning 33-yard field goal at 5:48 of overtime to give the Broncos a 23 - 20 victory over the Cleveland Browns in the 1986 AFC Championship Game on Jan. 11, 1987 at Cleveland Municipal Stadium in Cleveland. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)
31 / 70

Denver Broncos backup quarterback and holder Gary Kubiak (8) jumps into the arms of Vance Johnson (82) after the winning 33-yard field goal at 5:48 of overtime to give the Broncos a 23 - 20 victory over the Cleveland Browns in the 1986 AFC Championship Game on Jan. 11, 1987 at Cleveland Municipal Stadium in Cleveland. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)

Al Messerschmidt Archive
Owner Pat Bowlen holds up the Lamar Hunt (AFC Championship) Trophy after the January 11, 1987 overtime win (23-30) in Cleveland as coach Dan Reeves, the media's interviewer Ahmad Rashaad and Chiefs owner Lamar Hunt look on.
32 / 70

Owner Pat Bowlen holds up the Lamar Hunt (AFC Championship) Trophy after the January 11, 1987 overtime win (23-30) in Cleveland as coach Dan Reeves, the media's interviewer Ahmad Rashaad and Chiefs owner Lamar Hunt look on.

Rod Hanna
Cleveland Brown Kevin Mack (34) has the ball stripped away by Denver Broncos Tony Lilly (22) during the first period Sunday Jan. 17, 1988 in the AFC Championship game at Denver, Colorado. Other Broncs players are Dennis Smith (49) and Steve Wilson (45). (AP Photo/Mark Duncan)
33 / 70

Cleveland Brown Kevin Mack (34) has the ball stripped away by Denver Broncos Tony Lilly (22) during the first period Sunday Jan. 17, 1988 in the AFC Championship game at Denver, Colorado. Other Broncs players are Dennis Smith (49) and Steve Wilson (45). (AP Photo/Mark Duncan)

MARK DUNCAN/1988 AP
Denver Broncos Steve Sewell heads for the goal line to score the second touchdown for the Broncos during the first quarter against Cleveland, Jan. 17, 1988 in Denver. (AP Photo/Ed Andrieski)
34 / 70

Denver Broncos Steve Sewell heads for the goal line to score the second touchdown for the Broncos during the first quarter against Cleveland, Jan. 17, 1988 in Denver. (AP Photo/Ed Andrieski)

Ed Andrieski
DENVER, CO - JANUARY 17: Quarterback John Elway #7 of the Denver Broncos yells his cadence at the line of scrimmage against the Cleveland Browns in the 1987 AFC Championship Game at Mile High Stadium on January 17, 1988 in Denver, Colorado. The Broncos defeated the Browns 38-33. (AP Photo/NFL Photos)
35 / 70

DENVER, CO - JANUARY 17: Quarterback John Elway #7 of the Denver Broncos yells his cadence at the line of scrimmage against the Cleveland Browns in the 1987 AFC Championship Game at Mile High Stadium on January 17, 1988 in Denver, Colorado. The Broncos defeated the Browns 38-33. (AP Photo/NFL Photos)

NFL Photos/AP2009
DENVER, CO - JANUARY 17: Wide receiver Ricky Nattiel #84 of the Denver Broncos runs upfield with a reception against the Cleveland Browns in the 1987 AFC Championship Game at Mile High Stadium on January 17, 1988 in Denver, Colorado. The Broncos defeated the Browns 38-33. (AP Photo/NFL Photos)
36 / 70

DENVER, CO - JANUARY 17: Wide receiver Ricky Nattiel #84 of the Denver Broncos runs upfield with a reception against the Cleveland Browns in the 1987 AFC Championship Game at Mile High Stadium on January 17, 1988 in Denver, Colorado. The Broncos defeated the Browns 38-33. (AP Photo/NFL Photos)

NFL Photos/AP2009
Denver Broncos Jeremiah Castille (28) strips the ball from Cleveland Browns Earnest Byner in the closing minutes of the AFC Championship game in Denver Sunday, Jan. 17, 1988 to get the ball for the Broncos who won the game in the losing seconds, 38-33. (AP Photo/Mark Duncan)
37 / 70

