Week 3 NFL Showdowns: 0-2 Teams Fight to Keep Playoff Hopes Alive
September 18, 2025
Teams starting 0-3 have only about a 2.4% chance of making the playoffs, highlighting the importance of avoiding a third consecutive loss early in the season.
For some teams, Week 3 is seen as a 'get right' game, a crucial opportunity to turn their season around.
The Cleveland Browns, 0-2, face a challenging game against the Packers' strong defense, and their offensive struggles could lead to a difficult day if they don't improve.
The New York Jets, also 0-2, will start Tyrod Taylor at quarterback against the Buccaneers, needing a win to prevent falling further behind in the playoff race.
Historically, only three NFL teams that started 0-2 have won the Super Bowl—the 1993 Cowboys, 2001 Patriots, and 2007 Giants—showing that a comeback is rare but possible.
A victory in Week 3 could be vital for teams like the Tennessee Titans, who are 0-2 and need to stay alive in the playoff hunt against strong opponents like the Colts.
The Titans face a critical matchup against the Colts, who are off to a strong start and lead in key offensive metrics, making this game potentially decisive.
The Chicago Bears, 0-2, face the Cowboys in a game where a loss could increase pressure on their coaching staff and players to get the season back on track.
The Miami Dolphins, also 0-2, face a tough Thursday night game against the Bills, with their season potentially on the line given their internal issues and history against Buffalo.
Since 1970, only about 10% of NFL teams that started 0-2 have made the playoffs, a statistic that remains discouraging despite the expanded playoff format since 2020.
Looking ahead, the Kansas City Chiefs are considered most likely to make a playoff run after an 0-2 start, with other teams like Houston and the Giants having potential depending on quarterback performance.
Week 3 presents critical matchups for several 0-2 NFL teams, with the New York Giants and Kansas City Chiefs facing off in a game that could define their seasons, especially given their current struggles and missing key players like Andrew Thomas.
The Chiefs, for the first time since 1990, are 0-2 and have a chance to turn their season around against the Giants, marking a pivotal moment early in the season.
Historically, only a small percentage of teams that start 0-2, such as the 2024 Ravens, Rams, and Broncos, have gone on to make the playoffs, but comebacks are possible with strong quarterback play and favorable circumstances.
Other 0-2 teams like the Houston Texans and Carolina Panthers face must-win games in Week 3, with Houston aiming to improve offensive line protection against the Jaguars and Carolina trying to contain the run game against the Falcons.
The New Orleans Saints, also 0-2, face a tough matchup against the Seahawks in Seattle, and their playoff hopes could diminish further unless their offense shows significant improvement.
Summary based on 2 sources
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Sources

NBC New York • Sep 17, 2025
How many NFL teams make the playoffs after starting 0-2? These teams need hope