Context:

Super Bowl 60 features a matchup between the Seattle Seahawks and New England Patriots, taking place at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California, on February 8, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. ET. The Patriots, led by head coach Mike Vrabel and quarterback Drake Maye, enter as underdogs despite a surprising AFC championship victory, a shift from their historical dominance. The Seahawks, with quarterback Sam Darnold revitalizing his career alongside a strong defense, aim to capitalize on their momentum. The Super Bowl will also showcase performances including the national anthem by Charlie Puth and a halftime show by Bad Bunny, setting the stage for a thrilling conclusion to the NFL season.

Dive Deeper:

• The Patriots' journey to Super Bowl 60 is marked by an unexpected AFC championship win under new head coach Mike Vrabel, showcasing the emerging talent of quarterback Drake Maye.

• Historically, the Patriots have entered most Super Bowls as favorites, making their underdog status in this matchup against the Seahawks notable, reminiscent of their first Super Bowl appearance.

• Sam Darnold, the 2018 No. 3 draft pick, has transformed into a reliable franchise quarterback for the Seahawks, overcoming challenges from previous seasons and leading a potent offense alongside Jaxon Smith-Njigba.

• The Seahawks' defense, known as the 'Dark Side,' features notable players such as DeMarcus Lawrence and rookie Nick Emmanwori, contributing to their competitive edge.

• Charlie Puth will perform the national anthem, marking his first appearance at the Super Bowl, while the halftime show will feature Bad Bunny, expected to air between 8 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. ET.

• Pregame festivities may delay the actual kickoff time beyond the scheduled 6:30 p.m. ET start, a common occurrence during Super Bowls.

• USA TODAY Sports will provide comprehensive live updates and highlights from Super Bowl 60, ensuring fans remain engaged throughout the event.