AFC team in Super Bowl LXI

[Ruminator]

To be played in the same state as LX was, it could actually end up being the same two teams -- Seahawks and Pats. On the AFC side, not predicting it will, but just could be Pats again.

I think, however, some other AFC team will get there this time. Bills, perhaps. Or could be Chargers, Bengals, Colts, Broncos, or even Ravens.

• Chargers often have a bit of bad luck along the way, but they have recent acquisitions that could finally get them there; we'll see if Herbert finally has a stout OL for once.
• Bengals are no longer pushovers -- they have some damn good players.
• We saw what Colts did last year before QB Daniel Jones went down. Wasn't a fluke.
• Is Bo Nix's ankle fully recovered? Bronco D still one of the toughest to play against.
• Ravens are Ravens, and sometimes that's not a good thing for them, but I have the feeling they're going to be dangerous in 2026.

 

[onanygivensunday]

If Stroud can get his head screwed back on straight, HOU has the D to go deep in the Playoffs.

 

[Ruminator]

If Stroud can get his head screwed back on straight, HOU has the D to go deep in the Playoffs.

True! Texans' D looks to be even better than last year.

 

[Appyhawk]

Lots of possibilities but I have a hard time seeing the Chiefs making it back. And I'm good with that. Buffalo seems to me to be the most deserving AFC team to get there, although the staff changes they have made might be a sticking point.

 

[Hockey Guy]

It won't be the Pats again.
That was a fluke where everything went just right for them.

 

[pmedic920]

If Stroud can get his head screwed back on straight, HOU has the D to go deep in the Playoffs.

Yep.
Stroud is the key, if he gets his manure all in 1 pile the Texans will be a force to reckon with

 

[MoldyPurpleMayo]

It won't be the Pats again.
That was a fluke where everything went just right for them.

Strongly agree. Also, the Super Bowl hangover is tough to come back from.