A bit of surprise today as SI.com is predicting a rematch of the Eagles and Patriots in Tampa Bay for Super Bowl XLIII, whereas thinks the Dallas Cowboys will be making it to the big game instead of the BOO-Birds, but no real long shots were taken in the AFC. The Patriots, Chargers and Colts all very well could be there, as well as Dallas, Philly, and even the NY Giants. But no one had the Giants on their board last year, or the Steelers a couple of years ago. Which is why many people flock to sportsbooks and casinos to place their Super Bowl long shot bets each year (if you are one of these people, we suggest you read an article called Rookie of the Year Prop Bets before you place that bet).

Here at Gridiron Experts, we would probably would pick the Patriots over the Cowboys, but that’s no fun, so here are a few long shot teams that could be there in February:  

Super Bowl Sleepers?

  Jacksonville is high in our books, as QB David Garrard should be more comfortable at the helm in his second year as the number 1 guy. The loss of DT Marcus Stroud and the long hold out from rookie Derrick Harvey could hurt them, but there are too many great players on this defense for it to really affect them. The addition of WR Jerry Porter might not have a huge fantasy factor, but will add much needed speed to the receiver core. The key….learn how to beat the Colts.

  The Cleveland Browns are being overlooked by many. At 10-6 last year, people looked at their weak schedule and classified the Browns as a one-hit wonder type team. This will not be the case, as a very aggressive off-season and a good draft will increase the Browns chances of being even better. The defense needs to step up, but the word Super Bowl has been whispered around the Cleveland area.

  We also like the Philly Eagles, but it doesn’t all fall on number 5’s shoulders. McNabb, Dawkins, W.Thomas, and Jon Runyan are all getting up there in age, and must stay healthy to have a good season. The hype is on DeSean Jackson, but another target for McNabb would increase their odds.