The Biggest NFL Rivalries in History
Few things fuel the passion of sports fans quite like a great rivalry. In the NFL, rivalries go beyond just games—they become part of the league’s fabric, shaping teams, defining legacies, and creating unforgettable moments. From century-old battles steeped in tradition to modern clashes born out of playoff heartbreak, these are the fiercest, most storied rivalries in NFL history.
Green Bay Packers vs. Chicago Bears: The NFL’s Oldest Showdown
The rivalry between the Green Bay Packers and Chicago Bears is the oldest and perhaps the most iconic in NFL history. Dating back to 1921, these two founding teams have met over 200 times, more than any other pairing. Their clashes have featured Hall of Fame legends like Walter Payton, Brett Favre, and Aaron Rodgers, and their matchups often feel like battles for football’s soul. In 2010, the stakes reached a fever pitch when they met in the NFC Championship, with the Packers prevailing on their way to a Super Bowl victory. This rivalry isn’t just about football—it’s a clash of identities, traditions, and pride that runs deep in both cities.[2]
Dallas Cowboys vs. Washington Commanders: America’s Team Meets Its Nemesis
The Dallas Cowboys and Washington Commanders rivalry is a cornerstone of the NFC East, dating back to the 1960s. Dubbed “America’s Team,” the Cowboys’ glitz and national following contrast sharply with Washington’s blue-collar roots. Their twice-yearly meetings are always must-watch events, filled with drama, trash talk, and memorable finishes. This rivalry’s intensity is fueled by decades of high-stakes games and playoff implications, keeping fans on both sides fiercely loyal—and often at odds.[2]
San Francisco 49ers vs. Dallas Cowboys: Playoff Fireworks and Super Bowl Stakes
The 49ers-Cowboys rivalry centers around postseason drama. In the 1980s and 1990s, these teams routinely met in the NFC Championship, with each matchup feeling like a Super Bowl preview. Iconic moments, like “The Catch” by Dwight Clark in 1982, have defined this rivalry. The intensity hasn’t faded; recent playoff meetings have reignited old tensions and reminded fans why this is one of the league’s most electric matchups.[1]
Baltimore Ravens vs. Pittsburgh Steelers: Hard-Hitting Modern Feud
Since the Baltimore Ravens joined the NFL in 1996, their rivalry with the Pittsburgh Steelers has become synonymous with physical, defensive football. The teams, separated by just a few hours of highway, have exchanged playoff heartbreaks and last-second heroics—like Antonio Brown’s game-winning catch in 2016. Every game is a slugfest, and their fans’ passion matches the brutality on the field. This modern rivalry is often cited as the NFL’s most intense.[3]
Philadelphia Eagles vs. Dallas Cowboys: Battle for NFC East Supremacy
The Philadelphia Eagles and Dallas Cowboys rivalry dates back to 1961 and is fueled by their shared division and passionate fanbases. From the Cowboys’ dominance in the ’60s and ’70s to the Eagles’ recent Super Bowl era, this rivalry has delivered unforgettable moments—from on-field brawls to playoff drama. The animosity between these two teams ensures every matchup feels like a playoff game.[3]
Las Vegas Raiders vs. Pittsburgh Steelers: 1970s Playoff Wars
The Raiders-Steelers rivalry was the definition of hard-nosed football in the 1970s. Meeting five straight times in the playoffs, these teams delivered brutal, physical games and memorable controversies. From the “Immaculate Reception” to bench-clearing brawls, their battles are legendary. While the frequency has waned, the legacy of this rivalry—black and gold versus silver and black—remains legendary.[4]
New York Giants vs. Washington Commanders: The Oldest NFC East Rivalry
The Giants-Commanders rivalry is the NFC East’s oldest, tracing back to 1932. With over 180 meetings, this rivalry has seen high-scoring shootouts, playoff shutouts, and decades of divisional battles. Both teams have vied for division and Super Bowl titles, keeping their contests fiercely competitive and always meaningful.[5]
More Legendary NFL Rivalries
While the rivalries above are among the most storied, the NFL is filled with other fierce matchups:
- Chicago Bears vs. Green Bay Packers – A century-old grudge match.
- Dallas Cowboys vs. San Francisco 49ers – Playoff classics and Hall of Fame talent.
- Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Baltimore Ravens – Modern defensive slugfests.
- Philadelphia Eagles vs. Dallas Cowboys – NFC East’s most intense feud.
- Las Vegas Raiders vs. Kansas City Chiefs – AFC West animosity.
Watch: The Greatest NFL Rivalries Ever
For a visual trip through these epic feuds, check out this recent video exploring the NFL’s greatest rivalries: