Super Bowl XLVII (2013): Ravens vs. 49ers — The Harbaugh Bowl

Game summary and key players

The contest featured a competitive, often dramatic back-and-forth between both teams. Baltimore's quarterback and eventual Most Valuable Player, Joe Flacco, led key drives and helped the Ravens secure the victory. The game also featured strong performances from defensive standouts and skill-position players on both sides. The final score reflected a narrow margin and a late period of scoring that kept the outcome uncertain until near the end.

Coaches, storyline, and background

One of the most widely noted aspects of the event was the matchup between brothers who served as opposing head coaches: John Harbaugh for Baltimore and Jim Harbaugh for San Francisco. Media and fans dubbed the matchup the "Harbaugh Bowl" or "Brother Bowl," emphasizing its rarity and the family narrative. More broadly, the game represented the culmination of each franchise's playoff run: the Ravens as the American Football Conference (AFC) champions and the 49ers as the National Football Conference (NFC) champions in the 2012 season.

Historical significance and aftermath

The victory gave the Ravens their second Super Bowl title and capped a season remembered for strong defense and timely offense. It was also the final NFL game for veteran linebacker Ray Lewis, who announced his retirement at season’s end; Lewis had been a defining figure for the Ravens’ defense for many years. The game added to both franchises' legacies and influenced perceptions of coaching, preparation, and late-game decision-making in championship play.

Notable facts and legacy

• The game is identified by its Roman numeral XLVII and is part of the modern Super Bowl era (Super Bowl history).
• Both competing clubs were conference champions: the Ravens (AFC) and the 49ers (NFC), within the umbrella of the NFL.
• Key participants and events connected to the game remain points of interest: Joe Flacco (MVP), coaches John Harbaugh and Jim Harbaugh, and retiring veteran Ray Lewis.

For additional context on teams, personnel, and season results, consult related franchise histories and season summaries through league and team resources (Ravens, 49ers, NFL).