Founded in 1960 as a member of the AFL and calling themselves the
Boston Patriots until 1970, the Patriots were initially a mediocore team. Made the playoffs just twice in the 1970s and
3 times in the 1980s. However, 1985 featured a miraculous run in which they made the Super
Bowl (as a wild card) after winning
3 straight road playoff games. However, they were crushed by the Bears in the title game (the Steelers became the first team to win a Super
Bowl after
3 straight road playoff victories this year). Became a decent franchise in the 1990s with eccentric coach Bill Parcells and quarterback Drew Bledsoe with
4 playoff berths and a loss in the Super Bowl in 1996. Established a dynasty in recent years with Tom
Brady, a former 6th round draft pick, as a superstar quarterback. Have made the playoffs 4 times in the last
5 years, included
3 Super Bowl wins. Won their
3 titles by a combined
9 points- Super Bowls XXXVI and XXXVIII on last second Adam Vinatieri field goals and Super Bowl XXXIX after holding off an Eagles comeback.
"And with
3 seconds left, Adam Vinatieri sets up in a tie game, trying to win the Super
Bowl for New England. That kick is on the way, it'
s long enough and good! The New England Patriots have shocked the Rams and have won the Super Bowl."
