The Denver Broncos led an amazing game against the favorites to win Carolina Panthers, beating them 24-10 to take their third football franchise Super Bowl victory. It was a great match, as the Bronco defense was unmerciful with Cam Newton, getting an interception, forcing two fumbles, one of which resulted in a defensive touchdown, and not to mention the seven sacks they got on him. Ultimately, capitalizing on errors, great field goals, and a defense that is ranked first in the league won the game.
Now that this year’s Super Bowl is over with, the hype, fans, and even sportsbooks are looking to the future. There are five teams that simply could have done better this season, but due to unforeseen circumstances like injuries, prevented them from making it to the championship final. These teams have good chances, if they improve on their mistakes, will make it to the playoffs and even have their shot at the title next year.
Dallas Cowboys
The Cowboys played a good enough season to realize two things:
- Their defense is amazing, and should continue to utilize them to their full potential.
- They desperately need a back-up quarterback, as it was clearly shown that if Tony Romo is injured, the offense can’t operate as well.
Having a healthy Romo, along with Dez Bryant, all they would need now is a good running back and would be set for offense.
Pittsburgh Steelers
The Steelers had a very weird season. On top of the many injuries that their first team suffered including Antonio Brown and Le’Veon Bell, among others, their quarterback also missed out on a few games. Ben Roethlisberger still has it in him to lead the team to another Super Bowl, but they would all need to be healthy. They went 10-6 in the regular season, managed to make it into the Playoffs, but lost to the Broncos. Having healthy players will be important, and their defense has stepped up as well, only allowing 19.9 points per game (11th) and did a good job at stopping the rush at 91.2 yards per game (5th).
Cincinnati Bengals
The Bengals were first in their division, going 12-4 during the regular season, but their playoffs were cut short by the Steelers. They arguably have one of the best overall teams in the NFL, as their offense is quite good, and their defense is even better. QB Andy Dalton will return next season even better, as he threw for 3,250 yards, 25 touchdowns, and had only 7 interceptions during the 13 games he played in before his injury. The way they were going, they could go all the way this upcoming season.
Arizona Cardinals
The Cardinals played an amazing season, and it was mostly thanks to their quarterback Carson Palmer. He may be 36 years old, but he is playing like the pro he is, throwing for 4,671 yards, 35 touchdowns, and only giving up 11 interceptions. The team is full of wide receivers and has some great running backs, including, Larry Fitzgerald, Jon Brown, Michael Floyd, Chris Johnson, and David Johnson.
New England Patriots
It goes without saying that the Patriots will be one of the top contenders during the 2016 season. Their defense allowed 19.6 points per game (8th), and their offense scored 29.1 points per game (3rd), and with Tom Brady at the front, they will definitely be aiming towards another Super Bowl victory. They will still have Julian Edelman and Rob Gronkowski, who were both fundamental for their victories. Their injuries also hurt them during the playoffs, but having a healthy Dion Lewis or LeGarrette Blount will surely improve their offense.
These five football teams have what it takes to make it to the playoffs, and possibly to the Super Bowl 51 next season, so keep your eye on them.
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