Having attended the first 53 Super Bowls, I’ve never encountered players more forthright than the two mentioned above. To set the record straight, let’s be clear: the spectacle of the game, where reason often seems absent, is not the fault of the players. Instead, the NFL and television executives are to blame for that.
Before getting into Super Bowl LVII, I must reflect on my late friend Pete Rozelle, the former NFL commissioner. Each year, he hosted a select group of reporters and columnists who had covered every Super Bowl.
At these gatherings, known as The Super Club, he would reminisce and share stories. There were about 30 of us, and I recall Rozelle once expressing his feelings about our diminishing group.
He said, “I look around and it’s so good to see you again, but then I think about the faces that are gone and that makes this a bittersweet occasion.” In response, I humorously expressed our mixed feelings about the event.
Years later, Rozelle planned to attend a Super Bowl in New Orleans but was advised against traveling due to his health. We had a final teleconference where he made us laugh despite his condition. He ended with a farewell, saying, “Have a drink on me,” leaving us to toast in his memory.
Now, focusing on Super Bowl 57, it’s clear the Eagles boast the league’s top defense. While Jalen Hurts is a formidable quarterback, Patrick Mahomes of the Chiefs is arguably the best in football. The Eagles are favored by 1.5 points, but the game is too close to call.
The outcome may hinge on which team can run the ball more effectively. The Eagles, with their top-tier running game featuring Miles Sanders, Kenny Gainwell, and Boston Scott, have the edge. The Chiefs, despite having Isiah Pacheco, cannot match that strength.
However, if Mahomes’ high-ankle sprain is sufficiently healed, his ability to evade tackles could make the difference. My prediction: Chiefs 31, Eagles 26.
I believe this game could live up to its potential, reminiscent of Super Bowl XXXIV between the Rams and Titans. The Rams, led by Kurt Warner and known for their high-octane offense, had a 23-16 lead with just seconds left. The Titans, trailing by 10 yards, had one final chance to tie the game, turning the match into a dramatic showdown.