Published: 04:10 PM, Fri Feb 03, 2012
TV Diva: Super Bowl means big game, buzzy ads
SUPER BOWL MANIA!
Last year, 111 million people watched the Super Bowl. So unless you're working or taking a nap, I'm expecting you'll join the crowds again. Here's what you need to know. All coverage is on NBC unless otherwise noted.
The game: Kickoff is at 6:30 p.m., but there will be oodles of programming before the game starting at 2 p.m. It all leads up to the matchup between the New England Patriots and the New York Giants.
Online: For the first time, you can also watch the game live on the Internet or your phone. Go to NBCSports.com to watch the game for free. If you want to see it on your phone, it only works if you have Verizon Wireless as your carrier and the V Cast video service.
The entertainment: Kelly Clarkson will sing the national anthem before the game. Husband and wife Blake Shelton and Miranda Lambert will do a duet to "America the Beautiful." (Folks, please don't forget the words). Madonna will be the halftime show performer.
The Puppy Bowl: One of my favorite parts of Super Bowl Sunday is the Puppy Bowl on Animal Planet. Look for adorable balls of fur to battle it out. Plus, there will be a piggy pep squad, a kitten halftime and a bird who tweets the action @MeepTheBird. There's a new ref, and TV correspondent Jill Rappaport will provide sideline analysis. Finally, look out for the kiss cam and hamster pilots in the blimp. (You think I'm kidding). 3 p.m.
After the game: "The Voice" has its season premiere at 10 p.m. For the first time, "Late Night With Jimmy Fallon" airs on a Sunday at 11:30 p.m.