The<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-england-patriots"> New England Patriots</a> secured another big win on Monday against the New York Giants. The AFC East team extended its winning streak to 10 games with the 33-15 victory it secured in Week 13. The turnaround is complete for the Patriots, who are two wins away from tying their 2024 season losses.



Drake Maye once again led the Patriots after finishing 24 of 31 for 282 yards and two touchdowns with three sacks. Jaxson Dart couldn’t keep up with Maye, going 17 of 24 for 139 yards and one touchdown.



The Patriots continue to be a well-rounded team, dominating on both ends of the ball, and they are anything but done. Mike Vrabel changed the culture in Foxborough, but he doesn’t want the players to relax.



<h2>Mike Vrabel’s clear message to players</h2>



Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Vrabel explained what he expects to see from the Patriots now that they head into their bye week.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251202_BUS_538016_Mike-Vrabel-looks-on_69f8bf09.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Head coach Mike Vrabel of the New England Patriots" class="wp-image-492094" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px"></figure><figcaption>Head coach Mike Vrabel of the New England Patriots </figcaption></figure>



“We’re not done. We’re not satisfied,” Vrabel said. “I think champions are never satisfied. I think you can appreciate where you are. But at the same time, never be satisfied or complacent, and the fine line between rest and recovery and just being sedentary…Understand that just because you have a bye, doesn’t mean you’re guaranteed some victory the next week in this league…”



The Patriots will return to action on Dec. 14 against the Buffalo Bills. Buffalo was the first team the Patriots beat to start their remarkable run. They will face the Baltimore Ravens in Week 16, before taking on the New York Jets and the Miami Dolphins to close out the regular season.&nbsp;

Mike Vrabel sends hungry message to Patriots ahead of bye week

Mike Vrabel sends hungry message to Patriots ahead of bye week - Bolavip US

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The New England Patriots are enjoying a dream season, and their Monday Night Football clash against the New York Giants only confirmed it. Mike Vrabel’s leadership at the helm of the team has further elevated <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/drake-maye">Drake Maye</a>, who many are now positioning as a frontrunner for MVP.



After the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-england-patriots">Patriots</a>’ victory in Foxborough against one of their historic rivals, the head coach spoke about the moment the QB is experiencing and how much he means for the team’s positive development during this crucial stage of the season.



“I think he’s realizing what he can be and what the impact that he makes on this offense and being the conductor,” <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/mike-vrabel">Vrabel</a> said, via a <a href="https://www.patriots.com/news/new-england-patriots-postgame-quotes-12-1-x9273">transcript from the team.</a> “He’s hard on himself. I think that he challenges himself as well as his coaches. He means a great deal to this football team.”



On Monday Night Football, Maye went 24-of-31 for 282 yards and two touchdowns, securing the 11th win for the current leader of the AFC. Up next is a crucial bye week, which could prove key for the outcome of this campaign.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251202_BUS_537845_drake-maye-mike-vrabel_3c358e84.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Drake Maye with Mike Vrabel" class="wp-image-537858"></figure><figcaption>Mike Vrabel of the New England Patriots and Drake Maye.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Dream season for Maye</h2>



Drake Maye has been the catalyst for the Patriots’ resurgence this season, leading the team to an impressive 11-2 record, one of the best marks in the AFC. The quarterback has put up stellar numbers, throwing for 3,412 yards with 23 touchdowns against just 6 interceptions. His performance is further highlighted by a strong 72.8 Quarterback Rating (QBR), demonstrating his efficiency and effectiveness in driving New England’s offense.


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<h2>MVP contenders</h2>



Drake Maye is now widely regarded as a serious candidate for the NFL’s Most Valuable Player (MVP) award, thanks to his exceptional performance in leading the Patriots to the AFC’s top tier. 



However, the race is tightening, as Maye is currently being challenged by a resurgent Matthew Stafford of the Los Angeles Rams, who is mounting a formidable campaign of his own and is fiercely contending for the prestigious honor.


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="692f020ae2d53b59fb2f03f2" data-title="Who should be this season’s MVP?" data-options="5"></div>

Mike Vrabel makes blunt statement about Drake Maye after Patriots’ big MNF win over the Giants

Mike Vrabel makes blunt statement about Drake Maye after Patriots’ big MNF win over the Giants - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/jaxson-dart">Jaxson Dart</a> didn’t shy away from the physical reality of Giants-Patriots matchup, even after taking several punishing shots in a 33–15 loss. With Dart finishing the day with 139 yards and one touchdown, the rookie quarterback was again asked about the number of hits he’s absorbing. His response made it clear he’s neither surprised nor bothered by the contact.



“I understand the question, but this is football,” Dart said. “I’m going to get hit if I’m in the pocket or outside the pocket. I’ve played this way my whole entire life. It shouldn’t be any shocker to anybody… We’re not playing soccer out here. You’re going to get hit, things happen. It’s just part of the game.”



Dart’s aggressiveness has been a defining trait in his first <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a> season, where he’s totaled 1,556 yards, 11 touchdowns and three interceptions. And while the Giants continue to stumble, he emphasized that the physical style that helped him succeed in college isn’t something he plans to tone down any time soon.



<h2>Patriots defend the hit that sparked debate</h2>



One of the toughest blows Dart absorbed came from <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-england-patriots">Patriots</a> LB Christian Ellis, who insisted the play looked more dangerous than it actually was. “I thought he was just going to go out of bounds, but then I saw him tiptoeing,” Ellis said. “So I was like, ‘Stay in bounds. What am I supposed to do?’ We play hard on defense… I was just doing my job and hit anything in the whites.”