Denver Broncos Jeremiah Castille (28) strips the ball from Cleveland Browns Earnest Byner in the closing minutes of the AFC Championship game in Denver Sunday, Jan. 17, 1988 to get the ball for the Broncos who won the game in the losing seconds, 38-33. (AP Photo/Mark Duncan)

Mark Duncan/1988 AP
FILE - In this Jan. 17, 1988, file photo, Denver Broncos Jeremiah Castille, on ground, looks for a loose football after stripping it from the hands of Cleveland running back Earnest Byner (44) during the closing minutes of the AFC championship game in Denver. (AP Photo/Mark Duncan)
38 / 70

FILE - In this Jan. 17, 1988, file photo, Denver Broncos Jeremiah Castille, on ground, looks for a loose football after stripping it from the hands of Cleveland running back Earnest Byner (44) during the closing minutes of the AFC championship game in Denver. (AP Photo/Mark Duncan)

Mark Duncan/1988 AP
Denver Broncos Jeremiah Castille waves his arm as he carries the ball from the field, Jan. 17, 1988 in Denver near the end of the AFC Championship game with the Cleveland Browns. With just over a minute to play, Castille stripped the ball from Cleveland's Earnest Byner to save the game. Broncos won 38-33. (AP Photo/Eric Risberg)
39 / 70

Denver Broncos Jeremiah Castille waves his arm as he carries the ball from the field, Jan. 17, 1988 in Denver near the end of the AFC Championship game with the Cleveland Browns. With just over a minute to play, Castille stripped the ball from Cleveland's Earnest Byner to save the game. Broncos won 38-33. (AP Photo/Eric Risberg)

Eric Risberg
Denver Broncos quarterback John Elway leaves the field with a smile on his face after his team defeated the Cleveland Browns 38-33 winning the AFC Championship and a trip to the Super Bowl in Denver Sunday, Jan. 17, 1988. (AP Photo/Ed Andrieski)
40 / 70

Denver Broncos quarterback John Elway leaves the field with a smile on his face after his team defeated the Cleveland Browns 38-33 winning the AFC Championship and a trip to the Super Bowl in Denver Sunday, Jan. 17, 1988. (AP Photo/Ed Andrieski)

Ed Andrieski
Dennis Smith of the Denver Broncos during AFC Championship game against the Cleveland Browns on January 14th, 1990 at Mile High Stadium. Photo by Eric Lars Bakke
41 / 70

Dennis Smith of the Denver Broncos during AFC Championship game against the Cleveland Browns on January 14th, 1990 at Mile High Stadium. Photo by Eric Lars Bakke

Eric Lars Bakke/Eric Lars Bakke
Denver Broncos wide receiver Mike Young (83) celebrates as he scores on a 70-yard reception during the 1989 AFC Championship NFL Game against the Cleveland Browns in Denver, Colo., on January 14, 1990. The Broncos defeated the Browns 37-21. (AP Photo/Eric Lars Bakke)
42 / 70

Denver Broncos wide receiver Mike Young (83) celebrates as he scores on a 70-yard reception during the 1989 AFC Championship NFL Game against the Cleveland Browns in Denver, Colo., on January 14, 1990. The Broncos defeated the Browns 37-21. (AP Photo/Eric Lars Bakke)

Eric Lars Bakke
Mel Bratton of the Denver Broncos during AFC Championship game against the Cleveland Browns on January 14th, 1990 at Mile High Stadium. Photo by Eric Lars Bakke
43 / 70

Mel Bratton of the Denver Broncos during AFC Championship game against the Cleveland Browns on January 14th, 1990 at Mile High Stadium. Photo by Eric Lars Bakke

Eric Lars Bakke/Eric Lars Bakke
Denver Broncos defensive end Alphonso Carreker (92) is congratulated by defensive end Simon Fletcher (73) after sacking Cleveland Browns quarterback Bernie Kosar (19) during the 1989 AFC Championship NFL Game in Denver, Colo., on January 14, 1990. The Broncos defeated the Browns 37-21. (AP Photo/Eric Lars Bakke)
44 / 70

