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Picture this: it's nearly midnight on a Sunday in February, and while most of Pembrokeshire is getting ready for bed, millions across the pond are settling in for the biggest sporting event of the year. The Super Bowl isn't just a game – it's an epic show that combines sport, entertainment, and enough snacks to feed a small country. But if you're new to American football, don't worry! We've put together this beginner's guide  with everything you need to know to enjoy Super Bowl 59.

I first got into American Football around about 2017, deciding to support the Philadelphia Eagles because of one of my favourite TV shows It's Always Sunny In Philadelphia, and in a bizarre turn of good fortune they went on a historic run to the final where they defeated the New England Patriots to win their first ever Super Bowl.

I will once again be cheering on the Eagles in the final this year but if you're unsure on who to support I suggest simply flipping a coin and going with it!

American Football 101: The Basics

Let's start with the fundamentals. American football might look complicated, but once you understand the basic concept, it's actually quite straightforward.

The goal is simple: get the ball into the opponent's end zone. Think of it like rugby, but with more stopping and starting, and players wearing enough padding to survive a minor collision with a car. Each team gets four attempts (called "downs") to move the ball 10 yards forward. If they manage it, they get another four attempts. If they don't, they typically kick the ball away to the other team to prevent giving away possession high up the pitch.

The main ways to score are:

• Touchdown (6 points): Getting the ball into the end zone
• Field Goal (3 points): Kicking the ball through the posts
• Extra Point (1 point): A kick after a touchdown
• Two-Point Conversion (2 points): Instead of kicking, trying to score another mini-touchdown after your touchdown
• Safety (2 points): Tackling the opponent in their own end zone

This Year's Big Game

Super Bowl 59 is set for Sunday, 9th February at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, with kickoff at 11:30 PM our time. (Yes, you might want to book Monday off work!)

This year's final is particularly special as it features the Kansas City Chiefs, who are attempting to make history by becoming the first team to win three Super Bowls in a row, against the Philadelphia Eagles. Think of it as the NFL equivalent of a team trying to win the Champions League three years running – it's that big a deal.

The Teams: A Quick Introduction

The Kansas City Chiefs are led by Patrick Mahomes, who's essentially the Lionel Messi of American football – he makes the impossible look routine. They've been the team to beat in recent years, and yes, they're the team that Taylor Swift's boyfriend Travis Kelce plays for (if you're more interested in the celebrity side stories!).

The Philadelphia Eagles have been equally impressive this season, powered by their incredible running back Saquon Barkley, who's been breaking records left and right. Think of him as the Erling Haaland of American football – when he gets going, he's practically unstoppable.

How to Enjoy the Game

Even if you don't understand every rule, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the Super Bowl:

• The Game: Even if you don't get everything, you'll still be gripped by the action! The Super Bowl has produced some incredible games and stunning comebacks over the years. Pick a team to support and go with it!
• The Spectacle: The game is just part of the entertainment. This year features a half-time show by Kendrick Lamar and SZA – it's like getting a mini-festival in the middle of a sporting event.
• The Food: Why not embrace American culture and organise a Super Bowl party? Traditional snacks include wings, nachos, and pizza. Just remember to stock up on coffee for Monday morning!

Fun Facts about the Super Bowl

• The Super Bowl is so big that it's typically the most-watched television event of the year in America
• Companies pay millions of dollars for just 30 seconds of advertising during the game (it's a lot cheaper to advertise on Connect: Pembrokeshire!)
• The Vince Lombardi Trophy (the winner's prize) is made by Tiffany & Co. and is worth about £50,000
• This is the 11th Super Bowl to be held in New Orleans, but the first since 2013

Where to Watch

You can catch all the action on Sky Sports NFL and Main Event from 10pm. If you're planning to watch with friends, remember it's a late one – the game typically runs for about four hours, so we're talking about a 3:30 AM finish. Monday morning might be a bit rough, but hey, the Super Bowl only comes once a year!

Whether you're a seasoned NFL fan or a curious newcomer, Super Bowl 59 promises to be a spectacular event. So grab some snacks, settle in, and prepare to watch history in the making. Who knows? You might just become America's favourite sport's newest fan!

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*Super Bowl 59 kicks off at 11:30pm GMT on Sunday, 9th February, live on Sky Sports NFL and Main Event.*