Who Played in Super Bowl 56? Full Recap & Stats

By Sarah Miller · July 15, 2034

The Los Angeles Rams and the Cincinnati Bengals played in Super Bowl 56, which took place on February 13, 2022, at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California. The Rams won the game 23–20, securing their second Super Bowl title in franchise history.

Overview of Super Bowl 56

Super Bowl 56 was a thrilling matchup between the NFC champion Los Angeles Rams and the AFC champion Cincinnati Bengals. Held at SoFi Stadium, the home of the Rams, it marked the first time a team played a Super Bowl in their home stadium. The game delivered high-level performances, dramatic moments, and key plays that defined the outcome.

Key Highlights

Final Score: Los Angeles Rams 23, Cincinnati Bengals 20
Date: February 13, 2022
Location: SoFi Stadium, Inglewood, California
MVP: Cooper Kupp (WR, Los Angeles Rams)
Attendance: 70,248
Halftime Show Performer: Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Mary J. Blige, Kendrick Lamar, and 50 Cent

Rams vs. Bengals: Season and Playoff Journey

Both teams had impressive paths to Super Bowl 56, overcoming tough competition during the regular season and playoffs.

Los Angeles Rams' Road to the Super Bowl

Regular Season Record: 12–5
NFC West Champions
Playoff Wins: Defeated Arizona Cardinals (Wild Card), Tampa Bay Buccaneers (Divisional), San Francisco 49ers (NFC Championship)
Key Players: Matthew Stafford (QB), Cooper Kupp (WR), Aaron Donald (DT), Odell Beckham Jr. (WR)

Cincinnati Bengals' Road to the Super Bowl

Regular Season Record: 10–7
AFC North Champions
Playoff Wins: Defeated Las Vegas Raiders (Wild Card), Tennessee Titans (Divisional), Kansas City Chiefs (AFC Championship)
Key Players: Joe Burrow (QB), Ja'Marr Chase (WR), Tee Higgins (WR), Evan Engram (TE)

Game Analysis and Key Moments

Super Bowl 56 featured pivotal plays and strategic decisions that shaped the final result.

First Half Breakdown

The Rams started strong with a touchdown pass from Matthew Stafford to Cooper Kupp. The Bengals responded with a field goal, then took a brief lead before halftime after scoring a touchdown. At halftime, the score was tied 13–13.

Second Half Turning Points

The Rams regained the lead with a touchdown run by Sony Michel.
Aaron Donald's pressure on Joe Burrow late in the fourth quarter prevented a potential game-winning drive.
Cooper Kupp recorded 8 receptions for 92 yards and 2 touchdowns, earning Super Bowl MVP honors.
The Bengals missed a late-game opportunity when a holding penalty negated a potential first down.

Statistic	Los Angeles Rams	Cincinnati Bengals
First Downs	20	19
Total Yards	343	382
Passing Yards	266	310
Rushing Yards	77	72
Turnovers	1	0
Time of Possession	29:45	30:15
Third-Down Efficiency	5/13	7/14

Table data source:1, 2

The statistical comparison shows the Bengals outgained the Rams in total yards but struggled to convert opportunities into touchdowns. Despite better third-down efficiency and slightly more possession time, Cincinnati failed to capitalize in the red zone. The Rams' defense held firm in critical moments, particularly on the final drive.

Super Bowl MVP: Cooper Kupp

Wide receiver Cooper Kupp was named Super Bowl MVP after catching eight passes for 92 yards and two touchdowns. His performance capped off a historic season in which he led the league in receiving touchdowns and receiving yards. Kupp became the first player since Jerry Rice to win the NFL's Triple Crown (receptions, yards, touchdowns) and the Super Bowl in the same year.

Kupp's Impact

Caught the go-ahead touchdown with under six minutes remaining.
Was targeted 12 times, showing Stafford's trust in him throughout the game.
Played through minor injuries sustained late in the season.

Frequently Asked Questions About Super Bowl 56

Who won Super Bowl 56?

The Los Angeles Rams won Super Bowl 56, defeating the Cincinnati Bengals 23–20. The victory marked their second Super Bowl championship, with their first coming in 2000 as the St. Louis Rams.

Where was Super Bowl 56 held?

Super Bowl 56 was held at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, home of the Los Angeles Rams and Chargers. It was the first Super Bowl hosted at this venue and the first time a team played the Super Bowl in its home stadium.

Who was the MVP of Super Bowl 56?

Cooper Kupp, wide receiver for the Los Angeles Rams, was named Super Bowl MVP. He finished the game with 8 receptions for 92 yards and 2 touchdowns, including the game-winning score.

What was the halftime show for Super Bowl 56?

The Super Bowl 56 halftime show featured a star-studded West Coast hip-hop lineup, including Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Mary J. Blige, Kendrick Lamar, and 50 Cent. The performance celebrated the legacy of gangsta rap and LA's musical influence.

Did the Bengals make any errors in Super Bowl 56?

Yes, the Bengals committed several crucial penalties, including a holding call that nullified a long completion late in the fourth quarter. They also struggled in the red zone, settling for field goals instead of touchdowns on two drives, which ultimately cost them the game.