The Patriots’ bid for another championship drew fans together across homes and bars, but did it keep them off the road or send them out across New England?

In a weekend filled with Super Bowl energy, and a heavy dose of Patriots disappointment after a 29–13 loss to the Seattle Seahawks in Super Bowl LX, we decided to dig into something a bit more measurable: how much New England-area drivers were actually on the road this past Sunday. 

For Flexcar, Sunday driving data offers a unique lens into how people mobilize during major social occasions, even one tinged with local sports heartbreak.

Super Bowl vs. Average Sunday: The Numbers

Here’s what our data shows:

• Total miles driven by Flexcar customers in New England on Sunday, 2/8 (Super Bowl Sunday): 114,697.82 miles

• Average miles driven on previous Sundays in 2026: 107,844.54 miles

That’s an increase of 6,853.28 miles, or roughly 6.4% more driving than the typical Sunday earlier this year.

What’s Behind the Extra Miles?

At first glance, you might expect more people to stay in and watch the game, especially in New England — where Patriots fandom runs deep and local pride takes every Super Bowl seriously. But the data tells a slightly different story.

Rather than sitting home alone, drivers were out on the road more than usual, suggesting that many New Englanders were:

Heading to Watch Parties

Whether a friend’s house in Southie or a bar at Patriot Place, Flexcar members likely traveled across town to gather with others for kickoff.

Making Pre-Game or Post-Game Runs

Extra miles could include trips out for food, groceries, or to pick up last-minute snacks and drinks for guests.

Visiting Family

Super Bowl Sunday remains one of the most social Sundays of the year. People want to connect with loved ones regardless of the final score.

What This Says About Driving Habits

The 6% uptick in miles driven isn’t huge, but in the context of a big event, it’s meaningful. The Super Bowl didn’t slow New England drivers down. Instead, it motivated them to go places, connect with others, and be part of the moment.