Teams to Watch in This Year's NFL Playoffs

Everyone knows who the favorites are in this year's playoff run. We've heard the names all before, the New England Patriots, the Indianapolis Colts and the Dallas Cowboys. These are all great teams and should be favored to win. However there are a number of teams flying below the radar who are very capable of making a run to the Super Bowl. Here is a look at a few of those teams.

Jacksonville Jaguars- In a normal AFC conference the Jaguars would probably be the best team in the Conference. This year they are overshadowed by two great teams, the Colts and the Patriots. Make not mistakes however, this team can play. David Garrard has been one of the most solid and consistent quarterbacks in the league. He doesn't make many mistakes with the football. The Jags have a solid one-two punch at running back with Jones-Drew and Fred Taylor. With a little luck and a bounce here or there, they just might surprise a few and make it into the playoffs.

Pittsburgh Steelers. The Steelers have been there before. They know what it takes to win. They have kind of become the forgotten team because of the great play of the above mentioned teams. This team has a great quarterback and lots of great options in their offensive game. If the Steelier defense can stop opponents like they have so far this season, they very well could find their way deep into the playoffs.

Tennessee Titans. The Titans have to get some respect in the AFC. They play in the toughest division in football yet they are still right there as far as the playoff race. Watch out for the Titans for these reasons. First, they have an excellent coach in Fisher. Second, they have a super defense especially upfront with guys like Haynesworth and Vandenbosh. Third, Vince Young has the 'It' factor. He wants to win and believes he should.

San Diego. The Chargers have had an average year at best. The reality is however they still have a very explosive offense, when it shows up to play. Philip Rivers has shown in the past that at his best he is as good as the Brady's and company. Furthermore the Chargers still have the best running back, and one of the biggest threats in the league in LaDamlian Tomlinson. With his quickness and scoring ability, you just never know how far the Chargers can go.

Make no bones about it, these teams will have to play great to win. Teams like New England and Indianplis are not going to just lay down. I do think however you will be surprised at just how tough of a fight these teams put up in this year''s playoffs.