Chiefs head coach Andy Reid reacts as he is doused following Kansas City’s 31-20 Super Bowl victory over the San Francisco 49ers. (David J. Phillip / Associated Press)
Nearly six months of NFL football have been leading to this. Two heavyweights will face off in New Orleans on Sunday night in one of the biggest events in sports. This season has been filled with enticing storylines and thrilling matchups. Both of these teams have endured long journeys to make it to this point. The eyes of the world will be on the Eagles and the Chiefs as they hit the field this weekend. Can Kansas City win their third consecutive championship? Will Philadelphia slay the great villains of football? Here is my full Super Bowl LIX preview:
Kansas City Chiefs
“You either die a hero or live long enough to see yourself become the villain.” This iconic quote from The Dark Knight is the perfect summation of the Chiefs’ season. Kansas City entered the 2024 season as the dominant but likable frontrunner, pursuing the historic achievement of three consecutive Super Bowl victories. Through a series of questionable calls and close wins, the Chiefs have become the Villains of the NFL.
Villains or not, the Chiefs deserve credit for the ways that they have adjusted their game this season. Through untimely injuries and inadequate play at certain positions, the Chiefs have been forced to adjust on the fly in ways that only the best organizations are capable of. They have continually edged out their opponents in close battles on their way back to the Super Bowl. If Kansas City wins on Sunday, they will have more one-score wins than any other Super Bowl champion in league history.
Philadelphia Eagles
While the Chiefs entered the season with high expectations, the Eagles began the year with a dramatically wide range of outcomes. After a disappointing finish to the 2023 season, it seemed that head coach Nick Sirianni may have been on the hot seat. However, with the talent of the Eagles’ roster, a deep playoff run was always possible. Key players have stepped up throughout the season to lead Philadelphia back to the Super Bowl for the third time in eight seasons.
Running back Saquon Barkley has quickly become the face of the Eagles’ franchise. Barkley eclipsed 2,000 rushing yards this season (only eight other players have accomplished the feat in league history) on his way to winning the Offensive Player of the Year award. Quarterback Jalen Hurts, while not the engine of the Eagles’ offense, has proved capable of adding to the Eagles’ dynamism without committing major mistakes. On defense, Jalen Carter and Zack Baun have emerged as true stars.
Super Bowl LIX Preview
While many fans may feel exhausted by the prospect of a repeat Super Bowl matchup, both of these teams look significantly different than what they were two years ago. When the Chiefs and Eagles faced off in Super Bowl LVII, the result was a fast-paced shootout in which the passing game was the main feature. In this game, expect to see both teams lean heavily on the run game. Rather than seeking out deep balls, these teams may prioritize quick passes underneath the defensive secondary. There is a lot on the line for both teams. With rosters this evenly matched, fans can hope to see a thrilling battle on Sunday night.
