As I was watching the game, I couldn't help but think about how underrated the Pats were and did not get the respect they deserved.
This reminded me of the 1994-1995 Houston Rockets. That year, the Rockets beat the Jazz, the Suns, and the Spurs to take the Western final. They went on to face the heavily favored Orlando Magic (with Shaq and Penny Hardaway) - and swept them. They were the 6th seed in the West, and went on to win the whole thing... They were the lowest seed to ever win it all.
Rudy Tomjanovich, the Rockets' coach, said afterwards, "Never underestimate the heart of a champion."
The Patriots were underestimated, but their performance today showed that within them beats the heart of a champion.
Pat fans, Congratulations. You have waited a long time, and you deserve it. Cherish the moment.