In what promises to be a thrilling Super Bowl showdown, the Philadelphia Eagles and Kansas City Chiefs are gearing up for a battle that could hinge on the performances of lesser-known players. While stars like Patrick Mahomes and Jalen Hurts will undoubtedly draw attention, it’s the hidden playmakers who could emerge as the true game-changers.
Both head coaches, Andy Reid and Nick Sirianni, will have specific plays circled in their playbooks, aiming to exploit weaknesses in their opponent’s defense. The stage is set for these unsung heroes to shine, and here are some players to keep an eye on.
Samaje Perine: The Unseen Threat
If you want a truly underrated option, look no further than Samaje Perine. Despite being lower on the depth chart for the Chiefs, Perine makes a significant impact in the passing game. With only 92 rushing yards and one touchdown during the regular season, he still managed to rack up 322 receiving yards and a touchdown. He is the perfect safety valve for Mahomes, who often turns to him when under pressure. If given the chance, expect Perine to make a splash in the Super Bowl.
Nolan Smith: The Defensive Dynamo
In a defense as stacked as the Eagles’, it’s easy for players to get overlooked. However, Nolan Smith is ensuring he’s not forgotten. While he had a decent regular season with 6.5 sacks, he has truly turned it up in the playoffs, already recording four sacks and a forced fumble in just three games. His ability to disrupt the Chiefs’ offense could be pivotal, especially against a line that has shown vulnerability.
Noah Gray: The Backup with Big Potential
Noah Gray is often overshadowed by Travis Kelce, but he’s a player who can make a significant impact. At just 25 years old, Gray has already shown his potential, finishing the regular season with 437 receiving yards and five touchdowns. While he hasn’t made a huge playoff impact yet, he remains a constant threat, especially in two-tight end sets that the Chiefs love to run.
Jahan Dotson: The Explosive Playmaker
Jahan Dotson may not have had the career start he envisioned after being drafted in the first round, but he still possesses the ability to change a game in an instant. Now with the Eagles after a trade from the Washington Commanders, Dotson has yet to emerge in the playoffs but has the potential for big plays. Keep an eye on him as he could be the surprise factor that catches the Chiefs off guard.
Key Plays to Watch
As both teams prepare for battle, certain plays could become the deciding factors in this Super Bowl. For the Eagles, the infamous Tush Push has been a game-changer. Jalen Hurts has scored 14 rushing touchdowns this season, primarily using this play. The Chiefs will need to devise a strategy to stop it, especially if the Eagles find themselves in a short-yardage situation.
On the flip side, the Chiefs might look to resurrect the classic 65 Toss Power Trap, a play that has historical significance for the franchise. Originally called in Super Bowl IV, this play could be a nod to their past while also serving as a tactical move to exploit the Eagles’ defense.
The Final Countdown
As we head into the Super Bowl, the excitement is palpable. Both the Eagles and Chiefs have their star players, but it’s often the hidden gems that make the biggest impact. Will Samaje Perine find space to operate? Can Nolan Smith disrupt Mahomes’ rhythm? Will Noah Gray step up in a big way? And what about Jahan Dotson’s potential to break free for a game-changing play?
This Super Bowl is shaping up to be a classic, and while the big names will be in the spotlight, don’t forget to watch for those hidden playmakers who can turn the tide. The stage is set, and the world will be watching as these players look to etch their names into Super Bowl lore.
