Ranking the Four Potential Super Bowl Matchups

We now know that two of four teams will play in Super Bowl XLVII on Sunday, Feb. 3 on CBS. Before the conference championship games take place this weekend, let's rank each of the four possible Super Bowl matchups.

1. Baltimore vs. San Francisco

While New England would be a bigger audience draw because of the fact the Patriots have more fans than the Ravens, the reality is that you can't beat the Harbowl. A matchup between the league's only brothers to coach at the same time would be nauseating for much of the two weeks leading up to the game, but it would be pretty cool to see on Super Bowl Sunday. Jim vs. John would be right up there with Peyton vs. Eli, if you ask me.

2. New England vs. San Francisco

California boy Tom Brady plays in his sixth Super Bowl, looking to move into a tie with boyhood idol Joe Montana by winning his fourth Lombardi Trophy. But to do so, he'll have to beat his favorite team growing up, and the one Montana won his four rings with. Also, this would feature the two best possible markets from a television standpoint. 

3. New England vs. Atlanta

While Atlanta is a large market, too, the Falcons just don't carry the same weight nationally that San Francisco does. I guess that has to do with the Niners' rich history. Still, this matchup would feature the two most potent offenses remaining in the Super Bowl race.

4. Baltimore vs. Atlanta

With the Harbaugh storyline squashed by the Falcons, this would become the Ray Lewis Spectacular. Neither team is overly exciting, either, so this would be a pretty week championship game. We'll tune in regardless, but the Lewis hype will be out of control. 

About Brad Gagnon

Brad Gagnon has been passionate about both sports and mass media since he was in diapers -- a passion that won't die until he's in them again. Based in Toronto, he's worked as a national NFL blog editor at theScore.com (covering Super Bowls XLIV, XLV and XLVI), a producer and writer at theScore Television Network and a host, reporter and play-by-play voice at Rogers TV. His work has also appeared at Deadspin, FoxSports.com, The Guardian, The Hockey News and elsewhere at Bloguin, but his day gig has him covering all things NFC East for Bleacher Report.

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