The Fumble

The fumble that defined a rivalry and haunted Cleveland.

The Fumble is a play that occurred during the 1987 AFC Championship Game between the Cleveland Browns and Denver Broncos on January 17, 1988, at Mile High Stadium in Denver, Colorado. The fumble occurred late in the fourth quarter and cost the Browns a chance to tie the contest; the Broncos went on to win the game and the AFC Championship, advancing to Super Bowl XXII.

Quick Facts

Key player involved: Rob Lytle (Running Back)
Result: Broncos Lost 27-10

Lore & Background

On second down at the Denver eight-yard line, with the Browns needing five yards for a first down, Bernie Kosar handed the ball off to Earnest Byner on a trap play. Byner turned left and found space, but as he neared the end zone, Broncos defensive back Jeremiah Castille knocked the football out of Byner's hands at the three-yard line. Castille recovered the fumble, preserving the Broncos' seven-point lead. The Broncos won 38–33.

Reader's Guide

The fumble is often cited as a key moment in Cleveland sports misfortune. Despite the play, Byner had a successful career, including two Pro Bowl selections and a Super Bowl win with the Washington Redskins. The game also featured the Broncos' intentional safety by punter Mike Horan.