Preseason Super Bowl Predictions

Preseason predictions for the Super Bowl often seem pointless, yet they still give insight into what people are expecting as the new season unfolds. Just last year, the Seahawks were ranked 19th and the Patriots 21st in these predictions. Many fans might be convinced that the Los Angeles Rams, starting this year as the top team in the rankings, will easily go all the way. But remember, this is the NFL, and you never can tell what might happen.

Interestingly, only three out of the thirteen experts surveyed believe the Rams will clinch the 2027 Super Bowl. Meanwhile, four writers put their faith in the Buffalo Bills, with two also backing the Chicago Bears. So, there’s a mix of predictions from the team we consulted.

What do you think? Who’s taking home the 2027 Super Bowl trophy? Feel free to share your thoughts. It’s worth noting that last year, no one saw a Seahawks-Patriots matchup coming. We’ll revisit these predictions at the end of the season. For now, here’s how our preseason picks shape up for the upcoming 2026 campaign.

Predictions

Rams 28, Ravens 17 — Mark Schofield

Ah, the annual tradition of making a Super Bowl prediction that’s likely to go awry.

Sure, I’ve picked the Lions and Ravens for the last couple of seasons; not exactly successful choices, right? I guess third time’s the charm or something. Yet, honestly, I’m not totally convinced either team will win their divisions, so I might have to switch gears. This year, I’m thinking it’s finally time for Josh Allen and the Bills to break through. As for the NFC, I’ll take the Rams again, even though it’s a bit predictable.

For the champion? I’d love to see Matthew Stafford finish on a high note.

Rams 31, Ravens 10 — James Dator

I’m ready to be criticized for this prediction that could spiral off-track mid-season.

Still, I’m leaning towards the Rams. They have such veteran strength and a lot of areas where they’re solid, plus adding Myles Garrett definitely boosts their chances. I sense this might just be the year they return to the Super Bowl and, frankly, win it.

As for the challenger, I’m a little hesitant about choosing the Bills—something doesn’t sit right with me—but I’m banking on the Ravens this time. They have a lot going for them, and I was really impressed by the coaching changes, especially with Declan Doyle stepping in. I believe he can find a creative way to use Lamar Jackson’s talents.

When it’s all said and done, it feels like the Rams are in a strong position. However, who really knows?

Eagles 31, Chiefs 20 – Shamus Clancy

It seems like the Eagles are poised for another impressive season with their new play-caller, Sean Mannion. A healthier offensive line should rejuvenate the run game, and with Saquon Barkley on board, paired with an incredible defense, I can see them making a strong run. This could be their third trip to the Super Bowl with the Sirianni-Hurts duo.

Why not make this another Eagles-Chiefs showdown for drama’s sake?

Philadelphia triumphs this time, bringing the Lombardi Trophy back home.

Bills over Cowboys – Kyle Thele

The Bills appear to be the top contenders in the AFC, and I think this will be the year they finally succeed come playoff time. Josh Allen is likely to secure his championship by defeating an overmatched Cowboys squad. Dallas definitely has potential to make a run if they catch fire, but I believe they come up short.

I’m tempted to include the Rams here because, on paper, they seem exceptional. Yet, one injury could derail all of that, as I’m not entirely convinced a 38-year-old quarterback can stay healthy for the season.

49ers over Broncos – Ricky O’Donnell

I struggled between picking the 49ers or Cowboys from the NFC; ultimately, I chose the 49ers. They’ve consistently shown the ability to win double-digit games under Kyle Shanahan, and it feels like they’re due some luck to finally break through. As a Bears fan, I still remember how they competed last season.

This year, I think the elite defense of the Broncos will also play a significant role. I trust Sean Payton to deliver enough on offense, even if they have a quarterback who might not be top tier. The Niners have ample talent and coaching to make a meaningful impact.

