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 More
In a Super Bowl that will be remembered for its dazzling plays, clutch performances, and iconic venue, the Philadelphia Eagles emerged victorious over the defending champion Kansas City Chiefs in New Orleans, clinching a 34–28 win in a dramatic showdown. The triumph not only added another chapter to the Eagles’ storied history but also served as a testament to the lasting impact of the University of Alabama’s football program on the NFL. At the heart of this victory were several Crimson Tide alumni—most notably quarterback Jalen Hurts and wide receiver DeVonta Smith—whose performances not only defined the game but also cemented their legacies as elite players on football’s biggest stage.
Jalen Hurts, once doubted by many during the early stages of his NFL career, delivered a masterclass performance that proved just how far he has come since his college days. Hurts, who started his collegiate career at Alabama before finishing at Oklahoma, has never shed the “Built by Bama” identity. His growth, leadership, and relentless work ethic were on full display as he commanded the Eagles’ offense with poise, purpose, and precision. Hurts threw for 312 yards and two touchdowns while rushing for another 68 yards and a touchdown on the ground, showing off his dual-threat ability that has made him one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in the NFL. But beyond the stats, it was his composure in critical moments that set the tone for Philadelphia throughout the game.
DeVonta Smith, Hurts’ former Alabama teammate, was nothing short of spectacular. Known as “The Slim Reaper” since his college days, Smith lived up to the billing by posting 10 receptions for 137 yards and a touchdown, earning Super Bowl MVP honors in the process. His route-running, hands, and innate understanding of space made him virtually unguardable, even against Kansas City’s talented secondary. His touchdown catch in the second quarter, a perfectly timed throw from Hurts, gave Philadelphia their first lead of the game and shifted the momentum irreversibly. Time and time again, when the Eagles needed a play, Hurts looked for Smith—and more often than not, he delivered.
The chemistry between Hurts and Smith was unmistakable, honed over years of shared experience dating back to Tuscaloosa. What began as a connection forged under Nick Saban’s demanding system had matured into a deadly NFL partnership. The duo’s synergy was a reminder that Alabama not only prepares athletes physically and mentally for the league but also creates lasting bonds that thrive under pressure.
While Hurts and Smith stole the headlines, they weren’t the only former Crimson Tide players to make their mark. On defense, safety C.J. Mosley—who signed with the Eagles in the offseason—brought veteran leadership and a championship mentality. Though more recognized for his years with the Ravens and Jets, Mosley’s Alabama roots shined through in his disciplined play, timely tackles, and ability to anchor the secondary during key moments. He finished with nine tackles and a crucial pass deflection in the red zone that helped stall a third-quarter Chiefs drive.
Another notable contribution came from rookie defensive tackle Phidarian Mathis, another Alabama product. Tasked with helping contain Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes, Mathis was relentless on the interior. Though his stat line of four tackles and one sack might not jump off the page, his pressure up the middle disrupted Mahomes’ rhythm and forced several hurried throws. Mathis, who was part of Alabama’s 2020 national championship team, looked every bit the part of a future cornerstone on this Philadelphia defensive front.
On the opposite sideline stood Mahomes and the Chiefs, a dynasty in the making with two titles in the last five years. Kansas City came into the game as slight favorites, powered by Mahomes’ brilliance, Travis Kelce’s reliability, and Andy Reid’s offensive genius. And for much of the first half, it looked like they might pull off another comeback victory. Mahomes led two touchdown drives in the second quarter, including a 45-yard strike to Kelce that silenced the largely Eagles-leaning crowd inside the Superdome. The Chiefs entered halftime with a 21–17 lead, and the pressure was squarely on the Eagles to respond.
Respond they did—and it was the Alabama alumni who led the charge. The third quarter saw Hurts orchestrate a 12-play, 75-yard drive capped by a quarterback sneak into the end zone, reminiscent of the classic Alabama goal-line packages he once ran under Saban. The Eagles’ defense followed with a three-and-out, sparked by a key run stop from Mathis. On the very next possession, Hurts connected with Smith for a 38-yard gain that set up a field goal, giving Philadelphia a 27–21 lead heading into the final quarter.
As tension mounted in the fourth quarter, Hurts displayed his trademark calm, a trait that Nick Saban often lauded during his time in Tuscaloosa. With the Chiefs threatening late and having cut the deficit to six points, the Eagles needed to sustain a clock-eating drive. Hurts converted two crucial third downs—one with his legs, another with a laser throw to Smith—before finishing the drive with a touchdown pass to tight end Dallas Goedert, effectively sealing the game. Though Kansas City managed a late score, it wasn’t enough. A final onside kick attempt was recovered by none other than DeVonta Smith, who fell to the turf with the ball securely in his arms and victory secured.
For Philadelphia, this victory was more than just a Super Bowl win—it was a vindication of a team built on toughness, resilience, and elite talent. And at the core of that foundation were players who once wore the crimson and white of Alabama. The “Built by Bama” mantra was more than just a slogan—it was the identity of a team that rose to the biggest occasion through the poise, preparation, and production of its stars.
Hurts, in the post-game interview, credited his time at Alabama as pivotal to his development. “Everything I went through there—the wins, the losses, the pressure—it made me who I am today,” he said, holding the Lombardi Trophy. “Coach Saban taught me to stay even-keeled, to lead by example, and to never let circumstances define me. That foundation has carried me through every step of my journey.”
Smith echoed those sentiments, reflecting on the journey from college roommates to Super Bowl champions. “We pushed each other every day at Bama. Whether it was 6 a.m. workouts or the fourth quarter of a title game, we knew what it took. To be here now, doing this on the biggest stage—it’s surreal.”
Even Alabama head coach Nick Saban, watching from afar, was full of praise. In a statement released after the game, Saban said, “What Jalen, DeVonta, and the other former Alabama players accomplished tonight is a reflection of their hard work and dedication. They’ve carried the values of our program into the league, and I couldn’t be prouder.”
The Eagles’ victory also highlighted the broader trend in the NFL of Alabama players not just making rosters but becoming central figures in championship teams. With dozens of former Crimson Tide players scattered across the league, Saban’s influence is deeply entrenched at the professional level. Philadelphia simply happened to be the latest team to harness that talent—and it paid off with the sport’s highest prize.
In the days and weeks to come, Philadelphia will celebrate this Super Bowl win with parades, accolades, and memories that last a lifetime. But at the heart of the story will be the unshakable truth that this team—this moment—was powered by a special group of athletes forged in the fires of Tuscaloosa. They were built by Bama. And now, they are champions of the world.
