Which Teams Played in Super Bowl LVI
Super Bowl LVI on February 13, 2022, matched the Los Angeles Rams against the Cincinnati Bengals at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California. The Rams won 23–20, securing their second Super Bowl championship. This game was notable for featuring two high-powered offenses in a matchup of contrasting styles, punctuated by critical fourth-quarter plays and a pivotal goal-line stand. Below are the verified teams, final score, and essential context surrounding this edition of the championship.
Final Score and Key Statistics
The scoring summary reflects a closely contested game with shifts in momentum across four quarters. Below is a concise breakdown of how the points were accumulated, followed by notable individual and team statistics that defined the outcome.
| Team | Quarter 1 | Quarter 2 | Quarter 3 | Quarter 4 | Final |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cincinnati Bengals | 0 | 10 | 0 | 10 | 20 |
| Los Angeles Rams | 10 | 3 | 0 | 10 | 23 |
Notable Individual Stats
- Cooper Kupp (LAR): 191 receiving yards, 2 TDs, earned Super Bowl MVP honors.
- Matthew Stafford (LAR): 19 of 26 passing, 2 TDs, no INTs.
- Joe Burrow (CIN): 23 of 35 passing, 2 TDs, 1 INT, 211 yards.
- Evan McPherson (CIN): 3 field goals, including the potential game-tying attempt in the final minute.
Road to the Super Bowl
Each team earned its spot by winning their respective conference championships. The Rams defeated the San Francisco 49ers in the NFC Championship, while the Bengals beat the Kansas City Chiefs in the AFC Championship. These series of victories positioned both franchises in the Super Bowl spotlight, highlighting contrasting narratives of youthful energy (Bengals) versus veteran leadership (Rams).
Path to Super Bowl LVI
- Los Angeles Rams: Won NFC Wild Card round, defeated the Tampa Bay Buccaneers; defeated the San Francisco 49ers in the NFC Championship.
- Cincinnati Bengals: Won AFC Wild Card round against the Las Vegas Raiders; defeated the Kansas City Chiefs in the AFC Championship.
Key Storylines and Context
Heading into the game, several storylines shaped expectations. The Bengals sought their first Super Bowl appearance since Super Bowl XVI following the 1988 season, while the Rams aimed to build on their recent successes, including a previous championship in 2000. The matchup showcased contrasting offensive approaches: the Bengals’ dynamic rookie quarterback paired with a potent receiving corps against the Rams’ balanced attack led by a veteran quarterback and star wide receiver. Special teams and fourth-quarter execution proved decisive.
Legacy and Takeaways
Super Bowl LVI reinforced the Rams’ reputation for clutch performances in championship contests, with Cooper Kupp’s performance etching his name in Super Bowl history. For the Bengals, the experience served as a pivotal learning opportunity for a young core, setting the stage for future contention. The game remains a benchmark for postseason excellence and a reference point for evaluating player and team development in the years that followed.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Where was Super Bowl LVI played? The game was played at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California.
- Who was named Super Bowl MVP in 2022? Cooper Kupp of the Los Angeles Rams was named the Super Bowl LVI MVP.
- Which teams qualified for the Super Bowl in 2022 season? The Los Angeles Rams (NFC) and the Cincinnati Bengals (AFC) met in Super Bowl LVI.
- How can I find historical Super Bowl data? Official NFL records, reputable sports reference sites, and league archives provide verified statistics and rosters from past Super Bowls.