Tom Brady and Bill Belichick will undoubtedly earn their fifth Super Bowl title this Sunday. The New England Patriots have been a dominant force in their past two playoff games. Their dynamic offense, in harmony with a consistent defense, will shut down a flashy Atlanta Falcons team.
The offensive genius of Josh McDaniels, the Patriots’ offensive coordinator, came to fruition in a flea flicker that went for a touchdown in the AFC Championship against the Pittsburg Steelers. McDaniels certainly has similar plays in his arsenal that will shred Atlanta’s defense on Sunday. Julian Edelman looks to be at the top of his game, alongside new standout wide receiver Chris Hogan. It would be shocking if both didn’t have touchdown catches in Super Bowl LI.
In the fourth quarter of the AFC Championship game, the Patriots’ running game also looked strong. The Falcons will not have an answer for the power of LeGarrett Blount. This power — paired with the speed of Dion Lewis — will enable New England’s run game to create opportunities for Tom Brady’s accuracy in the passing game.
While Atlanta has a high-powered offense, it will be no match for the consistency of New England’s defense, which is great at being patient for turnover opportunities and then capitalizing on them. Julio Jones will struggle against a secondary anchored in the talents of Malcolm Butler and Devin McCourty. Rob Ninkovich, the Patriots’ star linebacker, will also provide pressure Matt Ryan will not be able to handle, causing him to make mistakes.
Atlanta’s only hope of winning is by forcing New England into a high-scoring game, where they can get pressure on Tom Brady. Atlanta will not be able to accomplish this with its current front four, even if they are blitzing on every play. They don’t have the defensive prowess to hold back New England’s diverse and ever changing offense.
Regular season must also be considered. The Patriots went 14-2, while missing their starting quarterback for the first four games, during which time one of their losses occurred. Meanwhile, the Falcons went 11-5, losing to the San Diego Chargers at home, who were the only team this year to lose to the Cleveland Browns.
The Dynasty will continue. Tom Brady will be hoisting his fifth Lombardi trophy late on Sunday night.
