Episode 10

What Makes the Super Bowl so Super?

The Super Bowl has evolved from just an American football game to an annual entertainment spectacle. But how did the Super Bowl manage to live up to its name so much?

Why is football so deeply rooted in American life?

And what does America's love of sport tell us about their national identity?

In this episode, we explore how a national sport became a multi-billion dollar economy as we answer the question… what makes the Super Bowl so super?

From the faculty this week, and making his professional debut on the podcast, is Thomas Ruys Smith, Professor of American Literature and Culture and Deputy Director of Area Studies at the University of East Anglia.

And our special guest is a guy who, to many NFL podcast fans, will be a very recognisable voice. Robert Mays is the host of The Athletic Football Show and all-round expert of the sport.

Additional Resources:

PODCAST: The Athletic Football Show

WEBSITE: NFL Website

BOOK: The Red Badge of Courage by Stephen Crane

If you enjoy this episode, you might also like:

What Makes the Super Bowl so Super?

When Did the USA Last Host the Olympics?

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Be on the Show!

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About the Podcast

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America: A History
Your Ultimate Guide to US History

About your host

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Liam Heffernan

Liam's fascination with America grows year on year. Having graduated with a Masters in American Studies with Film, he loves pop culture and has been to Vegas four times which, in his opinion, is not enough.