Two of the NFL's model franchises, the Green Bay Packers and Pittsburgh Steelers, will be at the center of the free world Sunday night at Super Bowl XLV.They weren't just great in 2010, they've been great for the better part of the last century. One of them will add to their astounding number of championships Sunday, and each can make a case for being the greatest franchise in football history.
Which franchise do you believe is the best in history? Let's make a case for each candidate and let you vote below.
Packers
They've got 14 championships, which is the most in NFL history, and that includes three Super Bowls. With a fourth Super Bowl, the Packers would rank fourth all-time in that category. The Super Bowl trophy is named after Packers former coach Vince Lombardi.
Steelers
Their six Super Bowl titles are the most in history, making them the most successful franchise since the merger. The Rooney family has owned the Steelers since they were founded in 1933.
49ers
The Niners have been down for some time, but they've got a great argument for this label. They're 5-0 in the Super Bowl, which makes them the only team in history with a perfect record in multiple Super Bowl appearances. They've boasted one of the best coaches of all-time in Bill Walsh, and two of the greatest quarterbacks ever in Joe Montana and Steve Young. Many consider Montana to be the best ever at the position, and wide receiver Jerry Rice has always been in the discussion as the greatest player of all-time.
Cowboys
"America's Team" might have the largest fan base in the country, and they've got a 5-3 record in the Super Bowl. Their five titles are tied for the second most, and their eight Super Bowl appearances are tied with the Steelers for the most ever.
Bears
The Bears have seven world championships, including one Super Bowl, and their 1985 team might have boasted the greatest defense in NFL history.
Giants
The Giants were one of the most popular teams in the sport during the dawn of the NFL. Their 15 NFL championship game appearances were the most ever, but they only won four titles. Add those to their three Super Bowls — one of which could be considered the greatest upset of all time — and they've got seven championships.
Patriots
Bill Belichick is in the discussion for the greatest coach of all time, and with another Super Bowl, Tom Brady could match Montana and Terry Bradshaw with four. The Patriots' three Super Bowls are tied for the fourth most of all-time, and their six appearances are tied for third.
Which is the best franchise in NFL history? Share your thoughts below.
