Super Bowl 2015: NFL Spin Zone Staff Predictions
Dec 21, 2014; Glendale, AZ, USA; Seattle Seahawks cornerback Richard Sherman (25) celebrates an interception in the second half against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports
Chris Piemonte: Seahawks 34, Patriots 28
In a battle of two teams I can’t stand, I think the Legion of Boom will once again dominate this game. Tom Brady, Bill Belichick and co. will find success early on, but the reigning Super Bowl champions will make the proper adjustments and complete the repeat. Marshawn Lynch will go into “Beast Mode” for over 100 yards and I’ll even go as far as to say I expect an Earl Thomas touchdown…
Rishi Pochiraju: Seahawks 27, Patriots 24
New England’s high flying offense will face some challenges against Seattle’s defense. The Cover 3 scheme that Seattle often utilizes will be able to contain Rob Gronkowski—Kam Chancellor will win most of his matchups against Gronk. Seattle’s defense is probably the only one capable of shutting down New England’s offense, and while the game will be close, Seattle will be the Super Bowl champions.
Dan Salem: Patriots 28, Seahawks 17
This will be a tale of two halves, as Seattle stifles Tom Brady and the Patriots’ offense for two quarters. The Seahawks don’t get much either, with the game knotted at 14 as we enter intermission. New England is best in the league at halftime adjustments, so expect a huge shift in time of possession in the third and fourth quarters. Seattle hits and misses on field goals, while the Patriots hold the ball for 14 more points and the championship.
Brian Spaen: Patriots 27, Seahawks 17
Seattle’s defense has been dominant again this season, especially down the stretch with eight straight wins. However, it’s not like they’ve faced a murderer’s row of quarterbacks between Week 6 against Tony Romo (Seahawks lost that game) and the rematch with Aaron Rogers in the NFC title game. After the “Deflategate” drama, I like New England to come out with a sense of urgency. There’s enough bulletin board material to fuel Rob Gronkowski and overcome a banged up “Legion of Boom.” Seattle was lucky to get past Green Bay in the ultimate choke, and that luck runs out on Sunday.
Daniel Zillmer: Patriots 27, Seahawks 23
The story of this game will be Rob Gronkowski’s unbreakable will. As unlikely as it is for a tight end to be named Super Bowl MVP, I wouldn’t be shocked in this instance. If Seattle’s unbelievable defense has a weakness it is their inability to adequately shut down quality tight ends. “Gronk” is the best in the game and he’ll show that on Sunday night. I expect Russell Wilson and Marshawn Lynch to both play good games, but it will be Tom Brady’s clutch play and Gronkowski’s yards after the catch that makes the difference.