The countdown to Super Bowl LIX is on, and while the focus is on the game between Patrick Mahomes and Jalen Hurts, their academic backgrounds have also sparked curiosity. Both quarterbacks have dominated the NFL, but they also excelled in the classroom during their college years.
Let’s take a closer look at their academic performances ahead of their high-stakes rematch in New Orleans.
Patrick Mahomes‘ College Performance
Before becoming a generational talent in the NFL, Mahomes showed his academic excellence at Texas Tech. He maintained a remarkable 3.91 GPA and earned All-Academic honors during his time there. His mother, Randi Mahomes, once highlighted his early academic drive, revealing that he started earning college credits at Tyler Junior College while still in high school.
Mahomes’ intelligence on the field reflects his academic discipline. His ability to read defenses, process information quickly, and make split-second decisions has been key to his success. Now, with 17 playoff victories, three Super Bowl titles, and a chance to become the first quarterback to win three consecutive championships, Mahomes continues to prove that his sharp mind is one of his greatest assets.
Jalen Hurts’ College Performance
Jalen Hurts has built his career on discipline, both on and off the field. He started at Alabama, where he played from 2016 to 2018, before transferring to Oklahoma. Despite the demanding nature of being a starting quarterback at two powerhouse programs, Hurts completed his undergraduate degree in communication and information sciences in just three years. He then pursued his master’s degree, which he earned in 2023.
Hurts maintained a 3.4 GPA and was recognized as a two-time Sooner Scholar. The Senior Class Award detailed his dedication, stating that he completed 15 hours of graduate coursework at Oklahoma, with another nine hours enrolled for the fall of 2019. His ability to balance academics and athletics reflects the same determination that has made him one of the league’s top dual-threat quarterbacks.
The Road To Super Bowl LIX
Patrick Mahomes and Jalen Hurts first clashed on the NFL’s biggest stage in Super Bowl LVII, where the Chiefs edged out the Eagles 38-35 in a thrilling finish. Mahomes, known for delivering in pressure-packed moments, now seeks his fourth Super Bowl ring, aiming to further solidify his place among the game’s greatest quarterbacks.
Hurts, on the other hand, is out for redemption. After leading the Eagles to another NFC title, he is determined to flip the script this time around. His performance in the last Super Bowl was outstanding -304 passing yards, 70 rushing yards, and four total touchdowns- but he fell just short. Now, he has another chance to bring a Lombardi Trophy back to Philadelphia.
The Intelligence Factor
Beyond their physical abilities, both quarterbacks’ success stems from their intelligence. Patrick Mahomes’ ability to adapt and exploit defenses has made him nearly unstoppable, while Jalen Hurts’ composure and decision-making have made him one of the league’s most dangerous playmakers. Their academic records only reinforce the level of discipline and mental sharpness they bring to the game.
Super Bowl LIX will be the ultimate test for both quarterbacks. Mahomes is chasing history, looking to close the gap on Tom Brady’s 35 career playoff wins, while Hurts aims to cement his legacy with his first Super Bowl title. Their college GPAs may not determine Sunday’s outcome, but their intelligence- both on and off the field- will undoubtedly play a role in shaping the game’s biggest moments.
Come game night, one of these quarterbacks will walk away a champion. Whether it’s Mahomes securing another ring or Hurts rewriting the narrative, one thing is sure- fans are in for an unforgettable game.
