My argument is simple: The Denver Broncos won their playoff game and moved on to the next round. The Detroit Lions did not. This is surprising as we look back at where each team was after the first 5 games of the season. Detroit was flying high looking like they might take a run at going 16-0 while Denver was 1-4 and had just benched Kyle Orton in favor of Tim Tebow.
So what happened? How does a team that looks unstoppable look tired and worn in their first playoff game in 12 years? How does Denver start out looking horrible and now seem like world beaters?
I believe this is still partially due to the history of the two franchises. Detroit is a place that winning is something new and Denver is a place where winning and competing for championships is expected.
Take a look at the playoff droughts: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_NFL_franchise_post-season_droughts
Look no further than a couple stats: Detroit hasn't ever been to a Super Bowl in 53 years. Detroit hasn't won a playoff game in 20 years. That said; Detroit has taken huge steps this year towards building a fan base and an attitude that create an environment where going to the playoffs isn't an achievement but the minimum expectation.
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