Super Bowl XLVII: Baltimore Ravens Defeat San Francisco 49ers in the Blackout Bowl
Super Bowl XLVII, famously remembered as the "Blackout Bowl," took place on February 3, 2013, at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana. The game featured a unique familial rivalry, as it pitted head coach John Harbaugh of the Baltimore Ravens against his brother, head coach Jim Harbaugh of the San Francisco 49ers.
The event was a massive cultural spectacle, drawing 71,024 attendees and capturing a 69% national market share in the United States. Beyond the gridiron, the game was noted for its high-stakes advertising, with 30-second commercials costing a record $4 million.
Key Facts
- Winner: Baltimore Ravens (34), San Francisco 49ers (31)
- MVP: Joe Flacco (Quarterback, Baltimore Ravens)
- Venue: Mercedes-Benz Superdome, New Orleans
- Record-Breaking Play: Jacoby Jones' 108-yard kickoff return for a touchdown
- Notable Incident: A significant power outage that delayed game play
- Halftime Performer: Beyoncé featuring Destiny's Child
Game Summary and Analysis
First Half Dominance
The Baltimore Ravens started the game with strong momentum. Quarterback Joe Flacco led the offense effectively, connecting with Anquan Boldin for a 13-yard touchdown in the first quarter. The second quarter saw the Ravens extend their lead through a 1-yard touchdown pass to Dennis Pitta and a spectacular 56-yard touchdown reception by Jacoby Jones.
The 49ers struggled early but managed to keep the game within reach with three field goals from David Akers, ending the first half trailing the Ravens.
The Third Quarter Surge
The third quarter began with one of the most iconic plays in NFL history: Jacoby Jones returned the opening kickoff 108 yards for a touchdown, setting a Super Bowl record for the longest play and longest kickoff return. However, the San Francisco 49ers responded with a furious comeback, scoring 17 points in the quarter, including a 31-yard touchdown pass from Colin Kaepernick to Michael Crabtree and a 6-yard touchdown run by Frank Gore.
The Power Outage and Final Stand
The game was interrupted by a sudden power outage at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. The blackout, later attributed to a faulty relay device, left the stadium in partial darkness, illuminated only by emergency lights.
Following the delay, the 49ers continued their push, with Colin Kaepernick scoring a 15-yard touchdown run to bring the score to 31-29. The Ravens regained the lead with a 38-yard field goal by Justin Tucker. The game concluded with a safety—a scoring play where the offense is tackled in their own end zone—after Ravens punter Sam Koch ran out of the back of the end zone, finalizing the score at 34-31.
The victory was sealed by a final defensive stand by the Ravens, leading to celebrations by veterans like Ed Reed and the presentation of the Lombardi Trophy.
Entertainment and Ceremonies
The pregame festivities included the national anthem performed by Alicia Keys and a touching performance by the Sandy Hook Elementary School Choir accompanied by Jennifer Hudson.
The halftime show was headlined by Beyoncé, featuring Destiny's Child, which drew an estimated 104 million viewers.
Statistical Overview
While the 49ers led in total net yards (468 to 367) and rushing yards (182 to 93), the Ravens were more efficient on third downs (9/16 compared to 2/9) and committed fewer turnovers.
| Statistic | Baltimore Ravens | San Francisco 49ers |
|---|---|---|
| Final Score | 34 | 31 |
| First Downs | 21 | 23 |
| Total Net Yards | 367 | 468 |
| Turnovers | 1 | 2 |
| Time of Possession | 32:23 | 27:37 |
Following the game, the stadium was cleared, marking the end of a historic encounter in New Orleans.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was the MVP of Super Bowl XLVII?
The Most Valuable Player (MVP) was Baltimore Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco, who threw for 287 yards and three touchdowns.
What caused the power outage during the game?
An investigation found that the blackout was caused by a faulty relay device in the stadium's electrical system.
What record did Jacoby Jones set during the game?
Jacoby Jones set the record for the longest play and longest kickoff return in Super Bowl history with a 108-yard touchdown return.
Who performed at the halftime show?
The halftime show featured Beyoncé and Destiny's Child.
How did the game end?
The Baltimore Ravens won 34-31 after a late field goal by Justin Tucker and a safety caused by Ravens punter Sam Koch running out of the end zone.