<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Full play of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Patriots?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Patriots</a> LB Christian Elliss’ hit on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Giants?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Giants</a> QB Jaxson Dart, and the fight that ensued afterwards <a href="https://t.co/QNv9yfaLyX">pic.twitter.com/QNv9yfaLyX</a>— New England Sports Fellow (@_JosephManning) <a href="https://twitter.com/_JosephManning/status/1995671421255864334?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 2, 2025</a></blockquote></div> 



Patriots head coach <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/mike-vrabel">Mike Vrabel</a> backed Ellis, adding that quarterbacks around the league, including his own, are warned weekly about flirting with the sideline. “That’s a weekly reminder to the quarterback — our quarterback,” Vrabel said. “I wouldn’t get too cute over there by the sidelines. It happens every week. Christian’s playing through the whistle, and as long as the player’s in bounds, he’s gonna try to hit him legally.”



Despite the collision and the mounting losses, Dart maintained his composure in the postgame presser. “It’s not fun losing. It’s not fun with this losing streak,” Dart said. “It doesn’t look super-bright from the outside, but we have each other’s backs… I’m hoping that we can continue to build and find any way that we can to just find a little bit of momentum.”

Jaxson Dart responds to harsh Patriots hit as Mike Vrabel and Christian Ellis defend it

Jaxson Dart responds to harsh Patriots hit as Mike Vrabel and Christian Ellis defend it - Bolavip US

Despite a turbulent <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a> season, the New York Giants are determined to finish on the most respectable note possible. That’s why Jaxson Dart and the rest of the squad are looking to make a statement in Foxborough and snap the New England Patriots’ streak on Monday Night Football in Week 13.



After missing the last few games, with Jameis Winston taking over, Dart will finally be back in the lineup at Gillette Stadium tonight. “Mike Kafka confirms Jaxson Dart will start MNF vs. Patriots,” the Giants announced via X.



The rookie has flashed real potential whenever he’s had the chance to take the field with the rest of the squad. In fact, he’s impressed enough to force the coaching staff to send none other than Russell Wilson to the bench — a player from whom much more was expected this season.



<h2>Why Dart was sidelined</h2>



The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-york-giants">New York Giants</a> rookie quarterback missed the team’s last two games because he was in the NFL’s concussion protocol. He sustained the concussion during the Giants’ Week 10 loss to the Chicago Bears after taking a hit. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251201_BUS_537300_jaxson-dart-1_7a3ec074.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Jaxson Dart" class="wp-image-525044"></figure><figcaption>Jaxson Dart #6 of the New York Giants.</figcaption></figure>



Due to the strict protocol, which requires medical clearance by an independent neurological consultant, he was ruled out for the subsequent games against the Green Bay Packers and the Detroit Lions.


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<h2>Dart’s numbers at the helm of the Giants’ offense</h2>



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/jaxson-dart">Jaxson Dart</a> has posted solid numbers this season, accumulating 1,417 passing yards. He has demonstrated efficiency in the red zone with 10 passing touchdowns while maintaining good ball security with only 3 interceptions. This performance has resulted in a strong 65.5 QBR, indicating a high level of overall effectiveness in his starts.

Is Jaxson Dart playing today for NY Giants vs Patriots on MNF in NFL Week 13?

Is Jaxson Dart playing today for NY Giants vs Patriots on MNF in NFL Week 13? - Bolavip US

Is Jaxson Dart playing tonight for NY Giants vs Patriots?

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-england-patriots">New England Patriots </a>are one of the biggest stories of the 2025 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL</a> season. They boast the league-best record with 10 wins and just two losses.



Second-year quarterback Drake Maye has led the team to a terrific record, but many doubt that they can turn it up when the playoffs arrive. Maye has gone 477 of 693 for 3,130 yards and 21 touchdowns with six interceptions.



Maye has benefited from playing for a coach like Mike Vrabel, who has made a strong impact on the team. The Patriots won just four games last season, and now, they are the No. 1 seed in the conference. Vrabel has played a key role in that turnaround, with his on- and off-field lessons.



<h2>Mike Vrabel wants Patriots to help themselves accountable</h2>



During his weekly conference on Wednesday, Vrabel discussed a key element he wants to instill in his players. The former Tennessee Titans coach wants his pupils to be able to hold themselves accountable.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251129_BUS_535383_mike-vrabel-2_43328593.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Mike Vrabel" class="wp-image-521545" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px"></figure><figcaption>Head coach Mike Vrabel of the New England Patriots.</figcaption></figure>



“I think that that’s what we’ve always tried to build — the ability to have and hold people accountable, hold each other accountable,” Vrabel said. “Not in a negative way but in a positive way to help themselves and to help the team. “Our guys are certainly impactful players that have to be accounted for every play, they rotate them through there pretty good. There’s a lot of juice there, a lot of disruption.”



The Patriots will face the New York Giants on Monday, hoping to secure the 11th win of the season against a team that can make life hard for the Patriots.&nbsp;

Mike Vrabel explains how he’s trying to change the Patriots’ mindset

Mike Vrabel explains how he's trying to change the Patriots' mindset - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-york-giants" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New York Giants</a> have changed their vibes with Jameis Winston under center. However, with the Monday Night Football game against the New England Patriots just a few days ago, they received an update on starting quarterback Jaxson Dart.



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/jaxson-dart" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jaxson Dart</a> finally cleared concussion protocol. However, the team has played well with Jameis Winston. Mike Kafka, interim head coach, confirmed that the Giants will deploy Dart as the starter.



Dart missed two games and the Giants lost both of them, but both were one-score games. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/jameis-winston" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Winston</a> completed 56.9% of his passes for 567 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions. Classic Jameis form.