Bills over Lions – Beth Maiman

I really believe the Bills can finally make it through to the Super Bowl this season. Factors like the new stadium, Josh Allen becoming a father, and some key opponents not being at full strength shape my outlook for Buffalo. Choosing a team from the NFC was tricky, but I’m leaning towards the Lions—there are quite a few games on the schedule where they should come away with wins, which could boost their confidence as they progress.

If head coach Dan Campbell and quarterback Jared Goff can make some noise, they’d silence quite a few doubters this season. Interestingly, the Bills and Lions are scheduled to face each other early in the season.

49ers 30, Chargers 23 – David Fucillo

I’m a 49ers fan, so that might influence my pick. They’re often seen as the third-best team in the NFC West behind the Rams and Seahawks, but I think they could impress under Kyle Shanahan this year. If they can keep key players healthy, I believe they have what it takes to reach the Super Bowl.

A rematch with the Chargers for vintage entertainment sounds nice, especially if their offense, now bolstered by Mike McDaniel, can elevate their game.

Bears over Bengals – Jeanna Kelley

Predicting Super Bowl winners before the season even starts is a tough game. The Bears did well last year, making it to the postseason and suffering a tight playoff loss to the Rams. With the Bengals and their offensive talent, it feels like they should always be in the conversation for a playoff spot. Maybe this year they’ll finally change their fortunes.

Texans over Seahawks – Mookie Alexander

I’ll admit I’m a bit biased in picking the Seahawks to get back to the Super Bowl. They have a solid squad and coaching staff, and while I expect the passing game to excel, there could be a slight dip in last year’s performance. The Rams may look formidable, but I think the Seahawks might just find a way to edge them out again in the NFC Championship.

Once again, I’m cautiously optimistic about the Texans. I think C.J. Stroud faced undue criticism last season, and he’s still a talented quarterback. With a stronger run game and improved offensive line, they could be a force. Their defense seems poised to be one of the best in the league this year, potentially leading them to victory against the Bills.

Bears over Bills – RJ Ochoa

The Bears made great strides last season and I expect continued improvement. With Caleb Williams now leading the offense, the division could be theirs to lose. If the right breaks come their way, they might just find themselves in the Super Bowl. They could face a Bills team that finally reaches that stage again but falls just short at the very end.

Bills 31, Rams 27 – James Brady

The Bills have a flair for the dramatic, but I believe their persistence will finally pay off this season. I expect the offense to deliver when it counts. They’ll face off against some stellar teams, but with Joe Brady at the helm, I’m confident they’ll make it to the Super Bowl.

It’s tempting to choose the 49ers, even with their off-season distractions, but I hesitate to do so. They’ve had a lot to overcome, so I’ll settle on the Rams instead. They have an impressive roster, and unless injuries get in the way, they should be tough to beat in the playoffs. However, the Bills may find a way to come through in the end.

Bills 42, Rams 40 – Matt Warren

This year has to be the Bills’ year, right? Joe Brady is poised to be more aggressive on both ends, which should benefit Buffalo down the line. While their defense might take some time to solidify, by the post-season, they ought to be formidable. With Josh Allen at the reins, it’s looking like this could finally be the year they break through, similar to Peyton Manning’s journey.

Ultimately, I see the Rams, 49ers, and Seahawks clustered at the top of the NFC. The Rams seem to have the best shot, with their defense likely creating major challenges for opponents. These two teams will meet again in the regular season, but I anticipate another thrilling showdown between star quarterbacks.

Rams 24, Ravens 21 – Jared Mueller

As a Browns fan, watching my old team face off against a former player like Myles Garrett is beyond discomforting. At some point, I expect Lamar Jackson to elevate the Ravens, or they might part ways. Perhaps this will be the year it all comes together.

With Aaron Donald and Garrett joining forces, it’s hard to justify not picking the Rams. Health is a concern, of course, since Matthew Stafford and others have their injury issues. A significant injury could change the landscape entirely, shifting the predictions dramatically.