2012 NFL Schedule: Regular-Season Games That Could Be Super Bowl Previews

The 2012 NFL regular-season matchups have been announced, and although the order and dates of the games are unknown, it's not too early to analyze some potential Super Bowl previews.

As we all know, the Giants and Patriots squared off in the Super Bowl last year. But before that, they battled in a 2011 regular-season game as well. Which games on the 2012 slate are most likely to replicate the foreshadowing of that contest? Let's take a look.

San Francisco 49ers @ New England Patriots

These two teams comprised half of last year's final four, and I wouldn't be surprised if they met on football's biggest stage in 2013.

The 49ers will once again boast one of the league's best defenses. If they get some more weapons for Alex Smith, and the quarterback makes some improvements in his game, the 49ers could take the next step this season.

As for the Patriots, as long as they've got Belichick and Brady, you've got to consider them as Super Bowl contenders.

Green Bay Packers @ Houston Texans

I thought the Texans were headed to the Super Bowl last year, until an injury to quarterback Matt Schaub derailed their season.

This year, they'll be primed for a deep playoff run. They've got a great defense and some of the best weapons in football in Arian Foster and Andre Johnson. If they can stay healthy, I think Houston will come out of the AFC.

Meanwhile, Green Bay has already proven its championship pedigree. Although they got bounced early in last year's playoffs, they'll be a major force this season. Don't be surprised if Aaron Rodgers, Greg Jennings and co. make another Super Bowl run.

New York Giants @ Baltimore Ravens

I'm not sold on Joe Flacco's ability to lead a team, but if Trent Dilfer can win a Super Bowl, then I don't see why Flacco can't.

Like the Texans, the Ravens also have a vicious defense and a stud running back in Ray Rice. If Flacco improves his decision making, the Ravens will be as dangerous as any team in the league.

And while it's highly unlikely for a team to make back-to-back Super Bowl appearances, the Giants will be one of the top contenders this season. They didn't lose many key components of their championship squad, and with Eli Manning under center, you can never count them out.