<h2>Jameis brings a different vibe than Dart</h2>



Dart is a mobile QB with a big arm and ability to run. Winston is more of a pocket passer, but can move and is a wild man. His recklessness is his best and worst asset at the same time. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251128_BUS_535604_Jameis-Winston-QB-for-the-New-York-Giants_a50fb15a.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Jameis Winston, QB for the New York Giants" class="wp-image-535056"></figure><figcaption>Jameis Winston, QB for the New York Giants</figcaption></figure>



For Dart, he needs to take care of himself while running, but the fact of the matter is that he is a dual-threat quarterback. Against the Patriots, the Giants need to be absolutely fearless. In the end, they are facing one of the best teams in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL</a>.


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<h2>The Patriots can’t afford to lose this game</h2>



The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-england-patriots" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Patriots</a> are 10-2 atop of the AFC. However, a loss paired with a Broncos win would bring them back to the second seed of the conference. This would mean New England would lose the bye week and lose a possible AFC Championship Game at home.



That is absolutely not what the Patriots want. Hence, they cannot overlook the Giants, especially after a long week of preparation. This is a must-win game for the Pats, but the Giants have nothing to lose. It can be a good primetime showdown.

NY Giants receive huge update on QB Jaxson Dart amid Jameis Winston run ahead of Week 13 MNF game vs Patriots

NY Giants receive huge update on QB Jaxson Dart amid Jameis Winston run ahead of Week 13 MNF game vs Patriots - Bolavip US

The New York Giants and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-england-patriots" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New England Patriots</a> have a lot of history. Their Super Bowl encounters have been memorable, but they are in different eras right now, trying to start something new with their young and talented quarterbacks.



It remains to be seen if Jaxson Dart will be available for the Week 13 duel after missing the last two games, but Drake Maye is, and he’s eager to keep the team’s momentum. The Patriots (10-2) are in the middle of a nine-game winning streak.



Ahead of Monday’s matchup, Giants’ linebacker Brian Burns made his thoughts clear on Maye.



<h2>Brian Burns praises Drake Maye ahead of Week 13</h2>



During Tuesday’s press conference, Burns discussed what he has seen from Maye during his young <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL </a>career. Burns mentioned a couple of things that made Maye stand out after just two seasons in the league.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251127_BUS_534230_drake-maye-3_cdb32944.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Drake Maye #10 of the New England Patriots." class="wp-image-499451" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px"></figure><figcaption>Drake Maye #10 of the New England Patriots.</figcaption></figure>



“He’s talented. Talented arm,” Burns said. “I’m not really too sure yet about how quick he is to process everything, but I do feel like he makes the right plays at the right time. He does seem to be poised, maybe a little bit too poised, in the pocket, but just overall, he’s been showing his talent, for sure.”



Maye didn’t have the best rookie season with Jerod Mayo on the sidelines. However, he has turned things around under head coach Mike Vrabel and offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels. The Patriots boast the league-best record, and the inconsistent Giants look like a good opponent to extend their streak.&nbsp;

Giants defender praises Drake Maye ahead of Week 13 matchup

Giants defender praises Drake Maye ahead of Week 13 matchup - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-england-patriots" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New England Patriots </a>quarterback Drake Maye responded to ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith calling him a liar after Maye said he didn’t know where Cam Newton worked. After the former<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> NFL</a> MVP called the Patriots “fool’s gold,” many wanted to see Maye’s reaction.



The second-year quarterback explained he didn’t pay much attention to the external noise, and acknowledged that Newton’s job required him to make takes that entertain fans. Smith didn’t buy Maye’s explanation and called him a liar.



“He’s also a s a liar,” Smith said. “He’s also a liar. ‘Pardon the Interruption’ is the number one show on ESPN, spanning 20-plus (years). ‘First Take’ is the number one morning show, 13 years and counting. April will be 14 years. Don’t tell me you a athlete and you don’t know that. Don’t tell me you a athlete and you don’t know that Cam Newton ain’t on this show. You lying.”



<h2>Drake Maye responds to Stephen A. Smith</h2>



Days after Smith attacked and apologized to Maye, the quarterback doubled down on his initial comments, saying that he pays attention to what’s happening inside the Patriots building and nothing else.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251126_BUS_534090_QB-Drake-Maye-of-the-New-England-Patriots-2025_65c8034c.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="QB Drake Maye of the New England Patriots (2025)" class="wp-image-527493"></figure><figcaption>QB Drake Maye of the New England Patriots (2025)</figcaption></figure>



“I just worry about what people do in our building and organization, and people that I hold a lot of personal relationships with on their opinions, and value that,” Maye said. “So all that outside stuff, it is what it is. Just gotta be careful about what I say, and didn’t try to mean it disrespectfully.”



The Patriots beat the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 12. They will face the New York Giants on Monday, hoping to improve to 11-2 and continue their momentum in the 2025 season.&nbsp;

Drake Maye responds to Stephen A. Smith’s ‘liar’ comments

Drake Maye responds to Stephen A. Smith's 'liar' comments - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/bill-belichick">Bill Belichick</a> could be back in the NFL very soon. After winning the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a> six times alongside <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tom-brady">Tom Brady</a> and the New England Patriots, a report from Josina Anderson confirmed that two teams are interested heading into the 2026 season.



“I’m told ‘at least two NFL teams’ are still expected to have interest in talking to Bill Belichick, behind-the-scenes at the very least, about head coach jobs this Carousel season, per a league source. ‘A third team could also enter the mix,’ with desires to talk, particularly if one specific personnel change is made under ownership, the source added.”



