In the 1970s, then-Houston Oilers coach Bum Phillips famously said, “The road to the Super Bowl goes through Pittsburgh.” Some 45 years later, Phillips’ quote can accurately be applied to the Kansas City Chiefs, who enter the 2024 season on the precipice of making NFL history.
Winners of the last two Super Bowls, coach Andy Reid’s team is in pursuit of becoming the NFL’s first team to win three consecutive Super Bowls. The NFL’s dominant team, the Chiefs have had a stranglehold on the AFC since the Patriots’ two-decade reign ended five years ago. Kansas City has played in the last six AFC championships (winning four) which included a record five straight title games at home.
Will the Chiefs make history this season? Like Tom Brady before him, Patrick Mahomes has more often than not made those who have bet against him and his team regret their actions. Even when the odds are stacked against him, Mahomes has continued to channel a level of performance that rivals the greatest to ever play his position. The Chiefs’ multiple time MVP-winning quarterback is the No. 1 reason why the Chiefs have to be considered the favorite once again.
That doesn’t mean that the Chiefs’ quest at immortality will be a cakewalk, though. While the NFC is no slouch, the AFC is considered the deeper of the two conferences, largely because of the quarterbacks that play within it. Pahomes may be the king, but fellow signal callers Aaron Rodgers, Lamar Jackson, Josh Allen, Joe Burrow, C.J. Stroud and others are coming for the crown.
### Expert Picks: Overrated Teams
#### Pittsburgh Steelers
The Pittsburgh Steelers are often viewed as a team with a formidable defense led by T.J. Watt, who has made history by leading the league in sacks three times. The defense allowed the sixth-fewest points in the league in 2023, and the addition of linebacker Patrick Queen and the development of cornerback Joey Porter Jr. could make them even stronger. However, concerns arise when looking at their offense, now under the guidance of former Atlanta Falcons head coach Arthur Smith. With uncertainty at the quarterback position between Russell Wilson and Justin Fields, doubts linger about the team’s ability to excel in passing the football.
#### New York Jets
The New York Jets have garnered attention with a 40-year-old quarterback coming off a torn Achilles and inconsistent performance over the past few years. While the team has shown potential, there are concerns about their defensive sustainability, especially after losing key pass rushers in the offseason.
#### Cincinnati Bengals
The Cincinnati Bengals have the potential to be a force when everything clicks, but injuries have plagued their star quarterback, Joe Burrow. With his recent season-ending wrist injury raising questions about his performance this season, coupled with a contract dispute involving wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase, there are uncertainties surrounding the team’s ability to compete at the highest level.
#### Buffalo Bills
The Buffalo Bills faced significant losses on the defensive side during the offseason, including star linebacker Matt Milano. The team also made changes to their wide receiver lineup, introducing new faces like Curtis Samuel and rookie Keon Coleman. These alterations raise concerns about the team’s ability to maintain their winning streak, especially in a competitive AFC landscape.
#### Baltimore Ravens
The Baltimore Ravens underwent changes with the departure of several defensive coaches and players, leading to uncertainties about their defensive prowess. While still considered a top team in the AFC, the Ravens may face challenges in maintaining their status in a conference with fierce competition.
### Expert Picks: Underrated Teams
#### Pittsburgh Steelers
Despite doubts surrounding the Pittsburgh Steelers, the team has shown improvements, especially on offense under new coordinator Arthur Smith. With the potential addition of Russell Wilson and a revamped offense complementing their strong defense led by T.J. Watt and Minkah Fitzpatrick, the Steelers could surprise many this season.
#### Tennessee Titans
The Tennessee Titans made significant moves to bolster their roster, providing support for quarterback Will Levis with key acquisitions like Calvin Ridley, Tony Pollard, Lloyd Cushenberry III, and Tyler Boyd. These additions, along with the drafting of JC Latham, aim to enhance the team’s offensive capabilities and elevate Levis’ performance. If Levis can improve his completion percentage and maintain his deep passing prowess, the Titans could exceed expectations.
