What we learned from Super Bowl LIX and how it applies to Georgia football

Super Bowl LIX, held in February 2025, was one of the most thrilling championships in recent memory. The showdown between two juggernaut teams—the Philadelphia Eagles and the Kansas City Chiefs—provided more than just a spectacular game. Beyond the on-field drama, it offered valuable lessons on football strategy, team building, and overcoming adversity that can be directly applied to Georgia football as they prepare for the 2025 college football season.

In this article, we’ll break down the key lessons from Super Bowl LIX and examine how they can help shape Georgia’s approach to achieving continued dominance in college football. From adapting to personnel changes and evolving strategies to leveraging experience and mental toughness, the lessons from this Super Bowl can serve as a roadmap for Georgia as they aim to continue their championship run in the coming years.

1. The Importance of a Dual-Threat Quarterback

One of the standout features of Super Bowl LIX was the performance of Jalen Hurts, the quarterback for the Philadelphia Eagles. Hurts showcased the true value of a dual-threat quarterback—a signal-caller who not only excels in the pocket but also presents a major running threat. Hurts’ ability to both pass and rush for crucial first downs kept the Chiefs’ defense on its heels throughout the game.

In college football, dual-threat quarterbacks have become a staple for many top programs, and Georgia football could take a page out of the Eagles’ playbook. While Stetson Bennett led Georgia to two consecutive national championships in a more traditional quarterback role, the Bulldogs’ offense could become even more dangerous by evolving to incorporate a more dynamic, mobile quarterback.

Georgia has the talent in Carson Beck and Brock Vandagriff—two highly skilled quarterbacks with the ability to run the ball effectively. With a coach like Kirby Smart, who is always looking to gain an edge, the potential exists for Georgia to develop its own version of a dual-threat quarterback. The ability to create mismatches on the field, whether through designed quarterback runs or improvisation, could be a game-changer for Georgia, just as it was for Hurts and the Eagles in Super Bowl LIX.

2. The Power of a Strong Defensive Line

Another crucial aspect of Super Bowl LIX was the dominant performance of the Philadelphia Eagles’ defensive line. The Eagles’ ability to pressure Patrick Mahomes, one of the best quarterbacks in the league, was a key factor in their victory. With players like Fletcher Cox and Haason Reddick, the Eagles’ defensive front disrupted the Chiefs’ offensive rhythm, forcing Mahomes to make hurried decisions and often forcing him out of the pocket.

For Georgia, defensive line play has always been a cornerstone of their defensive success, but the Bulldogs could take even more inspiration from the Eagles’ approach. Georgia’s defense has produced some of the most dynamic defensive linemen in recent years, including players like Jalen Carter and Nolan Smith. In 2025, Georgia’s defensive line should continue to emphasize relentless pressure on opposing quarterbacks.

Georgia has the opportunity to mold a defense that resembles the Eagles’ strategy of controlling the line of scrimmage, not only with raw talent but with a cohesive unit that can apply constant pressure. In an era where quarterbacks are more mobile than ever, Georgia can use their defensive line depth and the leadership of new defensive coordinators to neutralize mobile quarterbacks and disrupt passing plays—key tactics used by the Eagles to stifle Kansas City’s high-powered offense in the Super Bowl.

3. The Need for Depth Across the Roster

While Super Bowl LIX was ultimately decided by a few key players, both teams’ depth across the roster was essential for success. The Eagles were able to rotate fresh bodies in and out of the game on both sides of the ball, keeping their players fresh while maintaining a high level of performance. The Chiefs, too, showed the value of depth by relying on key role players such as Isiah Pacheco and Kadarius Toney, who made significant contributions in pivotal moments.

For Georgia, depth has long been a hallmark of their program. However, as the competition intensifies in the SEC, Georgia must continue to build its roster with high-level talent at every position. The ability to rotate players on the defensive line, in the secondary, and in skill positions will be crucial for the Bulldogs to survive a grueling regular season and make a deep playoff run.

The 2025 season will test Georgia’s ability to maintain that depth, especially as they deal with player attrition due to NFL draft declarations and injuries. Just as the Eagles leaned on their depth to get past tough moments, Georgia must continue to develop depth behind its starters, ensuring they’re able to weather injuries and fatigue in a long season.

4. Adjusting to Adversity

The Chiefs’ victory in Super Bowl LIX wasn’t just a testament to their offensive and defensive talent; it also highlighted their ability to adapt to adversity. With Patrick Mahomes nursing an ankle injury, and the Chiefs trailing by 10 points at one point, Kansas City could have easily been written off. Instead, the Chiefs executed a brilliant game plan that included adjusting to the Eagles’ defensive schemes and leaning on their own defense to make key stops in the second half.

For Georgia football, this lesson is crucial. The Bulldogs have been a dominant force in college football, but they’ll face adversity in 2025—whether it’s injuries to key players, tough games in the SEC, or the inevitable bumps in the road during a long season. The ability to adapt in the face of adversity, make halftime adjustments, and keep fighting until the final whistle will be critical.

Georgia’s coaching staff, led by Kirby Smart, has already demonstrated an impressive ability to make in-game adjustments, but the team must continue to evolve. Adapting to different styles of play from opposing teams, adjusting to injuries, and making the necessary tactical changes in high-pressure situations will be essential for Georgia as they chase another national title.

5. Mental Toughness and Resilience

One of the most admirable qualities displayed by both teams in Super Bowl LIX was mental toughness. The Eagles showed resilience in the first half when they were tested by the Chiefs’ offense, and the Chiefs displayed resilience in the second half, especially when their quarterback was clearly not at full health. The ability to stay focused, execute under pressure, and not get rattled by the ebbs and flows of the game is a hallmark of championship teams.

For Georgia, this lesson is particularly important as they try to become the first team to win three consecutive national championships in the College Football Playoff era. The mental fortitude required to handle the pressure of being the defending champion, managing expectations, and staying focused on the task at hand is immense. With the added challenge of the 12-team playoff format, Georgia must maintain its mental toughness throughout the course of a long season.

Whether it’s dealing with close games, overcoming adversity on the road in hostile environments, or battling through the inevitable pressure of high expectations, Georgia will need to channel the same mental toughness displayed by the Eagles and Chiefs in Super Bowl LIX to succeed in 2025.

6. Special Teams Matter

In a tightly contested Super Bowl like LIX, even the smallest of details can make the difference, and special teams were no exception. The Chiefs were able to capitalize on a pivotal punt return from Kadarius Toney, which helped set up a touchdown that gave them a lead they would not relinquish. Special teams plays, from big returns to timely field goals, can often be the X-factor in close games.

For Georgia, this serves as a reminder that special teams cannot be overlooked. Georgia has had an excellent special teams unit in recent years, but they can never afford to take this phase of the game for granted. A well-timed kickoff return or a game-winning field goal could be the difference between a national title and a disappointing loss.

As they look to build on their success in 2025, Georgia must continue to prioritize special teams as a critical component of their game plan, ensuring that they capitalize on every opportunity and minimize mistakes that could hurt them at critical moments.