Why Super Bowl XLIX Is Correct, and Why NFL Might Dropout Roman Numerals

The naming tradition of Super Bowls with Roman numerals has made it a unique and recognizable part of American sports culture. The specific numeral for Super Bowl XLIX—2015—raises the question of whether it should instead have been called '49' (IL) in accordance with Roman numeral principles. This article explores why Roman numeral XXXIX (XLIX) is the appropriate choice and discusses recent changes in naming conventions.

The Rules of Roman Numerals

Understanding why the NFL has stuck with Roman numerals involves a dive into the rules governing these numeral systems. Roman numerals are based on seven symbols (I, V, X, L, C, D, M), each representing a specific value. The values of these symbols are:

I 1 V 5 X 10 L 50 C 100 D 500 M 1000

When constructing a number using these symbols, there are two main principles: addition and subtraction. The addition principle means that the values are added when the symbols are placed in descending order. However, if a smaller value symbol precedes a larger one, it indicates subtraction. Let's break down why XLIX is the correct way to represent 49:

Subtraction Principle

The rule that justifies the use of XLIX is the subtraction principle. According to this principle, a smaller value symbol (I, X, or C) can be placed before a larger value symbol to indicate subtraction. Specifically:

I can only be subtracted from V or X X can only be subtracted from L or C C can only be subtracted from D or M

In the case of 49, you build it as follows:

We start with L (50) and C (100), but since we don't have a C before L, we use the next closest symbol to get to 40, which is XL (40). To build 9, we use IX (10 - 1).

Thus, 49 is correctly expressed as XLIX.

Understanding the Subtraction Principle

The subtraction principle ensures that Roman numerals remain concise and easy to read. For instance, it's more straightforward to see IV (4) than IIII, and IX (9) more than VIIII. This principle aligns with the NFL's decision to continue using Roman numerals for Super Bowl naming.

NFL's Decision to Drop Roman Numerals

On the other hand, NFL has shown inclination to drop Roman numerals for upcoming Super Bowls. It has already decided that Super Bowl LV, which took place in 2021, would revert to a simple Arabic number, 50. This decision was made to simplify branding and marketing efforts, as well as align with modern preferences for concise and easily readable names.

Key reasons for this change include:

Brand Consistency: Arabic numerals are globally understood and recognized, making them a more universal choice for marketing and promotional activities. Clarity: Simple Arabic numbers are more visually intuitive, allowing for clearer and faster recognition of the event's number. Uniformity: Moving to Arabic numbers provides uniformity in naming across different sports and global events, promoting better global communication and branding.

These factors, combined with the NFL's efforts to streamline their branding for a rapidly evolving digital landscape, have led to this significant change in Super Bowl naming conventions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Roman numerals have been a significant part of the Super Bowl tradition, the decision to stick with XLIX (49) for Super Bowl XLIX is grounded in the clear rules of Roman numerals. However, the NFL's move to adopt Arabic numbers for future Super Bowls reflects a broader trend towards simplicity and clarity in branding. This change not only aligns with modern branding strategies but also marks a strategic pivot to enhance its global appeal and simplify digital marketing efforts.