#### Jacksonville Jaguars
The Jacksonville Jaguars, led by quarterback Trevor Lawrence, aim to bounce back from a challenging season in 2023. Despite concerns about the team’s offensive trajectory, coach Doug Pederson’s leadership and Lawrence’s potential offer hope for a resurgence. With a solid foundation and competitive spirit, the Jaguars may reclaim their position as contenders in the AFC South.
#### Buffalo Bills
The Buffalo Bills have consistently performed well under quarterback Josh Allen, winning 11 or more games each year since his breakout season. Despite personnel changes, the team remains a strong contender in the AFC, poised to continue their success in a competitive conference.
#### New York Jets
The New York Jets have emerged as a dark horse in the AFC East, with the potential to surprise many this season. The team boasts a dynamic young core of players and the return of veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers, whose presence could elevate the team’s performance significantly. With Rodgers leading the charge, the Jets have the opportunity to surpass expectations and make a strong playoff push.
#### Los Angeles Chargers
After a disappointing season in 2023, the Los Angeles Chargers are poised for a potential turnaround under head coach Jim Harbaugh. Despite low expectations, the team’s roster features standout players like Justin Herbert, Joey Bosa, and Khalil Mack, offering promise for a successful season. With Harbaugh’s leadership and a talented lineup, the Chargers could defy odds and secure a spot in the playoffs.
### Bold Predictions
#### Jared Dubin
With changes in coaching staff, the Jacksonville Jaguars may face challenges in the upcoming season, potentially leading to a stall in their progress. A lack of stability could impact quarterback Trevor Lawrence’s performance, highlighting the team’s need for consistency and a strong leadership.
#### Garrett Podell
Despite defensive changes, the Baltimore Ravens could surprise many by dethroning the Chiefs and reaching the Super Bowl. Despite offseason challenges, the Ravens’ resilience and determination may propel them to new heights in the AFC.
#### Tyler Sullivan
The Cleveland Browns may struggle this season, facing tough competition in the AFC North. Additionally, the Deshaun Watson trade could prove to be a setback for the team, marking a significant turning point in NFL history.
#### Jordan Dajani
Veteran coach Mike Tomlin may face his first losing season, challenging the Pittsburgh Steelers’ long-standing success. Despite a strong defense, the team’s offensive stability and tough schedule could pose obstacles to their playoff aspirations.
#### Josh Edwards
The AFC North may witness intense competition, with teams like Jacksonville and Miami vying for playoff spots alongside the Steelers. The conference’s depth could result in a close race for postseason berths, highlighting the competitiveness within the division.
#### John Breech
The Buffalo Bills may miss the playoffs despite quarterback Josh Allen’s capabilities to lead the team to victories. Personnel changes and tough competition could hinder the Bills’ chances of securing a postseason berth, marking a potential shift in the AFC landscape.
#### Bryan DeArdo
The Baltimore Ravens may face challenges in making the playoffs for the second time under quarterback Lamar Jackson. Despite Jackson’s talent, defensive losses and tough competition could impact the team’s postseason prospects, highlighting the uncertainties in the AFC.
#### Cody Benjamin
The Pittsburgh Steelers’ streak of non-losing seasons could come to an end, signaling a potential shift in the team’s performance. Despite perceived improvements, the team’s offensive stability and competitive division could present obstacles to their playoff aspirations.
### AFC Champion Predictions
The Kansas City Chiefs emerge as a strong contender for the AFC championship, aiming to secure a historic three-peat in the Super Bowl. With a talented roster and motivated players, the Chiefs stand out as one of the best teams in the NFL, driven by their determination to make history.
The New York Jets present a compelling case for the AFC championship, boasting a dynamic lineup of players and the return of veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers. With a strong defense and offensive firepower, the Jets have the potential to exceed expectations and make a significant impact in the AFC.
The Cincinnati Bengals emerge as dark horses for the AFC championship, equipped with a talented quarterback, offensive firepower, and a solid defense. With the ability to challenge top teams like the Chiefs, the Bengals have the potential to disrupt the AFC landscape and secure a spot in the Super Bowl.
In conclusion, the 2024 AFC season promises excitement, competition, and surprises as teams vie for supremacy in the conference. With strong contenders, underrated teams, and bold predictions, the AFC landscape is set for an intense and thrilling season ahead.