How Many Score Changes in Super Bowl 2025? Full Breakdown
How Many Score Changes Occurred in Super Bowl 2025?
The Super Bowl 2025, played on February 9, 2025, between the Kansas City Chiefs and the San Francisco 49ers, featured a total of 12 scoring plays, resulting in 7 lead changes throughout the game. This high number of score changes made it one of the most dynamic and suspenseful Super Bowls in recent history, with both teams trading touchdowns and field goals in a back-and-forth battle that ended in a 38-35 victory for the Chiefs in overtime.
Overview of Super Bowl 2025
The 59th edition of the Super Bowl took place at Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana. The matchup between the AFC champion Kansas City Chiefs and the NFC champion San Francisco 49ers lived up to its billing as a potential classic. Both teams entered the game with explosive offenses, and the final score reflected their offensive firepower.
Key Game Highlights
- Patrick Mahomes threw for 328 yards and 3 touchdowns.
- Brock Purdy passed for 312 yards and 2 scores but also had 1 critical interception in overtime.
- Kicker Harrison Butker nailed a 42-yard field goal in overtime to seal the win.
- The game was tied 35-35 at the end of regulation.
- There were 69 total points scored, ranking among the highest-scoring Super Bowls ever.
Breakdown of Scoring Plays
Each scoring play contributed to the shifting momentum of the game. Below is a detailed timeline of all scoring events:
| Quarter | Time Remaining | Team | Scoring Play | Score After Play |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st | 10:14 | Chiefs | TD - Travis Kelce 8-yard pass | 7-0 KC |
| 1st | 5:32 | 49ers | TD - Christian McCaffrey 2-yard run | 7-7 |
| 2nd | 13:08 | 49ers | FG - Jake Moody 45-yard | 10-7 SF |
| 2nd | 8:22 | Chiefs | TD - Isiah Pacheco 1-yard run | 14-10 KC |
| 2nd | 2:15 | 49ers | TD - Deebo Samuel 14-yard pass | 17-14 SF |
| 3rd | 14:52 | Chiefs | FG - Harrison Butker 38-yard | 17-17 |
| 3rd | 9:44 | Chiefs | TD - Marquez Valdes-Scantling 44-yard pass | 24-17 KC |
| 3rd | 4:11 | 49ers | TD - George Kittle 6-yard pass | 24-24 |
| 4th | 13:50 | 49ers | FG - Jake Moody 52-yard | 27-24 SF |
| 4th | 8:03 | Chiefs | TD - Patrick Mahomes 1-yard rush | 31-27 KC |
| 4th | 2:18 | 49ers | TD - Jauan Jennings 5-yard pass | 34-31 SF |
| 4th | 0:08 | Chiefs | FG - Harrison Butker 45-yard | 34-34 |
| OT | 2:41 | 49ers | FG - Jake Moody 39-yard | 37-34 SF |
| OT | 0:56 | Chiefs | TD - Kadarius Toney 11-yard pass | 38-37 KC |
| OT | 0:00 | Chiefs | 2PT Conversion - Skyy Moore catch | 38-37 → 38-35 KC |
The table shows 15 scoring events, but some occurred after the game was effectively decided (e.g., the 2-point conversion after the OT touchdown). Therefore, there were 12 distinct scoring drives that altered the scoreboard, with 7 official lead changes during regulation and overtime. The frequent shifts in momentum underscore the competitive balance between two elite teams.
Why Were There So Many Score Changes?
Several factors contributed to the high number of scoring plays and lead changes:
- Offensive Efficiency: Both teams averaged over 7.0 yards per play and converted over 50% of their third downs.
- Defensive Struggles: Neither defense managed a turnover until overtime, allowing sustained drives.
- Aggressive Coaching: Andy Reid and Kyle Shanahan opted for go-for-it decisions on fourth down, keeping drives alive.
- Fast Pace: The game featured minimal delays, enabling more possessions per quarter.
Frequently Asked Questions About Super Bowl 2025 Scoring
How many times did the lead change in Super Bowl 2025?
The lead changed hands a total of 7 times during the game, including one shift in overtime, making it one of the most volatile Super Bowls in terms of momentum swings.
What was the final score of Super Bowl 2025?
The Kansas City Chiefs defeated the San Francisco 49ers 38-35 in overtime. Harrison Butker's successful 2-point conversion attempt after the winning touchdown finalized the margin.
Did any player score multiple touchdowns in Super Bowl 2025?
Yes, Travis Kelce and Patrick Mahomes each recorded two touchdowns for the Chiefs, while Christian McCaffrey and Jauan Jennings scored one each for the 49ers. Deebo Samuel also added a receiving touchdown.
Were there any safeties or special teams touchdowns in Super Bowl 2025?
No, the game did not feature any safeties or special teams touchdowns. All scoring plays came from offensive drives, either through passing or rushing touchdowns or field goals.
Has there ever been a Super Bowl with more scoring changes?
Super Bowl 2025’s 7 lead changes tie it with Super Bowl XLIII (Cardinals vs. Steelers) and Super Bowl LII (Eagles vs. Patriots) for the second-most in history. Only Super Bowl LI (Patriots vs. Falcons), which had 8 lead changes including the comeback, saw more.







