Don’t know your offence from your defence? How many points a touchdown is worth? Why there is a concert happening in the middle of the field?
Yes, arguably the most important date in the sporting calendar is only days away as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers prepare to take on the Kansas City Chiefs on Superbowl Sunday.
And while everyone knows what the illustrious sporting fixture is, it is fair to say the game itself is pretty confusing, along with the add-ons of the mega sporting event.
But don’t fret, here at Time Out we are giving readers a clinic on how to tackle the biggest show on the planet along with a few tips to make it sound like you really know what you are talking about.
The Gist
There are two teams of players consisting of a defence, offence, and special teams (kicking team). The objective is to score more points than the opposition. This is done by getting the football – which is shaped like a rugby ball (we know, right?) – into opposition’s end zone (the piece of field with the teams’ names on it) or by kicking it through the goalposts located at each end; six points for a touchdown; one point for conversion (or two points if it is a two point attempt); and three points for a field goal.
Who is playing?
Tampa Bay Buccaneers of the NFC and the Kansas City Chiefs (defending champs) of the AFC.
When?
Sunday February 7 (or Monday February 8 if you are in the UAE – kick off is 3.30am local time).
Where?
Raymond James Stadium, Tampa, Florida.
The prize?
The Lombardi trophy and a diamond ring (no medals or hops tankards for American superstars).
Why is there a concert? Yes arguably one of the most mind boggling events of the Superbowl is the Halftime Show where an artist comes out and performs a gig in the middle of a field. But the viewer figures back up its popularity with the show hitting numbers that outshine the game itself.
Who is the headliner?
The Weeknd.
What should I have prepared?
Food – and lots of it. The Superbowl is considered to be second highest day of food consumption in the US, after Thanksgiving, with chicken wings and pizzas at the forefront. But if you are not a fan of those dishes check out some other US dishes for the big game here.
And now for some tips on what to say and not to say so you can sound like a pro in front of your friends.
What to say
“I see his age is catching up with him”
This should accompany any mistake from Tampa Bay quarterback Tom Brady (43). This is especially useful if he is tackled.
“See! He isn’t over that injury”
Should follow a mess up by Chiefs’ QB Patrick Mahomes.
“Super player”
Pick a player outside Tom Brady and Patrick Mahomes and term them as such. It will seem like you have been following the sport all season and will look particularly impressive if said player does anything mildly positive.
“Did you know this is the first time a team has played a Superbowl in their home stadium?”
This is a particular juicy nugget as it suggests you are somewhat of a NFL scholar.
“Great play!”
Be it a tackle or a catch, say this with conviction. People will be less likely to challenge you.
What not to say
“Why is it called football when they use their hands all the time?”
It just is, OK!
“I wish this half would hurry up so I can see the Halftime Show!”
This comment will be greeted with looks of disdain.
“I’m going to bed”
A fair amount of head shaking will take place over this action as you have let your side down.
So there you have it. Stack the cupboards and fridges, sit down, relax, and enjoy the biggest event in the sporting universe.
