It was a blowout.
In football, the old saying that “defense wins championships” often seems outdated in today’s high-scoring NFL, but the Philadelphia Eagles proved that phrase still holds true. In Super Bowl LIX, the Eagles’ defense stifled the Kansas City Chiefs and their star quarterback, Patrick Mahomes, from the start. Philadelphia’s defense limited the Chiefs to just 23 yards in the first half, building a commanding 24-point lead by halftime. They went on to win 40-22, preventing Kansas City from making history as the first team to win three consecutive Super Bowls.
Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts had an outstanding performance, earning Super Bowl MVP honors. He threw for 221 yards and rushed for 72, scoring three total touchdowns. Hurts displayed remarkable poise throughout the game, completing 17 of 22 passes with only one interception. His leadership and execution helped the Eagles capitalize on the numerous turnovers created by the defense, including two interceptions from Mahomes.
The Eagles’ defense was a force to be reckoned with, forcing three turnovers and sacking Mahomes multiple times. The Chiefs struggled to protect Mahomes, with Philadelphia’s defensive line applying constant pressure without needing to blitz. This was reminiscent of their previous Super Bowl loss to the Buccaneers, where a lack of protection for Mahomes had been a key factor. The Eagles’ defense, led by players like Josh Sweat, Nolan Smith, and rookie Milton Williams, controlled the game and set the tone for the victory.
Despite a strong offensive performance, the Chiefs’ inability to avoid mistakes hurt them throughout the game. Key penalties and turnovers, including an interception returned for a touchdown, put Kansas City in a deep hole. Mahomes, while taking responsibility for the loss, acknowledged that his performance, especially in terms of staying fundamental and avoiding risky plays, needed improvement. The Eagles, on the other hand, remained composed and capitalized on every opportunity.
The victory marked a career-defining moment for the Eagles, not just for Hurts but for head coach Nick Sirianni and general manager Howie Roseman. The team’s offseason moves, including the acquisition of running back Saquon Barkley and the drafting of defensive players like Cooper DeJean and Jalyx Hunt, paid off in a major way. The Eagles’ defense, which had been one of the NFL’s most improved units, played a pivotal role in the win, showcasing the fruits of smart drafting, strong coaching, and strategic team-building. This win solidified the Eagles as a well-rounded team capable of overcoming any challenge, culminating in their second Super Bowl title in franchise history.
