The Super Bowl has a little something, something for everyone—snacks, $20 million halftime performances, the inevitable viral memes. And of course, the actual reason we’re all huddled around the television shoveling nachos in our mouths in the first place: the big game.
On February 7, reigning Super Bowl champs the Kansas City Chiefs will square off against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers right on the latter’s home turf, Raymond James Stadium. And while we’re sure of few things (namely, the raging hangover that’s bound to follow Monday), there’s a lot to know. Will Tom Brady snag his seventh Super Bowl title? Does Patrick Mahomes have a shot as the first QB to win back-to-back championships?
We’re breaking down all of your Super Bowl LV Q’s. Here’s what you need to know ahead of the big game.
Are fans allowed to attend Super Bowl LV?
In short, yes, but there are a few stipulations. The capacity limits allow for 22,000 fans, which accounts for just one-third of Raymond James Stadium. 7,500 of those tickets were gifted to vaccinated healthcare workers in an effort to thank them for all they have done throughout the pandemic. The additional 14,500 tickets were purchased by fans.
What’s the COVID-19 testing protocol look like ahead of Sunday’s game?
The NFL created a “Fan Health Promise” in which anyone attending the Super Bowl must follow/agree to:
You must not have tested positive for COVID-19 14 Days prior to the Super Bowl or have been exposed to someone who has tested positive.
You must not have traveled to another state within 14 Days and have not quarantined prior.
You must not have 48 hours have not experienced symptoms of COVID-19
Full refunds will be provided to those who have tested positive or are presenting symptoms.
Who’s favored to win?
After the last game on January 24th, it seems as though the defending championships are favored over Buccaneers, according to William Hill Sports Book.
Where can I watch the game?
CBS will air this year’s Super Bowl with Jim Nantz and Tony Romo reporting live. Originally, NBC was set to air the LV championship, however, the latter network will now cover 2022 instead. Check your local listings for coverage.
Wait, what if I don’t have cable?
If you don’t have cable, no worries! You can stream it live on the CBS Sports App or on CBSSports.com. Streaming services such as YouTube TV and Hulu with Live TV also have access to the game as well.
What time is kick off?
Super Bowl LV is scheduled to kick off at 6:30 p.m. ET (3:30 p.m. PT).
Who is performing at the halftime show?
The Weeknd will take the stage as this year’s halftime performer. The Canadian singer-songwriter—whose full name is Abel Makkonen Tesfaye—will reportedly include the R&B crooner’s patented edge but in a way that’s “respectful to the viewers at home,” The New York Times reports.
Will there be changes in commercials during the Super Bowl this year?
Football isn’t the only draw here. We need those tension-breaking, laugh-out-loud commercials in-between to give us a reprieve from screaming at the screen. However, due to the pandemic, a lot of major companies have pulled out—including Pepsi, Coca-Cola, and Budweiser have opted out, instead donating those funds towards COVID-19 relief.
But fear not, plenty of other brands are set to participate, including Bud Light and Michelob Ultra. You’ll still get the laughs and those sudden unconscious desires for buy everything in your Amazon cart.