Nick Foles

Top 10 Most-Watched Super Bowls in NFL History

In an era where live television ratings have gone down thanks to streaming services and cord-cutters, the Super Bowl has managed to increase its ratings almost every year. While Patriots-fatigue will likely settle in sooner or later, it seems like the Super Bowl is going to remain a ratings giant for years to come. 

With that said, let's break down the top 10 most-watched Super Bowls of all-time. 

10. Super Bowl 43: Steelers vs Cardinals (98.73 Million)

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It's a shame that this is so low on the list, because it was one of the most exciting Super Bowls of the past decade. Fans likely remember Santonio Holmes' acrobatic game-winning touchdown, but Larry Fitzgerald's incredible game doesn't get nearly enough praise. The future Hall of Famer tallied 7 receptions, 127 yards and 2 touchdowns in a historic performance that would've likely earned him a Super Bowl MVP had the Arizona Cardinals held on. 

9. Super Bowl 52: Eagles vs Patriots (103.39 Million)

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Last year's Super Bowl had quite the dip in ratings, despite the fact that it featured two teams with hugely loyal fan bases and was wildly competitive. However, the dip does make some sense. Tons of people are getting rid of their cable subscriptions, and fans are likely tired of watching the Patriots in the Super Bowl.

8. Super Bowl 44: Saints vs Colts (106.48 Million)

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The matchup between Peyton Manning and Drew Brees looked like it was going to be the best quarterback duel in Super Bowl history. Surprisingly, the 106.48 million fans who tuned in saw the New Orleans Saints win the game because of their special teams and defense. Sean Payton's shocking decision to go for an onside kick gave the Saints momentum in the second half, and Tracy Porter's pick-six sealed the victory. 

7. Super Bowl 47: Ravens vs 49ers (108.69 Million)

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108.69 million fans tuned into this classic battle, and the Baltimore Ravens' victory was the primary reason Flacco later received a $120 million dollar contract. While this Super Bowl was certainly exciting, it will forever be remembered for the power outage that stopped the game for over 30 minutes. 

6. Super Bowl 45: Packers vs Steelers (111.01 Million)

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111.01 million fans tuned in to witness Aaron Rodgers' first Super Bowl victory, and it seemed like it was going to be the first of many. However, Rodgers hasn't reached the Super Bowl since that fateful day, and he's only reached the Conference Championship twice since then, losing both games. 

5. Super Bowl 51: Patriots vs Falcons (111.32 Million)

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Fans can complain as much as they want about the New England Patriots, but one thing is undeniable – they play exciting Super Bowls. The Patriots shocked each and every one of the 111.32 million fans who tuned in to watch them come back from a 28-3 deficit with only 2:08 remaining in the third quarter. 

4. Super Bowl 46: Giants vs Patriots (111.35 Million)

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It's no surprise that this is one of the most-viewed Super Bowls of all-time. Eli Manning validated his 2007 Super Bowl ring by defeating the New England Patriots again, and the two-time champion once again proved to be Belichick and Brady's kryptonite.

3. Super Bowl 50: Broncos vs Panthers (111.86 Million)

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Peyton Manning still gets top-billing over his little brother. While Manning was a shell of himself in Super Bowl 50, the Hall of Famer did just enough to help the Broncos win this game. But it was really a coming-out-party for Denver Broncos' pass rusher, Von Miller. Miller compiled 2.5 sacks, two of which were forced fumbles, and the incredible performance earned Miller his first-ever Super Bowl MVP. 

2. Super Bowl 48: Seahawks vs Broncos (112.19 Million)

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However, unfortunately for Peyton Manning, his most-viewed Super Bowl of all-time is also his most embarrassing Super Bowl loss. The Seattle Seahawks proved that they were the better team by the first snap of the game, and this Super Bowl victory immortalized Seattle's legendary secondary.

1. Super Bowl 49: Patriots vs Seahawks (114.44 Million)

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It's fitting that the most-watched Super Bowl of all-time also featured one of the most shocking endings in the game's history. It's truly fascinating to consider just how much Malcolm Butler's  interception changed the course of history for both teams. The Patriots have advanced to three Super Bowls since then, winning one, while the Seahawks' potential dynasty crumbled due to in-house turmoil. 

