Eagles The Chiefs, led by Patrick Mahomes, are up against arguably the best team they’ve faced in a Super Bowl during the Mahomes era. The Eagles have been formidable, losing only three games all season, two of which were due to dropped passes that could have sealed victories. This Eagles team is stronger than the one the Chiefs defeated two years ago and even more intimidating than the 49ers teams Kansas City bested in Super Bowls LIV and LVIII. Philadelphia’s prowess is such that they are considered more daunting than the Tom Brady-led Buccaneers, who handed Mahomes his only championship game defeat in Super Bowl LV. While this may not be the best Chiefs team we’ve seen, it might be the craftiest. The Chiefs have consistently found ways to win, often in spectacularly close games. Their victory over the Bills in the AFC Championship Game was their 15th consecutive win in games decided by seven points or fewer. The question remains: Can the Eagles prevent the Chiefs from making history? Meet the Teams Kansas City Chiefs Coach: Andy Reid Andy Reid, with his wealth of playoff and Super Bowl experience, has been instrumental in the Chiefs’ success. In 26 seasons, Reid boasts a 28-16 postseason record and a 3-2 Super Bowl record. Despite challenges such as injuries and defensive inconsistencies, Reid has guided the Chiefs to the brink of a third consecutive championship. How did they get here? The Chiefs’ journey to a 17-2 record, including two playoff victories, was no easy feat. Kansas City won 11 regular-season games and the AFC Championship Game against the Bills by one score, often relying on a mix of skill and luck. A blocked field goal in Week 10 against the Broncos exemplified their ability to make crucial plays at critical moments. Philadelphia Eagles Coach: Nick Sirianni Nick Sirianni has made history as the first coach in the Super Bowl era to reach the playoffs in each of his first four seasons while making multiple Super Bowl appearances. With a regular-season record of 48-20, Sirianni’s winning percentage ranks third in the modern era, trailing only legends John Madden and George Allen. How did they get here? The Eagles’ season began with a shaky 2-2 start, but they quickly found their rhythm. A focus on Saquon Barkley during their Week 5 bye propelled them to a 10-game winning streak and a 14-3 regular-season record. Philadelphia’s top-ranked rushing game and defense earned them the No. 2 seed in the NFC, culminating in a dominant 55-23 victory over the Commanders in the NFC title game. Quarterback Breakdown Patrick Mahomes, Chiefs Despite a “down year” by his standards, Mahomes remains a formidable force. His postseason QBR of 79 ranks third, and his decision-making, especially on third downs, is unparalleled. However, accuracy remains a weakness, with Mahomes recording a minus-2 completion percentage over expectation this season. Jalen Hurts, Eagles Hurts has thrived in Philadelphia’s run-heavy offense, ranking 10th in QBR. His strength lies in his running ability, both on designed plays and scrambles. However, sack avoidance is a concern, with Hurts taking sacks on 9.4% of his dropbacks. Biggest Questions Can the Chiefs defend the Eagles’ tush push? The Chiefs have had mixed success against this play, with notable stops against the Bills but struggles against Hurts in previous matchups. Defensive tackle Chris Jones emphasizes the need for a dominant defensive line to counter the play. What do the Eagles need from A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith? The Eagles will rely on efficient passing to complement their run game. Hurts’ performance in the NFC Championship Game, where he threw for 246 yards and a touchdown, serves as a blueprint for success. Brown and Smith will be crucial in stretching the field and keeping the Chiefs’ defense honest. Keys to Victory Chiefs Positional advantage: Quarterback Mahomes’ ability to excel in critical moments gives the Chiefs a significant edge. His success on third downs and as a runner makes him a constant threat. X factor: Jaylen Watson, CB Watson’s return from injury has bolstered the Chiefs’ defense. His ability to shut down opposing receivers will be crucial against the Eagles’ potent passing attack. Eagles Positional advantage: Secondary The Eagles’ secondary, led by standout rookies and seasoned veterans, has been exceptional. Their ability to limit passing yards and create turnovers will be key against Mahomes and the Chiefs. X factor: Nolan Smith Jr., LB Smith’s emergence as a pass-rushing force has been pivotal for the Eagles. His ability to pressure Mahomes and disrupt the Chiefs’ offense will be crucial. Who Wins the Game? In a poll of 67 experts, 41 picked the Chiefs to win, while 26 favored the Eagles. The most common score predictions were 27-24, 27-23, and 31-28. Who Will Win Super Bowl MVP? Patrick Mahomes is the favorite among experts, with 37 out of 67 picking him for MVP. Saquon Barkley and Jalen Hurts are also strong contenders, with Barkley being a popular choice due to his postseason dominance. Stats to Know Mahomes has four straight playoff victories when trailing at the start of the fourth quarter, the longest streak by a quarterback all time. Hurts already has the most rushing touchdowns by a quarterback in the postseason (nine). The Eagles need 27 points for the most in a single postseason in NFL history. Bold Predictions Worthy will finish as the top wide receiver in receiving yards. The rookie’s speed and versatility will be key for the Chiefs. The Eagles will win convincingly. Despite the Chiefs’ knack for close wins, the Eagles’ overall performance gives them the edge. Injury Reports The Chiefs have a relatively healthy roster, with only Skyy Moore listed as doubtful. The Eagles are optimistic about the availability of key players like Cam Jurgens and Landon Dickerson. Officiating Ron Torbert will officiate the game, having previously worked Super Bowl LVI. His crew is known for throwing a high number of flags, which could impact the flow of the game. Betting Insights The Chiefs are favored by one point, with an over/under of 48.5. Underdogs have a strong recent record in the Super Bowl, going 4-0 against the spread since 2021. Halftime Show Kendrick Lamar will headline the halftime show, with special guest SZA. Lamar, a 22-time Grammy winner, is known for his powerful performances and thought-provoking lyrics. FAQs Who has won the most Super Bowl rings? Which NFL team has the most Super Bowl wins? Which NFL teams have never won a Super Bowl? As the countdown to Super Bowl LIX continues, fans and analysts alike are eagerly anticipating what promises to be an epic showdown between two of the NFL’s elite teams. Whether you’re rooting for the Chiefs to make history or the Eagles to reclaim their throne, this game is sure to deliver unforgettable moments and thrilling action.