The AFC South, one of the four divisions in the American Football Conference (AFC) of the National Football League (NFL), has quietly become one of the most exciting divisions in the league.
While it may not have the star power of the NFC West or the historical dominance of the AFC East, the AFC South boasts a unique blend of young talent, established veterans, and passionate fanbases.
AFC South Teams
Houston Texans
The Texans, the youngest franchise in the division, are still searching for their first Lombardi Trophy. However, with the recent acquisition of star wide receiver Stefon Diggs, they’ve signaled their intent to compete. Led by 2023 breakout star C.J. Stroud, the Texans are a team many have identified to challenge the Chiefs for AFC supremacy.
Indianapolis Colts
The Colts are the most decorated team in the AFC South, with nine division titles. Led by Anthony Richardson and backed up by recent acquisition Joe Flacco, the Colts have a strong offensive line and a talented young running back in Jonathan Taylor. The Colts are always a threat to contend for the division crown.
Jacksonville Jaguars
The Jaguars are perennially one of the most intriguing teams in the NFL. Trevor Lawrence leads the Jags again this year. Backed by an exciting defense, Jacksonville is poised to take a big step up.
Tennessee Titans
The Titans have fielded a dominant team in the AFC South in past years, winning the division title in back-to-back seasons (2020 and 2021). Running back Derrick Henry is gone, and the Titans are looking to establish a new identity. WR DeAndre Hopkins and Tony Pollard look to add some punch.
AFC Teams Snapshots
Let’s examine each team’s stadium, owner, head coach, win/loss record, and rivals in more detail.
Houston Texans
- Stadium: NRG Stadium
- Seating Capacity: 71,795
- Head Coach: DeMeco Ryans
- Owner: Shahid Khan
- All-time Won/Loss Record: 230 wins and 242 losses (as of the end of the 2023 season)
- Year Established: 2002 (expansion team)
- Mascot: Toro the Bull
- Super Bowl Wins: 0
- Biggest Rival: Indianapolis Colts
- The Face of the Franchise: C.J. Stroud (currently with Cleveland Browns, but the situation may change)
Indianapolis Colts
- Stadium: Lucas Oil Stadium
- Seating Capacity: 67,000
- Head Coach: Shane Steichen
- Owner: Jim Irsay
- All-time Won/Loss Record: 575 wins and 523 losses (including Baltimore Colts record)
- Year Established: 1953 (as Baltimore Colts)
- Mascot: Blue the Mascot
- Super Bowl Wins: 2 (Super Bowl V as Baltimore Colts, Super Bowl XLI)
- Biggest Rival: Houston Texans
- The Face of the Franchise: Jonathan Taylor and Anthony Richardson
Jacksonville Jaguars
- Stadium: TIAA Bank Field
- Seating Capacity: 67,246
- Head Coach: Doug Pederson
- Owner: Shad Khan
- All-time Won/Loss Record: 184 wins and 253 losses (as of the end of the 2023 season)
- Year Established: 1995 (expansion team)
- Mascot: Jax the Jaguar
- Super Bowl Wins: 0
- Biggest Rival: Tennessee Titans
- The Face of the Franchise: Trevor Lawrence
Tennessee Titans
- Stadium: Nissan Stadium
- Seating Capacity: 69,143
- Head Coach: Brian Callahan
- Owner: Amy Adams Strunk
- All-time Won/Loss Record: 422 wins and 444 losses (including Houston Oilers record)
- Year Established: 1997 (as Tennessee Oilers, relocated from Houston)
- Mascot: Titan the Mascot
- Super Bowl Wins: 1 (Super Bowl XXXIV as St. Louis Rams)
- Biggest Rival: Jacksonville Jaguars
- The Face of the Franchise: DeAndre Hopkins
A Competitive Landscape
The AFC South is shaping into a highly competitive division in 2024. All four teams have the potential to make the playoffs, making every game within the division a must-watch. With their strong 2023 season and another solid draft, the Texans look to be the favorites.
The AFC South is a rising division, and it promises to be an exciting race for the division title in 2024. Buckle up, football fans, because you’re in for a treat!
AFC South Fun Facts
Here are some fun facts for the AFC South teams.
Houston Texans
- At one time, Texans fans held the Guinness World Record for the loudest stadium roar, 130.5 decibels, during a 2013 playoff game.
- Battle Red Day, where fans wear all red, is one of the most electric atmospheres in the NFL.
- The Texans’ mascot, Toro, is a bull with a 50-yard dash time, which would shame some running backs. (Unofficially, of course.)
- The team holds an annual charity softball game featuring players, coaches, and local celebrities.
- JJ Watt, a former Texan, dominated the field. He holds a degree in civil engineering from Wisconsin.
Indianapolis Colts
- The horseshoe adorning the Colts’ helmets is a tribute to Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the “Racing Capital of the World.”
- The team mascot, Blue, is a horse known for his elaborate pregame routines and touchdown celebrations.
- Indianapolis holds an annual “Combine Weekend” with free fan activities celebrating the NFL Scouting Combine.
- Colts legend Reggie Wayne holds the franchise record for receiving yards and is a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
- Peyton Manning, another Colts legend, is the only quarterback to win Super Bowls with two teams (Colts and Broncos).
Jacksonville Jaguars
- The fans’ passionate roar earned them the nickname “The Duval Dinosaurs.”
- Jacksonville boasts the teal-colored “tuxedo jaguar” as its mascot, complete with a top hat and monocle.
- The team holds an annual “Salute to Service” game to honor veterans and active military personnel.
- Jacksonville is known for its passionate tailgating scene, with fans arriving hours before kickoff.
- Tony Boselli, a former Jaguars defensive end, is the team’s minority owner and a beloved figure in Jacksonville.
Tennessee Titans
- The Titans’ mascot, T-Rac, is a muscular, energetic raccoon with a mischievous streak.
- Nissan Stadium boasts a giant video board shaped like a guitar, a tribute to Nashville’s musical heritage.
- The “Wanna Smash?” chant echoing through the stadium is a rallying cry for the Titans’ punishing running game.
- Oilers fans, the Titans’ predecessor team, hold an annual “Houston vs. Nashville” reunion game.
- Steve McNair, a former Titans quarterback, is a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame and is beloved by fans for his electrifying play.
NFL Divisions
AFC South
NFL Conferences and Divisions Overview
By Mike O’Halloran
Founder and Editor, Sports Feel Good Stories
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