At the moment, the major head-coaching vacancy is with the Giants after the departure of Brian Daboll. However, Belichick has publicly said that he is not interested in that option. In fact, several rumors suggest that if Mike Tomlin leaves the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/pittsburgh-steelers">Pittsburgh Steelers</a>, he could go to New York.



<h2>Is Bill Belichick leaving North Carolina?</h2>



Bill Belichick has said that he will not leave North Carolina and that he expects to fulfill his contract with the Tar Heels in college football. However, it is also true that a major offer from the NFL could change his mind, considering that the buyout in the deal is now only $1 million.


 

 


A few weeks ago, when the Giants fired Brian Daboll, Belichick emerged as the top candidate to replace him because of his past as the team’s defensive coordinator. In this scenario, Belichick immediately clarified that he would not go to New York and, most intriguingly, that he would not seek to return to the NFL.



“Despite circulating rumors, I have not and will not pursue any NFL head-coaching vacancies. Since arriving in Chapel Hill, my commitment to the UNC Football program has not wavered. We have tremendous support from the university, our alumni and the entire Carolina community. My focus remains solely on continuing to improve this team, develop our players and build a program that makes Tar Heel fans proud.”


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/college-football/bill-belichick-salary"></div>

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Bill Belichick could reportedly return to the NFL as two teams are interested in Super Bowl winning head coach - Bolavip US

Two NFL teams are reportedly interested in Bill Belichick

Bill Belichick could reportedly return to the NFL as two teams are interested in legendary Super Bowl winning head coach

In the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">National Football League</a>, going unbeaten through an entire regular season remains one of the league’s rarest feats. It takes more than star power, it demands rhythm, discipline and a level of weekly precision few teams can sustain.



Some squads built those perfect runs with overpowering rosters, while others relied on timely plays and a kind of steadiness that only emerges when pressure tightens. Each unbeaten stretch carries its own mix of nerve and momentum.



And while the standings immortalize the record, the journey often tells the richer story. A season without a slip becomes a snapshot of a team operating at its absolute peak, holding firm as every game grows heavier and every margin shrinks.



<h2>1934 Chicago Bears (13-0)</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251124_BUS_532761_1934-Chicago-Bears_d653ae53.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-533056"></figure><figcaption>1934 Chicago Bears (Source: Pro Football Hall of Fame)</figcaption></figure>



The 1934 season wasn’t just a winning streak; it was a testament to the brutality and domination that characterized the dawn of the NFL. The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/chicago-bears">Chicago Bears</a>, under the direction of the iconic George Halas, established themselves as an unstoppable force in an era where the forward pass was a novelty and the running game was a form of art.



With a perfect 13-0 record, the “Monsters of the Midway” crushed the competition with a defense nicknamed the “Iron Wall” and a lethal offense, highlighted by the contributions of halfback Beattie Feathers, the first NFL player to surpass 1,000 rushing yards.



The press of the time spoke of a sporting machine, a team without flaws that seemed invincible. Their average margin of victory was a scandalous 17.6 points per game, an anomaly for the era.



Despite the perfection of the regular season, the fairy tale met a bitter end in the NFL Championship Game, where they fell to the New York Giants in the famous “Sneakers Game”. Nevertheless, their 13-0 regular season set a precedent for dominance that would endure for decades.



<h2>1942 Chicago Bears (11-0)</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251124_BUS_532761_1942-Chicago-Bears_40855c36.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-533057"></figure><figcaption>1942 Chicago Bears (Source: Ghosts of DC)</figcaption></figure>



Eight years after their first unbeaten feat, the Chicago Bears once again wove a tapestry of flawless victories. In 1942, the world was consumed by World War II, and professional sports struggled to maintain morale and continuity. Amidst this turbulent atmosphere, Halas’s team offered a glorious distraction with an 11-0 regular season.



This squad didn’t just win; they redefined the blowout, outscoring their opponents by a combined total of 376 to 84. Quarterback Sid Luckman, a legendary figure in the sport’s history, honed his skill in the T-formation, an offensive innovation the Bears popularized that revolutionized how American football was played. 



This team is remembered for its ability to dominate on both sides of the line of scrimmage, a demonstration of physical and tactical might. Just like in 1934, the postseason became the Achilles’ heel. 



The Bears, despite their impeccable record, succumbed to their arch-rivals, the Washington Redskins, in the Championship Game, leaving the only blemish on what was one of the most dominant regular seasons in league history.



<h2>1948 Cleveland Browns (14-0)</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251124_BUS_532761_1948-Cleveland-Browns_3916ca6e.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-533058"></figure><figcaption>1948 Cleveland Browns (Source: Cleveland Browns)</figcaption></figure>



Before the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cleveland-browns">Cleveland Browns</a> joined the NFL, they were the undeniable, dominating force of the All-America Football Conference. Their 1948 season is, perhaps, the most impeccable unbeaten streak in professional football, as they achieved the perfect 14-0 regular season, culminating in the league title without a single loss, tie or setback.



Under the direction of the brilliant coach Paul Brown, and led by quarterback Otto Graham, the Browns weren’t just good; they were a masterpiece of athletic engineering. Graham, along with fullback Marion Motley, executed a system that the AAFC simply couldn’t decipher. The combination of precise passing and a devastating ground game made every match a lesson in modern football.



Although their unbeaten record didn’t occur in the NFL, the subsequent merger of AAFC teams into the NFL and the immediate success of the Browns in the new league served to validate the superiority of this 1948 team, cementing their place as one of the most dominant squads in the history of professional football.



