Little Rock, Arkansas – From the heart of Jonesboro, Arkansas, to the bright lights of Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, two former Arkansas State Red Wolves are preparing for the pinnacle of professional football. Mehki Butler and Courtney Jackson, who once dazzled fans at Arkansas State, will now face off on opposing teams in Super Bowl LX, bringing hometown pride to the biggest stage in the sport.
Jackson earned his place in the championship after the Seattle Seahawks defeated the LA Rams in a thrilling NFC Championship game on Sunday. The victory secured Jackson’s spot on a team hungry for its next Super Bowl title and provided fans in Arkansas with a familiar face to cheer for.
Meanwhile, Butler punched his ticket to the big game earlier that same day, helping the New England Patriots edge out the Denver Broncos in a snowy, defense-driven AFC Championship showdown. His journey from collegiate standout to NFL competitor has been a testament to his talent and perseverance, and now he finds himself on the cusp of football’s most coveted prize.
The Super Bowl matchup, scheduled for February 8 at 5:30 p.m., will see the Seahawks and Patriots clash in what promises to be a memorable showdown. Both Butler and Jackson have embraced the magnitude of the event, knowing that their paths, which began in Arkansas, have now converged on one of football’s grandest stages.
For fans of the Red Wolves, the presence of two alumni in the Super Bowl is a point of pride. Their journey reflects not only personal achievement but also the growing influence of Arkansas State football in producing professional-level talent capable of performing under the brightest lights.
“It’s amazing to see players from our program reach this level,” one local fan said. “From the small-town fields in Jonesboro to the Super Bowl, it’s a dream come true for them and an inspiration for everyone watching.”
Read also: City of Little Rock begins treating secondary streets as crews respond to lingering winter weather
As the countdown begins to Super Bowl LX, attention in Arkansas will be split between hometown pride and the hope that both Butler and Jackson can leave a lasting mark on football history. Whether celebrating a victory or marveling at their journey, Red Wolves supporters will be watching closely as their former stars chase the ultimate prize in football.