2017 | 4-12 | Missed playoffs

Pagano’s path: Another huge regression cost Pagano his job, the decision made by first-year GM Chris Ballard. Look at the defensive rankings, and it’s impossible to blame the final record entirely on Luck’s seasonlong absence due to a shoulder injury. In six seasons, Pagano’s defenses never finished in the top 10. The Colts were 0-9 against AFC stalwarts the Patriots and Steelers.

Quote of note: “He’s a players’ coach, and you dream of having a coach like that. He’s special.”