Only two days left in the countdown to kickoff. For 49ers and Ravens fans, they're days filled with nervous anticipation and fervent prayer. Super Bowl Sunday. It’s the one magical day of the year that ardent football fans join forces and break bread with the people who watch The Bachelor on Monday nights. That’s because you don’t have to know football or even like sports to get sucked up in the energy surrounding the event. After all, who doesn’t love incredible commercials? And whether or not Beyoncé lip syncs or has a wardrobe malfunction during the half time show, it’s bound to be superbly entertaining. Nope, it doesn’t matter where you’re from or what you believe, if you can name all the players or barely distinguish between the two teams—anyone can love the Super Bowl, and most every American does.

The food at Super Bowl parties isn’t just fuel for the fun, it’s half of why you go to Super Bowl parties in the first place.  What other holiday or celebration can you justify eating pizza, chicken wings, six-foot-long subs, nachos and oh, so many beers all in one sitting? It’s unapologetic indulgence and it’s awesome. That being said, whether you’re hosting or attending a Super Bowl party this Sunday, it’s important to choose the dishes and beverages you serve with intention.  Regardless of how invested you are in the game, the execution of super snacking is a team effort, and everyone’s got to do their part.

Not sure what to bring or make? Start by figuring out what “position” you play at your Super Bowl party, and then choose one of these sure-fire recipe "power plays" to cook up before the game. Trust us, this is one unbeatable starting lineup.

If you are 1) a new resident of the U.S. and still prone to arguments about how soccer is superior to American football or 2) developing a new-found appreciation for the sport and ask a lot of questions like “what just happened!?” every five minutes — it’s really imperative that you bring a crowd-pleaser that ingratiates you to everyone. Bringing a delicious party staple such as Bobby’s Buffalo Wings with Tangy Cheese Dip (pictured above)  is proof that, despite being a little green, you know what’s up. Plus, your fellow celebrants will be extra impressed when you tell them that these spicy and addictive wings are actually baked and not fried. Hey, if you’ve got to be a Rookie, be the Rookie of the Year.

You can’t help it, but for you football is never just a spectator sport. You get into it -- body and soul -- and sometimes things get physical. On the one hand you don’t want to miss a single pass or even a bit of commentary, but on the other your intensity requires serious sustenance. These Steak Hoagies are for you. Make the hot and peppery sauce ahead of time so that on game day, sandwich assembly is a snap. Slices of juicy flank steak dripping with spicy sauce and piled high on a toasted hoagie bun — this sandwich tastes like winning.

Here are more Sandwiches for Winners.

If you’re the host of a Super Bowl party this year, you’re automatically the quarterback and team captain. But with great power comes great responsibility, and if you’re hungry for the MVP status, you got to step up your game. Fancy cocktails really have no place at a Super Bowl party, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get a little creative. In addition to serving up ice cold brewskies, make a big pitcher of Bobby Flay’s Ruddy Marys, a cocktail made with beer instead of liquor. It’s spicy and refreshing — the perfect complement to salty snacks. It's a Hail Mary play with a happy ending.

Check out more Beer Cocktail recipes for the big game.

So what if you’re happier on the sidelines, cheering for the commercials more often than actual plays? Because when it comes time to re-energize the crowd at halftime, you are all over it like white on rice (or Rice on a football). Serve your friends these amazingly rich and (extra point) caffeinated Espresso Brownies and bust out that Beyoncé choreography we know you know. Now that’s how you kick it, Super Bowl style.