Throughout the history of the National Football League (NFL), there have been numerous rivalries that have captivated fans and created unforgettable moments on the field. In this article, we will take a look back at some of the greatest rivalries in NFL history and the impact they have had on the sport.
Green Bay Packers vs. Chicago Bears
One of the oldest and most storied rivalries in the NFL, the Green Bay Packers and the Chicago Bears have been battling it out since 1921. With over 200 games played between the two teams, the rivalry has produced some of the most memorable moments in NFL history, including the famous “Instant Replay” game in 1989 and the 2010 NFC Championship game. The intensity of this rivalry is fueled by the proximity of the two cities and the passionate fan bases of both teams.
Dallas Cowboys vs. Washington Football Team
Another classic NFL rivalry, the Dallas Cowboys and the Washington Football Team (formerly known as the Washington Redskins) have been fierce competitors since the 1960s. The rivalry reached its peak in the 1970s and 1980s when both teams were consistently competing for playoff spots and Super Bowl titles. Memorable moments from this rivalry include the 1972 NFC Championship game and the 1982 NFC Championship game, both of which were won by Washington.
New England Patriots vs. Indianapolis Colts
While not as old as some of the other rivalries on this list, the New England Patriots and the Indianapolis Colts have had their fair share of memorable battles. The rivalry was at its peak in the 2000s when both teams were led by future Hall of Fame quarterbacks Tom Brady and Peyton Manning. The two teams faced off in several high-stakes playoff games, including the 2003 and 2004 AFC Championship games, both won by the Patriots, and the 2006 AFC Championship game, which saw the Colts come back from a 21-3 deficit to win and eventually capture their first Super Bowl title since moving to Indianapolis.
Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Baltimore Ravens
Known for their hard-hitting, defensive battles, the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Baltimore Ravens have been fierce AFC North rivals since the Ravens’ inception in 1996. The rivalry has been defined by close, physical games and has featured some of the best defensive players in NFL history, including Ray Lewis, Ed Reed, Troy Polamalu, and James Harrison. The two teams have faced off in several memorable playoff games, including the 2008 and 2010 AFC Divisional Round games, both won by the Steelers.
San Francisco 49ers vs. Dallas Cowboys
While not a traditional divisional rivalry, the San Francisco 49ers and the Dallas Cowboys have had several high-stakes battles throughout NFL history. The rivalry was at its peak in the 1980s and 1990s when both teams were among the best in the league and faced off in three consecutive NFC Championship games from 1992 to 1994. The 1981 NFC Championship game, also known as “The Catch” game, is one of the most iconic moments in NFL history and solidified the 49ers-Cowboys rivalry as one of the greatest in the sport.
