Every year, I believe there are eight teams that legitimately fit into the Super Bowl conversation. And every year, one team jumps into the mix, like the Arizona Cardinals did last season. Here are my 2009 Elite 8 teams:

NFC
Philadelphia Eagles
New York Giants
Minnesota Vikings
Green Bay Packers

I have been on the record as saying that I thought the Chicago Bears would make the Super Bowl representing the NFC with the acquisition of QB Jay Cutler. I do believe the Bears have the talent to get there but the receiver position is a major concern. You need to look no further than the Philadelphia Eagles for the last 10 years.

AFC
New England Patriots
Pittsburgh Steelers
San Diego Chargers
Baltimore Ravens

I am as shocked as you are that the Colts are not on this list. I don’t have doubts the Colts will make the playoffs but there are too many mitigating circumstances to put them in the Elite 8 (Tony Dungy‘s retirement, consultant coaches, new defensive coordinator, suspect offensive line).

Let’s talk about the contenders. As I said, it never fails that a few teams have magical years. Here is my list of playoff-caliber contenders other than the Bears and Colts who have the personnel to get to the big dance.

NFC On the Fringe:
Arizona Cardinals
NFC South Division winner (Saints, Falcons or Panthers)

AFC
Tennessee Titans

What Say You?

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