Kansas City star Chris Jones went viral even before Super Bowl 58 started Sunday between the Chiefs and the San Francisco.
The defensive tackle was noticeably emotional during Reba McEntire’s rendition of the national anthem.
Jones is looking for his third Super Bowl ring in five years as the anchor of Kansas City’s top-ranked defense. The five-time Pro Bowler has been with the Chiefs since 2016.
McEntire’s performance was met with positive reviews on social media.
The “Queen of Country” sang the national anthem moments before kickoff, backed by a recorded track of a country band with a horn section. Flag-bearing service members stood behind her, a huge U.S. flag covered most of the field, and military jets flew over Allegiant Stadium as she sang.
She got through the song in about 1 minute 40 seconds. That’s a good 10 seconds longer than the over-under from oddsmakers, but still the quickest version of the anthem at the Super Bowl since Kelly Clarkson sang it 12 years ago.
Prior to the game, McEntire discussed her preparation at a press conference.
“I prepare by being prepared,” she said. “I’ve been singing the national anthem in the shower, when we get in the car… Rex (Linn), my boyfriend, is a huge football fan. He’ll say, ‘Sing it one more time.’ I’ll say, ‘I think i know the words real good right now, so I’m all right.’”
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