<h2>1972 Miami Dolphins (14-0)</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251124_BUS_532761_1972-Miami-Dolphins-2_b6c31f29.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-533061"></figure><figcaption>1972 Miami Dolphins (Source: Miami Dolphins)</figcaption></figure>



The story of the 1972 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/miami-dolphins">Miami Dolphins</a> is the crown jewel, the benchmark against which every unbeaten NFL team must be measured. They not only finished the regular season with a perfect 14-0 record, but they advanced through the playoffs to win Super Bowl VII, achieving the only “walk of perfection” in league history.



Coach Don Shula orchestrated a symphony of balance. Following quarterback Bob Griese’s injury, veteran Earl Morrall took the reins, guiding the team to 9 consecutive victories, before Griese returned for the playoffs. This resilience in the face of adversity became the hallmark. 



The “Running Backs Corral” of Larry Csonka, Mercury Morris and Jim Kiick imposed an unstoppable ground game, while the defense, nicknamed the “No-Name Defense”, executed crucial stops with relentless efficiency.



What sets these Dolphins apart is not just the unbeaten streak, but the fact that their perfection remained unwavering until the very end, a milestone that is still fiercely guarded and celebrated every time the last undefeated team falls in a modern season.



<h2>2007 New England Patriots (16-0)</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251124_BUS_532761_2007-New-England-Patriots_a2b17ee6.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-533065"></figure><figcaption>Tom Brady #12 of the New England Patriots in 2007. (Source: Jim Rogash/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



The 2007 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-england-patriots">New England Patriots</a> season wasn’t just a series of victories; it was an unprecedented demonstration of offensive power in the salary cap era. Following a spying controversy at the beginning of the season, the team responded with a fury and precision that rewrote the record books.



Led by the stellar duo of Bill Belichick and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tom-brady">Tom Brady</a>, this version of the Patriots became the first franchise in NFL history to complete a 16-0 regular season. Brady threw for a then-record 50 touchdowns, and the acquisition of wide receiver Randy Moss transformed him into the league’s most prolific target, with 23 receiving touchdowns. 



Their attack scored 589 points, a league record that exemplified the unmitigated dominance they exerted over their rivals week after week. The narrative of perfection was broken on the biggest stage: Super Bowl XLII. 



In one of the greatest upsets in sports history, the Patriots fell to the New York Giants. Like their unbeaten Bears predecessors, the lack of a championship ring mars their total ‘perfection,’ but it does not diminish the magnitude of their regular season—the longest and most perfect ever recorded in league history.

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NFL teams who never slipped in the regular season: Unbeaten through the wire - Bolavip US

The New England Patriots became the first team to reach 10 wins this <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a> season after defeating the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/drake-maye">Drake Maye</a> once again showed he’s destined for big things alongside his teammates in Foxborough.



Much of the team’s success isn’t just thanks to the Patriots’ offense, but also to those who protect the quarterback. Will Campbell, one of the top-performing rookies so far this season, has been a key pillar, though a serious injury in Sunday’s game puts his short-term availability in doubt.



“We won’t know much,” head coach <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/mike-vrabel">Mike Vrabel</a> said during a Monday morning appearance on WEEI. “Yesterday was not a great day for us with injuries. There will be some players that went out of that game yesterday that won’t be available Monday night. 



“Hopefully we get some of those guys back. We have an extra day. I won’t be able to tell you much. I wouldn’t imagine that Will’s going play in the game. I don’t think that will be something that will happen. That injury is going to probably be more than a week or two.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251124_BUS_532943_will-campbell_4adefb22.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Will Campbell" class="wp-image-532949"></figure><figcaption>Will Campbell #66 of the New England Patriots.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>A day full of injuries</h2>



The Patriots’ victory over the Bengals came at a cost, as four players suffered injuries during the game, adding to the aforementioned situation with left tackle Will Campbell, who suffered a knee injury. 


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During Sunday’s win, left guard Jared Wilson sustained an ankle injury, leaving the offensive line’s left side relying on Vederian Lowe and Ben Brown. The defense also took a hit with injuries to defensive lineman Khyiris Tonga and special teamer Brendan Schooler, creating immediate depth issues that the team must address heading into their next contest.



<h2>Giants before the Bye Week</h2>



The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-england-patriots">New England Patriots</a> face a final hurdle before their highly anticipated break as they host the New York Giants on Monday Night Football. This primetime home game is critical not just for their playoff positioning, but also as a final opportunity to secure a win before the much-needed bye week. 



Given the mounting injury toll, especially on the offensive line, the bye offers a crucial chance to recover key players. A win against the Giants would send the team into the break with significant momentum and allow the injured roster to rest and recuperate, ensuring the Patriots are as close to full strength as possible for the final stretch of the regular season.


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="692464862d286e1484d5eb83" data-title="Are the Patriots the AFC’s top Super Bowl contenders?" data-options="2"></div>

Patriots receive concerning injury update on Drake Maye’s key teammate

Patriots receive concerning injury update on Drake Maye's key teammate - Bolavip US

The 2025 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a> season currently features one of the most solid teams of the campaign. The New England Patriots have defied all predictions and, led by Drake Maye and Rhamondre Stevenson, among others, aim to remain in the title hunt. Defeating the Cincinnati Bengals could represent another step toward that goal.



This team has excelled not only through the air, with contributions from players like Stefon Diggs, but also on the ground. Stevenson has been a key figure in the running game for much of the season, making his presence at Paycor Stadium essential for the Patriots.



While the <a href="https://www.nfl.com/injuries/">NFL’s official site</a> lists the running back as questionable for the game against the Bengals, according to the latest update from Adam Schefter, Stevenson will be on the field alongside his teammates.



