I don't know why folks get so bent out of shape about the lack of elite players on this team. Join the club man. You only have six spots in each conference to make it. For the last few years it's been like this in the AFC. In Brady and Manning's case, it's been nearly that way since they became startes in the NFL.

 

1. Brady or Manning

2. Manning or Brady

3. Flacco or Roethlisberger

4. Luck

5. Roethlisberger, Dalton, or Flacco

6. Random school girl going to her first dance in over three or four years

 

With the exception of the Patriots, Steelers, Ravens, colts and recently the Broncos because of Manning. It's very rare you see any other team consistently competing in the post-season or in the play-off hunt over the last ten years. Seattle just got into the fold. They were wishy washy outside of that 2005 season with Hasselbeck and Alexander practically carrying the team on his back. I think it comes down to two things.

 

1. Lucky enough to land an elite or game changing quarterback that consistently aggravates opposing defenses

2. Good enough defense or the best defense in the leauge good enough not to embarrass your team

 

That's about it. With the exception of a few teams here and there. It's ALWAYS been that formula above. Elite QB -+ Ridiculous Defense = Potential Superbowl. Or, Game Changing QB + Solid Running Game + Best Defense In The NFL, or at least top five = Potential Superbowl.

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