Millions of football fans are gearing up for Super Bowl 59, a rematch of Super Bowl 57 between the Kansas City Chiefs and Philadelphia Eagles. The Chiefs are trying to make history by becoming the first team to win three Super Bowls in a row, while the Eagles are looking for revenge after losing two years ago in a heartbreaking defeat.
Many students around State High are excited for the big game and have strong opinions on who will come out on top. Some believe in Patrick Mahomes and Andy Reid to keep their Chiefs dynasty alive, while others believe the new additions to the Eagles and their improved defense will change the tide.
Sophomore Cole Steffie, an Eagles fan, believes defense will be the key to victory.
“Defense and having a great turnover margin [will be key],” Steffie said. “Zach Baun is the best linebacker in the NFL.”
Baun’s breakout year has been a large reason for the Eagles’ defensive dominance, and Steffie credits newly acquired defensive coordinator Vic Fangio for his success.
“He’s just been put in a better system. Fangio is one of the greatest defensive coordinators of all time, and I think that’s really elevated his game,” Steffie said.
One of the biggest storylines going into the game is the addition of Saquon Barkley, who won Offensive Player of the Year in his first season with the Eagles. Steffie believes Barkley will be a game-changer.
“We’re going to get him the rock a lot, and behind the best rushing O-line in football, he should be able to deliver another great performance like he has these last three weeks,” Steffie said.
Not all Eagles fans are as optimistic, though. Senior Payton Crane was skeptical when asked about how the Eagles’ coaching staff will handle Andy Reid’s offense. “We’re cooked,” Crane said.
Crane also expressed his concerns about officiating—speaking to controversial calls the Chiefs have received thus far in the playoffs.
“If we touch [Mahomes], it’s gonna be a flag,” he said.
However, Chiefs fans are not concerned. Junior Danny Brennan is not worried about the Eagles’ offense and says experience gives the Chiefs an edge.
“We shut down the Bills’ offense and they’re better. So, you know, we’ll do just as well,” Brennan said.
One concern for Kansas City could be shutting down Saquon Barkley. Brennan admitted that might not be possible. “They probably won’t [shut down Barkley],” he said.
As for the coaching matchup, Brennan had no doubt about who has the advantage. “Andy Reid is the greatest coach of all time, so we’ll be alright,” he said.
Most students at State High are supporting the Eagles due to the team’s proximity. While some are expecting a close battle, others think Philly will win comfortably.
“It took a freak fumble and a phantom holding call last time,” Steffie said. “I don’t think that’s gonna happen this year, so I got the Eagles winning by a pretty wide margin.”
Crane agreed, predicting a 34-24 Eagles win. Brennan, however, sees the Chiefs dominating. He predicted a 42-14 Chiefs victory.
Revenge will be on the line for the Eagles, who are seeking history of their own, while for the Chiefs, Super Bowl 59 is setting up to be one of the most anticipated contests in recent memory. State High students will be watching closely to see if Mahomes and Reid keep the dynasty going or if the Eagles can finally flip the script.
