Throughout the history of the NFL, there have been numerous teams that have had outstanding regular seasons. But while some teams managed to carry their incredible form into the postseason to win it all, others fell just short of glory.
Here, we explore some of the greatest NFL teams that amazed fans with their exceptional performances, yet unfortunately did not secure the ultimate prize: the Super Bowl victory.
12. 1969 Minnesota Vikings (12-2)
Under the strategic leadership of Coach Bud Grant, the 1969 Minnesota Vikings dominated the NFL Central division, boasting an impressive 12-2 record. Their prowess on the field was unmatched, as they outscored their rivals and defended their turf like no other team in the league.
Their journey to the top saw them triumph over the Los Angeles Rams in a thrilling Western Conference Championship, followed by a decisive victory against the Cleveland Browns in the NFL Championship Game. Despite their remarkable season, they fell short in Super Bowl IV, losing to the Kansas City Chiefs. Yet, their performance that year remains a testament to their skill and determination.
11. 2016 Atlanta Falcons (13-6)
In the 2016 season, the Atlanta Falcons soared to Super Bowl LI, squaring off against the New England Patriots. They dominated the game early on, amassing a commanding lead by the third quarter. However, the Patriots rallied, scoring an unbroken string of points to stage the most dramatic comeback in Super Bowl history.
The game ended in a nail-biting 34-28 overtime victory for the Patriots. This unforgettable showdown is etched in NFL history as a testament to the unpredictable and thrilling nature of the sport.
10. 1998 Minnesota Vikings (15-1)
In the thrilling 1998 season, the Minnesota Vikings stormed through their games, finishing with an impressive 15-1 record. However, their journey ended abruptly in a heart-stopping NFC Championship Game, where they fell to the Atlanta Falcons in a tense overtime battle, 30-27.
The Vikings’ offensive prowess was unmatched that season, as they racked up a staggering 556 points, the highest in the NFL at the time. The team boasted exceptional talent, including rookie sensation Randy Moss, who snagged an impressive 17 touchdown passes, and the reliable Cris Carter, who consistently delivered, amassing over 1,000 receiving yards.
9. 2011 Green Bay Packers (15-1)
The 2011 Green Bay Packers stormed through the season, boasting a near-perfect 15-1 record and dominating the NFC. Their quarterback, Aaron Rodgers, shattered NFL records with his sky-high passer rating. Yet, despite their regular season triumphs, the Packers stumbled in the NFC divisional playoff game, falling to the New York Giants with a score of 37-20.
8. 1984 Miami Dolphins (14-2)
In the thrilling 1984 NFL season, the Miami Dolphins, under the leadership of their star quarterback Dan Marino, showcased an exceptional performance. They dominated the field with a 14-2 record, clinching the AFC Championship. Despite their best efforts, they fell short in Super Bowl XIX, losing to the San Francisco 49ers, 38-16.
Marino’s prowess was undeniable as he shattered NFL records, throwing for an astonishing number of yards and touchdowns. These records, though since surpassed, were a testament to Marino’s extraordinary skill and the Dolphins’ formidable 1984 lineup.
7. 2013 Denver Broncos (15-4)
In the 2013 season, the Denver Broncos, under the leadership of Peyton Manning, put on a show that left fans on the edge of their seats. They stormed through their games, racking up an impressive average of nearly 38 points per match. Their prowess on the field led them to shatter several records.
Despite their regular season triumphs, which included a stellar 13-3 record, they fell short in Super Bowl XLVIII, losing 43-8 to the Seahawks.
6. 1990 Buffalo Bills (13-3)
The Buffalo Bills stormed through the 1990 season, dominating the AFC East and the entire AFC with an impressive record. Their high-octane offense led the league in scoring, putting up an astounding number of points. However, their remarkable season ended in heartbreak at Super Bowl XXV.
Despite their best efforts, they fell to the Giants by a single point, a loss sealed by a missed field goal in the game’s dying moments. This season remains one of the most memorable in the Bills’ history.
5. 2001 St. Louis Rams (14-2)
In the 2001 NFL season, the St. Louis Rams, famously known as “The Greatest Show on Turf,” put on a thrilling performance. They dominated the regular season, racking up an impressive number of victories. Their prowess carried them all the way to Super Bowl XXXVI, where they faced off against the New England Patriots. Despite their best efforts, they fell short of the championship.
That year, Kurt Warner, the Rams’ quarterback, was recognized for his exceptional play and awarded the NFL MVP. Meanwhile, Marshall Faulk, their star running back, was a force to be reckoned with on the field.
4. 1983 Washington Redskins (14-3)
The 1983 Washington Redskins stormed through their season, racking up an impressive 14 wins against just 2 losses. They shattered previous NFL records, scoring an unprecedented number of points. Their defense was equally formidable, leading the league in turnover margin.
In the playoffs, they steamrolled the Los Angeles Rams and edged out a victory against the San Francisco 49ers. Despite their dominant season, they fell short in Super Bowl XVIII, losing to the Los Angeles Raiders.
3. 1968 Baltimore Colts (13-1)
Under the guidance of Coach Don Shula, the Baltimore Colts dominated the 1968 season, boasting an impressive 13-1 record. When star quarterback Johnny Unitas was sidelined with an injury, Earl Morrall stepped up, leading the team to the NFL Championship.
The Colts were tipped to clinch Super Bowl III, but in a shocking twist, they fell to the New York Jets, losing 16-7 in a game that left fans and critics alike stunned.
Read More: 13 NFL Head Coaches Who Deserved a Super Bowl Win
2. 2015 Carolina Panthers (17-2)
Under the dynamic leadership of MVP Cam Newton, the 2015 Carolina Panthers stormed through the regular season, smashing their own franchise record with an impressive tally of victories. Their potent offense was a force to be reckoned with, propelling them all the way to Super Bowl 50.
However, they met their match in the formidable Denver Broncos, who ultimately bested them in a hard-fought battle.
Read More: 10 Backup Quarterbacks Who Led Their Teams to Victory
1. 2007 New England Patriots (18-1)
The 2007 Patriots stormed through the regular season, undefeated with a record-breaking 16 wins. They were an unstoppable force, shattering records with an astonishing 75 touchdowns and a whopping 589 points. Tom Brady, with his arm of steel, hurled 50 touchdown passes, while Randy Moss, with his lightning-fast speed, snagged 23 touchdown receptions.
Their reign of dominance was only halted by a Super Bowl XLII defeat to the Giants. This season stands tall in the annals of NFL history as one of the most awe-inspiring ever.
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