This is undoubtedly great news not just for <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/drake-maye">Drake Maye</a>, but for the rest of his teammates as well, as the veteran has been a key component of the Patriots’ offensive structure throughout this season.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251123_BUS_532121_rhamondre-stevenson-drake-maye_d1216fe4.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Drake Maye with Rhamondre Stevenson" class="wp-image-532164"></figure><figcaption>Drake Maye #10 of the New England Patriots.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>What injury is plaguing Stevenson?</h2>



The veteran back Rhamondre Stevenson has been sidelined for the past three weeks with a nagging toe injury and, while he was listed as questionable, latest reports indicate that he will play.


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His return represents a massive boost, providing a much-needed physical presence in the backfield that has been covered admirably by rookie TreVeyon Henderson.



<h2>Stevenson’s impact on the Patriots’ offense</h2>



Prior to his recent injury absence, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/rhamondre-stevenson">Rhamondre Stevenson</a> was the essential engine driving the Patriots’ surprisingly effective offense. In the first eight games of the 2025 season, Stevenson recorded 279 rushing yards and 3 rushing touchdowns on 83 attempts, providing a critical ground threat. 



More importantly, he remained a potent receiving weapon out of the backfield, accumulating 169 receiving yards on 16 receptions. His ability to convert runs and threaten the defense as a receiver (averaging over 10 yards per reception) makes him an irreplaceable dual-threat component, forcing defenses to respect New England’s backfield on every down.

Is Rhamondre Stevenson playing today for Patriots vs Bengals in Week 12 of 2025 NFL season?

Is Rhamondre Stevenson playing today for Patriots vs Bengals in Week 12 of 2025 NFL season? - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cincinnati-bengals" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cincinnati Bengals</a> finally cleared the air regarding who is going to be their starting quarterback in Week 12 against the New England Patriots. Joe Burrow practiced all week but is he ready to roll?



According to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/joe-burrow" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Burrow</a> won’t be moved to the active roster yet, remaining on IR this week. Hence, Joe Flacco will be the starter against New England in Week 12.



However, all signs point to Burrow being back next week at Thanksgiving. The Bengals’ <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL</a> Playoffs hopes are hanging by a thread. If they can’t beat the Patriots, they’re almost eliminated from contention. Still, they won’t risk Burrow.



<h2>Flacco won’t have his best weapon</h2>



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/joe-flacco" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Joe Flacco</a> is not responsible for the bad Bengals season. As a matter of fact, he has kept the offense explosive. He has guided the Bengals to three 33+ point games in five of his outings. Flacco has 1,453 yards with 12 touchdowns and three interceptions with a 96.2 passer rating with the Bengals. Still, this will be a tough test given he won’t have Ja’Marr Chase, his best receiver, due to a suspension.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251122_BUS_531800_flacco-warmup-bengals_63bf3088.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Joe Flacco warms up before a game" class="wp-image-509641" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px"></figure><figcaption>Joe Flacco was traded to the Bengals during the 2025 season.</figcaption></figure>



Chase spat on Steelers’ cornerback Jalen Ramsey and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL</a> punished him by suspending him for this game. Without Chase, Tee Higgins should be getting plenty of looks. Still, much of the offensive playbook relies on Chase, so it will be a tough outing for the Bengals.


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<h2>The Bengals defense will suffer</h2>



The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-england-patriots" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Patriots</a> offer two big threats to the weak Bengals defense. First, MVP contender Drake Maye who is burning defenses left and right with his arm. Bengals are the 31st-ranked passing defense in the NFL.



The other big threat is rookie running back TreVeyon Henderson. He has 492 yards and five touchdowns in only 100 attempts. Also, Cincinnati has the worst-ranked rushing defense in the league. Hence, the Patriots have everything to score easily on the Bengals.

Bengals provide key update on Joe Burrow’s status ahead of Week 12 game vs Patriots

Bengals provide key update on Joe Burrow's status ahead of Week 12 game vs Patriots - Bolavip US

Drake Maye took a playful jab at Stefon Diggs ahead of the<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-england-patriots" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> New England Patriots</a> duel against the Cincinnati Bengals. The wide receiver revealed on Wednesday that he broke his finger a couple of weeks ago, noting that Maye’s way of throwing the ball has helped him with the injury.



“I broke my finger like a couple weeks ago,” Diggs told reporters. “So, I was just telling (Drake Maye), ‘Hey, I love the way you throw the ball.’ I really appreciate it. Just because he has that touch.”



The Patriots will try to improve to 10-2 with a win on Sunday. They are looking great on the field, and the chemistry continues to build, especially between their offensive stars.&nbsp;



<h2>Drake Maye says Stefon Diggs is “dramatic”</h2>



When asked about Diggs’ injury, Maye didn’t miss his chance to playfully diss his teammate, calling him “dramatic” for the way he reacts whenever he gets hit.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251122_BUS_531464_QB-Drake-Maye-of-the-New-England-Patriots-2025_2755960b.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="QB Drake Maye of the New England Patriots (2025)" class="wp-image-527493"></figure><figcaption>QB Drake Maye of the New England Patriots (2025)</figcaption></figure>



“Stef’s probably dramatic,” Maye said with a smirk. “Every time he gets hit he lays on the ground and acts like he just got hit by an 18-wheeler or something. So he’s — No, he’s awesome. I think just try to throw a catchable ball. That goes with being accurate. He’s (Diggs) awesome. He’s got great hands, one of the best hands I’ve seen. He’s effortless catching it. When it gets cold out, he likes catching more with his body. But when the lights are on he’s got one of the best games in the league.”



New England has become one of the biggest stories of the season, and if they continue to play this way, the rest of the AFC will have issues moving past them.&nbsp;

Drake Maye takes cheeky dig at Stefon Diggs over WR injury

Drake Maye takes cheeky dig at Stefon Diggs over WR injury - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a>’s postseason spotlight has long favored its giants, leaving several franchises to navigate obscurity and frustration. Some carry the weight of decades-old droughts; others are still carving out their story.



