NFC Dominates Pro Bowl Games: Winners, Losers, and Highlights
For the second consecutive year, the NFC emerged victorious in the Pro Bowl Games, showcasing their dominance in both the skills competitions and the flag football game. The NFC sealed their victory with a late scoring flurry in the second half, defeating the AFC with a final score of 64-59. Although the AFC managed to win the flag football game with a score of 50-34, they were outscored by a margin of 19-6 in the final quarter and a half.
Aside from the glory of winning, the NFC players also received a significant financial reward. Each NFC player took home a bonus of $80,000, while their AFC counterparts only received half of that amount. The Pro Bowl Games took place over several days in Orlando, Florida, with the flag football game and some of the final events held in Camping World Stadium.
Now, let’s take a closer look at the winners and losers from the Pro Bowl Games.
Winners
The fun level for the players comes through
Regardless of one’s opinion on the format of the Pro Bowl, it is evident that the players thoroughly enjoyed the experience. This was evident during Sunday’s flag football game when NFC starting quarterback Jalen Hurts threw a pass to Cowboys receiver CeeDee Lamb. As Lamb escaped from an AFC cornerback, Hurts, who had leaked out to the left side of the field on a wheel route, mistimed his jump and missed the catch. The moment was met with laughter from Hurts, Lamb, NFC coach Eli Manning, and most players on the field. It was a lighthearted moment that showcased the camaraderie and enjoyment among the players.
CeeDee Lamb and Keenan Allen shine
Although it is challenging to draw any significant conclusions about football performance from the Pro Bowl Games, two receivers stood out in the flag football game. CeeDee Lamb from the NFC had an impressive performance, catching five passes for 44 yards and scoring three receiving touchdowns. On the AFC side, Keenan Allen showcased his skills with three receiving touchdowns and a passing touchdown on a trick play. Allen led the AFC in both catches (nine) and receiving yards (90).
Mic’d up moments
One of the highlights of the Pro Bowl Games was the access to sound and conversations between players and coaches. Fans had the opportunity to hear play calls as they came in, play calls being relayed to players in the huddle, and witness the strategy adjustments made throughout the game. These behind-the-scenes glimpses provided fascinating insights for even the most traditional football fans.
NFC dominates skills challenges
The NFC demonstrated their focus and determination in the skills competitions throughout the entire weekend. They emerged victorious in all but one skills competition event, only falling short in the kick tic-tac-toe event. Overall, the NFC outscored the AFC 30-9 in all the skills competitions, which played a significant role in their overall victory.
The gridiron gauntlet obstacle course event
One of the standout events of the Pro Bowl Games was the gridiron gauntlet obstacle course. This relay-style game combined agility and strength challenges, reminiscent of early 90s game shows like “American Gladiators.” The AFC and NFC competed side-by-side, creating a thrilling and dramatic atmosphere. The variety of events and relay nature of the competition made for tight finishes and added excitement to the games.
Losers
The best catch event falls short
Similar to last year, the best catch event was underwhelming and disappointing. It was a pre-recorded event shown on tape delay, featuring only two players, one from each conference. The lack of buildup erased any hope for tension or drama. The event, attempting to simulate the NBA’s Slam Dunk Contest, failed to generate much interest or excitement. It is clear that the best catch event needs a complete reimagining to captivate the audience.
Time for new coaches
For the second consecutive year, the Manning brothers, Peyton and Eli, coached both Pro Bowl teams. While the Mannings have become fixtures in the NFL season with their endorsements and presence on the ESPN ManningCast show during “Monday Night Football,” it might be time to consider fresh faces for coaching roles. Former Seahawk great Marshawn Lynch for the NFC and former journeyman quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick for the AFC could inject a sense of freshness into the Pro Bowl Games and provide a new perspective.
Geno Smith’s struggles
Although it is challenging to draw conclusions about football performance from the Pro Bowl, Seahawks quarterback Geno Smith had a rough day. Smith completed 15-of-21 passes for 154 yards, throwing two touchdowns but also three interceptions. One of those interceptions occurred on a fourth-and-goal situation, directly costing his team points. Smith’s quarterback rating of 84.3 was lower than Keenan Allen’s rating for the AFC, which was an impressive 135.
