Ok, I’ll cop to a corny post headline. But now that Sunday’s come and gone, I feel better admitting it: I don’t like sports. The big game for me this weekend wasn’t the Super Bowl – it was Harvard Square’s Third Annual Chili Cook-Off. I do have at least one thing in common with Steelers fans, though – my team was robbed.

Neighborhood joints Fire + Ice, Crema Cafe, Grendel’s Den, Harvest, Tory Row, Redline, UpStairs on the Square and more all turned out to offer large, free cups of chili out on DeGuglielmo Plaza this Saturday – and despite (or because of) the drizzly weather, the street was packed with chili-and-cornbread loving foodies. Such is the power of free food in Boston that even J.P. Licks’ fresh avocado ice cream went fast in the wintry weather (it was, by the way, deliciously rich and creamy).

Having thoroughly lapped up every sample, I can say with full conviction that UpStairs on the Square deserved to win. Their braised short rib chili was a daring and hearty concoction – sweet, meaty, and complemented perfectly with a small slice of cornbread topped with a spicy butter. Other offerings stood out. I loved Harvest’s turkey and white bean chili, and Crema Café’s sweet potato chili was the most creative of the bunch. But if I had to pick one giant bowl to curl up with, it would be UpStairs on the Square’s.

Unfortunately, the crowd on Saturday didn’t share my enthusiasm. The winner was Redline’s Three-Meat, Three Bean chili. It was a strong and beefy cup (the three meats were carnitas, ground beef and Italian sausage – no complaints there), and certainly one of the best of the afternoon. Its flavors, however, were more traditional and refined than Upstairs’ barbecuey blend – for me, it just didn’t have that extra kick.

I do have one consolation – the mantra of the offseason. This is the time of year that every sports fan can say, “There’s always next year.” For once, I can join them.