The Big Game That Brands Can’t Resist Why The Super Bowl Still Rules Advertising

The Super Bowl isn’t just a game, it’s the world’s biggest advertising show. From Pepsi’s legendary halftime spectacles to Apple’s cinematic debut, here’s why brands go big, spend bold, and chase the cultural spotlight.

The Ultimate Stage for Brands

Every February, one Sunday night turns into the most-watched live event on the planet. The Super Bowl is sport, entertainment, music, and marketing magic rolled into one. With more than 120 million people tuning in each year, it’s the one event where brands aren’t just seen—they’re remembered.

This is where creativity meets global attention. A 30-second spot can spark decades of recall, dominate headlines, and set social feeds on fire. It’s where brands step out from the noise and into culture itself.

Iconic Super Bowl Moments That Defined Advertising

Some campaigns entertain. Others redefine what advertising can be. The Super Bowl has delivered countless creative high points that capture imagination, spark conversation, and live far beyond the game itself.

GoDaddy Wins Cannes Lions with “Act Like You Know”

GoDaddy broke every rule of B2B marketing with its bold and brilliantly executed “Act Like You Know” campaign featuring actor Walton Goggins. Riding the buzz of his White Lotus fame, GoDaddy introduced Goggins Goggles—a real eyewear brand powered entirely by GoDaddy Airo. The ad humorously followed Goggins playing different characters before revealing how the brand helped him launch the line. It was clever, self-aware, and full of energy. The campaign went on to win the Creative B2B Lions Grand Prix at Cannes, proving that business advertising can be every bit as creative and entertaining as consumer campaigns.

Nike “So Win”

Nike reminded the world why it owns the language of sport. The message was direct and defiant: You can’t win. So win. The film captured athletes pushing through limits, silencing doubt, and turning rejection into drive. Minimal words, maximum impact—classic Nike storytelling that connected instantly with audiences everywhere.

Doritos “Abduction”

Doritos delivered chaos, colour, and comedy with “Abduction,” its latest fan favourite. The ad mixed sci-fi absurdity with snackable fun, proving yet again that humour and bold visuals can grab attention and keep it. Doritos’ long-running tradition of being unpredictable kept viewers waiting for what would happen next.

Ram Trucks “Goldilocks and the Three Trucks”

Ram took a playful twist on a childhood tale and turned it into an adrenaline-charged adventure. Glen Powell starred as Goldilocks in a wild ride featuring the Ram 2500 Rebel, Ramcharger, and Ram RHO—complete with a few angry bears in pursuit. It was cinematic, confident, and perfectly in tune with Ram’s rugged yet entertaining brand voice.

Pepsi’s Halftime Takeover

For years, Pepsi transformed the halftime break into a pop culture powerhouse. From Beyoncé’s electric stage presence to Bruno Mars, Shakira, and J.Lo lighting up the arena, Pepsi’s sponsorship turned each performance into a global event. It wasn’t just an ad placement—it was a moment in music history and an annual celebration of creativity, rhythm, and brand identity.

Apple’s “1984” Revolution

Apple’s legendary “1984” commercial changed the course of modern advertising. A minute-long cinematic statement that introduced the Macintosh to the world, it was bold, visionary, and unforgettable. The ad became the gold standard for storytelling that challenges convention and stays in the public memory decades later.

Why Big Brands Go Big

1. Massive Global Reach

Over 100 million live viewers and millions more watching online. The Super Bowl is the world’s loudest advertising moment.

2. Cultural Power

People tune in for the ads as much as the game. It’s a tradition, a conversation starter, and sometimes the best part of the night.

3. Storytelling That Sticks

A Super Bowl spot is crafted like a mini film. Emotion, humour, drama, and surprise—every second matters, and the payoff lasts for years.

4. Integration With Everything Else

The best Super Bowl campaigns don’t end with the final whistle. They lead into digital, outdoor, influencer, and social rollouts. A single moment becomes a global movement.

5. Status and Scale

To appear during the Super Bowl is to say: “We belong in the big leagues.” It’s a signal of ambition, confidence, and creative courage.

How Brands Can Capture the Super Bowl Spirit All Year

That Super Bowl feeling isn’t tied to a single night—it’s a mindset. Global advertisers can apply the same energy through out-of-home campaigns that create real-world spectacle.

At Media Agency Group, we help brands light up skylines, take over transport networks, own airport terminals, and connect with millions in motion. The magic lies in turning a single campaign into a shared experience.

Think of how Super Bowl moments spill into everyday life. That’s what OOH advertising can do for your brand—captivate crowds, spark conversations, and build fame across continents.

You can explore our work showcase and news stories for campaigns that have already delivered that scale.

What Brands Can Learn From The Super Bowl

• Go bold, not safe. The best ads take creative risks that feel authentic
• Make it shareable. Every Super Bowl success goes viral for a reason—people enjoy talking about them.
• Fuse entertainment with identity. The biggest hits feel less like ads and more like moments worth remembering.
• Think beyond screens. The best Super Bowl campaigns extend to outdoor activations, sports sponsorships, and real-world events. (See our feature on Sports Sponsorship Opportunities).
• Time your moment. Whether it’s the Super Bowl, the FIFA World Cup, or another global event, the key is being where the world’s attention already is. (Read our FIFA 2026 coverage).

The Takeaway

The Super Bowl is proof that when storytelling, timing, and spectacle meet, advertising becomes entertainment. Brands that embrace that philosophy don’t just sell—they connect.

So whether it’s a city skyline, a taxi fleet, a digital billboard, or a halftime show, the mission stays the same: create a moment the world remembers.

Discover how Media Agency Group can help your brand make that kind of impact.

FAQs

1. Why do brands spend millions on Super Bowl ads?

Because they reach one of the largest live audiences on Earth while gaining cultural visibility that extends far beyond game day.

2. How long do Super Bowl ads last in relevance?

The best ones live for years—shared online, referenced in pop culture, and remembered as milestones in creative marketing.

3. Do smaller brands advertise too?

Yes. Many emerging brands have made global headlines by taking creative swings that resonate emotionally.

4. What makes a Super Bowl ad successful?

It’s not just the budget. It’s the storytelling, timing, and ability to spark conversation long after the game.

5. Can the same Super Bowl-style impact happen in other markets?

Absolutely. With the right strategy and creative execution, out-of-home media across global cities can create unforgettable brand moments all year round.