The legend grows. Brady goes to 9-0 lifetime in the postseason, Bill Belichick moves ahead of Vince Lombardi with a playoff record of 10-1, Sam Adams gets bragging rights over Ben Franklin, and the Patriots are a gaudy 32-2 since Sept. 28, 2003. The Patriots tied a Packers record with their ninth consecutive playoff win. New England's stretch of domination includes an NFL-record 21-game winning streak, and a model of selflessness and teamwork for any coach who ever lived.
"Perhaps this one is more special," said Patriots linebacker Tedy Bruschi. "This shows everyone what kind of team we are and what kind of players we have to achieve this. People are going to have to start saying, 'These guys are one of the better teams in history.' "
"We're a title city," boasted Boston mayor Tom Menino, as he stood on the confetti-littered field moments after the game ended.
Heady times indeed. Years from now, it will be difficult to explain exactly what went on in New England sports during the golden days at the beginning of the 21st century. Who will believe that Greater Boston ruled the worlds of baseball and football simultaneously?
It's true. One hundred and two days after the Red Sox ended an 86-year drought in St. Louis, the sons of Belichick submitted another clutch performance in the ultimate game. Corey Dillon ran for 75 yards on 18 carries, including the go-ahead touchdown, and Branch caught everything thrown his way. New England's veteran, smashmouth defense did the rest, rattling Philadelphia quarterback Donovan McNabb and forcing four Eagles turnovers. Patriots captain and spiritual leader Rodney Harrison sealed the victory with an interception of a desperation McNabb heave just before the clock expired.
