Super Bowl LVIII Predictions!

Does Patrick Mahomes' GOAT ascent continue? Or can Brock Purdy, "Mr. Irrelevant," complete the ultimate underdog story?

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Super Bowl LVIII is finally here.

Each participant earned their right to play for the title, too. Whereas the Kansas City Chiefs took the road-warrior path, the San Francisco 49ers enjoyed a wild comeback win over the Detroit Lions.

Patrick Mahomes is the best player in the sport. The 49ers, wire to wire, were clearly the NFC’s best team.

Here are our predictions for Super Bowl Sunday. Once again, feel free to share yours below.

And thank you to all who support our independent journalism here at Go Long.

TYLER DUNNE

We can end all analysis with the fact that Patrick Mahomes is playing near-flawless football — he’s a magical quarterback — but it’s bigger than that. This team’s backbone has been the defense. Yeah, they’ll give up yards in chunks on the ground. Christian McCaffrey may feast. But who cares? Defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo lives for these moments and will find a way to flummox Brock Purdy at pivotal moments. Chris Jones is the game’s best defensive tackle. L’Jarius Sneed just may prove he’s the game’s best shutdown corner. Easy money for all. Chiefs 31, 49ers 20.

Playoff Record: 10-2

BOB MCGINN

The 49ers’ defense was deeply disappointing in the playoff escapes from Green Bay and Detroit, at home no less. Nick Bosa, Chase Young and the rest of that ballyhooed front seven basically were nonfactors. The Chiefs’ defense, led by unyielding Chris Jones, doesn’t get the hype but is more stubborn. Besides, Pat Mahomes will outplay Brock Purdy 19 times out of 20. Chiefs 23, 49ers 17.

Playoff Record: 9-3

JIM MONOS

Everything says to take Mahomes. It’s easy. Not trying to be different, just being consistent. The 49ers can exploit a Chiefs run defense that ranks 25th in yards/rush. Obviously turnovers always remain the key. Brock Purdy will need to be clean. Christian McCaffrey steals the show and San Francisco gets the ring. 49ers 27, Chiefs 23.

Playoff Record: 7-5

Miss any of our Super Bowl LVIII coverage? Links to all stories and all podcasts are below:

• The story of "Magic Mahomes"

• Meet the man who believed in Brock Purdy

• A Super Bowl conversation with Brett Favre

• Dallas Clark on the “walk-on mentality”

• Dallas Clark Q&A: “It’s like when you lay eyes on that girl”

• 'The Wild Side:' How George Kittle and Travis Kelce harness the animal within

• Our 2023- ‘24 Awards are in

• Go Long Show: First look at Chiefs vs. 49ers

• 'The 49er Way:' Revisiting a conversation with GM John Lynch

• The playoff dominance of Patrick Mahomes

• Don’t ask Dan Campbell to change

• Ty & Bob Pod: A special season in Detroit... with a bright future ahead

• Go Long Show: Championship Sunday Recap