There is only one way to stop an elite quarterback in today's NFL: relentless pressure. It's been the difference in the Super Bowl the past two seasons. The Rams' ferocious defensive line sacked Joe Burrow seven times in last year's 23-20 win. In 2020, the Buccaneers' defense made Patrick Mahomes look pedestrian. In a season in which he surpassed 4,700 passing yards, Tampa's defense chased Mahomes all over the field, holding the former MVP to 270 yards, zero touchdowns, and two interceptions.
The shoe could be on the other foot for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers this season. Tom Brady's decision to return pushed the Buccaneers to their rightful spot as NFC favorites in the betting market.