Super Bowl LVIII is just around the corner, and as fans gear up for the highly anticipated showdown between the Kansas City Chiefs and the San Francisco 49ers, it’s time to take a closer look at the starters. CBS Sports’ Claire Komarek has ranked the 46 players, excluding specialists, based on their performance in the championship games and taking into account any injury concerns.
Unsurprisingly, sitting at the top of the list is Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes. Mahomes, who is vying for his third Super Bowl victory in just six seasons, has already established himself as one of the greatest players in the league. With his exceptional skills and ability to lead his team to victory, Mahomes is on track to challenge Tom Brady’s status as the best quarterback of all time. However, there is still work to be done before he can claim that title.
While Mahomes reigns supreme, the rest of the rankings reveal an interesting split between the two teams. The 49ers boast six players in the top 10 and a total of 11 in the top 20. On the other hand, the Chiefs have three players in the top 5, showcasing their own star power.
One notable observation from the rankings is the relatively low placement of the offensive lines. With only a handful of players, including 49ers left tackle Trent Williams at third place, ranking high, both quarterbacks could face challenges due to potential issues with protection. This could have a significant impact on the game and put pressure on Mahomes and 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy.
Speaking of Purdy, he may be ranked at number 13, but he is far from just a game manager. This Super Bowl will serve as a defining moment for Purdy, determining whether he can shed that label and establish himself as a top-tier quarterback. Going head-to-head against Mahomes will undoubtedly test his abilities and provide insight into his true potential.
As fans peruse the rankings, it’s natural for disagreements and complaints to arise. However, that’s the beauty of it. These rankings are meant to spark discussion and help fans make their own predictions. Whether they influence your decision or not, one thing is clear: the player at the top, Patrick Mahomes, holds immense value and can single-handedly make a difference in any game. He is well on his way to becoming the Michael Jordan of football.
With Super Bowl LVIII fast approaching, excitement is building, and all eyes will be on these talented starters as they battle it out on the field. Who will come out on top? Only time will tell.