It’s Super Bowl Sunday, and the Philadelphia Eagles are set to face off against the Kansas City Chiefs in New Orleans. This game marks a highly anticipated rematch of the Super Bowl from two years ago, where the Eagles suffered a heartbreaking 38-35 loss to the Chiefs. That game ended on a controversial note, with a disputed pass interference call on James Bradberry sealing the Chiefs' victory.
Fast forward to today, the stage is set for another epic showdown, and both teams are coming in hot. The Eagles punched their ticket to the big game by dismantling the Washington Commanders 55-23. Meanwhile, the Chiefs secured their spot with a narrow 32-29 win over the Buffalo Bills.
Related: Super Bowl 2025: Date and Time, Teams, Halftime Show Performers, Location
Related: What's at Stake in this Super Bowl?
Storylines Galore
This Super Bowl, much like its predecessor, is packed with storylines. We once again have the "Kelce Bowl," featuring brothers Jason and Travis Kelce on opposite sidelines. Andy Reid is coaching against his former team. And, of course, the quarterback battle between Jalen Hurts and Patrick Mahomes promises fireworks.
But let’s not forget the stakes: the Chiefs are chasing a three-peat, a feat that few teams have accomplished. However, some fans are calling this potential achievement the “Cheat-Peat,” reflecting lingering resentment over officiating controversies in previous games.
Jalen Hurts’ Redemption Arc
In the last Super Bowl against the Chiefs, Jalen Hurts had a phenomenal performance, recording three rushing touchdowns. Still, a critical fumble and a defensive lapse by the Eagles left them short. This time, Hurts is riding high after an exceptional performance against the Commanders, where he tallied three rushing touchdowns. Can he replicate that magic and lead his team to victory?
Related: Mahomes-Chiefs loss Super Bowl LIX, Hurts named MVP
Eagles’ Defense vs. Chiefs’ Offense
Philadelphia’s defense is arguably its biggest strength, ranked No. 1 in the NFL. They’ve allowed just 17.6 points per game this season and are dominant in yards allowed (286 per game). Meanwhile, Kansas City’s offense is middle-of-the-pack, averaging 22.7 points per game and ranked 19th in yards per game (322). The key matchup to watch will be whether the Eagles' pass rush can keep Mahomes contained in the pocket. Mahomes is renowned for his out-of-pocket heroics, but the Eagles’ defense is built to challenge that style of play.
The Numbers Game
On offense, the Eagles also hold an edge. They average 27 points per game, ranked 7th in the league, compared to the Chiefs’ 15th-ranked 22.7. However, Kansas City boasts a significant advantage in third-down efficiency, converting at 48%, the third-best rate in the NFL. The Eagles, at 40.6%, rank 10th. Third downs could very well be the deciding factor in this game.
Both teams have formidable defenses. The Chiefs are ranked 3rd in points allowed (18.9 per game) and 9th in total yards allowed. However, their Achilles' heel has been third-down defense, where they rank 29th, allowing a conversion rate of 44.4%. The Eagles might exploit this vulnerability, given their diverse offensive arsenal.
Predictions and Final Thoughts
Both teams are here for a reason. The Chiefs haven't lost a meaningful game since mid-November and are riding a wave of momentum. Meanwhile, the Eagles are peaking at the right time, despite being labeled underdogs at 1.5 points.
In my view, the Eagles are the more complete team this year. If they can neutralize Mahomes' escapability and execute in key moments, they should emerge victorious. I’m predicting the Eagles over the Chiefs in a tight contest.
As for the Chiefs? Well, Travis Kelce proposing to Taylor Swift postgame would fit a “scripted” narrative that some might call suspiciously poetic.
Related: 10 Super Bowls that everyone hated
What do you think? Share your predictions in the comments below.