Ben Brown and New England are in the Super Bowl. © APA / MATTHEW STOCKMAN

Patriots win in the snow: First Super Bowl since Brady's exit

The New England Patriots have qualified for the Super Bowl for the first time since Tom Brady's departure, winning a dramatic snow battle in Denver.

26 January 2026

From: dpa/det

The 10-7 victory against the Broncos was largely marred by adverse conditions, including heavy snowfall, wind, and poor visibility, especially during the second half. The Patriots secured the win with a field goal early in the third quarter – before the snow began. Neither team scored again after that.

Just 23 years old, Drake Maye led the Patriots back to the Super Bowl in his second NFL season. "It was a challenge. We have to play better. I love this team," the quarterback said. He gained only 86 passing yards, but contributed 65 rushing yards, scoring the Patriots' only touchdown.

Patriots are record participants in the Super Bowl

New England last reached the Super Bowl seven years ago, when superstar quarterback Brady won his sixth title with the Patriots. With twelve appearances in the season's most important football game, the Patriots have extended their NFL record. The Broncos are tied for second place with eight Super Bowl appearances. On February 8, the Patriots will face the Seattle Seahawks at the San Francisco 49ers' stadium. The Seahawks defeated the Los Angeles Rams 31-27.

Patriots coach Mike Vrabel now has the chance to win the Super Bowl with the Patriots both as a player and as a coach. No one in NFL history has ever achieved this with the same team.