ATL Did It Twice (and Once More for Good Measure): A Super Bowl History Tour in the Dirty South
Ah, Atlanta. The city that oozes Southern charm, boasts delicious peach cobbler, and apparently has a knack for hosting the biggest game in American football. That's right, folks, the Super Bowl has graced the ATL with its presence a whopping three times. Buckle up, football fans (and casual observers who just enjoy a good halftime show), because we're about to take a hilarious trip down Super Bowl lane, Atlanta style.
What Super Bowl Was In Atlanta |
Super Bowl XXVIII: The Cowboys Mooed Their Way to Victory (1994)
The first time Atlanta threw a Super Bowl party was back in 1994, which feels like approximately 47 years ago in internet years. Super Bowl XXVIII saw the Dallas Cowboys, led by the legendary Troy Aikman and Emmitt Smith, take on the Buffalo Bills, who were fresh off a record-setting four straight Super Bowl appearances (but zero wins, ouch). This game was a tale of two halves: the Bills stomped out to a 13-6 lead at halftime, but then the Cowboys did what cowboys apparently do best - they wrangled themselves up and scored a whopping 24 unanswered points in the second half to win 30-13. Maybe there was some magical sweet tea in the locker room?
Super Bowl XXXIV: The Greatest Show on Turf Stomps into Atlanta (2000)
Super Bowl XXXIV in 2000 was a true turning point. This game pitted the St. Louis Rams, aka "The Greatest Show on Turf" with their explosive offense, against the Tennessee Titans, known for their bruising running game (think wrecking balls with cleats). This Super Bowl was a high-scoring affair, with the Rams ultimately prevailing 34-28. The game also featured a now-iconic halftime show with Destiny's Child, Enrique Iglesias, and Lenny Kravitz, because apparently nothing says "football" quite like early 2000s pop.
Super Bowl LIII: Brady Bunch Comes to Atlanta, Rams Left Feeling Sheepish (2019)
Super Bowl LIII, which took place in 2019, might be best known for one thing: Tom Brady. Yes, the ageless wonder from the New England Patriots was back at it again, this time facing off against the Los Angeles Rams. The game itself was a defensive struggle, with a measly 16 total points scored - the lowest in Super Bowl history. In the end, Brady and the Pats emerged victorious 13-3, solidifying Brady's status as the undisputed GOAT (Greatest Of All Time) and leaving the Rams feeling a little lost in the Georgia humidity.
QuickTip: Look for lists — they simplify complex points.
So You Wanna Be a Super Bowl Host City? How To Atlanta-fy Your Viewing Party
Inspired by Atlanta's Super Bowl history? Here's a quick guide to hosting your own epic viewing party, Atlanta style:
- Sweet Tea is a Must: No Atlanta gathering is complete without this classic Southern beverage. Just be prepared for a sugar rush the size of the Falcons' blown Super Bowl lead.
- Bless Your Heart, But Turn Up the Volume: Politeness is nice, but this is the Super Bowl! Crank up the volume for the game and the commercials (because let's be honest, sometimes the commercials are the best part).
- Fashion Faux Pas are Welcome: Forget stuffy suits and cocktail dresses. Atlanta's all about comfort, so bust out your favorite jersey and those fuzzy slippers you wouldn't be caught dead in anywhere else.
Frequently Asked Questions (Atlanta Super Bowl Edition)
Q: How to impress my friends with Atlanta Super Bowl trivia?
A: Wow them with the fact that Super Bowl LIII was the lowest-scoring Super Bowl in history!
QuickTip: Take a pause every few paragraphs.
Q: How to convince my significant other to let me buy a giant TV for the Super Bowl?
A: Promise them they can use it for movie marathons after football season (wink wink).
Q: How to make sure I have enough snacks for the Super Bowl?
Tip: Make mental notes as you go.
A: There's no such thing as "enough" snacks for the Super Bowl. Go big or go hungry (but preferably go big).
Q: How to avoid accidentally calling the Falcons the Super Bowl champions?
A: This one might be tricky. Maybe just focus on the guacamole instead.
Tip: Summarize the post in one sentence.
Q: How to find a good place to watch the Super Bowl in Atlanta?
A: Honestly, with the city's history, you can probably just set up a lawn chair outside and catch the game on a jumbotron somewhere. Just don't forget the bug spray!