Denver Broncos defensive end Alphonso Carreker (92) is congratulated by defensive end Simon Fletcher (73) after sacking Cleveland Browns quarterback Bernie Kosar (19) during the 1989 AFC Championship NFL Game in Denver, Colo., on January 14, 1990. The Broncos defeated the Browns 37-21. (AP Photo/Eric Lars Bakke)

Eric Lars Bakke
Kip Corrinton grabs an interception as Steve Atwater and Randy Robbins celebrate in the 89 AFC Championship versus the Browns.
45 / 70

Kip Corrinton grabs an interception as Steve Atwater and Randy Robbins celebrate in the 89 AFC Championship versus the Browns.

Eric Lars Bakke
Coach Dan Reeves watches from the sideline during the January 14, 1990 AFC Championship win (37-21) against the Cleveland Browns.
46 / 70

Coach Dan Reeves watches from the sideline during the January 14, 1990 AFC Championship win (37-21) against the Cleveland Browns.

Eric Lars Bakke
John Elway avoids a sack in the AFC Championship game 1989 against the Cleveland Browns.
47 / 70

John Elway avoids a sack in the AFC Championship game 1989 against the Cleveland Browns.

Eric Lars Bakke
Running back Sammy Winder tries to turn the corner in the January 14, 1990 AFC Championship win (37-21) against the Cleveland Browns.
48 / 70

Running back Sammy Winder tries to turn the corner in the January 14, 1990 AFC Championship win (37-21) against the Cleveland Browns.

Eric Lars Bakke
Running back Sammy Winder runs through the hole during the January 14, 1990 AFC Championship win (37-21) against the Cleveland Browns.
49 / 70

Running back Sammy Winder runs through the hole during the January 14, 1990 AFC Championship win (37-21) against the Cleveland Browns.

Rod Hanna
Running back Sammy Winder runs the ball upfield during the January 14, 1990 AFC Championship win (37-21) against the Cleveland Browns.
50 / 70

Running back Sammy Winder runs the ball upfield during the January 14, 1990 AFC Championship win (37-21) against the Cleveland Browns.

Eric Lars Bakke
Denver Broncos running back Sammy Winder (23) leaves Cleveland Browns defenders Kyle Kramer (40) and Frank Minniefield (31) in the dust as he breaks away on a 39 yard touchdown reception during action in the AFC Championship game, Sunday, Jan. 14, 1990, Denver, Colo. (AP Photo/Billy Haber)
51 / 70

Denver Broncos running back Sammy Winder (23) leaves Cleveland Browns defenders Kyle Kramer (40) and Frank Minniefield (31) in the dust as he breaks away on a 39 yard touchdown reception during action in the AFC Championship game, Sunday, Jan. 14, 1990, Denver, Colo. (AP Photo/Billy Haber)

Billy Haber/1990 AP
Denver Broncos quarterback John Elway (7) scrambles with the football during second quarter action in the AFC Championship Game, Jan. 14, 1990 in Denver. Cleveland defensive tackle Chris Pike (75) reaches for Elway on the play. The Broncos defeated the Browns, 37-21 to earn their third trip to the Super Bowl in four years. (AP Photo/Mark Duncan)
52 / 70

Denver Broncos quarterback John Elway (7) scrambles with the football during second quarter action in the AFC Championship Game, Jan. 14, 1990 in Denver. Cleveland defensive tackle Chris Pike (75) reaches for Elway on the play. The Broncos defeated the Browns, 37-21 to earn their third trip to the Super Bowl in four years. (AP Photo/Mark Duncan)

Mark Duncan/AP1990
Alphonso Carreker of the Denver Broncos during AFC Championship game against the Cleveland Browns on January 14th, 1990 at Mile High Stadium. Photo by Eric Lars Bakke
53 / 70

Alphonso Carreker of the Denver Broncos during AFC Championship game against the Cleveland Browns on January 14th, 1990 at Mile High Stadium. Photo by Eric Lars Bakke

