My favorite pastime has been “football” of any kind. With that being said, this NFL season is ending at Superbowl 59, which is taking place on February 9th, 2025, at Caesars Superdome. It is one of the most anticipated Superbowls in a while because these two teams are in the second time in three years. These two teams are looking to make history in the Eagles and Chiefs. Let’s examine how these two storied franchises got to Superbowl 59.

Kansas City’s Journey to Super Bowl 59

Kansas City, a storied franchise winning 3 of the last 5 Super Bowls, began the 2024 season raising the banner from Super Bowl 58. The Chiefs started the season 9-0 and ended the regular season 15-2 after losing to Buffalo and Denver. However, ten of the fifteen wins were one-score games ending theatrically. The Chiefs continued their winning ways in the playoffs by beating Houston and winning a nail-biter against Buffalo. Kansas City’s team, led by Pat Mahomes, had an unforgettable 3rd and nine conversion pass to Samaje Perine to secure their fifth Super Bowl appearance in six years. Kansas City’s defense also stepped up when called on against Buffalo when the game was on the line. Chris Jones(defensive lineman) stated, “With the season’s biggest test ahead, Jones recognizes the challenge, the Eagles’ offensive line presents. He knows he’ll be facing one of the best units in the league, but that’s exactly what fuels his competitive fire.

“I think they’re one of the better offensive linemen in the league,” Jones said. “Last week, two weeks ago, we had to face another really good offensive lineman, and this year, it’s an even bigger test with a heck of a team organization.”

Philadelphia’s Journey to Super Bowl 59

The Philadelphia faithful is in their second Superbowl in 3 years, looking for their 2 Superbowl since 2018 when they beat the Tom Brady-led Patriots 41-33. This Eagles team is led by rushing leader & newcomer Saquon Barkley, rushing for 2,005 this past NFL regular season, then continuing his ways with 110+ rush yards in every postseason game up to this point. The defense did not go unnoticed, being ranked top in every defensive category, while two rookies were big contributors in the secondary this season. The defense dominates by forcing four turnovers in the NFC championship while scoring 55 points. Philadelphia’s path to the Superbowl has been pretty dominant outside of a six-point win against the L.A. Rams in the divisional round of the playoffs. Tackle Jordan Milata said Tuesday, “After a year like last year, heading into the new year, you don’t want to repeat that.” Head Coach Nick said what (quarterback) Jalen (Hurts) said: you have to want to get to the highest stage you can, but you can only do that if you learn from your mistakes.

“With the guys who were here last year, yes, absolutely. We became closer because of that. We’re all professionals. We all want to win. Last year just wasn’t up to the standard and we’re not going to let that happen again. So the guys who were here last year, definitely, we’re all a little bit closer just going through that adversity, somebody who understands your circumstances.”

History in the making

With the Superbowl Sunday just a few days away, one of these Franchises and Quarterbacks will make history. Pat Mahomes is looking to lead Kansas City to their fourth Super Bowl victory in five appearances. Chiefs also have a chance to be the first NFL team to three-peat since 1965-1967. Green Bay Packers led Hall of Fame (quarterback) Bart Starr. Jalen Hurts is looking to join an Elite class by becoming the fourth black quarterback (Doug Williams, Russell Wilson, Patrick Mahomes) to win the Vince Lombardi Trophy. By winning this second Superbowl in Eagles franchise history, Hurts would be in the same class as Nick Foles by leading his Eagles to a Super Bowl victory over Kansas City. This game will come down to who has the better game plan and whoever makes the least mistakes.

I’m looking forward to this highly anticipated game, and I just hope my Chicago Bears can get there in the next year or three.