The New England Patriots have fallen a long way down since the greatest dynasty in league history. Yesterday, they finally fell to the New York Jets 17-3 after beating them 15 times in a row. This was not only perhaps legendary head coach Bill Belichicks last game with the team, but also special teams hall of famer Matthew Slater is set to retire after this season.
“Heads”
Perhaps the most important word in the Patriots dynasty. Matthew Slater walked toward the middle of the field before over time in the Super Bowl and while breathing heavily he said that one word. Matt Ryan of the Atlanta Falcons standing opposite him as the coin was tossed and landed on heads.
“We’ll Take The Ball”
The rest was history, as the Patriots completed the greatest comeback in Super Bowl history to win their 5th Super Bowl under Bill Belichick and Tom Brady.
Slater said those two exact same statements in the AFC championship overtime matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs as well. A real captain for Belichicks teams, Slater embodied the Patriot way as a team that focused on all three fazes of the game and making championship plays whenever you step on the field.
New England Patriots Saying Goodbye To Captain Matthew Slater
The long time Patriots legend was clearly and visibly emotional after the game against the Jets about his time with the team and with head coach Belichick. Throughout his time with the team he ha sonly ever been delightful and handled everything with grace and humility.
Following the loss, Slater did not want to rush to make comments about his future but it was clear that this game would be his last. He was quoted after the game saying:
“Let’s talk about that another day,” Slater said. “Just want to express my thanks to the guys in that locker room today. So very appreciative of all the love and support that I received this whole season, certainly today and this week. And I’m just proud to be part of that group. Even though the season was what it was, to come in every day and be able to work with those guys really meant a lot to me.”