New England Patriots: 5 Players Who Stepped Up in Super Bowl LI

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Feb 5, 2017; Houston, TX, USA; New England Patriots wide receiver Danny Amendola (80) scores on a two-point conversion against Atlanta Falcons cornerback Brian Poole (34) and cornerback Jalen Collins (32) in the fourth quarter during Super Bowl LI at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports /

5.) Danny Amendola

2016 was a down season for Patriots wide receiver Danny Amendola. Due to injuries, Amendola only played in 12 games, and he wasn’t heavily involved in the offense when he was healthy. This season, Amendola totaled just 23 receptions and 243 receiving yards.

However, he certainly was a big factor in the Super Bowl. On their way to the comeback win, Amendola totaled seven receptions, 80 receiving yards, and one receiving touchdown. With the Patriots trailing by 16, Amendola’s touchdown was a key in the comeback, as he made it an 18-28 score prior to the two-point conversion.

While Amendola has been overshadowed by Julian Edelman, Malcolm Mitchell, and Chris Hogan this season, he was arguably the best of the bunch in the Super Bowl. Due to the 466 passing yards by Brady, there was a lot of receiver yards to go around.

Not too many people could have predicted Amendola being one of the stars for the Patriots, but he stepped up. With Chris Hogan being a non-factor against Atlanta, the Patriots needed Amendola to be a solid option for them in the passing game. It’s not easy to be asked to rise to the occasion with limited playing time. However, Amendola was clearly prepared to make an impact in Super Bowl LI.

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