:quality(70)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/cmg/5MK5Z25JLBBPXDKJWXPYLVETDE.PNG)
Twenty-two years ago, a routine rollout delivered a thunderous hit that helped launch one of the most remarkable careers in NFL history.
Entering the fourth quarter, the Patriots trailed the New York Jets 10-3 on third-and-10 when three-time Pro Bowl quarterback Drew Bledsoe dropped back and scored 11 points, Scanning the second verse like crazy. Faced with an onslaught of the Jets pass rush and a catastrophic fumble downhill, Bledsoe decided to use his legs to attempt the first down, scrambling down the right sideline.
About a yard from the first down mark, Bledsoe was knocked down by Jets linebacker Mo Lewis with such force that it could be heard throughout the Patriots’ sideline. Bledsoe took a break on the sideline as coaches attended to the team’s quarterbacks.
While Bledsoe eventually returned to the game, he was unable to finish, leaving unheralded backup quarterback Tom Brady to carry the final drive in the loss, which ultimately cut New England to 0-2 The score was defeated.
Bledsoe was taken by ambulance to the hospital for internal treatment and would not play again for weeks.
After the snap, Brady led the Patriots to a 14-3 record, three of which came during New England’s improbable first-ever Super Bowl title.
There will be many more victories to come.
Bledsoe will get his final winning moment in the sun as Patriots quarterback. After Brady injured his ankle in the second quarter of the 2001 AFC Championship Game, Bledsoe threw for 102 yards and a touchdown against the Pittsburgh Steelers, his 172nd in a Patriots uniform. The last of those touchdowns. , he led New England to its second career Super Bowl title.
download Free Boston 25 News app For breaking news alerts.
Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News now