The things you learn researching the worst teams in history. David Shula, son of Mr. 14-0, lasted four-plus seasons as head coach of the Bengals.
This was Year two of the “Nepotism Experiment,” and it didn't go well.
David Klingler, the team's No. 1 pick in 1992, replaced Boomer Esiason at QB and discovered NFL defenses were tougher than Eastern Washington's.
The Bengals finished last in points, second to last in yards and rushed for just three TDs all season (Eric Ball, Derrick Fenner and Ostell Miles tied for the team lead with one). Harold Green, who had actually been a Pro Bowler in '92, led the team in rushing while averaging 2.7 yards per carry.
The defense actually allowed the fewest pass completions in the league, but that's only because it was so easy to run on.
5. 1982 Baltimore Colts 0-8-1
The Colts' QBs had five total touchdown passes on the season (all from Pagel), 10 interceptions and 1,608 yards.
The 1982 Baltimore Colts also ranked 28th in total offense and dead last in points scored with 113. Keep in mind the Colts only played nine games that year so they were pretty bad.
In a 20-0 loss to Buffalo, the Colts did not cross mid-field the entire game. If the season went on any longer, the Colts would be the worst NFL team to have ever set foot on a field.
Seriously they were that bad.
4. 1991 Indianapolis Colts 1-15-0
The 1991 Colts ranked last in points scored and yards gained. Not to be outdone, the defense was the third-worst in the league.
All this didn't help the career of Head Coach Ron Meyer, who was let go after starting the season 0-5. Interim replacement Rick Venturi couldn't do much better, leading Indianapolis to a 1-10 record the rest of the way, and was replaced in the offseason by Ted Marchibroda.
How bad were the Colts?
In 1991, Eric Dickerson was the leading offensive threat with 536 rushing yards and three TDs.
The 1991 Colts averaged 8.9 points per game.
On Nov. 10, the Jets (8-8) opened up a 14-0 lead on the Colts, only to allow four touchdowns on three TD passes from Jeff George and a kickoff return by Clarence Verdin.





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