There was a changing of the guard when they met 17 years ago at Super Bowl XXXVI. History could repeat itself on Sunday, February 3 (6:30 PM ET, CBS), but this time, it could be the New England Patriots who see their dynasty end when they face the Los Angeles Rams at Super Bowl LIII. The Patriots are 3-point favorites at press time with a total of 57.5; Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta is this year’s host venue.
Back in 2002, head coach Bill Belichick and young QB Tom Brady were 14-point underdogs when they shocked the St. Louis Rams, winning 20-17 and putting an early end to The Greatest Show on Turf. Brady is 41 years old now, although still a Pro-Bowl quarterback, and he’s protected by one of the best offensive lines in football.
The Rams could be the NFL’s next dynasty. Head coach Sean McVay is the reigning AP Coach of the Year, and QB Jared Goff has out-played Brady this season. However, the LA run defense leaves something to be desired; RB Sony Michel could be the breakout star for the Patriots on Super Bowl Sunday, after racking up five rushing touchdowns over the past two games.
