LONDON: The biggest American sporting show kicks off on Thursday, and this year’s NFL season has a lot to live up to after 2017’s remarkable turn of events. Reigning Super Bowl champions Philadelphia Eagles start us off on Thursday against the Atlanta Falcons, and all this week Arab News has previewed the teams most likely to lift the Vince Lombardi trophy next February…
New England Patriots — Everyone’s favorites before almost every season, 2018 will be the same. One of the best rosters in the history of sport for a decade, the Patriots will be a force to be reckoned with once again. Bill Bellichik and Tom Brady might not have much left in the tank, but they will want to cement their positions as the best ever with yet another Super Bowl ring.
Philadelphia Eagles — You can never count out defending champions from holding on to their title in any sport, and the Eagles are no different. C, but this settled side could well become the first NFC team to win back-to-back titles in 25 years.
Los Angeles Rams — A lot might change from opening day to the “Big One”, one team has been on a lot of people’s lips — the Los Angeles Rams. As defending NFC West Division champs, coming off an 11–5 record, they have added quality to their roster in the offseason. They will certainly go close.
Pittsburgh Steelers — Perennial favorites to win the ultimate prize, Pennsylvania’s other team have lived in the shadows of the upstart Eagles for a few years now. But last year, the Steelers went 13-3 for the season, and even though it ended in disappointment, the underlying factors that contributed to them winning so many games are still very much in place. Dark horses.
Minnesota Vikings — While they were demolished by eventual champions Philadelphia, the Vikings showed themselves to be worthy challengers for the big prize. And thanks to the incredible work by their general manager and the rest of the franchises’ front office, the Vikings are perfectly primed to chase a first ever Vince Lombardi trophy once again in 2018.
New Orleans Saints — Most people’s “second team” after their fairytale win in 2009 in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, the Saints will always be a threat with Sean Payton in charge and Hall-of-Famer Drew Brees shepherding the offense. The head says whether they make it all the way will depend on how tight their defense stays throughout the year, but the heart says this storied franchise can go all the way.
Green Bay Packers — Always a force to be reckoned with, the Packers can put their horrific 2017 season behind them. The Wisconsin outfit were boosted in pre-season with the news that legendary quarterback Aaron Rodgers signed a contract extension, which will reportedly make him the highest-paid player in NFL history. Keeping him fit will be key to their chances.
Atlanta Falcons — They were desperately unlucky not to win a maiden Super Bowl championship in 2016, when they missed out to the New England Patriots. Keeping a roster fit is key to making a run at the “Big Game”, and the Falcons have done that well in recent years. If they manage it again this year and Matt Ryan fires on all cylinders, they have an outside chance.
Jacksonville Jaguars — It seems bizarre to be even saying the Jags have a shot at the Super Bowl, considering where they were just a few years ago. But after almost going all the way last year, the Jags’ defense will be the key again. If they can remove the errors on big plays in crunch games, this “possible relocation” team could go out on the biggest of bangs.