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Companies Spend Big Bucks For 30 Seconds Of Super Bowl Fame

BALTIMORE (WJZ)—A lot of people tune in to the game just to watch the commercials. So to create buzz many advertisers are releasing the commercials, or at least a teaser, days before.

Monique Griego reports it's all part of an effort to make sure the ad reaches the maximum amount of people.

From the super sexy to the star studded, Sunday's big game means big money for commercials.

"They're as much of a spectacle as the Super Bowl itself," Warschawski said.

David Warschawski, from Warschawski PR & Advertising, says more than 100 million people are expected to tune in.

Advertisers are looking to cash in, especially here in Baltimore.

"With our team, our Ravens in the Super Bowl, the interest from advertisers has been phenomenal," said Jay Newman.

WJZ's General Manager Jay Newman says with the game airing on CBS, the local spots went quick.

"We are sold out and have been sold out in the game itself," Newman said.

This year, 30 seconds of national airtime is averaging anywhere from $3.5 to $4 million.

It's money companies are willing to spend even in tough financial times.

"These are opportunities that bring mass eyeballs to your brand. If you do it well, the payoff can be fantastic," said Warschawski.

And a big trend with commercials this year is integrating social media like Budweiser and Coke did.

While Budweiser is asking viewers to name one of its famous Clydesdales, Coke is letting people pick how their ad ends.

It's all part of an effort to reach a bigger audience.

"To maximize that immense spend that they're putting in,"  Warschawski said.

So who is Warschawski's winners this year? He says keep an eye out for Pepsi and Mercedes.

The last of which proves celebrities and sex still sell.

"Kate Upton washing a car will be one that I think a lot of people, especially guys, will be talking about," Warschawski said.

Warschawski says his losers this year were Axe, which sells men's products, and Budweiser. But the one with the Clydesdale made Monique Griego cry. So it's a winner in her book.

Click here for a preview of  some of the ads that will air during the Super Bowl.

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