The 2011 NFL season was the 92nd regular season of the National Football League, and it witnessed some incredible team performances, as well as significant developments in the league’s structure and player safety policies. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the standings, followed by an in-depth analysis of the season’s highlights, notable moments, and the eventual Super Bowl champions.
AFC Standings
AFC East
- New England Patriots - 13-3
- New York Jets - 8-8
- Miami Dolphins - 6-10
- Buffalo Bills - 6-10
AFC North
- Baltimore Ravens - 12-4
- Pittsburgh Steelers - 12-4
- Cincinnati Bengals - 9-7
- Cleveland Browns - 4-12
AFC South
- Houston Texans - 10-6
- Tennessee Titans - 9-7
- Jacksonville Jaguars - 5-11
- Indianapolis Colts - 2-14
AFC West
- Denver Broncos - 8-8
- San Diego Chargers - 8-8
- Oakland Raiders - 8-8
- Kansas City Chiefs - 7-9
NFC Standings
NFC East
- New York Giants - 9-7
- Philadelphia Eagles - 8-8
- Dallas Cowboys - 8-8
- Washington Redskins - 5-11
NFC North
- Green Bay Packers - 15-1
- Detroit Lions - 10-6
- Chicago Bears - 8-8
- Minnesota Vikings - 3-13
NFC South
- New Orleans Saints - 13-3
- Atlanta Falcons - 10-6
- Carolina Panthers - 6-10
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers - 4-12
NFC West
- San Francisco 49ers - 13-3
- Arizona Cardinals - 8-8
- Seattle Seahawks - 7-9
- St. Louis Rams - 2-14
Season Highlights and Notable Moments
The 2011 season was marked by several notable moments and performances. One of the most significant stories of the season was the emergence of the Green Bay Packers as the dominant force in the NFC, led by quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who would go on to win the NFL MVP award. The Packers’ 15-1 regular season record was the best in the league, and they entered the playoffs as the number one seed in the NFC.
Another significant development in the 2011 season was the resurgence of the Denver Broncos, led by quarterback Tim Tebow. The Broncos started the season 1-4 but finished with an 8-8 record, winning the AFC West division title and securing a playoff spot. Tebow’s unorthodox playing style and ability to perform under pressure captivated the nation, and he became one of the most talked-about players in the league.
The 2011 season also saw significant developments in the league’s structure and player safety policies. The NFL lockout, which had threatened to cancel the season, was resolved in July 2011, and the league implemented several rule changes aimed at improving player safety. The league also introduced a new collective bargaining agreement, which included provisions for increased player revenue sharing and improved player benefits.
Super Bowl XLVI
The New York Giants, led by quarterback Eli Manning, would ultimately win Super Bowl XLVI, defeating the New England Patriots 21-17. This was the Giants’ second Super Bowl victory over the Patriots in five years, following their win in Super Bowl XLII. The game was played at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana, on February 5, 2012, and was watched by an estimated 111.3 million viewers, making it one of the most-watched television programs in U.S. history.
In conclusion, the 2011 NFL season was a thrilling and unpredictable ride, marked by significant developments in the league’s structure and player safety policies, as well as incredible team performances and notable moments. The season ultimately culminated in the New York Giants’ Super Bowl XLVI championship, solidifying their status as one of the premier franchises in the NFL.
FAQ Section
Who won Super Bowl XLVI in the 2011 NFL season?
+The New York Giants won Super Bowl XLVI, defeating the New England Patriots 21-17.
Which team had the best regular season record in the 2011 NFL season?
+The Green Bay Packers had the best regular season record, finishing with a 15-1 record.
What was the impact of the NFL lockout on the 2011 season?
+The NFL lockout, which was resolved in July 2011, did not ultimately affect the regular season schedule, but it did lead to changes in the league's structure and player safety policies.
The 2011 NFL season was a complex and multifaceted entity, marked by significant developments in the league’s structure and player safety policies, as well as incredible team performances and notable moments. This article has provided a comprehensive overview of the season’s standings, highlights, and notable moments, as well as an in-depth analysis of the Super Bowl XLVI championship game. By examining the season’s key events and trends, we can gain a deeper understanding of the NFL’s evolution and the factors that contribute to its enduring popularity.
