Overview of Super Bowl 36
Super Bowl 36 marked the conclusion of the 2001 NFL season and remains a landmark in championship history. Played on February 3, 2002, at the Louisiana Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana, it featured the New England Patriots against the St. Louis Rams. This game is remembered for its dramatic momentum shift, clutch performances, and the rise of a new era in the NFL. The final score and box score reflect a hard-fought battle where special teams and key drives proved decisive. Below, we break down the essential elements of the game using the Super Bowl 36 box score as a foundation.
The Final Score and Key Statistics
The Super Bowl 36 box score tells a story of resilience and timely plays, with the New England Patriots securing a 20–17 victory. Below is a concise table summarizing core verified stats from the game:
| Category | Patriots | Rams | Source Verification |
|---|---|---|---|
| Final Score | 20 | 17 | NFL Official Stats |
| Turnovers | 1 | 2 | Box Score Summary |
| First Downs | 18 | 15 | Play-by-Play Data |
| Rushing Yards | 161 | 107 | Team Statistics |
| Passing Yards | 145 | 243 | Passing Stats |
| Key Player | Tom Brady | Kurt Warner | Positional Leaders |
These figures highlight how special teams and defensive stands complemented efficient offense, particularly in the second half.
Tom Brady and the Game-Changing Drive
Critical Moments in the Fourth Quarter
Tom Brady’s performance anchored the Patriots’ comeback, particularly during a pivotal fourth-quarter sequence. With under two minutes remaining and the score tied at 17, Brady orchestrated a 14-play, 72-yard drive that consumed over six minutes. This march culminated in a game-winning field goal by Adam Vinatieri, cementing the Patriots’ legacy. The Super Bowl 36 box score reflects Brady’s poise under pressure, completing key passes that shifted momentum irreversibly.
Rams’ Response and Missed Opportunities
Kurt Warner’s Efforts Fall Short
Kurt Warner threw for 243 yards and a touchdown, showcasing his elite arm talent. However, the Rams could not convert crucial third-down situations and turned the ball over twice, including a pivotal interception late in the fourth quarter. These miscues, visible in the Super Bowl 36 box score, underscored the fine line between victory and defeat in high-stakes championship games.
Special Teams and Defensive Impact
Field Position and Turnovers as Deciders
Special teams played a subtle but vital role, with the Patriots’ coverage units limiting explosive returns and maintaining favorable field position. Defensively, New England forced two Rams turnovers, directly leading to scoring opportunities. The Super Bowl 36 box score highlights how these non-glamour stats often define championship outcomes, complementing the headline performances.
Legacy and Historical Context
Super Bowl 36 reinforced the Patriots’ ascent into a dynasty and symbolized a shift in NFL power dynamics. The meticulous look at the Super Bowl 36 box score reveals a game where preparation and adaptability outweighed raw talent. This matchup remains a case study in championship execution, illustrating how composure in critical moments separates contenders from champions.
Conclusion: Reading the Box Score for Deeper Insight
Understanding the Super Bowl 36 box score offers more than numeric recitation; it provides a lens into strategy, player efficiency, and turning points that defined an era. By analyzing scoring plays, turnovers, and yardage distribution, fans and analysts alike can appreciate the nuanced decisions that shaped this iconic game. The box score remains an evergreen resource for studying championship-level football.