For the second time in the last 17 seasons, the New England Patriots have a chance to win three Lombardi trophies in a four-year span. For the second time in the last 17 seasons, the Patriots have the chance to do so against the Philadelphia Eagles.
by James Payne – Wannamakeabet Staff Writer
13 years ago in Super Bowl 39, the Patriots defeated the Eagles 24-21. Brady went 23/33 for 236 yards and two TDs, and his best Super Bowl QBR at 110.2. However, this was the one Super Bowl Brady did not walk away with the MVP trophy.
Six of the seven Super Bowls that Tom Brady has played in have been decided by four or fewer points, win or lose. Last February the Patriots beat the Falcons by scoring a touchdown in overtime to win the team’s 5th Lombardi trophy.
Similarities between these two teams are uncanny. This season both teams lost to Kansas City, finished 13-3, had the number one seed, had a blow out win and a close, come from behind win in the playoffs. Both teams averaged 28.6 points per game, good for 2nd and 3rd in the league this season. The Eagles were 4th in points against giving up 18.4 points per game and the Patriots, 5th, allowing 18.5.
Both teams went 12-6 ATS the spread the season and postseason. The Patriots have been favored in every game they’ve played. Meanwhile, the Eagles have covered the spread five out of seven times as underdogs, including both playoff games.
This Super Bowl has the making to be another close one. Whether it’s a nail biter from start to finish, or with the Eagles not having the capability to close out the Patriots like we’ve seen many times before. However, it’s Stephen Gostkowski’s turn to emulate Adam Vinatieri and kick a winning field goal as time expires.
The Pick: Eagles +4
O/U: Over 48.5