Even with the game still days away, Super Bowl Sunday is already creating a wave of excitement across America. It's not just about the football, as millions of Americans eagerly anticipate various aspects of the day's festivities. According to a recent poll conducted by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research, four in 10 U.S. adults are extremely or very excited for at least one part of the Super Bowl day, whether it's the game itself, the commercials, the halftime show, or even the beloved Puppy Bowl.
When it comes to the actual Super Bowl game between the Kansas City Chiefs and the San Francisco 49ers, a quarter of U.S. adults admit to being excited, with another 27% feeling somewhat excited. However, about half of the respondents claim to have little to no enthusiasm for the game. Interestingly, research indicates that three in 10 men express their excitement for the Super Bowl, compared to two in 10 women. Additionally, black adults appear to be more enthusiastic about the game than their white or Hispanic counterparts.
For avid football fans like Don Hallstone, who resides in Oregon but also spends time in Arizona, this Super Bowl holds a special significance. Being a devoted 49ers fan, Hallstone is determined to revel in the match-up this year, especially after the Chiefs' victory over the Niners in the 2020 Super Bowl. Hallstone explains: 'I was excited about this matchup four years ago and it didn't go my way. I'm excited because Brock Purdy is such an interesting story.' Purdy's unexpected rise as a Super Bowl quarterback after being the last player drafted in 2022 has become a major storyline leading up to the game.
Another intriguing aspect of this year's Super Bowl is the potential dynasty being built by the Chiefs. This factor has even led some fans to root for the San Francisco 49ers, who they hope can overcome the Chiefs' dominance. Sally Mullins, a Tennessee resident, typically tunes in for the commercials and the halftime show but reveals her unique motivation for supporting the 49ers: 'I usually just watch the commercials and the halftime show. But I'm excited about the two teams that are playing this year because I want the 49ers to win. I like the Chiefs, don't get me wrong, but I really want somebody else to win this year.'
While the game itself may be the main attraction for many, approximately 22% of adults are eagerly anticipating the commercials that air during the Super Bowl. Interestingly, Democrats seem to be more intrigued by the commercials compared to Republicans. On the other hand, the Super Bowl halftime show, featuring Usher this year, has captured the attention of 20% of adults. African-American and Hispanic adults appear to be more excited for the show, and those under 45 years old are more inclined to look forward to the performance. Democrats also seem to show more enthusiasm for the halftime show than Republicans.
In total, 36% of adults expressed excitement about at least one element of the Super Bowl programming on CBS. However, there is another event worth mentioning that brightens the Super Bowl experience for many. The 20th annual Puppy Bowl, hosted by Animal Planet, provides a delightful diversion as it showcases over 100 adoptable puppies from shelters and rescue groups, engaging in playful antics on a makeshift football field. Surprisingly, 14% of adults admit to being extremely or very excited about the Puppy Bowl, with 4% being excited only about the puppy-focused event and not the game, commercials, or halftime show. It seems that women are particularly drawn to the adorable canines.
It's evident that the Super Bowl encompasses much more than just the game itself. The thrill of the commercials, the excitement of the halftime show, and the heartwarming sight of puppies on the field contribute to the overall experience. Regardless of individual preferences, Super Bowl Sunday continues to captivate millions of Americans each year, bringing joy and anticipation to households across the nation.
