Patriots or Falcons — Who Will Win Super Bowl 51? [POLL]
The New England Patriots are back in familiar territory, while the Atlanta Falcons are in relatively uncharted waters.
The Patriots will be making their NFL record ninth Super Bowl appearance and looking for their fifth title, while the Falcons will try to claim their first Vince Lombardi in only its second trip to the NFL's big game. Both teams advanced to the Super Bowl after coasting to wins in their respective conference championship games.
The Patriots, of course, are led by the tandem of Tom Brady and Bill Belichick, who've been together for all four of New England's Super Bowl titles. The Patriots are machinelike in their precision with a dominating pedigree. If these two are on the field, the team will be formidable, regardless of who lines up. Chris Hogan and Julian Edelman may not strike fear in opponents' hearts, but they get the job done and running back LeGarrette Blount anchors a strong ground game. The defense also gave up the fewest points per game.
The Falcons will certainly present a challenge. MVP candidate Matt Ryan headlines the league's most potent offense that relies on standout wide receiver Julio Jones and the one-two running back punch of Devonta Freeman and Tevin Coleman. It's an offense that scores more than anyone else in the NFL. And, of yeah, the underrated defense has improved as the season progressed (Vic Beasley led the NFL in sacks).
History, of course, says the Pats will win. After all, they've got Brady, Belichick and plenty of experience. The Falcons are not used to getting this deep into the postseason, so will they buckle under on such a high-profile stage?