What is Super Bowl Opening Night?

Super Bowl Opening Night is a media event on Monday, February 2, 2026, where thousands of reporters gather to question the participating teams' quarterbacks, Drake Maye and Sam Darnold.

What are the New England Patriots aiming for in this Super Bowl?

The New England Patriots are aiming for an NFL-record seventh Lombardi Trophy in this Super Bowl, marking a new era without Tom Brady and Bill Belichick.

What is the key storyline for the Seattle Seahawks?

The key storyline for the Seattle Seahawks is the resurgence of quarterback Sam Darnold, who is leading the team in their quest for a second Super Bowl title.

Home / Sports / Maye vs. Darnold: Super Bowl Showdown Ignites

Maye vs. Darnold: Super Bowl Showdown Ignites

2 Feb

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Summary

Super Bowl Opening Night features media frenzy for QBs.
Patriots seek record 7th Lombardi without Brady/Belichick.
Darnold has a resurgence, leading Seahawks in title bid.

Maye vs. Darnold: Super Bowl Showdown Ignites

Super Bowl Opening Night on Monday, February 2, 2026, promises a media spectacle as quarterbacks Drake Maye and Sam Darnold face thousands of reporters. The New England Patriots, with a 17-3 record, will face the Seattle Seahawks, who are 16-3, in the championship game at Levi's Stadium. The Patriots are striving for an NFL-record seventh Lombardi Trophy, marking a new era without Tom Brady and Bill Belichick.

First-year coach Mike Vrabel has guided the Patriots to the Super Bowl just one year after they finished 4-13. Drake Maye, a finalist for MVP and Offensive Player of the Year, led New England to their 12th Super Bowl appearance, supported by a defense that allowed just 8.7 points per playoff game. This game is a rematch of a memorable Super Bowl 49, where the Patriots defeated the Seahawks.

The Seahawks, who also boast a top defense, are led by Sam Darnold. After a challenging career start, Darnold has experienced a career resurgence, aiming to lead Seattle to its second Super Bowl title. He is familiar with the Super Bowl week's media circus, having been a backup in a previous appearance.