10 Backup Quarterbacks Who Led Their Teams to Victory

Quarterbacks are often the face of NFL teams, celebrated for their leadership, strategic acumen, and on-field performance. However, some of the most compelling stories in the league arise from backup quarterbacks who step into the spotlight when their teams need them most. These athletes, initially relegated to the sidelines, rise to the occasion and lead their teams to glory on the biggest stage of all: the Super Bowl.

This listicle explores the incredible journeys of ten of these extraordinary players, detailing their unexpected paths to NFL immortality.

10. Jim Plunkett (Oakland/Los Angeles Raiders)

Initially a backup for the Raiders, Plunkett became the starter in 1980, leading the team to win Super Bowl XV as MVP. He repeated this feat in 1983, guiding the relocated Los Angeles Raiders to victory in Super Bowl XVIII. Plunkett’s resilience and leadership transformed him from a backup to a two-time Super Bowl champion.

9. Roger Staubach (Dallas Cowboys)

Roger Staubach, initially a backup, became the Cowboys’ starting quarterback in 1971, leading them to their first Super Bowl victory. Known as “Captain Comeback,” he guided Dallas to 23 game-winning drives and five Super Bowl appearances, winning two. Staubach’s leadership and clutch performances cemented his legacy as one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history.

8. Terry Bradshaw (Pittsburgh Steelers)

Terry Bradshaw, despite being a first-round draft pick, initially served as a backup to Terry Hanratty in 1970. He eventually took over as starter in 1971, leading the Steelers to four Super Bowl victories in the 1970s. Bradshaw’s journey from backup to Hall of Famer exemplifies perseverance and talent development in the NFL.

7. Trent Dilfer (Baltimore Ravens)

“File:Frank Gore takes handoff from Trent Dilfer in 2007.jpg” by John Pavliga is licensed under CC BY 2.0

Trent Dilfer took over as the Ravens’ starter midway through the 2000 season, leading the team to a 7-1 record and ultimately a Super Bowl XXXV victory. Despite his modest stats (12 TDs, 11 INTs), Dilfer’s steady play complemented Baltimore’s dominant defense, proving that game management can be just as crucial as flashy performances in securing championships.

6. Earl Morrall (Baltimore Colts and Miami Dolphins)

Earl Morrall stepped up for the Colts in 1968, leading them to Super Bowl III after Johnny Unitas was injured. In 1972, he replaced an injured Bob Griese, guiding the Dolphins to a perfect regular season. Morrall’s clutch performances earned him the nickname “The Super Sub” and cemented his legacy as one of the greatest backup quarterbacks in NFL history.

5. Doug Williams (Washington Redskins)

Doug Williams led the Washington Redskins to a Super Bowl XXII victory in 1988, becoming the first Black quarterback to start and win a Super Bowl. Initially a backup, Williams took over as starter during the playoffs and delivered a historic performance, throwing for 340 yards and 4 touchdowns in the championship game.

4. Jeff Hostetler (New York Giants)

Hostetler took over for an injured Phil Simms late in the 1990 season, leading the Giants to Super Bowl XXV. Despite facing the high-powered Buffalo Bills, Hostetler completed 20 of 32 passes for 222 yards and a touchdown, securing a 20-19 victory. His performance ranks 30th among best quarterback Super Bowl performances.

3. Kurt Warner (St. Louis Rams)

In 1999, Kurt Warner went from grocery store clerk to NFL MVP after replacing injured starter Trent Green. Warner led the Rams’ “Greatest Show on Turf” offense to a Super Bowl XXXIV victory, throwing for 4,353 yards and 41 touchdowns. His Cinderella story continued with two more Super Bowl appearances in his career.

2. Nick Foles (Philadelphia Eagles)

Nick Foles led the Eagles to their first Super Bowl victory in 2018, defeating the New England Patriots. After replacing injured starter Carson Wentz late in the season, Foles threw for 373 yards and 3 touchdowns in Super Bowl LII, earning MVP honors. His “Philly Special” touchdown catch became an iconic play in NFL history.

1. Tom Brady (New England Patriots)

Tom Brady, a sixth-round draft pick in 2000, famously took over for an injured Drew Bledsoe in 2001. He led the Patriots to their first Super Bowl victory that season, kickstarting a dynasty that would win six championships over two decades. Brady’s ascension from backup to NFL legend is unparalleled in football history.