Super Bowl MVP History: Running Backs and Quarterbacks

4 months agoUS
Super Bowl MVP History: Running Backs and QuarterbacksSource: si.com
While quarterbacks have dominated the Super Bowl MVP awards in recent years, running backs held significant sway in the 70s and 80s. This article explores the history of Super Bowl MVPs, highlighting key players and trends.

Key Insights

7 running backs have won the Super Bowl MVP award in NFL history as of 2026.

Marcus Allen, John Riggins, and Larry Csonka are among the most notable running back MVPs.

Terrell Davis was the last running back to win the award in Super Bowl XXXII (1998), rushing for 3 touchdowns despite suffering from a severe migraine.

32 different quarterbacks have won the Super Bowl MVP award, with Tom Brady leading the pack with 5 wins.

In-Depth Analysis

Running Back MVPs

Before 1998, running backs frequently dominated the Super Bowl MVP selections. Here's a closer look at some of the standouts:

Marcus Allen (Super Bowl XVIII):: Averaged 9.6 yards per carry, including a 74-yard touchdown run.

John Riggins (Super Bowl XVII):: Holds the record for most rushing attempts (38) by an MVP.

Larry Csonka (Super Bowl VIII):: Dominated to such an extent that his quarterback only needed to throw 7 passes.

Terrell Davis (Super Bowl XXXII):: The last running back to win MVP, with 3 touchdowns despite a migraine.

Quarterback MVPs

In contrast, Quarterbacks have taken home the vast majority of MVP awards.

Tom Brady:: Holds the record with five Super Bowl MVP awards.

Joe Montana:: Won three Super Bowl MVP awards.

Patrick Mahomes:: Has also won three Super Bowl MVP awards.

Other notable quarterback MVPs include Bart Starr, Terry Bradshaw, and Eli Manning.

FAQs

Q: How many running backs have won the Super Bowl MVP?

Seven running backs have won the Super Bowl MVP as of 2026.

Q: Who was the last running back to win Super Bowl MVP?

Terrell Davis won the Super Bowl MVP in Super Bowl XXXII (1998).

Q: Which quarterback has the most Super Bowl MVP awards?

Tom Brady has the most Super Bowl MVP awards with five.

Key Takeaways

Running backs were more prominent in Super Bowl MVP selections in the earlier years of the game.

Quarterbacks have dominated the MVP awards in recent Super Bowls.

Tom Brady stands out as the quarterback with the most Super Bowl MVP awards.

Discussion

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