Football History

---

Super Bowl IV was Part of the success of the 1970s Pittsburgh Steelers.

---

Talking Denver Broncos History with Guest Thomas Hall of the Mile High Insiders. The Denver Broncos, currently soaring high in the orange and blue, haven't always been football royalty. Their journey began in 1960 as part of the upstart American Football League (AFL), nicknamed the "Mile High Misfits" for their early struggles. Despite boasting the first-ever AFL win, their first decade was marked by losing seasons and struggles to find their footing.

The merger with the NFL in 1970 brought new hope. While success was still elusive, the "Orange Crush" defense of the mid-70s, led by legends like Randy Gradishar and Tom Jackson, sparked excitement. Their first playoff appearance in 1977, culminating in a Super Bowl XII loss, marked a turning point.

John Elway's arrival in 1983 ushered in a golden era. Known for his gunslinger mentality and clutch throws, Elway led the Broncos to five Super Bowls, winning two (Super Bowl XXXII and XXXIII) and cementing his place as a franchise legend. The victories showcased not only Elway's brilliance but also the talents of Terrell Davis, Rod Smith, and Shannon Sharpe, solidifying Denver's status as a powerhouse.

However, following Elway's retirement in 1999, the Broncos entered a period of turmoil. Despite glimpses of greatness with players like Jake Plummer and Peyton Hillis, sustained success remained elusive.

The arrival of Peyton Manning in 2012 marked a second renaissance. His veteran leadership and pinpoint passing revitalized the franchise. Coupled with a dominant defense led by Von Miller, the Broncos returned to the Super Bowl stage, ultimately winning Super Bowl 50 in 2016.