Image Source: Jay Busbee
Key Takeaways
- The NFL playoffs have 49 possible Super Bowl combinations, and each matchup has been ranked based on factors like analytics, star power, watchability, history, and off-field narratives.
- The top-ranked matchup is between the Patriots and Bears, a rematch of Super Bowl XX, which the Bears won 46-10.
- Other highly-ranked matchups include the Steelers vs. Packers, Broncos vs. Bears, Patriots vs. Seahawks, and Patriots vs. Rams.
- The lowest-ranked matchup is between the Jaguars and Panthers, which is seen as an unexciting combination.
Introduction to the NFL Playoffs
The NFL playoffs are in full swing, and with 14 teams remaining, there are 49 possible Super Bowl combinations. To rank these matchups, a combination of analytics, star power, watchability, history, off-field narratives, and gut feelings were used. As the article states, "Using our patented combination of analytics, star power, watchability, history, off-field narratives and good old-fashioned gut feelings, we’ve ranked every possible combination, from ‘it’s our last gasp at football’ to instant classic." The rankings provide an interesting insight into which matchups are the most exciting and which ones are, well, not so much.
The Lowest-Ranked Matchups
The lowest-ranked matchup is between the Jaguars and Panthers, which is seen as an unexciting combination. As the article notes, "You can’t fool us, NFL. This is just an old Thursday Night Football game in fancier clothes." Other low-ranked matchups include the Texans vs. Packers, Jaguars vs. Eagles, and Chargers vs. Panthers. These matchups lack the star power and exciting storylines that make for a compelling Super Bowl.
Matchups with Interesting Storylines
Some matchups have interesting storylines that make them more compelling. For example, the Patriots vs. 49ers matchup is a rematch of Super Bowl XXXVI, and the Steelers vs. Eagles matchup is a battle for Pennsylvania bragging rights. The article notes, "Loser leaves Pennsylvania," highlighting the intensity of this matchup. Another interesting matchup is the Broncos vs. 49ers, which is a rematch of Super Bowl XXIV, one of the most lopsided Super Bowls in history.
The Top-Ranked Matchups
The top-ranked matchup is between the Patriots and Bears, a rematch of Super Bowl XX, which the Bears won 46-10. This matchup has the potential to be an all-time classic, with two historic teams facing off in a battle for supremacy. As the article notes, "If Chicago reaches the Super Bowl on the 40th anniversary of the famed 1985 team, we better get a Super Bowl Shuffle Remix." Other highly-ranked matchups include the Steelers vs. Packers, Broncos vs. Bears, Patriots vs. Seahawks, and Patriots vs. Rams. These matchups have the potential to be instant classics, with exciting storylines and high-stakes competition.
The Excitement of the Playoffs
The NFL playoffs are always exciting, and this year’s tournament is no exception. With so many talented teams and compelling matchups, fans are in for a treat. As the article notes, "It’s the most wonderful time of the year: the NFL playoffs!" The playoffs are a time for heroes to emerge, for underdogs to rise to the challenge, and for fans to witness some of the most exciting football of the year. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of a particular team or just a casual observer, the NFL playoffs have something for everyone.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the NFL playoffs have 49 possible Super Bowl combinations, each with its own unique storyline and excitement. From the lowest-ranked matchups like Jaguars vs. Panthers to the top-ranked matchups like Patriots vs. Bears, there’s something for every fan to enjoy. As the article notes, "We’ve ranked every possible combination, from ‘it’s our last gasp at football’ to instant classic." With the playoffs in full swing, fans can expect some of the most exciting football of the year, with heroes emerging, underdogs rising to the challenge, and some of the most compelling storylines in sports.
https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/article/whos-no-1-ranking-the-49-possible-super-bowl-matchups-142839546.html
