6 Underrated Teams That Might Have a Chance at This Year’s Super Bowl Title

In sports bars, the talk is always about the usual favorites, but the NFL is unpredictable, and a few under-the-radar teams might have a shot at the Super Bowl this year. They may not top preseason power rankings, but watching a scrappy roster catch fire is half the fun. You never know which long shot will hit. Here are six dark horses worth watching.

1. Arizona Cardinals

Arizona hasn’t been relevant for years, but there’s a growing buzz in the desert. The front office beefed up the pass rush with Josh Sweat and Dalvin Tomlinson, and they drafted Marvin Harrison Jr. to give Kyler Murray a true number one. One healthy season from Murray and a few stops on defense could push this team into the wild card conversation; even the best online sportsbooks are starting to notice and post up some attractive odds, which are also coupled with hefty welcome bonuses, live betting options, and same-day payouts, all of which serve well in terms of matching the excitement of the NFL. It’s still a long shot, but they’re at least interesting again.

2. Atlanta Falcons

The NFC South is wide open, and Atlanta could steal it if things fall their way. Rookie quarterback Michael Penix Jr. inherits a loaded supporting cast with Bijan Robinson, Drake London and Kyle Pitts. The defense is suspect, but the revamped coaching staff will let the offense play loose. Serious bettors love underdogs with easy schedules, and the Falcons fit that profile. If Penix avoids turnovers and the front seven holds up even occasionally, they’ll be dangerous.

3. Baltimore Ravens

Baltimore looks like a top-tier team, but still gets overlooked. Lamar Jackson is in his prime, and the front office kept the core intact while adding Derrick Henry plus depth at receiver and corner. ESPN writers have even called this the club’s best roster since 2012. If their stars avoid injury, there’s no reason the Ravens can’t finally break through, they just need a little luck in January.

4. Buffalo Bills

Buffalo keeps knocking on the door; Josh Allen remains an MVP candidate, and he now has Josh Palmer, Joey Bosa and a healthy Matt Milano supporting him. The offense will still run through Allen, but with more help, they may not need him to play hero ball every week. Recent NFL projections still rank them among the elite.

5. Minnesota Vikings

The Minnesota Vikings went 14-3 last year, yet they’re turning to rookie J.J. McCarthy. Kevin O’Connell knows how to call plays, and he still has Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison. The roster is good enough to keep them afloat while the rookie learns, and if he catches on quickly, they could surprise. It’s a gamble, but not an unreasonable one.

6. Detroit Lions

Detroit jumped into contention last season and might have been the league’s best team before injuries. They stayed the course, bolstering both lines and keeping their physical identity. If their stars remain healthy, they can bully teams in January and maybe even make the Super Bowl. The faithful at Ford Field are starving for a banner, and that energy can carry a team. For a glimpse at how tight the race is, check out our Chargers vs Chiefs preview.