Super Bowl LIX is just around the corner, and football fans are getting ready for the new NFL season. While the summer has been filled with exciting sporting events like the Olympics, Euro 2024, and Copa America, many fans are eagerly anticipating the start of the fall season.
The opening game of the regular season will take place on Thursday, September 5th, with the Baltimore Ravens visiting the Kansas City Chiefs. This matchup promises to be a blockbuster as both teams are considered favorites for Super Bowl LIX.
However, the Chiefs and Ravens are not the only contenders this season. In fact, there are around a dozen teams with serious chances of making it to the Super Bowl. Let’s take a closer look at each of these teams:
1. Kansas City Chiefs: As the reigning champions of Super Bowl LVIII and LVII, the Chiefs are co-favorites to win this season. With their already great offense and strong defense, they have a real chance at achieving a historic “three-peat” in NFL history.
2. San Francisco 49ers: Despite being last season’s runner-up, the 49ers have consistently been one of the best teams in the NFL over the past five seasons. They are strong contenders for the Super Bowl and are expected to be the team to beat in the NFC.
3. Baltimore Ravens: The Ravens are also among the favorites this season, according to sportsbooks’ odds. However, there have been significant changes in Baltimore, from key coaches to the player roster. While they have the potential to go far, there is also a chance that the team could struggle and underperform.
4. Detroit Lions: The Lions have come a long way from being considered a laughingstock in the NFL. Last season, they made it all the way to the NFC Championship, narrowly losing to the 49ers. With improvements in the offseason, they have the potential to handle the pressure of being contenders.
5. Cincinnati Bengals: Although the Bengals had a poor season last year, they have become a force under coach Zac Taylor. With a healthy Joe Burrow at quarterback and the addition of safety Vonn Bell, they are likely to improve from last season. The question remains, how far can they go?
6. Buffalo Bills: The Bills are often considered the unluckiest team in NFL history, with an 0-4 Super Bowl record. However, despite questions surrounding the team, they are still good enough to compete. They just need a bit of luck on their side to finally achieve success.
7. Philadelphia Eagles: After a disappointing season, the Eagles have a roster full of experienced players. While there are questions about the coaching setup, the Eagles have the potential to make a strong run in the playoffs.
8. Houston Texans: Many football pundits have tagged the Texans as the team to watch this season. With potential superstar quarterback CJ Stroud and elite player Will Anderson, they have the makings of a Super Bowl champion roster. The question is, will they be able to achieve it next season?
9. Green Bay Packers: The Packers surprised many with their run to the playoffs last year. With a young team full of promise, they have the potential to win their 5th Super Bowl. However, it may be a bit too soon for them to achieve it next season.
10. Dallas Cowboys: It has been almost 30 years since the Cowboys appeared in a Super Bowl, and while they are still a good team, it’s debatable whether they are great. Losing valuable players in the offseason raises questions about their chances of making it to the big game.
11. New York Jets: The potential of the Jets next season can be summed up in two words – Aaron Rodgers. Despite being 40 years old and coming off a serious injury, Rodgers is a winner when he’s at his best. If the roster is fully fit and Rodgers is focused, the Jets have a chance to win it all.
12. Miami Dolphins: While some argue that other teams like the Rams, Falcons, or Chargers deserve the final spot on this list, the Dolphins narrowly make the cut. With some changes in Miami and questions over their offensive setup, they are expected to sneak into the playoffs. If players coming back from injury perform well, they could potentially go even further.
As the new NFL season approaches, fans are eagerly waiting to see which of these teams will emerge as the true contenders for Super Bowl LIX. With a mix of established powerhouses and rising teams, this season promises to be an exciting one for football fans around the world.