Their paths differ, yet each team shares a familiar tension: brief surges of hope followed by seasons that fade too soon. History has shaped them, but so have the missed chances that linger in the background.



From young franchises seeking footing to legacy teams burdened by lean eras, their journeys reveal how elusive January football can be. These stories trace the thin line between promise and endurance.



<h2>2010 New York Giants</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251121_BUS_531111_New-York-Giants_64ff8fbd.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-531120"></figure><figcaption>New York Giants (Source: Michael Heiman/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



The 2010 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-york-giants">Giants</a> embodied a team that looked fully capable of returning to postseason form yet kept stumbling at the most delicate moments. New York finished 10–6, a record that usually earns a playoff berth, but a pair of costly December collapses — most infamously the late-game meltdown against Philadelphia — reshaped their fate.



It was also a transitional year, with the newly opened MetLife Stadium altering the backdrop of a franchise accustomed to ritual and routine. Team reports noted how Tom Coughlin’s squad combined productive offensive stretches with turnovers at critical junctures, making them appear simultaneously dangerous and fragile.



Their season ultimately became a reminder that even respectable win totals can crumble under tiebreakers and timing. In a decade defined by unpredictable swings, the 2010 Giants were a case study in how narrow the margin between success and exclusion can be.



<h2>2008 New England Patriots</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251121_BUS_531111_Tom-Brady-4_a1d61490.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-531122"></figure><figcaption>Quarterback Tom Brady #12 of the New England Patriots in 2008. (Source: Andy Lyons/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



The 2008 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-england-patriots">Patriots</a> entered the season with the shadow of a perfect regular-year campaign behind them, only to watch their entire structure shift within minutes of Week 1. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tom-brady">Tom Brady</a>’s season-ending knee injury forced the team to recalibrate its identity overnight, putting Matt Cassel at the helm of an offense built for a different quarterback.



Despite the setback, New England battled to an 11–5 record — the kind of total that, in most seasons, guarantees a playoff ticket. But that year’s AFC landscape was unusually crowded, and tiebreakers pushed them out of the bracket. 



Analysts at the time described it as one of the strongest non-playoff teams the league had seen, a reflection of both their resilience and the merciless mathematics of postseason qualification.



Their season stands as a rare instance where a powerhouse operated well enough to contend, yet not quite well enough to overcome the unusual conditions around them. It remains one of the league’s more memorable “almost” seasons.



<h2>2002 Denver Broncos</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251121_BUS_531111_2002-Denver-Broncos_50a481c1.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-531123"></figure><figcaption>Brian Griese #14 of the Denver Broncos in 2002. (Source: Josh Merwin/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



Denver’s 2002 campaign unfolded in a transitional period marked by roster turnover and shifting expectations. The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/denver-broncos">Broncos</a> finished 9–7, steady but inconsistent, as they entered the first full year without Terrell Davis — whose retirement closed a defining chapter in franchise history.



Into that void stepped rookie Clinton Portis, who delivered a breakout season that kept the offense competitive even as the team recalibrated its longer-term identity.



Game recaps highlighted a team capable of impressive midseason surges but prone to abrupt lapses, the kind that made their postseason hopes contingent on help that never arrived. Mike Shanahan’s group flashed physicality and big-play potential, yet struggled to stack wins when pressure mounted.



Their near-miss underscored Denver’s shift from a known contender to a team caught somewhere between eras — strong enough to threaten, but not quite strong enough to extend its season.



<h2>2010 San Diego Chargers</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251121_BUS_531111_Philip-Rivers_13a369f9.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-531124"></figure><figcaption>Philip Rivers #17 of the San Diego Chargers in 2010. (Source: Donald Miralle/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



Few seasons in modern NFL memory are as contradictory as the 2010 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/san-diego-chargers">Chargers</a>. San Diego finishing first in the league in both total offense and total defense — a remarkable pairing that should, in theory, have positioned them as legitimate postseason threats. But special teams breakdowns repeatedly undercut their dominance, turning routine plays into decisive setbacks.



Analysts throughout the season, pointed to blocked punts, long returns allowed, and critical miscommunications as the hidden thread running through their 9–7 record. The Chargers were explosive and efficient in open-field situations but startlingly vulnerable in transition phases of the game.



The contrast made their season feel almost surreal: a roster that excelled in the most demanding aspects of football but faltered in the simplest. It remains one of the clearest examples of how invisible weaknesses can derail even the most statistically imposing teams.



<h2>1999 Kansas City Chiefs</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251121_BUS_531111_Elvis-Grbac_b1a5a311.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-531125"></figure><figcaption>Elvis Grbac #18 of the Kansas City Chiefs in 1999. (Source: Jonathan Daniel /Allsport</figcaption></figure>



The 1999 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kansas-city-chiefs">Chiefs</a> entered the season carrying both veteran leadership and the expectation that experience would translate into January football. They finished 9–7, but the campaign is best remembered for its dramatic final chapter: a Week 17 overtime loss to the Raiders that erased their postseason path in a single kick.



Throughout the year, Kansas City alternated between efficient stretches and sudden inconsistency. It was a group capable of controlling tempo but vulnerable to late-game swings that turned manageable matchups into narrow defeats.



Their season serves as a portrait of a competitive but unsettled era — one where the Chiefs were neither rebuilding nor fully formed, hovering just outside the door of contention. The 1999 team showed that sometimes the most painful seasons are the ones where the margin is only a few inches wide.



