Over the years, there have been numerous NFL teams that have had exceptional seasons only to fall short of making it to the Super Bowl. Despite having some of the best players in the league and performing at an incredibly high level, these teams never got the chance to compete for the ultimate prize, the Lombardi Trophy. Here are the best NFL teams that never made it to a Super Bowl.
1. 1998 Minnesota Vikings:
The 1998 Minnesota Vikings, led by quarterback Randall Cunningham and wide receiver Randy Moss, were an offensive powerhouse. They scored an average of 34.8 points per game during the regular season and finished with a record of 15-1. However, their season came to an abrupt end in the NFC Championship game when they lost to the Atlanta Falcons in overtime.
2. 1979 Houston Oilers:
The 1979 Houston Oilers, led by quarterback Dan Pastorini and running back Earl Campbell, had one of the most dominant offenses in the league. They finished the season with a 11-5 record and scored over 28 points per game. However, they were unable to make it past the Pittsburgh Steelers in the AFC Championship game.
3. 2006 San Diego Chargers:
The 2006 San Diego Chargers, led by quarterbacks Philip Rivers and Drew Brees, had an impressive regular season record of 14-2. They also had the NFL’s best scoring defense that season, allowing just 15.8 points per game. Despite their record-setting season, they were unable to make it past the New England Patriots in the Divisional Round of the playoffs.
4. 2001 St. Louis Rams:
The 2001 St. Louis Rams, led by quarterback Kurt Warner and running back Marshall Faulk, were one of the most dynamic offenses that the NFL had ever seen. They scored a whopping 503 points during the regular season and finished with a 14-2 record. However, they were upset by the New England Patriots in Super Bowl XXXVI.
5. 2011 Green Bay Packers:
The 2011 Green Bay Packers, led by quarterback Aaron Rodgers, were one of the most dominant teams in the NFL that season. They finished the regular season with a record of 15-1 and had the best scoring offense in the league, averaging 35 points per game. However, they were upset by the New York Giants in the Divisional Round of the playoffs.
In conclusion, these NFL teams will always be remembered for their remarkable seasons, but will forever be known for falling short of making it to the Super Bowl. Despite their incredible talent and performances, they never got the opportunity to play on the biggest stage in the sport. Nonetheless, their legacy will continue to live on in the minds of fans for years to come.