Eric Lars Bakke/Eric Lars Bakke
Steve Atwater of the Denver Broncos during AFC Championship game against the Cleveland Browns on January 14th, 1990 at Mile High Stadium. Photo by Eric Lars Bakke
54 / 70

Steve Atwater of the Denver Broncos during AFC Championship game against the Cleveland Browns on January 14th, 1990 at Mile High Stadium. Photo by Eric Lars Bakke

Eric Lars Bakke/Eric Lars Bakke
Cleveland Browns linebacker David Grayson (56) pursues Denver Broncos running back Sammy Winder (23) during the 1989 AFC Championship NFL Game in Denver, Colo., on January 14, 1990. The Broncos defeated the Browns 37-21. (AP Photo/Eric Lars Bakke)
55 / 70

Cleveland Browns linebacker David Grayson (56) pursues Denver Broncos running back Sammy Winder (23) during the 1989 AFC Championship NFL Game in Denver, Colo., on January 14, 1990. The Broncos defeated the Browns 37-21. (AP Photo/Eric Lars Bakke)

Eric Lars Bakke
Denver Broncos Hall of Fame quarterback John Elway (7) eludes Cleveland Browns defensive back Kyle Kramer (40) during the 1989 AFC Championship NFL Game in Denver, Colo., on January 14, 1990. The Broncos defeated the Browns 37-21. (AP Photo/Vernon Biever)
56 / 70

Denver Broncos Hall of Fame quarterback John Elway (7) eludes Cleveland Browns defensive back Kyle Kramer (40) during the 1989 AFC Championship NFL Game in Denver, Colo., on January 14, 1990. The Broncos defeated the Browns 37-21. (AP Photo/Vernon Biever)

Vernon Biever
Denver Bronco Sammy Winder (23) celebrates after a 39 yard touchdown pass reception during AFC championship game against Cleveland, Sunday, Jan. 14, 1990, Denver, Colo. Winder scored twice as Denver defeated Cleveland 37 to 21 to advance to the Super Bowl. (AP Photo/Lenny Ignelzi)
57 / 70

Denver Bronco Sammy Winder (23) celebrates after a 39 yard touchdown pass reception during AFC championship game against Cleveland, Sunday, Jan. 14, 1990, Denver, Colo. Winder scored twice as Denver defeated Cleveland 37 to 21 to advance to the Super Bowl. (AP Photo/Lenny Ignelzi)

Lenny Ignelzi/1990 AP
Denver Broncos running back Steve Sewell (30) runs upfield during the 1989 AFC Championship NFL Game against the Cleveland Browns in Denver, Colo., on January 14, 1990. The Broncos defeated the Browns 37-21. (AP Photo/Vernon Biever)
58 / 70

Denver Broncos running back Steve Sewell (30) runs upfield during the 1989 AFC Championship NFL Game against the Cleveland Browns in Denver, Colo., on January 14, 1990. The Broncos defeated the Browns 37-21. (AP Photo/Vernon Biever)

Vernon Biever
As Denver quarterback John Elway (7) watches, Broncos running back Sammy Winder (23) carries the ball for a third quarter Denver touchdown, Jan. 14, 1990 in the AFC Championship Game in Denver. Winder, an eight-year veteran, scored twice in the game as the Broncos defeated the Browns, 37-12. (AP Photo/Ed Andrieski)
59 / 70

As Denver quarterback John Elway (7) watches, Broncos running back Sammy Winder (23) carries the ball for a third quarter Denver touchdown, Jan. 14, 1990 in the AFC Championship Game in Denver. Winder, an eight-year veteran, scored twice in the game as the Broncos defeated the Browns, 37-12. (AP Photo/Ed Andrieski)

Ed Andrieski/AP1990
Denver Broncos wide receiver Michael Young (83) runs with the football after catching a second quarter pass during the AFC Championship Game, Jan. 14, 1990 in Denver. Giving chase is Cleveland cornerback Frank Minnifield (31). Young scored on the 70-yard pass play from Bronco quarterback John Elway. (AP Photo/Lenny Ignelzi)
60 / 70

