Super Bowl XLVIII (2014): Seattle Seahawks vs. Denver Broncos

Game Recap: Super Bowl XLVIII

The Seattle Seahawks captured Super Bowl XLVIII on February 2, 2014 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ. The final score of 43–8 in favor of Seattle Seahawks gave the franchise one of their most memorable championship moments. The most lopsided Super Bowl in history; Seattle's Legion of Boom crushed Manning's record offense.

Super Bowl XLVIII was the 48th edition of the NFL Championship game, drawing one of the largest television audiences of the year. The game was held at MetLife Stadiumin East Rutherford, NJ, one of the premier venues in the NFL.

Key Storylines and Notable Facts

The most lopsided Super Bowl in history; Seattle's Legion of Boom crushed Manning's record offense.

MVP Performance: Malcolm Smith

Malcolm Smith (LB) earned the Super Bowl XLVIII Most Valuable Player award with a standout individual performance. The MVP award, officially known as the Pete Rozelle Trophy, has been given since Super Bowl I and recognizes the single most impactful player in each championship game. Malcolm Smith joins an elite list of Super Bowl MVP winners alongside Joe Montana (4 awards), Bart Starr, Terry Bradshaw, and Tom Brady.

Halftime Show: Bruno Mars & Red Hot Chili Peppers

The Super Bowl XLVIII halftime show featured Bruno Mars & Red Hot Chili Peppers. The halftime show has grown from a simple marching band performance in the early Super Bowls into one of the most-watched musical events in the world, routinely attracting over 120 million viewers. For a full ranking of every halftime show, see our best Super Bowl halftime shows guide.

Where Was Super Bowl XLVIII Played?

Super Bowl XLVIII was played at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ. The NFL selects host cities based on stadium quality, hotel room capacity, and infrastructure. For a full list of every Super Bowl location, see our Super Bowl stadiums page and Super Bowl host cities guide.

Super Bowl XLVIII Legacy

Super Bowl XLVIII added to the Seattle Seahawks's championship legacy. The victory secured a place in NFL history and gave the franchise's fans one of their most celebrated moments. Championship victories are often defining moments for franchises — they elevate players to legend status, validate coaching philosophies, and become permanent fixtures in sports culture.

For the complete timeline of every Super Bowl champion, visit our Super Bowl winners page. To see how this game fits into the all-time records, visit the Super Bowl records page.