Super Bowl 2025 Ads: Beckham, Mahomes, and the Manning Brothers Steal the Spotlight

The Super Bowl LIX didn't just make waves on the field; it took advertising creativity to soaring heights with a stellar lineup of athlete-driven commercials. With each 30-second spot costing advertisers a hefty $8 million, it's no surprise Fox saw all slots scooped up. From nostalgia trips to live-action drama, these commercials had it all.

Commercial Highlights

Peyton Manning brought humor to Bud Light's commercial, teaming up with Post Malone and comedian Shane Gillis. Imagine Manning at a fun-filled cul-de-sac party, delivering beers using leaf blowers and rocking an iconic fanny pack. It was a nod to community vibes and Manning's charming off-field persona.

In a creative twist, Chiefs head coach Andy Reid partnered with Clippers' star James Harden in Pringles’ quirky ad. Both lost their mustaches in a hilarious global snack summons tied to the brand's famous mascot, showcasing Reid's sense of humor.

David Beckham took center stage in a Stella Artois commercial. The ad added a fictional twist by introducing an imaginary twin called "Other David," portrayed by none other than Matt Damon. The storyline cleverly contrasted Beckham’s iconic football skills with 'Other David’s' fame, sprinkling some playful rivalry.

Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes led a focus group skit for Doritos, joined by teammates Chris Jones, Xavier Worthy, Creed Humphrey, and mascot KC Wolf. They humorously critiqued fan-made ads, with Mahomes poking fun at acting abilities, surely giving viewers a good laugh.

The Michelob Ultra ad engaged audiences by pitting athletes Sabrina Ionescu and Randy Moss against actors Willem Dafoe and Catherine O’Hara in a pickleball showdown. Olympic champion Ryan Crouser legendarily smashed a ball after a loss, making for a memorable moment.

Elsewhere, Andy Reid returned to promote Skechers' new hands-free shoes. Announcing his retirement from hand modeling, this comical segment added another feather to Reid’s comedic cap.

The Manning brothers elevated FanDuel’s "Kick of Destiny," going live with a scripted backstory to attempt a field goal during the game. This live element added a thrilling yet unpredictable twist to the ad lineup.

Key Trends in Super Bowl Advertising

Several trends emerged this Super Bowl season. Star power remained a dominant force, with figures like Mahomes, Beckham, and Reid appealing directly to audiences. These athletes weren't just there for a brief appearance; they added personal flair and relatability, connecting brands to fans on a deeper level.

The inclusion of live-action elements, like FanDuel’s field goal attempt, introduced an element of unpredictability that captivated viewers. Meanwhile, nostalgia was a recurring theme, with playful references like Beckham's twin and veteran players like Manning in unexpected roles.