The Kansas City Chiefs and Philadelphia Eagles are preparing to meet in the 59th edition of the National Football League’s (NFL) biggest event, and a lot is at stake. The Eagles are looking to win their first Super Bowl championship since 2018, while the Chiefs are attempting to win three Super Bowls in a row — a feat that no NFL team has ever accomplished before.
Here is what needs to happen in order for both teams to have success:
Philadelphia Eagles’ guide to winning
It is no secret that the Eagles rely heavily on their defence. In fact, the team gave up the second least total points during the regular season — just two more than the Los Angeles Chargers. They also had the most forced fumbles in the leagues, which could play a huge role in turning over the ball against the Chiefs.
Viewers of Super Bowl LIX will have their eyes on two offensive players: quarterback Jalen Hurts and running back Saquon Barkley.
Hurts has consistently been one of the premier quarterbacks in the NFL since his rookie season in 2020. He improved from a career-worst 15 total interceptions last season to just five total this season. And by his side, Hurts had one of the most reliable running options in NFL history.
Barkley crushed his career-best total for rushing yards this season with a whopping 2005 rushing yards to lead the league. Not only did Barkley lead the league this season, he was just 100 yards away from breaking the all-time record for most rushing yards in an NFL season.
If the Eagles want a chance at defeating Kansas City, they will have to utilize their running game and force as many turnovers as they can to keep the ball out of Chiefs’ quarterback Patrick Mahomes’ hands.
Kansas City’s guide to winning
Speaking of Mahomes, he will be in the spotlight once again in the Super Bowl.
When the Eagles and Chiefs met in Super Bowl 57, Mahomes was coming off of a career-best season in almost every offensive category. Meeting again in Super Bowl 59, the pressure for Mahomes is just as high.
On the verge of a three-peat and being put in the “greatest of all-time” discussion, Mahomes will be tested by the Eagles’ stingy defence and ability to force turnovers. Their ability to hand the ball off to elite running back Kareem Hunt will also work to their advantage.
As for passing options, having tight end Travis Kelce — also known as Taylor Swift’s partner — also helps the Chiefs’ chances at winning.
Kelce’s receiving and yards-per-carry stats have decreased since last season, but as one of the best playoff tight ends in history, he has a chance at winning his fourth career Super Bowl. I’d say that would avoid any “Bad Blood” between him and Mahomes.
Mahomes and the Chiefs statistically have one of the most clutch teams in the NFL. Their key to success: limiting turnovers and keeping the game close. If it is a one-possession game in the fourth quarter, it is hard to bet against Kansas City.
Predictions
Matt Piscina, Sports Editor: 36-33 Chiefs. They just seem to find a way to win in every big game.
Mathilde Colls, Assistant Sports Editor: I think the Eagles will beat the odds and win this one. Their defence has been elite all season, and their roster is stacked. I feel like this year is their year, and who doesn’t want an underdog story? A three-peat for the Chiefs seems unrealistic, even with Mahomes.
Marieke Glorieux-Stryckman, Editor-in-Chief: My dad will surely make nachos.
Jeremy Cox, News Editor: As a Giants fan, ∞ – 0 Birds. I’m tired of Mahomes (Serious answer: 28-24 Chiefs).
Janna Toubal, Assistant Video Editor: 35-29 Chiefs
Félix-Antoine Beauchemin, Staff Writer: 31-27 Eagles. It can be risky to bet against the Chiefs because they always seem to find a way to win. But if you play with fire all season, chances are it will burn you at some point. I believe the Eagles have the firepower, both offensively and defensively, to just get past the Chiefs and prevent them from achieving a historic three-peat.
Kailee Krentz, Copy Editor: 32-30 Eagles (no idea what I’m talking about, but I’m all for cheering for the underdog)