The NFL is a league built on passion, tradition, and intense competition. Nowhere is this more evident than in the rivalries that define the game.
Here are the best rivalries in NFL history.
Dallas Cowboys vs. Washington Commanders
A rivalry born from geographical proximity and divisional stakes, the Cowboys and Commanders have been at odds since the 1960s. Iconic moments, like Clint Longley’s “Thanksgiving Miracle” and RG3’s dominance in 2012, have kept this feud alive.
Kansas City Chiefs vs. Las Vegas Raiders
Dating back to their AFL days, the Chiefs and Raiders have engaged in bitter clashes over the years. While the Chiefs have had the Raiders’ number for the last decade, the animosity between the teams and their fanbases makes every matchup a must-watch.
San Francisco 49ers vs. Dallas Cowboys
During the 1980s and 1990s, these two teams dominated the NFL and met multiple times in the NFC Championship. From “The Catch” to battles between Jerry Rice and Troy Aikman, this rivalry certainly defined an era.
New York Giants vs. Philadelphia Eagles
This NFC East rivalry has produced some unforgettable moments, from DeSean Jackson’s “Miracle at the Meadowlands II” to Lawrence Taylor terrorizing Eagles quarterbacks. Their games are always unpredictable.
Seattle Seahawks vs. San Francisco 49ers
A more recent rivalry, the Seahawks and 49ers emerged as NFC powerhouses in the 2010s. Who could ever forget Richard Sherman’s “Imma gonna shut it down” moment in the 2013 NFC Championship?!
Philadelphia Eagles vs. Dallas Cowboys
Eagles fans’ disdain for the Cowboys is legendary, with chants and signs to prove it. Whether it’s divisional showdowns or iconic plays like Wilbert Montgomery’s NFC Championship performance, this rivalry is always intense.
Cleveland Browns vs. Pittsburgh Steelers
A rivalry rooted in blue-collar pride, the Browns and Steelers represent the heart and soul of the AFC North. Though the Steelers have had the upper hand in recent years, the Browns have added intrigue to this storied feud.
Minnesota Vikings vs. Green Bay Packers
The NFC North clash between these two rivals is steeped in history and star power. From Brett Favre’s controversial move to the Vikings to divisional-deciding games, this rivalry is always compelling.
Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Baltimore Ravens
Known for their physicality and defensive prowess, this rivalry has been one of the fiercest in modern football. Since the Ravens’ inception in 1996, every matchup feels like a playoff game, highlighted by bruising battles between Ray Lewis and the Steelers’ offensive line.
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New England Patriots vs. New York Jets
The animosity between these teams has been fueled by coaching drama (aka Bill Belichick’s departure to the Patriots) and memorable games like the Jets’ playoff upset in 2010. The rivalry captures the intensity of AFC East football.
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Green Bay Packers vs. Chicago Bears
The oldest rivalry in the NFL, dating back to 1921, this clash between two storied franchises is synonymous with hard-nosed football. With more than 200 meetings, the Packers and Bears have fought for division supremacy and bragging rights in the Midwest for over a century.
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