In the neverending dynasty of the New England Patriots, coach Bill Belichick and QB Tom Brady added another Super Bowl to their resume. The Los Angeles Rams were no match for the Patriots’ sturdy defense, managing just three points. The strong defensive effort coupled with an efficient series from Brady and the offense in the fourth quarter solidified the Patriots’ sixth Super Bowl victory with a score of 13-3.

The Rams entered the big game clicking on all cylinders led by DT Aaron Donald and QB Jared Goff. However, it was a different story in the Super Bowl as Donald struggled to break through the Patriots’ rugged offensive line, and Goff made inaccurate throws, often looking confused by what the Patriots’ defense was doing. This defensive triumph was spearheaded by All-Pro DB Stephon Gilmore and a strong secondary surrounding him.  They also managed to neutralize RB Todd Gurley, holding him to a mere 35 yards.

On the other side of the ball, the Patriots protected Tom Brady from the opposing pass rush, which was instrumental for Brady in finding open receivers. The Rams’ defense played well in the first three quarters, including an interception on the first pass play of the game. In the fourth quarter, Brady and RB Sony Michel marched down the field and scored the first touchdown of the game to put New England up 10-3. Along with Michel, WR Julian Edelman put in a strong showing consistently acting as Brady’s go-to target. He finished with ten catches for 141 yards and was named the Super Bowl MVP, recording the most catches and receiving yards in the game.

Though the Patriots are happy with this win, the viewers were not. There were only six points scored in the first three quarters, and the Rams punted on their first eight drives in the lowest scoring Super Bowl of all time. In a season characterized by record high scoring and a game featuring two of the four highest scoring offenses in the league, most fans were expecting an offensive spectacle. The event that followed disappointed observers because of the low scoring and defensive focus.

Moving forward, Jared Goff must prove that he is a franchise QB that can lead the Rams in the future after his disappointing performance. If Goff can do this, it would be no surprise to see the Rams back in this game next year. For New England, lessening the load for Brady as he gets older and surrounding him with a strong cast will be a critical factor in determining how the Patriots will perform next year.

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