The excitement surrounding Super Bowl 59 has reached a fever pitch, and as always, ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith has plenty to say. Broadcasting live from the Super Bowl Experience in New Orleans, Smith broke down the upcoming championship game between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Philadelphia Eagles, a rematch of the 2023 Super Bowl. With his signature energy, Smith shared his insights on the key matchups, the possibility of history being made, and even the halftime show featuring Kendrick Lamar.

A Clash of Titans: Chiefs vs. Eagles

Super Bowl 59 is shaping up to be an epic battle between two powerhouse teams. The Philadelphia Eagles, boasting the league’s top-ranked defense and a dominant offensive line, are eager to avenge their narrow loss to the Chiefs in Super Bowl 57. With the addition of superstar running back Saquon Barkley, the Eagles’ offense is more explosive than ever.

However, standing in their way is the undeniable force of Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs. Mahomes, already considered one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history, is chasing an elusive third consecutive Super Bowl victory—something no quarterback has ever achieved. As Smith put it, “The Eagles might be the better team, but the Chiefs have Superman.”

Mahomes’ connection with tight end Travis Kelce remains a focal point of Kansas City’s offensive strategy. Under the guidance of head coach Andy Reid, widely regarded as one of the best coaches of all time, the Chiefs have continued to find ways to win, even against the toughest competition.

NFL Bias? The Controversy Surrounding the Chiefs

One of the biggest narratives heading into Super Bowl 59 has been the perceived bias of the NFL in favor of the Kansas City Chiefs. Social media has been abuzz with accusations that referees have favored Mahomes and the Chiefs throughout the playoffs. When asked about the controversy, Smith acknowledged the frustration of fans but dismissed the idea of intentional favoritism.

“Look, when you’re on top, everybody is gunning for you,” Smith said. “Patrick Mahomes is so great that teams have to play near-perfect football to beat him. And when they don’t, people start looking for excuses.”

With the Chiefs making their fifth Super Bowl appearance in seven years, it’s understandable that fans of other teams might feel a sense of fatigue watching Kansas City dominate year after year. However, Smith was adamant that Mahomes’ success is a result of talent, preparation, and execution rather than any conspiracy.

Can Mahomes Surpass Tom Brady?

If Mahomes leads the Chiefs to victory, the inevitable debate will arise: Has he surpassed Tom Brady as the greatest quarterback of all time?

In response, Smith offered a measured take. “For some people, if Mahomes wins his fourth Super Bowl in just seven years, that will be enough to put him ahead of Brady. But seven rings is seven rings,” he said, referring to Brady’s record-setting seven Super Bowl titles

The key difference, according to Smith, is longevity. While Mahomes has accomplished an incredible amount in a short period, Brady sustained his dominance over two decades. “If anybody can challenge Brady’s legacy, it’s Mahomes,” Smith concluded. “But he still has a long way to go.”

Kendrick Lamar’s Halftime Show: A Performance to Watch

Beyond the action on the field, this year’s halftime show has generated significant buzz. Kendrick Lamar, fresh off winning five Grammy Awards, will take center stage. According to Smith, one song in particular has to make the setlist: “Not Like Us.”

“You just won five Grammys, largely because of the success of that one song. That beat better be played,” Smith declared. “If we don’t hear ‘Not Like Us,’ it’s going to be a huge disappointment.”

The track, widely believed to be a direct shot at fellow rapper Drake, has fueled one of the most talked-about hip-hop feuds in recent memory. Given the Super Bowl’s global audience, Lamar’s performance could add another chapter to this ongoing rap battle. However, Smith noted that Lamar might avoid some of the more inflammatory lyrics, opting instead for a performance that appeals to the broad Super Bowl audience.

A Surprise Appearance from Drake?

When asked if Drake might make a surprise appearance during Lamar’s set, Smith didn’t hold back his skepticism. “I don’t think Drake will even be in the United States,” he joked. While it’s unlikely that the two artists would share the stage, the anticipation surrounding Lamar’s performance remains sky-high.

Final Predictions: Who Will Win Super Bowl 59?

Despite all the analysis and speculation, Smith remained tight-lipped about his official prediction, teasing that he would reveal it on ESPN’s First Take before the game.

“I believe it’s going to be a thriller,” Smith said. “The Eagles are the better team, but Mahomes is the best player. And when it comes down to the final minutes, you don’t want him with the ball in his hands.”

Regardless of the outcome, Super Bowl 59 promises to be an unforgettable event. With history on the line for Mahomes, a highly anticipated halftime show, and the ever-present drama of the NFL, fans around the world will be tuning in to see how it all unfolds.