by The Cowl Editor on January 25, 2018
PCI
by Sullivan Burgess ’20
Sports Staff
For the tenth time in the history of the franchise, and for the eighth time in the era of Bill Belichick and Tom Brady, the New England Patriots have shocked the world yet again to find themselves in Super Bowl LII.
After coming back from a 10-point deficit against the Jacksonville Jaguars in the AFC Championship, the Pats will finally have a chance to go back up aganst Super Bowl XXXlX opponent, the Philadelphia Eagles. The Eagles are led by Nick Foles, the backup quarterback for the team after starting quarterback Carson Wentz tore his ACL late in the season. However, whether the quarterback is a backup, third string, or pro-bowler, nothing can stand in the way of New England’s roster.
With the Pats looking to become back-to-back champions after last season’s overtime victory over the Atlanta Falcons, Brady is also fighting to secure his sixth championship. This could make him the only player in NFL history with six Super Bowl rings.
This game comes down to his ability to perform against the Eagles’ defense, which contains two pro-bowlers: Fletcher Cox, defensive tackle, and strong safety Malcolm Jenkins.
Brady, even at 40 years old, is coming off one of the best seasons of his career with 4577 yards and 32 touchdowns. He is looking to his number one receiver Brandin Cooks and hopefully superstar tight end Rob Gronkowski, who suffered a concussion in the AFC Championship.
The defense, led by free safety Devin McCourty and defensive end Trey Flowers, will have to shut down options such as Alshon Jeffery, Zach Ertz, and Torrey Smith. However, without their number one quarterback, will someone like Nick Foles be able to the handle the pressure of the big stage?
We all know “Touchdown Tommy” is capable of this. In the end, Brady and Belichick will be bringing the Lombardi Trophy back to New England.