With the Chiefs not in the Super Bowl this year, Gene’s employees said the rush on Super Bowl snacks was lower in the days leading up to the game. 

“We usually boost up everything when the Chiefs are in the Super Bowl. This year we didn’t add as much,” assistant manager Michelle Martin said. 

Nationally, however, fans are expected to spend a record $20.2 billion on food, apparel and other purchases, according to the National Retail Federation. That breaks down to $95 per person.

An informal poll of Gene’s shoppers Friday evening found barbecue, Crockpot meals, meat and cheese boards, and margaritas will be on the menu around town for those who are watching the big game. 

This year’s Super Bowl features the Seattle Seahawks and New England Patriots, with the Seahawks the preferred team to win, according to local shoppers. 

“I’m tired of the Patriots,” Chad McKenzie said. 

Brothers Dallas and Diesel McElroy said they think the Seahawks will win 21-14.

Others  were not as excited for the game as in previous years. This Super Bowl is the first time the Chiefs have not appeared since 2022. 

“It’s kinda sad and lonely without them. I still want to watch, but it’s different,” Amy Wellman said. 

Despite not making it back to the mountaintop this year, many were optimistic for the future of the Chiefs. 

“I think they’ll be back in the next two years,” Debby Smith said. 

Others were interested in the Super Bowl’s additional features. 

“We sit and watch all the commercials,” Wellman said.

“Halftime show, there’s been a lot of talk around it, but I think it will be good,” Connor Schmidt said. 

“I’m excited for Greenday,” Olivia Davis said.

Greenday will perform the opening set before the game, followed by a halftime performance by singer Bad Bunny. 

The Super Bowl is at 5:30 p.m. Sunday on NBC.

Reach Trey Myers at [email protected].