David Wins Again
We've all heard the David vs Goliath comparison in this year's NFL playoffs. It was first applied in the AFC Championship, but it worked just as well leading up to Super Bowl LII. Philadelphia sports isn't exactly known for its successes. Coming into the game with a backup QB who had contemplated retirement in the offseason just added to the underdog role. Instead of being knocked down, the Eagles embraced the role, and sought to prove everyone wrong. But they had an obstacle. A big, terrifying, all-time great obstacle, the New England Patriots. Philadelphia was staring at the greatest dynasty to ever play. To hoist the trophy in front of them, much like the real Biblical story, would take some help from God. And the Eagles had faith that He was on their side.
Unlike the real story, which was a rather short battle, this was a long, exciting, closely fought fight. This was a game that had more yards gained than any football game ever played. Although Philly spent little time trailing, it was never a comfortable lead with Brady on the opposing sideline. This was undoubtedly one of the greatest Super Bowls ever played.
As great as the game was throughout, it always boils down to a few moments. The first of these was one of the gutsiest calls we have seen since Sean Payton's onside kick in Super Bowl XLIV. On a 4th down on the goaline, Doug Pederson would chose to go for it with a 3-point lead and time dwindling in the first half. Not only would he go for it, but he would call a trick play that had TE Trey Burton throwing to QB Nick Foles for one of the most memorable TD's in recent memory. Later in the game, Pederson would send out his offense again on 4th down. This time from their own half of the field with under six minutes. They converted that one as well. Doug Pederson left his mark on the game with those two plays.
As we all know, NFL games rarely come without controversy, and this one was no exception. Among the great moments of this game were two plays that will leave some fans in denial. The first controversial play came midway through the 3rd quarter when Foles threw to Corey Clement for a 22-yard TD pass. Upon review, there was some question as to whether Clement had lost possession while trying to get two feet in bounds. There was definitely a bobble, but some might argue that he never truly lost possession. In the end, I believe you have to stay with the ruling on the field unless it is indisputably wrong, and that's what they did.
The other bit of controversy would take place with 2:21 left in the game. The score was 32-33, and the Patriots were holding on to their only lead of the game. After a long drive by Philadelphia, Foles threw to Zach Ertz who caught it on the 5-yard line. Ertz would dive into the endzone, but everybody noticed a familiar sight. The ball touched the ground, and came out of his hands. Immediately, Jesse James comparisons were made. This time, however, the ruling stood. In my opinion, this was clearly the correct call. Ertz caught the ball, turned up field, took three steps, and dive towards the goaline. If that isn't enough to establish yourself as a runner, then what is? As with the Clement catch, I agree with the call.
Personally, as I was rooting for the Eagles, I thought they left far too much time on the clock. I thought a reversal of Ertz's catch would actually benefit them. It turns out, that touchdown was just the setup for what I would consider the biggest play of the game, and arguably, the biggest play in Philadelphia sports history. We all know how great Tom Brady is in the clutch. Two minutes can seem like an eternity when the ball is in his hands. I thought the Patriots had it won. That was before Brandon Graham brought pressure and stripped the ball from Brady on the second play of the drive. Even hours later, I can't believe it happened. Without that strip sack, I don't believe the Eagles win that game. The fumble would lead to a Philly field goal.
The game wasn't quite over. The Patriots still had another chance. The drive started with a terrible kickoff return that included a lateral and only got them to the 10-yard line. They would recover as Brady would get the team to midfield on a few good throws. With nine ticks left, Philly got pressure on Brady, and he was forced to heave the ball into the endzone. Millions of fans held their breath as the ball seemed to bounce around all night long. The ball would eventually land on the ground, and for the first time ever, the Philadelphia Eagles won the Super Bowl.
This win completed the David and Goliath story that was built up all this time. The little guy wins, and everyone (minus Pats' fans) rejoices. No matter what moment you remember the most, I can guarantee that you will remember this one for a long time. There have been few games greater than the one that took place in Minneapolis on February 4th, 2018. In addition to the memories, we are left with questions. What is the future of Bill Belichick, Tom Brady, and the New England Patriots? Will Carson Wentz bring the Eagles back here next year? Where will Nick Foles be next season? Only time will tell the answers to those questions. And I'm sure we are all anxious for those answers. But for now, one thing is for sure. The Eagles are finally flying high!
