Patriots bury Falcons in Super Bowl LI rematch

Photo by Billie Weiss/Getty Images

The Patriots defeated the Falcons 23-7 on Sunday Night football in a rematch of last year's big game. The Falcons came in at 3-2, but had struggled against the AFC East. The Patriots defense has been much maligned this year, and they were without multiple starters. They also lost Dont'a Hightower during the game. The Falcons high powered offense was primed to be a big test.

After an ugly first quarter by both teams, the Patriots were the only one that seemed to wake up. They rode a dominant second quarter into a complete victory, holding the Falcons scoreless until garbage time. The Pats were led, as always, by their super star quarter back Tom Brady. He finished 21 of 29 for 249 yards and two tuddies. He spread the ball around to all his weapons, and DIDI led the way on the ground. Rex Burkhead also shined in his return.

The talk of the town tomorrow, however, will be about the efforts of the defense. That Falcons team is stacked with talent. It's no easy task keeping them under control for a full 60 minutes. The Pats get a statement win, and move to 5-2 on the year.