What's happened
The Patriots defeated the Broncos 10-7 in snowy AFC Championship, returning to the Super Bowl for the first time since 2019. Quarterback Drake Maye, just 23, led the team with a late touchdown run. Seattle's Sam Darnold advanced with the Seahawks, who beat the Rams 31-27. The Super Bowl will be held in Santa Clara on Feb 8.
What's behind the headline?
The Patriots' return to the Super Bowl highlights a significant coaching and player development turnaround under Vrabel, who is attempting to become the first to win a Super Bowl as both player and coach for the same team. Maye's rise as a second-year quarterback and MVP candidate signals a new era for the franchise, contrasting sharply with their previous struggles post-Brady. Seattle's advancement with Darnold, a former Jets bust, underscores how unconventional paths can lead to success in the NFL. The game in Santa Clara promises a compelling matchup, with the Patriots seeking their seventh title and the Seahawks aiming for their third. The story exemplifies resilience and strategic rebuilding in professional sports.
What the papers say
The NY Post reports that the Patriots' victory was marked by a gritty, snow-affected game, emphasizing Maye’s leadership despite limited passing yards. The Independent highlights Maye's emergence and Vrabel's coaching success, noting the team's turnaround from last year's 4-13 record. Contrastingly, the NY Post also details Darnold's impressive performance leading the Seahawks to their first Super Bowl in over a decade, emphasizing the unpredictability of this season. These sources collectively portray a season defined by unexpected heroics and strategic resilience, with the Patriots and Seahawks defying expectations to reach the big game.
How we got here
The Patriots' journey to the Super Bowl has been remarkable, coming off consecutive poor seasons after Tom Brady's departure. Under coach Mike Vrabel, the team improved from 4-13 last year to 14-3 this season. Maye, their young quarterback, has emerged as a key player, leading the team to its 12th Super Bowl appearance. Meanwhile, Seattle's success with Darnold marks a significant turnaround for the franchise, which hadn't reached the Super Bowl in 11 years.
Go deeper
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