BUILT BY BAMA: The Philadelphia Eagles Defeat the Kansas City Chiefs in the Super Bowl in New Orleans Thanks to the Efforts of Former Alabama Standouts Jalen Hurts, DeVonta Smith, and Landon Dickerson
In a thrilling culmination to an unforgettable NFL season, the Philadelphia Eagles emerged victorious over the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl LX at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans. The Eagles secured a hard-fought 34-27 win, powered by standout performances from three players with deep ties to one of college football’s most storied programs—the Alabama Crimson Tide. Quarterback Jalen Hurts, wide receiver DeVonta Smith, and offensive lineman Landon Dickerson, all products of Nick Saban’s Alabama machine, played pivotal roles in bringing the Lombardi Trophy back to Philadelphia.
This victory not only cements the Eagles’ place atop the NFL for the 2024-25 season, but it also further highlights the immense influence of Alabama’s football program in shaping NFL talent. The phrase “Built by Bama” rang truer than ever as these former Crimson Tide stars shone on football’s grandest stage.
Hurts Leads with Poise and Power
Jalen Hurts, the Eagles’ dynamic quarterback, was named Super Bowl MVP after delivering a performance that perfectly balanced precision passing, timely running, and unshakable leadership. Hurts completed 26 of 35 passes for 284 yards and two touchdowns, while also rushing for 72 yards and a critical score on the ground. His ability to read Kansas City’s defense and adjust in real-time kept the Eagles’ offense moving against a fierce Chiefs pass rush.
Hurts’ journey from Alabama to NFL stardom has been marked by resilience and growth. After losing his starting job at Alabama to Tua Tagovailoa, Hurts transferred to Oklahoma for his final college season, but his time in Tuscaloosa laid the foundation for the poised leader he has become. As Hurts said in the postgame press conference, “I’ll always be thankful for what I learned at Alabama—how to lead, how to fight through adversity, and how to play with discipline. Tonight, that foundation helped bring us a championship.”
DeVonta Smith Proves Why He’s “The Slim Reaper”
When the Eagles needed a big play, DeVonta Smith delivered. The former Heisman Trophy winner finished the night with eight receptions for 112 yards and a touchdown, consistently finding seams in the Chiefs’ secondary. His precision route running and sure hands provided Hurts with a reliable target throughout the contest.
Smith’s touchdown—a 22-yard strike down the right sideline late in the third quarter—put the Eagles ahead for good. It was a fitting moment for a player who earned the nickname “The Slim Reaper” during his days in Tuscaloosa for his uncanny ability to come up big in critical moments.
Speaking after the game, Smith reflected on the bond he shares with his fellow Alabama alumni. “We’ve been through a lot together, from battles in the SEC to the NFL. To win this with Jalen and Landon—it means everything. We’re brothers, and we brought that Bama mentality all the way to the Super Bowl.”
Dickerson Anchors a Dominant Offensive Line
Landon Dickerson, the Eagles’ powerful and agile left guard, played a key role in neutralizing Kansas City’s interior defensive threats. Throughout the game, Dickerson’s physicality helped open running lanes for Hurts and the Eagles’ backs while providing sturdy protection on passing downs. His ability to communicate adjustments along the line ensured the Eagles’ offense remained balanced and effective.
Dickerson, who overcame a serious knee injury during his college career, displayed the toughness and grit that made him a fan favorite at Alabama. His contributions may not fill highlight reels, but they were vital to Philadelphia’s success. As head coach Nick Sirianni remarked, “Landon doesn’t get enough credit. He sets the tone in the trenches, and tonight he was phenomenal against one of the best defensive fronts in football.”
A Legacy of Excellence: Alabama’s Impact on the NFL
The Eagles’ Super Bowl triumph is yet another testament to the consistent pipeline of talent that Alabama sends to the NFL. Since Nick Saban took over the Crimson Tide program in 2007, Alabama has produced dozens of first-round picks, Pro Bowlers, and Super Bowl champions. The culture of discipline, preparation, and competitiveness instilled at Alabama was evident in the performances of Hurts, Smith, and Dickerson on Sunday night.
The victory has also ignited celebrations across the state of Alabama, where fans take great pride in seeing their former stars excel at the next level. Social media lit up with tributes from Alabama fans, current Crimson Tide players, and even Saban himself, who released a statement praising his former players. “Jalen, DeVonta, and Landon represent everything we want our program to stand for. They are winners, on and off the field. I couldn’t be prouder to see them succeed at the highest level,” S