Manager Chris Wilder says Sheffield United need an "incredible run" to avoid relegation after their awful start to the season continued with defeat at Crystal Palace.
The Blades offered little going forward and, in failing to beat Palace in their 17th match of the season, set the record for the longest winless start to a Premier League campaign.
This 15th loss leaves them rooted to the bottom of the table with two points, 12 from safety. No club has stayed up after such a start to a campaign.
Jeffrey Schlupp opened the scoring for Palace with a deflected finish before going off injured.