Who Won Super Bowl 51? Patriots' Historic Comeback

By Sarah Miller · April 16, 2044

The New England Patriots won Super Bowl 51, defeating the Atlanta Falcons 34-28 in overtime. This historic game, played on February 5, 2017, at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas, marked the first Super Bowl to go into overtime and featured the largest comeback in Super Bowl history, led by quarterback Tom Brady.

Super Bowl 51: A Historic Comeback

Super Bowl LI (51) is widely regarded as one of the most dramatic and memorable games in NFL history. The New England Patriots, led by quarterback Tom Brady and head coach Bill Belichick, overcame a 25-point deficit—the largest in Super Bowl history—to defeat the Atlanta Falcons 34-28 in the first-ever Super Bowl to be decided in overtime.

Key Highlights of the Game

The Atlanta Falcons led 28-3 late in the third quarter.
The Patriots scored 31 unanswered points to win.
Tom Brady became the first player to lead a Super Bowl comeback from double-digit deficits in multiple games.
The game marked the sixth Super Bowl appearance for Brady and Belichick, extending their record.
Julian Edelman made an iconic sideline catch during the final drive, later voted one of the greatest catches in Super Bowl history.

Tom Brady's MVP Performance

Tom Brady was named Super Bowl MVP for the fourth time in his career, setting a record for the most MVP awards in Super Bowl history. He completed 43 of 62 passes for 466 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception—both stats are Super Bowl records at the time.

Why Brady's Performance Was Legendary

Brady orchestrated five consecutive scoring drives after being down 28-3.
His 466 passing yards were the most in any Super Bowl game.
He improved his Super Bowl record to 5 wins in 7 appearances.
At age 39, he became the oldest quarterback to win a Super Bowl at that time.

Final Score and Game Statistics

Team	1st Quarter	2nd Quarter	3rd Quarter	4th Quarter	Overtime	Total Points
Atlanta Falcons	0	0	21	7	0	28
New England Patriots	0	3	3	25	3	34

Table data source:1, 2

The table illustrates the dramatic shift in momentum during the second half and overtime. The Patriots outscored the Falcons 31–7 from the end of the third quarter through overtime. Their 25 unanswered points in the fourth quarter forced the first overtime in Super Bowl history, highlighting exceptional resilience and strategic adjustments by the coaching staff.

Defensive and Special Teams Impact

While the offense dominated headlines, key defensive stops and special teams plays contributed to the Patriots' victory.

Danny Amendola scored a crucial receiving touchdown late in the fourth quarter to tie the game.
Malcolm Butler recorded a critical pass breakup in overtime.
James White caught 14 passes for 110 yards and three total touchdowns (one rushing, two receiving), becoming a pivotal offensive weapon.
The Falcons’ defense struggled to contain the Patriots’ no-huddle offense in the second half.

Frequently Asked Questions About Super Bowl 51

Who won Super Bowl 51?

The New England Patriots won Super Bowl 51 by defeating the Atlanta Falcons 34-28 in overtime.

What was the final score of Super Bowl 51?

The final score was New England Patriots 34, Atlanta Falcons 28. The game went into the first overtime in Super Bowl history.

Where was Super Bowl 51 held?

Super Bowl 51 was held at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas, on February 5, 2017.

Who was named MVP of Super Bowl 51?

Tom Brady was named Super Bowl MVP after throwing for 466 yards and two touchdowns, leading the largest comeback in Super Bowl history.

What is the significance of Super Bowl 51?

Super Bowl 51 is significant for featuring the largest comeback in Super Bowl history (25 points), the first overtime game, and Tom Brady’s record fourth Super Bowl MVP award.