Since 2004, EA Sports’ Madden NFL game has been used to predict the winner of the Super Bowl. Call it a coincidence if you want, but the game has been surprisingly accurate. The simulation has predicted the correct winner six out of eight times, and even came within a point on either side of picking the exact score at Super Bowl 44. Last season, the game had the Steelers winning by a score of 24-20. Giants fans are hoping the simulation is due for a correct year.
The game predicted the Giants will win Super Bowl 46 by a final score of 27-24. The Giants were leading 24-10 in the fourth quarter before Tom Brady led his offense to 14 unanswered points to tie the game. However, the Patriots left 1:50 on the clock which was enough time for Eli Manning to set Lawrence Tynes up for a 40-yard game-winner. According to Madden, the Giants officially own the Patriots.
Obviously the simulation has no bearing on the outcome of the actual game, but it is pretty amazing how realistic the game can be. It takes real-life statistics and rankings into account, so the outcome is not completely random by any means. Manning led more fourth-quarter comebacks than any quarterback in the NFL this season, so it is conceivable that the Super Bowl would end on such a drive. The Patriots defense has also been an issue for Bill Belichick all season, so it is certainly plausible that they would allow 24 point in the first three quarters of the game.
If Madden turns out to be right, Manning will win his second Super Bowl MVP award after throwing for 342 yards, two touchdowns, and an interception. Hakeem Nicks will also receive serious consideration for the award after his 134 yards and a score. Rob Gronkowski plays and scores. Brady throws for 327 yards and three touchdowns, but it’s not enough.
So there you have it. If you believe in the accuracy of the Madden NFL Super Bowl simulation, just sit back and enjoy the game on Sunday. You already know the outcome. The rest of us are excited to see how it turns out.
