Ranking Every Super Bowl Of The 2010s, From Worst To Best
9. Super Bowl LIII (2019) New England Patriots 13-3 Los Angeles Rams
One year after the most explosive Super Bowl shootout of all time, this year’s edition promised even more of an offensive firestorm. It was to be the prodigal Sean McVay, young mastermind head coach and his dynamic scoring stars versus those Pats, again led by a Tom Brady who’d just proven throughout the playoffs that, even at 41 years old, he still had it.
What we got was a defensive slugfest and punting masterclass; a far cry from the expected plethora of points. Who else but Bill Belichick would find such an effective means of not only limiting, but completely stopping the Rams’ formerly lethal offense?
Yet, for all the skill demonstrated by the defensive sides of both teams, fans couldn’t help but find this game a dud. The four quarters were defined more by offensive ineptitude, particularly by Rams’ wide-eyed young quarterback Jared Goff, than huge defensive plays.
Indeed, the most impressive plays of the game were arguably on special teams; LA’s Johnny Hecker broke the Super Bowl record for longest punt, if that’s what you’re into.
Defensive player of the year Aaron Donald was silent, mercurial running back Todd Gurley was clearly hurting, and even Tom Brady had a quiet game.
Even still, Brady managed to lead a 4th quarter scoring drive with key throws to game MVP Julian Edelman and Rob Gronkowski, stalwarts of an era which has delivered yet another Patriots’ championship. Yawn.