The Seattle Seahawks exacted revenge for their 2015 Super Bowl defeat with a commanding performance against the New England Patriots on Sunday, winning their second championship in franchise history. The Seahawks' defence smothered the Patriots throughout, limiting them to just three points and forcing eight punts in a 15-3 victory.
Kenneth Walker III was named Super Bowl MVP after rushing for 135 yards on 27 carries, providing the engine for Seattle's offence. Quarterback Sam Darnold completed his redemption arc from draft bust to champion, throwing for 202 yards and a touchdown. 'It's unbelievable. Just everything that's happened in my career,' Darnold said after the game. 'But to do it with this team, I wouldn't want it any other way.'
The Seahawks opened the scoring with a field goal after a 23-yard catch by Cooper Kupp, the MVP from four years ago. The Patriots, led by 23-year-old quarterback Drake Maye, struggled to move the ball against Seattle's relentless pass rush. Maye was sacked three times and committed a fumble that was recovered by Byron Murphy II, leading to another Seattle field goal.
The game was a defensive battle, with both quarterbacks completing just 45% of their passes in the first half. The Seahawks led 12-0 at halftime, and a third-quarter field goal extended their lead to 15-0. The Patriots finally got on the board with a field goal late in the fourth quarter, but it was too little too late as Seattle's defence held firm.
Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels, who entered the game with six Super Bowl wins, could not find an answer for Seattle's defence. The Seahawks' pass rush, led by rookie defensive end Rylie Mills, consistently pressured Maye and disrupted New England's offensive rhythm.
