Since 1967, the Super Bowl has stood as the ultimate event in football.
Over the years, it has grown into a major cultural event, drawing millions of viewers each year to watch top NFL teams compete for the prestigious Lombardi Trophy.
With a history spanning over half a century, the Super Bowl has delivered countless memorable moments, from incredible plays to dramatic finishes that keep fans on the edge of their seats. And one of the most thrilling aspects of the Super Bowl is the potential for upsets.
Despite careful analysis, betting odds, and expert predictions, the game’s outcome can surprise even the most seasoned fans.
These upsets remind everyone of the unpredictable nature of sports, where underdog teams can defy the odds and emerge victorious.
Super Bowl III: New York Jets vs. Baltimore Colts
In 1969, the New York Jets entered Super Bowl III as significant underdogs against the Baltimore Colts. The Colts were widely regarded as the best team in football, with many expecting them to win easily. The Jets, representing the AFL, were not given much chance, making their victory one of the most shocking upsets in Super Bowl history. For those learning How to bet on NFL games, this matchup became a lesson in the unpredictability of sports outcomes.
The Jets stunned the Colts with a 16-7 victory, largely thanks to their strong defense and the poise of their quarterback, Joe Namath. Namath famously guaranteed a win before the game, a bold statement that many found laughable at the time. However, Namath and the Jets delivered on that promise, controlling the game from start to finish and proving they belonged on the biggest stage in football.
Joe Namath was the key figure in this upset. His leadership and confidence were evident throughout the game, as he meticulously managed the offense and made crucial plays when needed. Namath’s performance in Super Bowl III not only secured the win for the Jets but also solidified his legacy as one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history.
Super Bowl XXV: New York Giants vs. Buffalo Bills
Super Bowl XXV 1991 featured the New York Giants as underdogs against the Buffalo Bills. The Bills were known for their high-powered offense, and most experts expected them to outscore the Giants easily. However, the Giants had other plans, relying on their defense and a ball-control offense to keep the game close.
The Giants executed their game plan perfectly, winning 20-19 in one of the closest Super Bowls ever. The game came down to a missed field goal by the Bills’ kicker, Scott Norwood, in the final seconds, sealing the victory for New York. The Giants’ strategy of keeping the Bills’ offense off the field worked perfectly, leading to one of the most dramatic finishes in Super Bowl history.
Notable players like Ottis Anderson played a crucial role in the Giants' victory. Anderson was named Super Bowl MVP after rushing for over 100 yards and scoring a touchdown. His ability to grind out tough yards and keep the clock moving was vital to the Giants’ success, showcasing the importance of a solid running game in pulling off an upset.
Super Bowl XXXVI: New England Patriots vs. St. Louis Rams
In 2002, the New England Patriots were seen as massive underdogs when they faced the St. Louis Rams, a team known as "The Greatest Show on Turf" for their explosive offense. The Rams were heavily favored, with many believing they would dominate the Patriots. However, the Patriots’ defense and strategic game plan turned the tide.
The Patriots shocked the football world with a 20-17 victory, winning on a last-second field goal by Adam Vinatieri. The game was a defensive battle, with the Patriots managing to contain the Rams’ high-flying offense. New England's ability to adapt and make key plays at critical moments allowed them to pull off the upset and win their first Super Bowl title.
Tom Brady was instrumental in the Patriots’ win in his second season. Although not yet the superstar he would become, Brady’s calm under pressure and effective game management were crucial factors in the victory. Additionally, Bill Belichick’s coaching was a masterclass in strategy, as he devised a game plan that neutralized the Rams’ strengths.
Super Bowl XLII: New York Giants vs. New England Patriots
Super Bowl XLII in 2008 featured one of the most famous upsets in NFL history. The New York Giants faced the undefeated New England Patriots. The Patriots were heavily favored, having won all 16 regular-season games and two playoff games. The Giants, however, had a different story in mind, reminding everyone that the favorite doesn’t always win in sports.
The Giants defeated the Patriots 17-14 in a game that featured one of the most iconic plays in Super Bowl history—David Tyree's "helmet catch." The Giants’ defense pressured Patriots quarterback Tom Brady throughout the game, while Eli Manning led a late-game drive that resulted in the game-winning touchdown. This upset ended the Patriots’ perfect season and cemented the Giants’ place in NFL lore.
Eli Manning was the driving force behind the Giants’ victory. His ability to stay composed under pressure, particularly during the final drive, was crucial. Additionally, the Giants’ defensive line, led by Michael Strahan, played a significant role by relentlessly pressuring Brady, preventing the Patriots from finding their rhythm.
Super Bowl LII: Philadelphia Eagles vs. New England Patriots
In 2018, the Philadelphia Eagles entered Super Bowl LII as underdogs against the New England Patriots, a team that had become synonymous with winning. The Eagles had no starting quarterback, Carson Wentz, and had to rely on backup Nick Foles.
The Eagles won 41-33 in a high-scoring affair, with Foles playing the game of his life. The game's highlight was the "Philly Special," a trick play that resulted in Foles catching a touchdown pass—a moment that will forever be etched in Super Bowl history. The Eagles’ aggressive play-calling and fearless execution allowed them to outscore the Patriots and win their first Super Bowl.
Nick Foles was the game's hero, earning Super Bowl MVP honors. His calm demeanor and ability to make big plays in crucial moments were vital to the Eagles’ success. Additionally, head coach Doug Pederson’s bold decisions, including the call for the "Philly Special," demonstrated the importance of taking risks when the stakes are highest.
Conclusion
These Super Bowl upsets are powerful reminders of the unpredictability that makes sports so thrilling. The possibility of an underdog triumph keeps fans invested and makes every game a must-watch. Whether you're a fan or a bettor, the excitement and uncertainty of the Super Bowl will always make it a unique spectacle in the world of sports.
