Super Bowl LIII
Patriots on offense
In the air
NFL ranks: Patriots offense 8th, Rams defense 14th Tom Brady has not been sacked in the playoffs, so the Rams will need to pressure, hit and sack him to prevent him from establishing or staying in rhythm. Aaron Donald, with 20½ sacks, is almost certain to draw extra attention, presenting one-on-one opportunities for Ndamukong Suh, Michael Brockers and edge-rushing linebackers Dante Fowler and Samson Ebukam. Brady targeted running back James White, a Super Bowl star two years ago, more than any player during the season. Receiver Julian Edelman is experienced and proven in the Super Bowl. Tight end Rob Gronkowski, balky back or not, is a game-changer. Chris Hogan and Phillip Dorsett are other effective receivers. Cornerbacks Aqib Talib and Marcus Peters will be challenged.
On the ground
NFL ranks: Patriots offense 5th, Rams defense 23rd The Patriots attack from all angles with three running backs. Rookie Sony Michel rushed for 129 yards and three touchdowns against the Chargers and 113 yards and two touchdowns against the Chiefs. James White is known for his pass-catching but he rushed for five touchdowns this season. Rex Burkhead did not rush for a touchdown during the season — but he has three in the playoffs. And don’t forget fullback James Develin. Belichick won’t. The Rams weren’t great statistically against the run, but Donald, Suh and Brockers helped limit the Cowboys and Saints to a combined 98 rushing yards. Patriots 5th in total offense, 5th in points scored Rams 19th in total defense, 20th in points allowed
Patriots you should know
James Develin > > > The fullback protects Tom Brady and clears the way for Sonny Michel. And knowing Bill Belichick and Josh McDaniels, Develin could be unleashed as more than an occasional runner or pass-catcher against the Rams.
J.C. Jackson | Stephon Gilmore and Jason McCourty are the starting cornerbacks, but Jackson rotates in to enable McCourty to play in the slot.
Joe Thuney | Thuney, a fourth-year left guard, could often see Rams tackle Aaron Donald lined up just off his left shoulder. Thuney will no doubt have help, but he and other interior linemen have a huge responsibility protecting Tom Brady.
Patriots who must come through
Stephen Gostkowski > > > Gostkowski, in his 13th season, had not missed a Super Bowl field-goal attempt until last year against the Eagles. He made one in the first quarter, but a bad snap led to a missed 26-yard attempt. He made his next one from 45 yards.
Rob Gronkowski | At this time last year, Gronkowski’s health and future was a major story. It remains so. The tight end was targeted a team-high 11 times in the playoff victory over the Chiefs and had six catches.
Dont’a Hightower | Hightower, a seventh-year linebacker, did not play in the Super Bowl last season because of a pectoral injury. Hightower and Kyle Van Noy are key to helping stop Todd Gurley and C.J. Anderson.