Super Bowl Ads 2026: The Hits and the Heartbeats

The big game drew more than just football fans; it brought a parade of memorable spots that kept viewers glued to the screen. After Seattle’s victory over New England, a special ranking was released that highlighted the most effective commercials of the night. The average cost for a 30‑second slot climbed to about eight million dollars, so brands were eager to make every second count. A common thread among the top ads was the use of well‑known songs, which helped tie stories together and resonate with viewers.One winner celebrated Budweiser’s 150th year, pairing the iconic “Free Bird” with a playful dance between a bird and a Clydesdale, while also nodding to America’s 250th birthday. Another spot by Lay’s tugged at emotions, featuring a potato farmer handing his land to his daughter in a tale that echoed real family values. Coca‑Cola’s entry leaned into humor, showing a polar bear shocked to choose Pepsi Zero Sugar over Coke in a taste test, and even included a wink at last summer’s Coldplay concert mishap.