The NFL is firmly in Super Bowl season as the 2024 campaign reaches its apex. The Kansas City Chiefs are many people’s pick to go all the way, having won the Big Game in each of the last two years and finishing the regular season with a 14-2 record.
If they manage to go all the way, they will become the first team ever to win three straight championships, but a whole host of teams are aiming to stop them in their tracks.ย
But while Patrick Mahomes and Co. are aiming to reach their fifth Super Bowl in six years, some teams are still waiting for their first-ever appearance.
Detroit Lions
The Detroit Lions are one of the oldest franchises in the NFL, dating back to 1930 when they were known as the Portsmouth Spartans. They’ve had their fair share of success, winning four NFL Championships, but the most recent of those came way back in 1957, and they haven’t come close to a championship since. Until now.
Current head coach Dan Campbell has transformed the Motor City side into a genuine contender. They finished the 2024 season as the NFC’s top seed, prompting websites allowing one to bet on Super Bowl LIX to install them as the outrightย favourite for the Lombardi.As we all remember though, those dreams were crushed by the Washington Commanders, and it’s now the reigning champion Chiefs who have been made the 8/11 frontrunners. (https://www.paddypower.com/american-football/nfl/kansas-city-chiefs-philadelphia-eagles-33958339)ย
Those same websites allowing one to place an NFL betย also make the aforementioned Mahomes an 11/10 favourite to win the MVP award (https://www.paddypower.com/american-football?tab=super-bowl), another honour that was once awarded to a Lion – namely Jarred Goff – prior to their elimination.ย And it has been him, alongside coach Campbell, that has been integral to resurrecting the ailing franchise.ย
Poor management and inconsistent play have plagued the Lions for decades, making them a symbol of tragic underachievement. Barry Sanders, arguably one of the greatest running backs in NFL history, gave fans hope during the 1990s, but the team was never able to provide him with a true Super Bowl-caliber supporting cast.
Goff and Co. had put them on the brink of glory in 2024, only for more heartbreak to rear its head. They will be aiming to put that right next season.
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— Detroit Lions (@Lions) January 18, 2025
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Houston Texans
The Houston Texans are the youngest team in the NFL, having been established as an expansion franchise in 2002. While their youth explains their lack of Super Bowl appearances, the team’s history of mismanagement and a revolving door of head coaches have also slowed their progress. Yet, it’s not all gloom for the Texansโthey have several AFC South division titles under their belt, and they have emerged as the dominant force in the quartet over the last two years.
Last season, they managed to select a new quarterback with the second overall pick of the draft, and he has proven to be a revelation. He led them to divisional honours last season and further strengthening in the form of running back Joe Mixon and wide receiver Stefon Diggs has made the team one of the most feared in the league. They, too, are in the playoffs this year, but it would be a big ask for them to reach the Super Bowl ahead of AFC powerhouses such as the Chiefs, Ravens, and Bills.
Jacksonville Jaguars
The Jacksonville Jaguars joined the league in 1995 and experienced early success, reaching the AFC Championship game twice in their first five seasons. They came heartbreakingly close in 1996 when they fell short against the New England Patriots and again in 1999 when they lost to the Tennessee Titans.
Since then, however, they have become somewhat of a laughing stock. Their “Sacksonville” defence in 2017 did provide a rare bright spot, while current quarterback Trevor Lawrence is arguably the greatest they have ever had. Whether he can lead the Jags to a prosperous new future however remains to be seen.
Cleveland Browns
Few franchises have a history as richโand as torturedโas the Cleveland Browns. Founded in 1946, the Browns were a dynasty in their early years, winning eight championships across the 1940s-60s. However, all of this success predates the Super Bowl era, and the team’s modern history has been defined by heartbreak and futility.
They have reached the playoffs just three times in the last 30 years, including a horrifying 18-year drought between 2002 and 2020. Last season, they managed to impress with Joe Flacco under centre, but this term it has been more of the same. They turned into the AFC’s resident whipping boys, and they will need to strengthen in the postseason if they are to bounce back.