Before the real gridiron action kicks off between the Seahawks and Patriots in Super Bowl LX, there’s another kind of showdown that’s just as competitive-if a little more slobbery.
Puppy Bowl XXII returns Sunday with a tail-wagging lineup of 152 rescue pups from 72 shelters across the U.S., Puerto Rico, and the British Virgin Islands. The annual event, airing at 2 p.m. ET on Animal Planet, Discovery+, and other streaming platforms, isn’t just a feel-good pregame show-it’s a full-blown celebration of second chances, underdog spirit, and, yes, some very good boys and girls chasing chew toys across the turf.
This year’s canine clash once again pits Team Ruff against Team Fluff, with both squads competing for the coveted Lombarky Trophy. The rosters are stacked with four-legged athletes of all shapes, sizes, and backstories, each one representing a rescue story and a shot at a forever home.
And while the game itself is packed with playful tackles, zoomies, and the occasional nap in the end zone, Puppy Bowl XXII is also turning up the emotional impact. New this year is a senior dog exhibition match, featuring **Team Oldies vs.
Team Goldies**-a heartwarming nod to the idea that it’s never too late to find a family. It’s a first for the Puppy Bowl, and a meaningful spotlight on older dogs who are often overlooked in shelters.
The broadcast kicks off with a pre-game show at 1 p.m. ET, leading into three hours of fur-flying action from 2 to 5 p.m.
ET. Steve Levy and Taylor Rooks are on the call, bringing their signature energy and insight to the canine chaos, while longtime Puppy Bowl referee Dan Schachner returns to keep things in check-no easy task when your players are more interested in snuggling than sticking to a playbook.
One of the standout moments to watch for: Buffalo Bills wide receiver Khalil Shakir makes an appearance, training a puppy and sharing his own perspective on the power of adoption. It’s a reminder that the Puppy Bowl isn’t just entertainment-it’s a platform that connects fans with real stories and real animals in need.
And yes, the competition has local ties. Michigan is well-represented this year, with Dan from the SPCA of Southwest Michigan suiting up for Team Ruff.
Over at Big Lake Humane Society, Shishi is also repping Team Ruff, while Mia Muffin is barking for Team Fluff. The BLHS is even hosting a Puppy Bowl watch party at the Dirty Dog Bar and Grille-a fitting venue for a celebration of canine cuteness.
As for the big question-**can you adopt these pups? ** Absolutely.
In fact, many of the featured dogs have already been adopted by the time the show airs. That’s the goal, after all.
As referee Dan Schachner put it, “We’re transparent about that. Our goal is to find them their forever home.”
So whether you’re tuning in for the touchdowns or the tail wags, Puppy Bowl XXII is more than just a warmup act for the Super Bowl. It’s a showcase of heart, hope, and the kind of teamwork that doesn’t require a playbook-just a lot of love and maybe a squeaky toy or two.