NEW ORLEANS – On paper, Super Bowl LIX is shaping up to be one of the most evenly matched games in history. Currently, the oddsmakers project a nail-biter, with the Kansas City Chiefs holding a slight 1.5-point edge over the Philadelphia Eagles.
Given the anticipated close score, it could all hinge on the kicking game, reminiscent of their last showdown in the Super Bowl LVII, when Harrison Butker nailed a last-minute 27-yard field goal for a 38-35 win. While Butker secured that field goal, his overall performance was marred by earlier misses, highlighting the pressure and unpredictability of field goal attempts in the Super Bowl.
Historic data shows that only 75.4% of field goals in Super Bowl history have been successful, with that number dipping to 52.2% for attempts exceeding 45 yards. As pressure mounts in high-stakes situations, the line between a hero and a goat is razor-thin for a kicker.
With a good chance of facing a last-minute kick in this year’s Super Bowl, both teams possess reliable options: Elliott boasts a playoff accuracy of 95.7%, while Butker is on an impressive streak, having converted 32 consecutive postseason kicks.
Elliott attributes his postseason success to a ‘different mental space’ he taps into during critical games.
“The magnitude of these games helps me focus better. I think I’m just wired for these moments.” - Jake Elliott
“La magnitud de estos juegos me ayuda a concentrarme mejor. Creo que estoy simplemente hecho para estos momentos.”
On the other hand, Butker remains confident that maintaining his consistent routine will carry him through, regardless of the game’s pressures.
“It’s about executing the same way whether it’s a game-winning kick or a first-quarter attempt.” - Harrison Butker
“Se trata de ejecutar de la misma manera, ya sea un tiro para ganar el juego o un intento en el primer cuarto.”
As the Super Bowl takes place in a controlled environment at the Superdome, both kickers aim to replicate their accreditations under pressure. However, each of their journeys speaks to the unique challenges and preparation it takes to come out on top when every kick counts.
