Super Bowl LX in Santa Clara, California, saw a rematch from over a decade ago between the New England Patriots and the Seattle Seahawks, with the Seahawks getting their revenge in a dominant 29-13 win.
The New England Patriots made their first Super Bowl appearance since 2019, when Tom Brady was still part of the team. They entered the game with the most Super Bowl appearances in NFL history, tied with the most championship wins and the most championship losses in NFL history. The Seattle Seahawks, meanwhile, made their fourth Super Bowl appearance, having previously won one championship in 2014.
The first half was defined by defensive dominance from both teams as possession changed frequently. The Patriots’ offense struggled significantly as quarterback Drake Maye was heavily pressured by Seattle’s defense, leading to three sacks and three turnovers in the first half. New England was held scoreless, becoming the 15th team in Super Bowl history to fail to score in the first half. Teams that have been shut out through the first two quarters are now 0-14 in Super Bowl comeback attempts.
It is important to note that Maye was managing a right throwing shoulder injury he suffered during the AFC Championship Game against Denver. Despite being removed from the final injury report, he received a pain-killing injection before the game.
The Seahawks were able to shut down the Patriots’ offense due to a change in defensive game plan, shifting from six defensive backs to five and using more aggressive blitz packages. The pressure disrupted the Patriots’ rhythm and resulted in sacks, hurried throws and turnovers. Cornerback Devon Witherspoon and edge rusher Derick Hall stood out in the first half. By halftime, Seattle had limited New England to 51 total yards, four first downs and no points.
The Patriots’ defense also played competitively, holding Seattle to three field goals by breaking up potential touchdown passes and limiting red-zone scoring. Using an aggressive strategy to pressure Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold and limit the running game, New England kept the score close early. Cornerback Christian Gonzalez broke up multiple pass attempts in the end zone, while safety Craig Woodson made several key tackles.
Seattle’s offense relied on a strong running game to create opportunities for Darnold and maximize its playmakers, particularly running back Kenneth Walker III, who helped control the tempo. The Seahawks used the ground game to wear down the Patriots’ defense. While Darnold struggled at times through the air, Walker III rushed for 94 yards on 14 carries. Despite offensive inconsistencies, Seattle maintained control and gradually built its lead. Kicker Jason Myers converted three field goals to give the Seahawks a 9-0 lead at halftime.
The third quarter continued as a defensive battle with limited scoring and multiple punts from both teams. Seattle extended its lead to 12-0 with Myers’ fourth field goal of the game. The Patriots continued to struggle offensively, gaining just one first down in the quarter. The period ended with Maye fumbling, and the Seahawks recovered to gain possession.
The fourth quarter featured the game’s first touchdowns. Seattle struck early with a 16-yard touchdown pass from Darnold to tight end AJ Barner. Minutes later, the Patriots avoided a shutout when Maye connected with wide receiver Mack Hollins for a 35-yard touchdown.
Midway through the quarter, safety Julian Love intercepted Maye, setting up Myers’ fifth field goal, a Super Bowl record. On the Patriots’ ensuing possession, another fumble led to a touchdown by linebacker Uchenna Nwosu, giving Seattle its second touchdown of the night. New England added a late touchdown, but it was not enough to mount a comeback, as the Seahawks secured a 29-13 victory and their second Super Bowl title.
Walker III was named the game’s Most Valuable Player.
“It’s a dream come true,” Walker III said after the game. “A lot of people play their whole careers and never make it this far, so it’s a blessing. We went through adversity all season, but we stayed together. That adversity showed who we are as a team, and the brotherhood we have right now is special.”
Citlali Sanchez is a senior majoring in sports journalism, with a minor in sport marketing. She enjoys going out for boba and watching soccer and anime. She can also be found volunteering at sporting events in town or out at coffee shops.
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