NFL’s 30 best teams that didn’t win the Super Bowl

Feb 1, 2015; Glendale, AZ, USA; New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) reacts after throwing an interception during the third quarter against the Seattle Seahawks in Super Bowl XLIX at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 1, 2015; Glendale, AZ, USA; New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) reacts after throwing an interception during the third quarter against the Seattle Seahawks in Super Bowl XLIX at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
19 of 31
Next
Oct 12, 2014; Oakland, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders helmet on the turf during the second half of the game against the San Diego Chargers at O.co Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Bob Stanton-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 12, 2014; Oakland, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders helmet on the turf during the second half of the game against the San Diego Chargers at O.co Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Bob Stanton-USA TODAY Sports /

13. 1969 Oakland Raiders

The Raiders had a chance to go to their second Super Bowl in three seasons back in 1969, and had plenty of talent to get there. Oakland was a power under head coach John Madden, led by quarterback Daryle Lamonica, and receivers Warren Wells and Fred Biletnikoff. The Raiders finished first in the AFL for offense and second defensively, showcasing a complete team.

Oakland was a juggernaut through the regular season, going 12-1-1. The Raiders had Lamonica going off throughout the campaign, throwing 34 touchdowns with 3,302 yards. Wells led the league in receiving, going for 1,260 yards and 14 touchdowns while Biletnikoff added 12. It was a passing game before its time, with owner Al Davis consistently wanting the ball pushed down the field.

In the playoffs, Oakland continued to look like a sure bet for the Super Bowl. The Raiders demolished the Houston Oilers, 56-7, moving onto a showdown with the Chiefs. In the final game played between two AFL teams, Kansas City came to the Oakland Coliseum and beat the Raiders, 17-7, moving onto Super Bowl IV. It was a devastating blow from their main rival.

Next: 12. 2001 St. Louis Rams