Published on 21 Dec 2022 12:51 pm (UK Time)
As the most popular American sport in terms of viewership amongst the US, the NFL has hit impressive heights of admiration, with people also following the sport all around the world too. Over the years, there have been some great teams, so which are the best American football teams? Some of the most celebrated teams herald from New York, with three New York NFL teams originating in the city. Between the New York Giants, New York Jets and Buffalo Bills, there has been some heated rivalry. Read on to find out more about which is the greatest New York NFL team of all time.
New York Giants
The NFL east division member joined the league in 1925 and is unique in that they are the longest-established team in the Northeastern US. Since they emerged in the league, they have claimed an impressive eight titles in the championship, winning in 1927, 1934, 1938, 1956, 1986, 1990, 2007 and 2011. They also boast more championship appearances than any other team, with 19 appearances.
When it comes to individuals, the New York Giants has been home to 29 Hall of Fame players, which also counts NFL Most Valuable Player (MVP) award winners Mel Hein, Frank Gifford, Y. A. Tittle and Lawrence Taylor. The team had some remarkable athletes play for them, including Ray Flaherty who was the first player in professional football to have his number retired when his career came to an end in 1935. His number 1 jersey has not been used by the team since as a homage to his remarkable seven-year career.
Buffalo Bills
Since joining the NFL in 1970, the Buffalo Bills have faced some difficulty. One of their most impressive moments was consecutive Super Bowl appearances between 1990 and 1993. However, these four back-to-back years of competing led to no victories and they remain the team with the most Super Bowl appearances amongst the NFL competitors without winning. Starting in the 2000s, the Bills faced the longest drought in the four major North American professional sports, with 17 years.
The Bills are otherwise unique in being the only team to play their home games in their native state of Western New York, at Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park. Some of their most notable players include Joe Namath, Curtis Martin and Joe Klecko, all of whom have had their jerseys retired and have been inducted in the Ring of Honour due to their performance for the team.
New York Jets
Founded in 1959 and originally playing under the name Titans of New York, the Jets didn’t adopt their new name until four years later. Following their first time advancing to playoffs in 1968, they won the 1969 Super Bowl III. This was achieved against the Baltimore Colts and was the first time an AFL team beat an NFL team in the AFL–NFL World Championship.
The Jets have never again played in the Super Bowl, making them one of only two teams to compete in and win a single appearance. This is despite taking part in playoffs thirteen times. Unfortunately, the Jets have faced the longest drought of any team, with their last appearance in the postseason being in the 2010 AFC championship. Aside from this, they have a record of 408 wins in regular seasons, in comparison to 500 losses as well as 8 draws. With just a solo Super Bowl title in their history, there might be better odds for other teams when it comes to NFL betting. However, there could also be a surprising turn as the team is heading in the right direction to finally end their playoff drought.
Which NFL team should I support?
With many sports, you can choose the team you support based on a variety of factors, such as which is closest to you in location, which teams your friends support, or which teams have some of your favourite players in them. With three teams in New York, though, this might be a bit trickier deciding which New York team you want to follow.
If you are a new NFL fan, you might even choose a team to support based on recent successes, in which case the New York Giants are a good choice with the most recent wins amongst the New York teams. There are even online quizzes to determine which team fits your personality. Make your choice wisely though, as team loyalty is a big part of the league, so choose your team and get ready to stick by them!
