Rating the most outstanding quarterback performances in Super Bowl history: Tom Brady claims the top spot, with San Francisco 49ers quarterbacks securing positions in the top five.
Remarkable quarterback displays have become synonymous with the Super Bowl, nearly as much as commercials, food, and halftime shows. Almost every year, a quarterback delivers a performance in the championship game that etches itself into football lore. Last year, for instance, both Patrick Mahomes and Jalen Hurts delivered performances that rank among the greatest by a quarterback in Super Bowl history.
The superstar signal-caller for the Kansas City Chiefs will aim to replicate such brilliance in this year’s Super Bowl. As Super Bowl LVIII between the Chiefs and the 49ers approaches, we’ve compiled a ranking of the top quarterback performances in Super Bowl history. Here are the criteria used for creating this list:
1. Statistical excellence
2. Impactful big plays
3. Quality of the opposing team
4. Influence of the quarterback’s performance on the game’s outcome
5. Whether the quarterback led their team to victory
30. Steve McNair, Super Bowl XXXIV (Rams 23, Titans 16)
Completing 22 of 36 passes for 214 yards, McNair, along with running back Eddie George, carried the Titans’ offense after falling behind 16-0. Despite falling short by one yard on his final pass to Kevin Dyson as time expired, McNair’s valiant efforts, including his 64 rushing yards, left the Rams’ defense exhausted and nearly led to a Titans victory.
29. Joe Flacco, Super Bowl XLVII (Ravens 34, 49ers 31)
Flacco concluded an unforgettable postseason with an MVP-worthy performance against the 49ers. His third touchdown, a 56-yard pass to Jacoby Jones, provided the Ravens with a commanding 21-6 lead. Though less active in the second half, Flacco’s careful play helped secure Baltimore’s second Super Bowl triumph without committing any pivotal turnovers.
