Blackout: Power Outage Delays Super Bowl

By nick granados
Sports Editor

In a game that was full of storylines prior to kickoff, an unexpected turn of events took place early in the third quarter of Super Bowl XLVII.

As the Baltimore Ravens offense took to the field for their first offensive possession of the second half of Super Bowl XLVII, nearly half of the lights in the Mercedes-Benz Superdome in New Orleans suddenly went out. When the power outage occurred, the Ravens were comfortably leading the 49ers 28-6 after Baltimore’s Jacoby Jones returned the second half kickoff, a Super Bowl record-tying 108 yards, for a touchdown.

Play was halted for approximately 35 minutes while stadium officials feverishly tried to restore power and continue the game. Many players stretched to stay loose, while others sat on the bench. Meanwhile, John and Jim Harbaugh, head coaches of Baltimore and San Francisco respectively, were anxiously awaiting reports from officials regarding the delay.

When play resumed, San Francisco’s offense found the end zone on their next two possessions, cutting Baltimore’s lead to 28-20, much to the dismay of Ravens fans all over the country.

The 49ers fiery come-back fell just five yards short of being complete when they failed to score deep in the red zone, allowing the Ravens to secure a 34-31 win and their second championship in franchise history.

The direct cause of the blackout during the Super Bowl is still unknown. However, it was confirmed that the extravagant halftime show of singer Beyoncé was not the cause (they had a separate generator for the halftime show).

The city of New Orleans is planning on bidding for the 2018 Super Bowl (Super Bowl LII) and many do not feel that the blackout will deter the NFL from hosting the Super Bowl in New Orleans.  NFL Commissioner, Roger Goodell, thought that New Orleans did a “terrific job” hosting this years championship game. He also added “I fully expect that we will be back for super bowls.”

Email Nick at:
ngranados@live.esu.edu