The Super Bowl is a huge deal in the sports world. It pulls in over 100 million viewers in the U.S. and millions more from around the globe. For fans of the Philadelphia Eagles, those who aren’t heading to the Superdome in New Orleans will find plenty of spots to watch the game back home. Whether it’s noisy bars or cozy living rooms, the city will be buzzing in Eagles green.
As a sports scientist and neuropsychology professor, I see the Super Bowl as a chance to study how top athletes gear up mentally and emotionally for such a pivotal game.
During high-stakes games like this, it’s fascinating to understand what gives certain players the mental edge needed to succeed.
Tough Minds and New Ideas
Elite athletes tend to share personality traits with high-achieving solo musicians and pilots. Their psychological profiles show they are calm, open to new experiences, and organized. They score well in traits like extroversion and conscientiousness, meaning they are disciplined and sociable.
A growing area of research highlights the importance of creativity in sports. Athletes who are open to new ideas can think on their feet and come up with unexpected strategies. This “tactical creativity” is especially crucial in football, where the ability to improvise can lead to victory.
Creative players excel at focusing on what matters while ignoring distractions. They know exactly where to look and how to act to make critical plays.
Staying Cool Under Pressure
Creativity shines during unscripted moments in games, such as when a plan goes wrong. For example, in the 2018 Super Bowl, the Eagles’ Nick Foles successfully executed a trick play that led to a touchdown. This moment, known as the “Philly Special,” was a perfect example of thinking fast in a tense moment.
To be tactically creative, athletes need to stay relaxed, which is no small feat with millions watching. This requires intense mental training alongside physical practice.
Mind Over Matter
Performance anxiety can hurt athletes, turning the Super Bowl into a test of nerves as much as skill. Training under pressure helps athletes adapt and learn to focus. They practice emotional control techniques, such as mindfulness and breathing exercises, to boost their performance.
Finding balance between excitement and composure is crucial. Athletes like Jalen Hurts demonstrate excellent mental agility during plays, showing how thoughts and feelings can impact performance on the field.
The Eagles Fans’ Experience
Fans experience Super Bowl Sunday differently than players. While players try to stay focused on the game, fans often feel nervous and result-oriented. Watching with others can help ease that stress, as community ties create a sense of belonging.
Many people, including myself, will always remember the joy of the Eagles winning Super Bowl LII. Research shows that moments of excitement and awe during games can significantly boost happiness, bringing fans together and uplifting their spirits.
