NFL Rivalries
Obviously coming into each NFL season, it is the aim of each of the 32 franchises - realistically or not - to beat every team they're scheduled to play in the regular season, and in the playoffs and ultimately in the Super Bowl, with one objective - to enjoy the kudos of being able to lift the Vince Lombardi trophy high.
However, while you could call that a general NFL rivalry, there are many team rivalries that have popped up over the years, particularly between teams in the same divisions, that have become almost famous, or infamous, to be more accurate, as have their games, many of which are NFL key matchups.
When teams renowned for being 'ardent or bitter rivals' are scheduled to go up against each other, it only adds to the atmosphere and pre-game tension for everyone involved, from the players, coaching staff and pundits to the spectators, betting fans and commentators.
Here are two of the best known NFL rivalries:
Green Bay Packers vs the Chicago Bears
No doubt the longest-running rivalry ever in the NFL is between the NFC North's Green Bay Packers and the Chicago Bears. Since 1921 these teams have faced off a record 184 times. But by all accounts, they cemented their rivalry after their very first game, which saw Chicago trounce Green Bay by 20-1.
Since then, these two massive NFL franchises have had it in for each other, as their countless matchups have attested to. That said, over the last few years, it has been the Packers who have had the upper hand over the Bears, having won their last six consecutive encounters from January 2011 until December 2012.
For this reason, fans of both teams will watch the 2013-24 NFL Season with great interest to see if Green Bay can continue their domination, or whether Chicago can prevent a seventh straight loss. With 86 wins versus the Packers 94 in this old rivalry, the Bears really need to dig deep to close the gap.
New England Patriots vs the New York Jets
Arguably one of the most famous NFL rivalries is the current one between AFC East divisional rivals the New England Patriots and the New York Jets. The reason is that for 10 years the Patriots have dominated the AFC East, with the Jets consistently, always chomping at their heels for a shot at the top spot.
As such, it has become common place for games between these two East Coast teams to be much hyped and publicized, as it is clear that New England always march onto the field prepared to do anything to prevent the Jets from getting the upper hand, while the Jets will be equally motivated to do anything to topple their mighty opponents.
This more often than not makes for hugely exciting games for NFL betting fans and spectators alike. Other great NFL rivalries include Steelers vs Ravens, Giants vs Eagles, Dolphins vs Bills and many more. It should be interesting to see whichg Watch the 2013-14 NFL season closely to see as the many NFL derbies unfold.
