After the Patriots lost the playoff game to the Jets, I came to the realization that the AFC Championship would be between two teams I really don't care for. I still enjoy watching football so I am going to pick my poison. Should I hope the Steelers win or actually be hoping to see the Jets in the Superbowl?
Well, there is method to my madness in hoping this team goes to the Superbowl. I want the Jets to beat the Steelers on Sunday. This has nothing to do with the Jets, and has everything to do with the Steelers.
First, if the Steelers go to the Superbowl, and win it they would have 3 Super Bowl rings in 6 seasons. Pats fans then would be hearing from the media, and the Steeler fans they now have the next dynasty. Sorry, I definitely do not want that to happen.
Second, If the Steelers win another Super Bowl this season, Ben Roethlisberger would have 3 Super Bowl rings just like Tom Brady. Roethlisberger is a great quarterback, but he is not at the same level as Brady and Manning. If he wins a third he would probably enter the conversation. Trust me, Pats fans will be hearing this from Steeler fans. Brady's legacy I don't want to be seen challenged by Roethlisberger.
Third, I don't want the Steeler fans to enjoy another Super Bowl victory. There are still some Steeler fans that feel the Patriots robbed them of two more Super Bowl appearances because of Spygate. Members of this fan-base still cannot accept they were beaten by the better team in 2001 and 2004.
Lastly, I don't think the Jets can win the Super Bowl. The Jets have already lost to both the Packers and the Bears. I don't see them beating either opponent in the Super Bowl. On the other hand, the experience that the Steelers have gives me confidence they would beat either NFC opponent in the Super Bowl.
Pats fans were in a similar situation last season with the AFC Championship game between the Colts and the Jets. I actually wanted the Jets to win that game for the same reasoning of this year. I didn't want Peyton Manning and his team to win another ring. In the end it worked out as the Colts lost, and tarnished Manning's reputation in big games.
Do I want to see the Jets and their fans celebrate? Of course I don't want to see that, but the Patriots legacy means more to me than my thoughts on the Jets.
So as I watch this game and hope the Jets win, it has nothing to with the team from New York. It has everything to do with the team from Pittsburgh and their fans.
More News Headlines:
Patriots News 06-14, Patriots Wrap Up Spring Workouts
By: Steve BalestrieriPatriots wrap up spring workouts, looking ahead to training camp and the 2026 season. Drake Maye's development, A.J. Brown & Romeo Doubs boost offense.
Patriots Rookie Lomu Reveals “Weird” First Days at Right Tackle
By: Ian LoguePatriots rookie Caleb Lomu details his 'weird' initial adjustment to right tackle after college, now feeling natural with veteran Morgan Moses' help.
Vrabel’s Goal For Christian Barmore in 2026: “Being able to finish”
By: Ian LogueVrabel challenges Christian Barmore to 'finish' plays and increase sacks in 2026. His season management is also detailed.
MORSE: Day 3 of Patriots Mini-Camp
By: Mark MorseAnalyzing Patriots mini-camp Day 3, Drake Maye's red zone work, a late hit, and defensive dominance highlighted a spirited practice.
TRANSCRIPT: Mike Vrabel Press Conference 6/11
By: Ian LogueHere's the full transcript of what New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel had to say during his press conference on Thursday, June 11th, 2026.