The journey to Super Bowl LX is paved. With 14 teams remaining after 18 weeks of regular season action, the stage is set for a thrilling playoff. Notable surprises this season include the absence of the Kansas City Chiefs and Baltimore Ravens from the playoffs, alongside the unexpected ascendance of teams like the Chicago Bears and Jacksonville Jaguars.

Each team now has the opportunity to compete for the coveted Lombardi trophy. Here’s a breakdown of one reason why each playoff team can secure a Super Bowl title, coupled with a challenge they may face:

AFC

Denver Broncos
CAN: The defense can dominate games.
CAN’T: The offense’s success hinges on Bo Nix without an effective run game.

New England Patriots
CAN: QB Drake Maye’s efficiency can be game-changing.
CAN’T: Concerns over Milton Williams’ health impact the defense.

Jacksonville Jaguars
CAN: Explosive offensive plays can lead them to victory.
CAN’T: Interior pressure may hinder offensive effectiveness.

Pittsburgh Steelers
CAN: The team thrives under Mike Tomlin’s coaching style.
CAN’T: A limited receiving corps creates downfield challenges.

Houston Texans
CAN: Strong defensive play can lead to a Super Bowl victory.
CAN’T: Offensive struggles to produce big plays.

Buffalo Bills
CAN: A formidable ground game supports them through the playoffs.
CAN’T: Inadequacies in the receiving corps can jeopardize their chances.

Los Angeles Chargers
CAN: Limiting explosive plays defensively can secure wins.
CAN’T: Offensive line injuries can undermine Justin Herbert.

NFC

Seattle Seahawks
CAN: A strong defense can lead them to success.
CAN’T: Quarterback Sam Darnold’s inconsistency can lead to defeats.

Chicago Bears
CAN: A high-scoring offense can outpace any competition.
CAN’T: Defensive turnover luck could run dry.

Philadelphia Eagles
CAN: A skilled defense can control games effectively.
CAN’T: The offense struggles to find its rhythm.

Carolina Panthers
CAN: Time management and efficient scoring are essential.
CAN’T: A weak pass rush could leave them vulnerable.

Los Angeles Rams
CAN: A potent offense can consistently score.
CAN’T: Defensive secondary weaknesses can lead to significant issues.

San Francisco 49ers
CAN: Kyle Shanahan’s coaching brilliance can advance them.
CAN’T: Defensive depth concerns could hinder their performance.

Green Bay Packers
CAN: A stellar performance from QB Jordan Love could propel them.
CAN’T: Inadequate defensive line performance may cause setbacks.