Boomers vs Zoomers: Super Bowl Fandom Showdown

• Both generations agreed on one thing: they don’t want a Chiefs three-peat (67% of Boomers and 62% of Zoomers).

• Many are preparing for a Chiefs win anyway (25% of Boomers and 34% of Zoomers).

• Boomers are loyal to legacy teams like the Packers (31%). Zoomers back breakout stars and fresh narratives, favoring the Eagles and Bills (17% each).

• Zoomers were invested in the underdog storyline this year (41% percent hoped the Bills would take home their first ring).

• Boomers stood behind historic franchises still chasing their first Super Bowl win (39% percent were rooting for the Detroit Lions).

• Both generations are willing to put money on the line—61% of Boomers and 55% of Zoomers have placed Super Bowl bets.

From team loyalty to halftime hot takes, here’s another look at how Boomers and Zoomers stack up when it comes to Super Bowl fandom:

• Boomers favor legacy teams, even in tough times. A whopping 31% of Boomers stand behind storied franchises like the Green Bay Packers, valuing tradition, nostalgia, and decades of history—even when the team struggles.

• Gen Z is drawn to success and excitement. Younger fans flock to dynamic teams like the Eagles and Bills (17% each), captivated by thrilling narratives, rising stars like Jalen Hurts and Josh Allen, and the promise of success.

• Loyalty under pressure: Boomers maintain allegiance to their teams through losing streaks and rebuilding phases, showcasing their unwavering support. In contrast, Gen Z gravitates toward teams that deliver on-field wins and real-time excitement, emphasizing performance over tradition.

• No one wants a three-peat. Both Boomers (67%) and Gen Z (62%) agree: they’d rather see variety in Super Bowl champions than dominance by a single team like the Kansas City Chiefs.

• Underdogs vs. Legacy Favorites. Gen Z’s optimism shines as they rally behind rising teams like the Buffalo Bills (41%) and Cincinnati Bengals (10%), drawn by stars like Josh Allen and Joe Burrow. Meanwhile, Boomers split their support between underdog stories like the Detroit Lions (39%) and nostalgic favorites like the Minnesota Vikings (14%).

• Fresh narratives vs. tradition. While Boomers appreciate the history and resilience of legacy teams, Gen Z’s focus is on change and excitement. Younger fans are eager to see the NFL hierarchy shaken up, embracing teams with the potential to upset established powerhouses.

• Boomers never miss a game, while Gen Z is selective: A staggering 97% of Boomers tune in to the Super Bowl every year, compared to 86% of Gen Z. Younger viewers are more likely to watch only if a favorite team is playing (7%) or if the halftime show catches their interest (7%, vs. 3% of Boomers).

• Classic games vs. modern thrillers. Boomers hold older matchups like Super Bowl III in high regard, while Gen Z prefers high-stakes recent games, such as the Eagles’ dramatic win over the Patriots in Super Bowl LII. Both generations agree, however, that a blowout like Super Bowl XLVIII is a letdown.

• What makes a “classic”? For Boomers, a great game reflects history and drama, while Gen Z demands exciting finishes and memorable plays. A prime example? Super Bowl LI, where the Patriots staged an unforgettable comeback against the Falcons, uniting fans across generations.

• Gen Z embraces digital-first platforms: A dominant 69% of Gen Z streams the Super Bowl, favoring real-time engagement on platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Twitter to share highlights, memes, and hot takes. 70% of Gen Z sports fans follow social media updates from teams, and the NFL has leaned into this trend by building massive TikTok followings, with 26 of 32 teams surpassing 1 million followers.

• Boomers stick to nostalgia and discussions: While Gen Z embraces streaming, Boomers favor more traditional viewing methods like YouTube (47%) and cable (11%). Their engagement extends to platforms like Facebook, where they reminisce about legacy games and debate current matchups. This discussion-driven approach reflects their preference for preserving tradition and connecting with the NFL through shared memories.

• Reshaping fandom vs. preserving tradition: Gen Z’s tech-savvy, fast-paced interaction is reshaping sports fandom into a dynamic, digital-first experience, with three-fifths of NFL watchers using social media several times a day. Meanwhile, Boomers focus on reflective discussions, maintaining tradition and community through timeless connections.

• Boomers and Gen Z are both betting big—but in different ways. A solid 61% of Boomers have placed a Super Bowl bet, edging out Gen Z at 55%. While both generations love the thrill of wagering, their platforms of choice couldn’t be more different.

• Old-school vs. modern platforms. Boomers stick to traditional formats like office pools (6%) and physical sportsbooks (23%), reflecting a more personal, face-to-face approach to betting. Meanwhile, online sportsbooks are the go-to option for betters of all ages (88% of Gen Z and 68% of Boomers).

• Frequency and engagement: Boomers prefer occasional bets, with 66% wagering less than five times yearly. Gen Z, on the other hand, is more experimental—25% bet multiple times a week, showing a higher frequency of interaction with betting platforms, often through apps or fantasy football leagues.

• A generational divide on the “worst” shows: Gen Z doesn’t hold back, rating Usher’s 2024 performance as their least favorite halftime show (28%). Meanwhile, Boomers criticize Dr. Dre & Friends (2022) most harshly, with 22% naming it the worst. Both generations, however, find common ground in their dislike of Maroon 5’s 2019 show, with Boomers rating it at 17% and Gen Z at 14%.

• Boomers critique modern acts, Gen Z embraces them: While Boomers were tough on Rihanna’s 2023 performance (14%) and Lady Gaga’s 2017 show (11%), Gen Z was far less critical. Younger fans have consistently shown enthusiasm for recent performers, demonstrating a willingness to embrace evolving halftime traditions.

• Respect for the legends: Despite their generational differences, both groups have an enduring appreciation for classic halftime shows. Michael Jackson’s 1993 performance and Madonna’s 2012 spectacle remain largely untouched by criticism, with under 5% of either generation listing them among their least favorites.

Methodology

Data was collected from 299 respondents via a Typeform questionnaire distributed online. The survey explored Super Bowl preferences, viewing habits, betting behaviors, favorite teams, halftime shows, and food choices. Participants provided personal opinions and experiences, with some questions allowing multiple selections. All data was collected anonymously to ensure participant privacy and reliability.

Additional Sources

1. “Tackling the Challenge: The NFL: The NFL’s Winning Strategy to Engage Gen-Z Fans” Forbes.

2. “61% of Consumers Plan to Watch Super Boal LVIII, Numerator Reports” Numerator.

3. “From Drake Jabs to Lil Wayne Defender, Fans are Reacting to Kendrick Lamar Headlining the 2025 Super Bowl Halftime Show” Billboard.

4. “Drake & Kendrick Lamar’s Rocky Relationship Explained,”  Billboard.