The NFL wouldn’t be the same without its great rivalries—stories filled with passion, drama and epic moments that transcend generations. Who could forget the clashes that redefined entire seasons?
More than just games, these duels are true spectacles where not only teams face off but also traditions, playing styles and often the most intense emotions of players and fans alike.
From the timeless battle between the Bears and the Packers, with over a century of history, to the fierce animosity between the Ravens and the Steelers, these rivalries have been the driving force behind the competitive spirit.
The 10 most legendary rivalries in NFL History
Green Bay Packers vs. Chicago Bears
D’Andre Swift #4 of the Chicago Bears runs for a touchdown against the Green Bay Packers at Soldier Field on November 17, 2024. (Source: Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
This rivalry, known as the oldest and most enduring in the NFL, dates back to 1921 when the Bears were known as the Decatur Staleys. Since then, these teams have waged a historic battle that reflects the soul of American football.
The Packers and Bears compete not only for victories but also for northern pride. They’ve shared iconic moments, such as the famous “Instant Replay Game” in 1989, which cemented the intensity of their clashes.
At the heart of this rivalry is the duel between two styles: Chicago’s defensive tradition versus Green Bay’s offensive dynamism, led by legends like Brett Favre and Aaron Rodgers. Each matchup brings the living history of the NFL to life, reminding fans that this showdown transcends sports and becomes a cultural war between two cities.
Dallas Cowboys vs. Washington Commanders
Quarterback Jayden Daniels #5 of the Washington Commanders rushes with the ball against the Dallas Cowboys at Northwest Stadium on November 24, 2024. (Source: Patrick Smith/Getty Images)
Few rivalries capture the essence of competition like the Cowboys versus the Commanders. Since the 1960s, these teams have represented a regional and cultural clash: Texas glamour versus the tradition of the nation’s capital.
The games are not just on-field spectacles but have also been marked by off-field tensions, such as the Cowboys’ initial attempt to join the NFL, which the Commanders initially blocked.
This feud has been intensified by crucial games, including playoff matchups and memorable Thanksgiving Day victories. Electrifying moments include performances by greats like Roger Staubach and Joe Theismann, whose feats are etched in the memories of their fans.
San Francisco 49ers vs. Dallas Cowboys
DeMarvion Overshown #13 of the Dallas Cowboys sacks Brock Purdy #13 of the San Francisco 49ers during the fourth quarter at Levi’s Stadium on October 27, 2024. (Source: Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images)
The 49ers and Cowboys defined the football landscape of the 1980s and 1990s, turning their matchups into the gold standard of excellence. This rivalry symbolizes the battle between Joe Montana and Steve Young’s precision and the physical and tactical prowess of Troy Aikman, Emmitt Smith and Michael Irvin.
Memorable moments include Dwight Clark’s legendary “The Catch” in 1982, a pivotal moment in this rivalry’s narrative. Over the years, these teams have been NFC powerhouses, making their matchups must-see events for sports fans.
Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Baltimore Ravens
Jaylen Warren #30 of the Pittsburgh Steelers is tackled by Roquan Smith #0 of the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium on December 21, 2024. (Source: Rob Carr/Getty Images)
Defined by its brutality and strategy, this rivalry is a showcase of historic defenses and high-stakes games. Since the Ravens‘ creation in 1996, their matchups have delivered epic duels, such as those featuring Ray Lewis and Troy Polamalu, icons of their respective franchises.
These games are not mere contests but full-scale battles where every yard is fiercely contested. Playoff clashes, like the 2008 divisional matchup, have heightened the intensity of this feud, which remains synonymous with toughness in the NFL.
New England Patriots vs. New York Jets
Rhamondre Stevenson #38 of the New England Patriots runs with the ball during the second half against the New York Jets at Gillette Stadium on October 27, 2024. (Source: Jaiden Tripi/Getty Images)
What began as a divisional rivalry evolved into a drama-filled narrative of personal and professional conflicts. From Bill Belichick’s controversial coaching switch to the Patriots to the duels between Tom Brady and Rex Ryan, this rivalry has provided unique moments in AFC East history.
The tension peaked with “Spygate” in 2007, adding an extra layer of hostility. The Jets and Patriots prove that in football, rivalries aren’t only played on the field but also in headlines.
New York Giants vs. Philadelphia Eagles
Jalen Hurts #1 of the Philadelphia Eagles in action against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium on October 20, 2024. (Source: Luke Hales/Getty Images)
Rooted in history since 1933, this rivalry encapsulates the passion of the NFC East. Iconic moments such as the “Miracle at the Meadowlands” in 1978 and its 2010 sequel with DeSean Jackson define their clashes.
Beyond the scores, these games are a reflection of regional pride, where New York and Philadelphia compete for more than just a victory—they vie for cultural and sporting supremacy in the Northeast.
Kansas City Chiefs vs. Oakland/Las Vegas Raiders
LeSean McCoy #25 of the Kansas City Chiefs celebrates with his teammates after scoring a 3 yard touchdown during the third quarter of the game against the Oakland Raiders in 2019. (Source: Jamie Squire/Getty Images)
Born in the AFL, this rivalry has been one of the fiercest in the league. The Chiefs and Raiders fight not only for AFC West dominance but also for historical supremacy. With matchups marked by physical intensity and spectacular plays, these games have featured legends like Len Dawson and Ken Stabler. The recent Patrick Mahomes era has added a new chapter to this legendary rivalry, ensuring it remains a cornerstone of the NFL.
Minnesota Vikings vs. Green Bay Packers
Jordan Addison #3 of the Minnesota Vikings celebrates a first down reception during the third quarter of a game against the Green Bay Packers at U.S. Bank Stadium on December 29, 2024. (Source: Stephen Maturen/Getty Images)
This duel represents the pride of the NFC North, with each team vying for dominance in a region passionate about football. From the days of Fran Tarkenton and Bart Starr to the Aaron Rodgers era, these games blend cultural and competitive rivalry. Matchups between the Vikings and Packers often decide divisional title races, adding extra excitement and tension.
Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Cleveland Browns
Pat Freiermuth #88 of the Pittsburgh Steelers scores a touchdown against the Cleveland Browns during the third quarter at Acrisure Stadium on December 08, 2024. (Source: Justin Berl/Getty Images)
The rivalry between the Steelers and Browns symbolizes a clash of opposites: Pittsburgh’s sustained success versus Cleveland’s historical ups and downs. While the Steelers have dominated in recent decades, each game remains a spectacle of passion and tradition. This duel reminds us that NFL rivalries aren’t always measured in victories but in the intensity of competition.
Buffalo Bills vs. Miami Dolphins
De’Von Achane #28 of the Miami Dolphins carries the ball for a touchdown against the Buffalo Bills during the fourth quarter of the game at Highmark Stadium on November 03, 2024. (Source: Timothy T Ludwig/Getty Images)
During the 1970s and 1990s, the Bills and Dolphins defined the AFC East landscape with meaningful matchups. Jim Kelly and Dan Marino were the architects of some of the most memorable duels, elevating this rivalry to new heights. While both teams have experienced ups and downs, the competitive spirit of this rivalry remains alive, recalling the golden era of the NFL.
