We ranked the best NFL teams ever to fall short of the Super Bowl: Stacking 16 historic near misses
ESPN is kicking off it's countdown to Super Bowl LXI series by ranking the best teams that didn't quite make the big game, including the 2023 Ravens.
The ESPN countdown to Super Bowl LXI series is heating up, and we're diving into the what-ifs of NFL history. Ranking the best teams that fell short of the Super Bowl is a fascinating exercise, as it highlights the fine line between greatness and heartbreak. For players, it's a reminder that even the most talented rosters can come up just shy of ultimate glory.
The inclusion of the 2023 Ravens on this list is a recent example of a team that had high hopes but came up short. This sparks debate among fans and analysts about what could have been if a few key plays had gone differently. As we look at these historic near misses, it's clear that several factors contribute to a team's failure to reach the Super Bowl - injuries, coaching decisions, and sheer bad luck.
As the NFL season progresses, we'll be keeping an eye on current teams that might follow in the footsteps of these legendary near misses. Will a team like the 49ers or Chiefs, with their high-powered offenses and stout defenses, make it to the big game this year? Or will a dark horse emerge and make a deep playoff run? One thing's for sure - the journey to the Super Bowl is always filled with drama, excitement, and heartbreak, keeping fans on the edge of their seats.
Originally reported by espn.com. PlayerNews adds analysis for sports & fitness readers.