Despite Tom Brady’s legendary career and seven Super Bowl victories, one particular loss continues to haunt him. Recently, during “Story Time with Tom,” he reflected on his heartbreak from Super Bowl LII, played against the Philadelphia Eagles.
Super Bowl LII: A Haunting Memory
The game took place at US Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, marking a historic showdown between Brady’s New England Patriots and the Eagles on February 4, 2018. During this Super Bowl, the Eagles used the famous “Philly Special” trick play, resulting in a touchdown that changed the game’s momentum.
Key Moments in the Game
- The Eagles executed the “Philly Special,” allowing quarterback Nick Foles to catch a touchdown pass.
- Brady faced a critical moment late in the game with a strip-sack from Brandon Graham.
- The final score was 41-33 in favor of the Eagles, marking Brady’s third Super Bowl loss.
Brady recounted the moment where Graham, a fellow Michigan alumnus, strip-sacked him, saying, “He comes through the line of scrimmage and knocks the ball out of my hand just as I’m getting ready to throw the ball away.” This play was pivotal, enabling the Eagles to score a field goal and extend their lead.
Brady’s Performance
In a display of impressive skill, Brady completed 28 of 48 passes for 505 yards and threw three touchdowns. However, he acknowledged that despite a stellar performance, they could not slow down Foles and the Eagles, who responded with a powerful offensive display.
The Aftermath and Reflection
Brady noted that Super Bowl LII remains a significant memory for him, especially as he frequently encounters Eagles fans at games. As he recalled, “That was a crushing defeat for a lot of reasons,” highlighting the emotional toll the loss took despite his excellent individual performance.
Conditions and Distractions
The game was also notable for its frigid temperatures. Brady mentioned, “The temperatures all week were below 10 degrees,” outlining how the extreme cold added to the challenges faced. The team spent much of the week confined to their hotel, awaiting the game under uncomfortable conditions.
Brady eventually redeemed himself by leading the Patriots to victory in Super Bowl LIII against the Los Angeles Rams. Nevertheless, the memory of his loss to the Eagles lives on as one of the defining challenges of his career.
This story continues to resonate with fans and serves as a reminder of the highs and lows of professional sports, cementing Brady’s legacy as not only a winner but also a competitor who carries the weight of defeat.
