Three of the four teams vying for their Super Bowl spot have been there in the past three years. Still, the potential matchups feel fresh and the title is ripe for the taking.
49ers v. Chiefs: Counting Intangibles
This could be Jimmy G's last hurrah with the 49ers, and they are on a bit of a hotstreak coming in (despite Garoppolo's individual performance, which has drawn its own commentary).
This matchup is a rematch from Super Bowl LIV two years ago when the 49ers lost in a 4th quarter Chief's comeback. The teams' compositions are nearly the same as they were two years ago, but there may have been a shift in "intangibles" that could yield a different outcome. And when things are unpredictable, they sure are fun to watch.
Bengals v. 49ers: Back to the Future
The last time the Bengals played in the Super Bowl was in 1989. If they make it this year, they could see themselves facing the same opponent as in their last appearance over 30 years ago.
More importantly, though, this is Joe Burrow's best shot at taking it home to Cincinnati. The young stud QB on the Bengals has been steadily taking the team one step further than we thought they would go. Finishing the year with as a Super Bowl champ would be the most epic addition to Burrow's coming out party.
Bengals v. Rams: New Wave of Coaching
Coach of the Bengals, Zac Taylor, had a previous gig under Rams coach Sean McVay. It does seem like McVay has paved a career path for the relatively young, offensive-focused head coach role. Rumour has it that McVay was also a strong reference for Taylor to get the Cincinnati job.
McVay's had more time to set up and fine tune the pieces he's working with, but Taylor has at least one winning combo in Burrow + Chase. In theory, this matchup should go to the Rams, however the Bengals are peaking at the right moment.
Rams v. Chiefs: The One We're Rooting For
If you're looking for a tight, high scoring matchup, this is the most likely to deliver.
This is the third Super Bowl in a row for the Chiefs, a feat only accomplished by 3 teams before them. Last year, they lost in a blowout and they'll be looking to close the deal this year. Speaking of last year, the Rams will get to play at home in SoFi Stadium, which is a repeat of the conditions the Chiefs saw the Buccaneers in Super Bowl LV.
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