Super Bowl LIII Preview: Situational Analysis Examines Patriots 3rd Down Personnel and Tendencies

I Examined every third down play for the patriots in the 2018 playoffs and the numbers have been astounding. The Patriots are 20-34 on third down (59%) the last two games and have controlled the flow of both games by way of their strong run game and behind their ability to keep the chains moving on third down. Other variables include the quick release of Tom Brady that eliminated both Chargers and Chiefs ability to apply pressure, 3rd and short that allowed for the Patriots to run or pass, and the total average needed per third down play of 5.35 yards.