Approximately 120 official game footballs are used during the Super Bowl, with additional balls reserved for kicking, practice, and backups, ensuring optimal performance and compliance with NFL regulations.
How Many Footballs Are Used in the Super Bowl?
The Super Bowl, the most-watched annual sporting event in the United States, relies on meticulous preparation—including strict protocols for football usage. The NFL mandates that around 120 official Wilson footballs are prepared specifically for each Super Bowl. These include balls designated for gameplay, kicking, and backups to ensure consistency, safety, and fairness throughout the game.
Breakdown of Football Usage
- Gameplay Balls: 54 footballs are supplied by the league for general play (24 for each team and 6 for officials).
- Kicking Balls: 36 special slicker balls are used exclusively for kickoffs and field goals. \li>Backup and Practice Balls: Additional balls are kept on standby for weather changes, wear and tear, or unexpected needs.
- Conditioned Balls: About 20–24 balls are pre-conditioned and rotated into play based on field conditions.
NFL Football Specifications and Standards
All Super Bowl footballs must meet exact NFL specifications to maintain fairness and consistency. Each ball is inspected and approved before the game.
Official Football Requirements
- Brand: Wilson Sporting Goods (official NFL supplier since 1941)
- Model: The Duke (named after legendary Giants owner Wellington Mara)
- Material: Premium cowhide leather
- Weight: 14 to 15 ounces (397–425 grams)
- Long Axis Circumference: 28 to 28.5 inches (71–72 cm)
- Balls are inflated to 12.5–13.5 psi
Football Management During the Super Bowl
The handling and rotation of footballs are tightly controlled by NFL officials and equipment staff from both teams.
Key Protocols
- Each team submits 54 footballs (24 for offense, 6 for backup) 2–3 hours before kickoff.
- Kicking balls are delivered separately and used only for punts and field goals.
- Ball boys keep footballs warm and dry in sideline bags when not in use.
- Officials inspect and approve every ball; only authorized personnel may handle them.
- If a ball becomes scuffed, wet, or under/over-inflated, it's immediately replaced.
| Purpose | Number of Balls | PSI Range | Handling Authority |
|---|---|---|---|
| Team A Gameplay | 24 | 12.5–13.5 | Team Equipment Staff + Referees |
| Team B Gameplay | 24 | 12.5–13.5 | Team Equipment Staff + Referees |
| League Reserve (Game) | 6 | 12.5–13.5 | NFL Officials |
| Kicking Balls | 36 | 12.5–13.5 | NFL Kicking Crew |
| Backup / Weather-Resistant | ~30 | 12.5–13.5 | NFL + Team Staff |
The table above outlines the distribution and oversight of footballs at the Super Bowl. Over 120 total balls are managed across multiple categories, with strict PSI control and handling protocols. This ensures consistent performance regardless of weather or playing conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Super Bowl Footballs
How many footballs are used per team in the Super Bowl?
Each team provides 24 footballs for offensive use and 6 for backup, totaling 30 per team. However, only 24 are typically rotated into active gameplay.
Why are there different footballs for kicking?
Kicking balls are smoother and slicker to reduce air resistance and improve flight accuracy for field goals and kickoffs. They are made from a slightly different leather finish than regular gameplay balls.
Are Super Bowl footballs reused after the game?
No, most are retired. Some are given to players and officials as souvenirs, while others are auctioned for charity. Game-used balls are highly collectible and can sell for thousands of dollars.
Who inspects the footballs before the Super Bowl?
NFL officials, including the head referee and league operations staff, inspect all footballs two hours before kickoff. Wilson representatives may also be present to verify authenticity and condition.
Has the number of footballs used changed over time?
Yes, the NFL increased football availability after the "Deflategate" controversy in 2015. Stricter monitoring and more reserve balls were introduced to prevent tampering and ensure transparency.
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