<h2>2017 Baltimore Ravens</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251121_BUS_531111_Joe-Flacco_6b1a320b.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-531126"></figure><figcaption>Joe Flacco #5 of the Baltimore Ravens in 2017. (Source: Patrick Smith/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



The 2017 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/baltimore-ravens">Ravens</a> season serves as a painful case study in the cruel mathematics of the AFC Wild Card race. With their offense finally finding its rhythm late in the calendar and their defense reverting to its hallmark brand of physical intimidation, Baltimore positioned itself with a strong 9-6 record heading into Week 17. 



The equation was simple: defeat the already-eliminated Cincinnati Bengals at home to secure a playoff berth. The game unfolded like a high-stakes drama, with the Ravens battling for the lead until the final quarter. 



However, in a play etched into the memories of the fanbase, the defense surrendered a last-minute touchdown on an improbable fourth-and-twelve conversion. 



That single score, combined with the Buffalo Bills’ simultaneous win over the Dolphins, meant the Ravens’ 9-7 record was insufficient. The desolation was immediate; the team that had won five of its last seven games was shut out by the slimmest of margins and the cruel hand of fate.



<h2>2012 Chicago Bears</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251121_BUS_531111_Chicago-Bears_b83cc33e.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-531127"></figure><figcaption>Brandon Marshall #15 of the Chicago Bears in 2012. (Source: Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



The beginning of the 2012 campaign in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/chicago-bears">Chicago</a> ignited genuine hope among the league’s most fervent fan base. The team, built around a suffocating defense that set records for defensive touchdowns, exploded out to a 7-1 start, displaying a dominant point differential that placed them among the NFC elite. 



The chemistry between quarterback Jay Cutler and star receiver Brandon Marshall seemed unstoppable. But the momentum dissipated with a staggering series of late-season stumbles, resulting in a disappointing 3-5 finish to the year. 



Despite concluding with an enviable 10-6 record, tiebreakers favored the Minnesota Vikings in the NFC, relegating the Bears to a third-place finish in their division. 



This squad joined the infamous list of teams that start 7-1 yet fail to reach the postseason—a failure that culminated in the firing of head coach Lovie Smith the day after the season ended, sealing the narrative of an unpardonably wasted opportunity.



<h2>2000 Pittsburgh Steelers</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251121_BUS_531111_Kent-Graham_2707e292.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-531128"></figure><figcaption>Kent Graham #11 of the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2000. (Source: Tom Pidgeon /Allsport)</figcaption></figure>



The 2000 season in Pittsburgh was one of transition and deep nostalgia, as the team played its final year in the iconic Three Rivers Stadium. Bill Cowher‘s <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/pittsburgh-steelers">Steelers</a> endured a terrible start, opening the campaign with a worrisome 0-3 skid that suggested yet another year of mediocrity. 



However, they demonstrated their historical resilience and clawed their way back with a powerful surge, eventually finishing the year with a 9-7 positive record for the first time since 1997. With running back Jerome Bettis powering the offense, this roster proved competitive once more. 



Yet, despite their valiant effort and the feeling of having salvaged a disastrous start, the fierce competition in the AFC Central—which included the eventual Super Bowl champion Ravens—meant their record was not enough for a Wild Card spot. 



Though they managed a symbolic victory in the final game at Three Rivers, the quiet elimination meant the new era would begin in a new stadium, but without the immediate glory of the playoffs.



<h2>2005 Kansas City Chiefs</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251121_BUS_531111_Kansas-City-Chiefs-2_1a3976b9.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-531129"></figure><figcaption>Larry Johnson #27 of the Kansas City Chiefs in 2005. (Source: Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



The 2005 campaign in Kansas City is a textbook example of how a historically weak defense can completely nullify a championship-caliber offense. This team was an absolute offensive juggernaut, powered by a dominant offensive line and the explosive emergence of running back Larry Johnson, who rushed for over 1,700 yards. 



Quarterback Trent Green directed a potent aerial attack. Under coach Dick Vermeil, the team secured an excellent 10-6 mark, a record that in almost any other year would have guaranteed a ticket to January football. Critically, however, the Chiefs finished with one of the league’s worst defenses. 



In a relentless AFC, their stellar record was not enough to overcome the tiebreakers, making them one of the rare 10-win teams to be locked out of the postseason that decade. Vermeil’s retirement at the season’s end left a bitter taste for the fans, a mix of pride in the offense and frustration over the squandered opportunity.



<h2>1991 San Francisco 49ers</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251121_BUS_531111_Roger-Craig_fe4a82ed.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-531130"></figure><figcaption>Roger Craig #33 of the San Francisco 49ers in 1991. (Source: George Rose/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



The 1991 season in San Francisco marked a profound inflection point. Following a decade of sustained dominance and four Super Bowl titles, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/san-francisco-49ers">49ers</a> faced the harsh reality of age and injury. 



Legendary quarterback Joe Montana was sidelined for nearly the entire year with a severe elbow injury, ceding control to Steve Young, who stepped up with a stellar season, throwing for over 2,500 yards and displaying amazing efficiency. 



Despite Young’s brilliant performance and the team finishing with a 10-6 record, this mark was not enough to carry them into the playoffs. They landed third in a brutally competitive NFC West, behind both the Saints and the Falcons. The 10-6 record, which was the same as the final Wild Card spot winner, saw them excluded due to complex tiebreaker rules. 



This season not only broke a streak of four consecutive NFC Championship Game appearances but also served as the unofficial, painful closing chapter of the dynasty’s first great cycle.

NFL teams with limited playoff appearances: Long droughts and short histories

NFL teams with limited playoff appearances: Long droughts and short histories - Bolavip US

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