The New England Patriots have won some incredible Super Bowls. They’re going for their sixth this Sunday against Philadelphia in Minneapolis, which will mark an all-time-best 10th appearance in the big game, and a win would tie New England with Pittsburgh for the most titles.
Should they emerge victorious, the Pats will find it hard to top some of the classic finishes they’ve already endured.
For their first Super Bowl win in 2002, a first-year starting QB by the name of Tom Brady led the Pats on a last-minute drive that culminated with a 48-yard game-winning field goal — the first time a Super Bowl was won by a score on the final play. And in their most recent Super Bowl last year, the Patriots pulled off the largest comeback in Super Bowl history (25 points) to win the first Super Bowl to ever reach overtime.
Yet, the most stunning New England Super Bowl win came exactly three years ago today, on Feb. 1, 2015. With a 28-24 lead and 27 seconds left in the fourth quarter, Seattle lined up for a second-and-goal from the 1-yard line. Running back Marshawn Lynch had already bulldozed the Pats for 102 yards and a touchdown; he seemed like the only logical person to get the ball on this play. Only, Seattle chose differently:
And just like that, New England captured its fourth Super Bowl.
Many criticized Seattle quarterback Russell Wilson for throwing the interception. Blame also fell on the coaches for making the play call, but Wilson responded admirably soon after the game:
Thank You God for the opportunity. We'll be back… I will never waiver on who He has called me to be…
Thanks 12s #GoHawks
— Russell Wilson (@DangeRussWilson) February 2, 2015
Every setback has a major comeback.#GreaterIsComing
— Russell Wilson (@DangeRussWilson) February 2, 2015
At 26 years old I won't allow 1 play or 1 moment define my career.
I will keep evolving.#Motivation
— Russell Wilson (@DangeRussWilson) February 2, 2015
Wilson did bounce back to have a career year in 2015 (34 TDs, 8 INTs, 110.1 rating), but the Seahawks have yet to return to the Super Bowl.
Related links:
– Patriots Pro Bowler Matthew Slater praises Eagles players for their faith in Christ
– Patriots’ Devin McCourty relies on Jesus to help lead his family
– Patriots’ Brandin Cooks says faith in Christ is the biggest thing in his life
– Patriots’ Nate Solder leaning on Christ despite son’s rare cancer diagnosis
– Football Sunday 2018: Seek, Surrender, Serve
– Download the Football Sunday edition of Sports Spectrum Magazine
– Minneapolis hosting 33 days of prayer in preparation for Super Bowl