Denver Broncos wide receiver Michael Young (83) runs with the football after catching a second quarter pass during the AFC Championship Game, Jan. 14, 1990 in Denver. Giving chase is Cleveland cornerback Frank Minnifield (31). Young scored on the 70-yard pass play from Bronco quarterback John Elway. (AP Photo/Lenny Ignelzi)

Lenny Ignelzi/AP1990
Denver Broncos quarterback John Elway vs the Cleveland Browns in the AFC Championship game January 14th 1990 (AP Photo/Tom DiPace)
61 / 70

Denver Broncos quarterback John Elway vs the Cleveland Browns in the AFC Championship game January 14th 1990 (AP Photo/Tom DiPace)

Tom DiPace/AP1990
Simon Fletcher, Steve Atwater and Wymon Henderson of the Denver Broncos during AFC Championship game against the Cleveland Browns on January 14th, 1990 at Mile High Stadium. Photo by Eric Lars Bakke
62 / 70

Simon Fletcher, Steve Atwater and Wymon Henderson of the Denver Broncos during AFC Championship game against the Cleveland Browns on January 14th, 1990 at Mile High Stadium. Photo by Eric Lars Bakke

Eric Lars Bakke/Eric Lars Bakke
John Elway of the Denver Broncos during AFC Championship game against the Cleveland Browns on January 14th, 1990 at Mile High Stadium. Photo by Eric Lars Bakke
63 / 70

John Elway of the Denver Broncos during AFC Championship game against the Cleveland Browns on January 14th, 1990 at Mile High Stadium. Photo by Eric Lars Bakke

Eric Lars Bakke/Eric Lars Bakke
Cleveland Browns running back Kevin Mack (34) eludes Denver Broncos defensive end Simon Fletcher (73) and linebacker Karl Mecklenburg (77) during the 1989 AFC Championship NFL Game in Denver, Colo., on January 14, 1990. The Broncos defeated the Browns 37-21. (AP Photo/Eric Lars Bakke)
64 / 70

Cleveland Browns running back Kevin Mack (34) eludes Denver Broncos defensive end Simon Fletcher (73) and linebacker Karl Mecklenburg (77) during the 1989 AFC Championship NFL Game in Denver, Colo., on January 14, 1990. The Broncos defeated the Browns 37-21. (AP Photo/Eric Lars Bakke)

Eric Lars Bakke
John Elway avoids a tackle during the AFC Championship game against the Cleveland Browns January 14,1989. John Elway avoids a tackle during the AFC Championship game against the Cleveland Browns January 14,1989.
65 / 70

John Elway avoids a tackle during the AFC Championship game against the Cleveland Browns January 14,1989. John Elway avoids a tackle during the AFC Championship game against the Cleveland Browns January 14,1989.

Eric Lars Bakke
Denver Broncos defensive end Alphonso Carreker (92) eyes Cleveland Browns quarterback Bernie Kosar (19) as he pass rushes during the 1989 AFC Championship NFL Game in Denver, Colo., on January 14, 1990. The Broncos defeated the Browns 37-21. (AP Photo/Eric Lars Bakke)
66 / 70

Denver Broncos defensive end Alphonso Carreker (92) eyes Cleveland Browns quarterback Bernie Kosar (19) as he pass rushes during the 1989 AFC Championship NFL Game in Denver, Colo., on January 14, 1990. The Broncos defeated the Browns 37-21. (AP Photo/Eric Lars Bakke)

Eric Lars Bakke
Denver Broncos defensive end Alphonso Carreker (92) celebrates on the sideline during the 1989 AFC Championship NFL Game against the Cleveland Browns in Denver, Colo., on January 14, 1990. The Broncos defeated the Browns 37-21. (AP Photo/Vernon Biever)
67 / 70

Denver Broncos defensive end Alphonso Carreker (92) celebrates on the sideline during the 1989 AFC Championship NFL Game against the Cleveland Browns in Denver, Colo., on January 14, 1990. The Broncos defeated the Browns 37-21. (AP Photo/Vernon Biever)

