Who Won the 2011 Super Bowl? Packers Beat Steelers 31-25

By Sarah Miller · June 11, 2033

The Green Bay Packers won the 2011 Super Bowl (Super Bowl XLV), defeating the Pittsburgh Steelers 31-25 on February 6, 2011. The game took place at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, marking the Packers' fourth Super Bowl victory and 13th overall NFL championship.

Overview of Super Bowl XLV

Super Bowl XLV was a highly anticipated matchup between two storied franchises: the Green Bay Packers and the Pittsburgh Steelers. Played on February 6, 2011, the game showcased elite quarterback play, strategic coaching, and pivotal defensive moments. The Packers, led by quarterback Aaron Rodgers, emerged victorious with a 31-25 win, securing their first Super Bowl title since 1997.

Key Highlights from the Game

Aaron Rodgers was named Super Bowl MVP after throwing for 304 yards and 3 touchdowns.
The Packers overcame an early 21-3 deficit to take control in the second half.
Tramon Williams intercepted a Ben Roethlisberger pass late in the fourth quarter to seal the win.
The game featured strong performances from both offensive lines despite challenging weather conditions.
This was the first Super Bowl played in North Texas and set attendance and viewership records at the time.

Team Rosters and Coaching Staff

Both teams entered the game with experienced rosters and respected leadership. The Packers were guided by head coach Mike McCarthy, while the Steelers were led by Mike Tomlin, making him the youngest head coach to reach multiple Super Bowls at the time.

Green Bay Packers Key Players

Aaron Rodgers (QB): Delivered a masterclass performance, completing 30 of 42 passes.
Greg Jennings (WR): Caught a 21-yard touchdown in the second quarter.
James Jones (WR): Scored on a 15-yard reception late in the third quarter.
John Kuhn (FB): Rushed for a 1-yard touchdown in the fourth quarter.
Clay Matthews (LB): Recorded 9 tackles and pressured Roethlisberger throughout the game.

Pittsburgh Steelers Key Players

Ben Roethlisberger (QB): Threw for 263 yards and 2 touchdowns but had 1 interception.
Mike Wallace (WR): Had 8 receptions for 89 yards and a touchdown.
Hines Ward (WR): Caught a 25-yard touchdown and became the oldest player to score in a Super Bowl at age 35.
Rashard Mendenhall (RB): Rushed for 67 yards and a touchdown.
Troy Polamalu (S): Made key defensive plays but missed part of the game due to injury.

Game Statistics and Performance Analysis

Statistic	Green Bay Packers	Pittsburgh Steelers
First Downs	22	18
Total Yards	396	338
Passing Yards	304	263
Rushing Yards	92	75
Time of Possession	30:37	29:23
Turnovers	1	2
Third Down Efficiency	9/16	5/13
Penalties	5 (45 yards)	7 (76 yards)

Table data source:1, 2

The statistical comparison shows that the Packers had a slight edge in total offense and efficiency on third down. Their ability to convert 9 of 16 third downs was critical in sustaining drives and keeping the Steelers' offense off the field. Additionally, fewer penalties and better turnover management contributed significantly to Green Bay's win.

Impact and Legacy of Super Bowl XLV

The 2011 Super Bowl marked a turning point for both franchises. For the Packers, it solidified Aaron Rodgers as an elite NFL quarterback and validated their rebuilding efforts post-Brett Favre. The victory gave them their ninth Super Bowl appearance and fourth win, tying them with the 49ers and Cowboys for second-most wins at the time.

For the Steelers, the loss ended a bid for a seventh Super Bowl title. Despite falling short, their consistent excellence under Mike Tomlin kept them among the league's elite. Hines Ward’s final game was emotional, and Troy Polamalu continued to be recognized as one of the greatest safeties in NFL history.