Late-season injuries can be a game-changer for sports teams, and sometimes they can make or break a championship run. Here's a look at ten instances where a late-season injury significantly altered a team's fortunes across various sports.
Bo Nix, Denver Broncos: The Broncos' irrepressible optimism turned to doubt in an instant. Starting quarterback Bo Nix suffered a season-ending ankle injury during the AFC divisional round, forcing backup Jarrett Stidham to step up against the New England Patriots. The sudden change in quarterback dynamics shifted the odds in favor of the Patriots, who became 5.5-point favorites.
Nick Foles, Philadelphia Eagles: In the 2017 NFL season, Eagles quarterback Nick Foles came off the bench to lead his team to a Super Bowl victory. With MVP candidate Carson Wentz injured, Foles stepped up and guided the Eagles to a Super Bowl win over the Patriots, showcasing the power of a reliable backup.
Jeff Hostetler, New York Giants: In 1990, Giants quarterback Jeff Hostetler took over for the injured Phil Simms. Despite a challenging start, Hostetler led the Giants to a Super Bowl victory, proving that a backup can rise to the occasion.
Kevin Durant and Klay Thompson, Golden State Warriors: The 2019 NBA Finals saw the Warriors face a double whammy. With Durant's Achilles injury and Thompson's ACL tear, the Warriors lost to the Toronto Raptors, despite their previous success.
Kenyon Martin, Cincinnati Bearcats: The Bearcats' national championship hopes took a hit when star player Kenyon Martin broke his fibula. The team's fortunes changed, and they lost in the second round of the 2000 NCAA Tournament.
Kyrie Irving, Cleveland Cavaliers: Kyrie Irving's knee injury in the 2015 NBA Finals against the Warriors had a significant impact. The Cavaliers' second and third-leading scorers and leading rebounder were out, and the Warriors took advantage, winning the series.
Tyrese Haliburton, Indiana Pacers: Haliburton's strained calf muscle in the 2025 playoffs led to an Achilles tear, costing the Pacers a crucial player in their quest for the NBA Finals.
Colt McCoy, Texas Longhorns: Texas' starting quarterback, Colt McCoy, suffered a pinched nerve in his throwing shoulder during the 2010 national championship game. The team's fortunes changed, and they lost to Alabama.
Juju Watkins, USC Trojans: Watkins' ACL tear in the 2025 NCAA Women's Tournament impacted USC's performance, but the team still advanced to the Elite Eight, where they fell short against UConn.
Jim Rice, Boston Red Sox: Jim Rice's hand injury in 1975 ended his season, and the Red Sox made the Fall Classic. However, without their leading hitter, they lost to the Cincinnati Reds, further extending the 'Curse of the Bambino'.
These examples highlight how a single injury can dramatically shift a team's trajectory, leaving a lasting impact on their championship aspirations.
