New England Patriots reach record NINTH Super Bowl as they storm past the Pittsburgh Steelers in 36-17 rout


TOM BRADY led the charge with an imperious display as the New England Patriots stormed into Super Bowl 51.

The quarterback – suspended for four matches due to the Deflategate scandal – threw a franchise play-off record 384 yards.

Tom Brady was at his inspirational best in the rout
Tom Brady was at his inspirational best in the rout
AP:Associated Press

It will be 39-year-old Brady's seventh trip to NFL's showpiece with coach Bill Belichick as the duo go for a fifth crown.


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The Pats enter a record ninth Super Bowl after blowing away in-form Pittsburgh.

Chris Hogan caught two of Brady's three touchdowns while Julian Edelman added eight receptions for 118 yards and a score.

The Steelers - six-time champions - lost star running back Le’Veon Bell late in the first quarter to a groin injury and never looked like challenging Brady & Co.

Opponents Atlanta were even more impressive as they destroyed the Green Bay Packers 44-21 in the other championship game.

Quarterback Matt Ryan and superstar receiver Julio Jones were at their lethal best while the Falcons defence came up when it mattered.

The Patriots enter a record ninth Super Bowl
The Patriots enter a record ninth Super Bowl
Usa Today Sports
Superstar Brady is going for his fifth victory
Superstar Brady is going for his fifth victory
Usa Today Sports
LeGarrette Blount powers over for a score
LeGarrette Blount powers over for a score
EPA

Aaron Rodgers headed into the game in the form of his life but came unstuck against a dominant pass rush.

But the Pats are still strong favourites to be crowned champions as bookies tip Brady and Belichick to use their know-how.


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