Super Bowl Commercials: Weren’t ‘So Good, So Good, So Good.’
Snacks with family and friends, football, and commercials are what define Super Bowl Sunday in America. It was snacks (and Seattle) for the Super Bowl 60 win, as the football was mediocre and the commercials left us longing for an earlier Super Bowl spot era. We pondered scrapping the list and writing an obituary to the Super Bowl spot, but we decided to move forward and list best Super Bowl commercials of 2026, according to 1123.
1. “Relax Your Tight End” – Novartis/NFL
One thing I like about good Super Bowl Ads is that they have the capability to get a laugh and entertain while delivering the message. This one added humor to talk to the target audience (likely mostly male football fans who might be reluctant to succumb to, let’s say, “traditional” cancer screenings). Included was an actual survivor, former Buccaneers head coach Bruce Arians. – Dave Distefano, Partner, Chief Creative Officer
2. “American Icons” – Budweiser
When you think of Super Bowl commercials, Budweiser is always top of mind. For years, audiences expect a Budweiser ad and they didn’t disappoint. The story of a baby bird growing into an eagle that takes flight, paired with the iconic Clydesdale, taps into the brand’s classic identity and emotional pull. It’s timeless, unmistakably Budweiser, and a strong return to the brand’s roots. – Marsha O’Gara, Account Executive
3. “America Needs Neighbors Like You” Redfin x Rocket Mortgage
This commercial challenged us to look in the mirror, and that isn’t always easy to do. It also portrayed the togetherness we all long for and challenged us to be the neighbor we want. This ad went there, which can be risky, and it worked.
– Ryan Stauffer, Internal Marketing Director & Account Executive
4. “Last Harvest” Lays
Another ad with emotional storytelling done well. Very heartwarming story of the generations showing the care involved in the farming of potatoes. Shows a sense of authenticity/trust to the consumers. – Emilie Faust, Media Buyer
Love the story being told. The brand has been around a long time, just like the farmers who provided them with crops to make their chips. I also loved noticing how they showed different ways the brand has looked over the years. Speaks to their staying power while also telling a heartfelt story. – Adam Turner, Producer Editor
5. “Good Will Dunkin” Dunkin”
It’s fun energy that matches the brand’s personality. And easy to enjoy without overthinking. -Jun Ngo, Media Coordinator
Super Bowl commercials may evolve, but the formula hasn’t changed: emotion, clarity, and cultural connection still win. The brands that balance entertainment with meaning are the ones audiences remember.