There is truly so much to say about the 2011 season for the New England Patriots.
Even though the season ended in disappointing fashion with the Super Bowl loss to the Giants, it was truly a remarkable season for the Patriots. In honor of Myra Kraft, wife of team owner Robert Kraft, the Patriots played with tremendous heart and perseverance, and made it back to the Super Bowl for the first time since 2007.
When asked by SB Nation, "what do you think was the best highlight of the 2011 season?", there are many plays that come to mind. Whether it was Rob Gronkowski's tremendous one-handed touchdown catch against the Broncos in the AFC Divisional Playoff Game; Jerod Mayo's game securing interception against the Redskins in Week 14 ; Wes Welker's 99-yard touchdown catch in Week 1 against the Dolphins; Tom Brady's masterful game-winning drive to beat the Cowboys in Week 6; or even Vince Wilfork's first career interception versus the Chargers.
So many well-deserving plays that are worthy of the "Best Patriots Highlight of 2011", but there was one moment that truly stood out to me as the best of the best. It was a combination of two plays, actually. New England defensive back Sterling Moore made the play of his life, and Ravens kicker Billy Cundiff missed the most important field goal of his life. When it was all said and done, the Patriots' ticket to Super Bowl XLVI was punched.
Allow me to set the scene. One cold Sunday in Foxborough, three point Patriots lead, second and one for the Baltimore Ravens on the Patriots' 19-yard line, 0:30 left on the clock in the fourth quarter.
Take it away, Jim Nantz and Phil Simms: