by Jonathan Storti
Team Origins: Another AFL team, the Patriots were established by businessmen Billy Sullivan in 1959. The team was originally called the Boston Patriots, but eventually the name changed to encompass the entire New England area. Early in franchise history the Patriots didn’t have a stadium of their own, so they played all over Boston, even in Fenway park. The Patriots were always beloved by their fans, but seemed to come up short time after time. The franchise had never won a championship until a certain hoody wearing coach, Bill Belichick, took over. Under his leadership the team has thrived in the 2000s.
Famous Players: Tom Brady – The current golden boy of the NFL was nothing special until a Drew Bledsoe injury forced him into the lineup. As a starter he has led the Patriots to four Super Bowls, winning three of them. At crunch time Brady really excels, and this is what made him the best quarterback of the 2000s.
Steve Grogan – Former quarterback for New England, who spent his entire fifteen season career with the Pats. He was known for toughness and consistent performances. Forgotten by some because of the many great QBs of the 1980s, Patriot fans always remember Steve Grogan.
Ben Coats – The former fifth round pick produced first round numbers with the New England Patriots. During the 1990s Coats went to five Pro Bowls, becoming one the best offensive tight ends in football. He finished his stellar career with 50 touchdown receptions.
All-time great games: On January 19, 2002 the Patriots met the Oakland Raiders in the playoffs. Snowy conditions turned the field into a white blanket, with only the player’s footsteps disturbing the ground. The Patriots were led by then un-heralded second year player Tom Brady, and new coach Bill Belichick. The more experienced Raiders had the lead late in the fourth quarter as Brady drove the offense. A careless fumble by Brady appeared to end the game, but the Patriots challenged the play, and it was ruled he had” tucked” the ball, making the call an incomplete pass. Brady continued to drive his team, setting up a field goal that sent the game into overtime. In OT Adam Vinatieri kicked a game winning field goal that propelled the Patriots to a Super Bowl that year. The famed “Tuck-rule” game helped began the Patriots current dynasty.
League Identity: The Cowboys have been America’s Team the previous three decades, but the Pats may have bumped Dallas in the past ten years. The popularity of the Patriots has exploded in the past decade, with four Super Bowl appearances. Part of their popularity grew out of their introduction in Super Bowl XXXVI, just months after 9/11 the Patriots were introduced as a team, not as individuals. The solidarity resonated strongly with many fans, giving the Patriots even more fans. The Patriots stadium now includes an adjacent mall, which has created a more corporate, American feel. This is juxtaposed with Green Bay’s community outlook on their football team. The Patriots are consistently competing for championships, and may continue to be America’s New Team.
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