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1. Edelman was a College Quarterback
Julian Edelman is a former college quarterback. Did you all know that? He was selected in the seventh round. Is that news to you? He played cornerback against the Ravens in the 2011 playoffs, is that new information?
This play has been tucked away since Edelman's rookie year and I can't believe that this was the moment that Josh McDaniels decided to uncork such a ridiculous play.
The Patriots were down 14 for the second time of the day, and had already started to mount their final comeback. The Ravens secondary was depleted and Tom Brady had great success picking on the left side of the field. Edelman followed the play, the secondary bit, and Danny Amendola was wide open for a good pass and catch.
Prior to the Super Bowl, this was an entirely possible #1 overall seed. Instead, it'll have to be happy with this match-up.
16. Julian Edelman the Hitman
The GIF is the result of ridiculously strong competition. This is what happens when you have to play against Alabama or Oregon or Ohio State every single year; no matter how good you are, you'll always be overshadowed.
This is the single play that won the Patriots the Super Bowl. Sure, some little interception sealed the deal, but this was the moment that New England couldn't lose. Whenever Tom Brady scrambles, lowers his shoulder, and comes up howling, that's when the assassin is at the door and the Patriots win. He couldn't do that this game, so Edelman took up the mantle.
Edelman's play here saved not just the drive, but fired up every single player on the team. Offensive and defensive players alike attribute their strong fourth quarter to Edelman's heart.
This is a potential upset, folks.