New England Patriots: Top 5 AFC Championship game moments
By Justin Keene
1. Danny Amendola TD – Jacksonville Jaguars (2017)
The most recent AFC title game and fifth in Foxborough since 2011. The Jaguars defense was an elite defense all season, and their offense was led by rookie running back Leonard Fournette. Heading into this game, Tom Brady was also dealing with a small cut on his throwing hand.
A Jacksonville field goal put them up 20-10 with the fourth quarter underway. The Patriots were starting a small drive, but it ended abruptly, as Danny Amendola threw a pass to Dion Lewis for a 20 yard gain who then fumbled and turned the ball over to the Jaguars at their own 33 yard line. Thankfully, the Patriots defense forced a quick three and out, giving the ball back to Tom Brady.
Tom Brady was able to put together a quick, 85 yard drive capped off by a touch down pass to Danny Amendola, taking only 3:19 off the clock.
The Patriots were still down 20-17 with little time left. New England would then get the ball back a few drives later, with just under 5 minutes remaining. Brady was on a mission. The veteran quarterback marched his team down field, and they found themselves with 1st & goal at the Jaguars 5 yard line. After a James White carry was good for 1 yard, the Patriots looked to throw.
Brady dropped back for what seemed like forever, scanning the defense. He found his man in the back of the end zone and fired a strike to Danny Amendola, who tapped his toes on the turf as he fell out-of-bounds.
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The New England Patriots gained a 24-20 lead with 2:48 left in the game and never looked back. Brady went 5/7 for 56 yards and 2 TD in the final quarter when throwing to Amendola , and sending New England to Super Bowl LII in the process.
Sunday’s matchup has the potential to set up even more memorable AFC Championship game moments. This game is going to be intense and have everyone on the edge of their seats. Go Pats.