Vernon Biever
Denver Broncos quarterback John Elway (7) flashes the victory sign as he leaves the field following the Broncos win over the Cleveland Browns in the AFC championship game, Sunday, Jan. 14, 1990, Denver, Colo. Elway enjoyed his best game of the season and his best ever in the playoffs to lead the Broncos to their third Super Bowl in four years. (AP Photo/Ed Andrieski)
68 / 70

Denver Broncos quarterback John Elway (7) flashes the victory sign as he leaves the field following the Broncos win over the Cleveland Browns in the AFC championship game, Sunday, Jan. 14, 1990, Denver, Colo. Elway enjoyed his best game of the season and his best ever in the playoffs to lead the Broncos to their third Super Bowl in four years. (AP Photo/Ed Andrieski)

Ed Andrieski/1990 AP
Coach Dan Reeves prays with his players before the January 14, 1990 AFC Championship win (37-21) against the Cleveland Browns.
69 / 70

Coach Dan Reeves prays with his players before the January 14, 1990 AFC Championship win (37-21) against the Cleveland Browns.

Eric Lars Bakke
Members of the 1989 AFC Champions team celebrate after the January 14, 1990 win (37-21) against Cleveland.
70 / 70

Members of the 1989 AFC Champions team celebrate after the January 14, 1990 win (37-21) against Cleveland.

Eric Lars Bakke
Advertising
This Ad will close in 3
Advertising

Related

gallery

From the archive: Pro Football Hall of Fame honoree Steve 'Greek' Antonopulos' career with the Broncos in photos

In recognition of retired longtime athletic trainer Steve "Greek" Antonopulos being named a Pro Football Hall of Fame Awards of Excellence recipient, flip back through Broncos history with photos from his career leading the team's training and medical staff.
gallery

From the archive: An extensive look back at Super Bowl 50 in photos

Flip through the Broncos' Super Bowl 50 victory over the Panthers with photos from team archives and the Associated Press.
gallery

From the archive: Photos from the Broncos' Super Bowl XXXIII victory over the Falcons

Relive the Broncos' second world championship 25 years later with these photos of that memorable day as the franchise went back to back with a win in Super Bowl XXXIII.
gallery

From the archive: The Broncos' 2015 prime-time win over the Lions in Detroit

Flip back through photos from the Broncos' big win over the Lions in 2015 on "Sunday Night Football."
gallery

From the archive: Peyton Manning breaks passing TD record in Broncos' 2013 win vs. Houston

Relive the Broncos' 2013 game against the Texans, a 37-13 win that featured Peyton Manning's record-setting 51st passing touchdown of the season.
gallery

From the archive: The best photos from the Broncos' Super Bowl XXXII win over the Packers

Look back through the Broncos' first Super Bowl victory with these photos from the Broncos' photo archive and the Associated Press.
gallery

From the archive: Photos from the John Elway's final game against Dan Marino and the Dolphins

As two Hall of Fame quarterbacks who were drafted in the historic 1983 class, John Elway and Dan Marino are forever linked, even though they only played against one another three times during their NFL careers. The final time came in the 1998 playoffs, as Elway and the Broncos marched to a second consecutive Super Bowl championship. Re-live that game now with these photos from the Denver Broncos' archive.
gallery

From the archive: Memorable moments from the Broncos' season openers through the years

Re-live some of the biggest games in Broncos history as we highlight more than a dozen Week 1 wins that left a lasting impact on the franchise.
gallery

From the archive: Our favorite photos of fans at Broncos training camps through the years

Flip back through the years of Broncos training camps with photos of fans dating back about three decades.
gallery

From the archive: 50 of our favorite fireworks photos at Empower Field at Mile High and Mile High Stadium

To celebrate Independence Day, here are 50 of our favorite photos of fireworks at Broncos home games through the years.
gallery

Photos: Ring of Fame kicker Jim Turner's Broncos career in photos

As we remember Ring of Fame kicker Jim Turner, take a look back at his time with the team.
gallery

Photos: The Broncos' 2023 opponents and a look at some of the franchise's best games in those matchups

As the NFL's 2023 schedule release date approaches, refresh yourself on the Broncos' opponents with photos of some of the franchise's best wins against them.
Advertising