Who Won the Super Bowl in 2015? Patriots Victory Explained

By Sarah Miller · May 30, 2043

The New England Patriots won Super Bowl XLIX in 2015, defeating the Seattle Seahawks 28-24 in a dramatic comeback victory. The game took place on February 1, 2015, at University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale, Arizona. Tom Brady was named Super Bowl MVP after throwing for 328 yards and four touchdowns, including two to Julian Edelman in the second half. A pivotal moment came in the final minutes when Malcolm Butler intercepted Russell Wilson’s pass at the goal line, sealing the win for New England.

Super Bowl XLIX: Key Details and Overview

Super Bowl XLIX (49) featured a thrilling matchup between the AFC champion New England Patriots and the NFC champion Seattle Seahawks. The game is widely regarded as one of the most memorable in NFL history due to its dramatic finish and high-stakes coaching decisions.

Why Was Super Bowl XLIX So Significant?

It marked the Patriots' fourth Super Bowl win in franchise history.
The game had one of the most controversial play calls in NFL history—the decision by Seattle to pass instead of hand off at the 1-yard line.
Tom Brady solidified his legacy with a clutch performance under pressure.
Malcolm Butler, an undrafted rookie cornerback, became an instant legend with his goal-line interception.
The broadcast was the most-watched television program in American history at the time, with over 114 million viewers.

Game Summary and Timeline

The Patriots started strong, building a 14-0 lead early in the first quarter. However, the Seahawks responded with 14 unanswered points to tie the game before halftime. In the third quarter, both teams traded blows, but New England pulled ahead 28-24 late in the fourth quarter.

The decisive moment occurred with just 26 seconds remaining. The Seahawks, trailing by four, had the ball at the Patriots’ 1-yard line with a chance to score the winning touchdown. Instead of giving the ball to star running back Marshawn Lynch, Seattle called a pass play—intercepted by rookie cornerback Malcolm Butler.

Key Moments That Decided the Game

First Quarter: Patriots scored two quick touchdowns via Shane Vereen and Julian Edelman.
Second Quarter: Seahawks tied it up with scores from Lynch and Doug Baldwin.
Third Quarter: Both teams exchanged field goals; game remained tight.

Fourth Quarter:

Final Minute: Butler’s interception sealed the Patriots’ victory.

Player Performances and MVP Analysis

Tom Brady delivered a masterclass performance, completing 37 of 50 passes for 328 yards and four touchdowns. His composure in the final drive exemplified elite quarterback play under pressure.

Julian Edelman caught 10 passes for 109 yards and two touchdowns, playing a crucial role in sustaining drives. On defense, Butler’s game-saving interception overshadowed earlier struggles by the Patriots’ secondary.

Russell Wilson threw for 247 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. Marshawn Lynch rushed for 102 yards, but the infamous final play call limited his impact at the most critical moment.

Statistic	New England Patriots	Seattle Seahawks
Points Scored	28	24
Total Yards	444	395
Passing Yards	328	247
Rushing Yards	116	148
Turnovers	1	2
Time of Possession	30:25	29:35
Third Down Efficiency	6/13 (46%)	5/12 (42%)

Table data source:1, 2

The statistical comparison shows both teams were closely matched in yardage and possession time. However, the Patriots’ superior red zone efficiency and fewer turnovers proved decisive. Their ability to convert key third downs and protect the ball in crunch moments gave them the edge despite Seattle’s stronger rushing attack.

Coaching Decisions and Controversial Final Play

The final sequence sparked widespread debate among fans, analysts, and former players. With the ball at the 1-yard line and one timeout left, Seattle opted to pass rather than run with Marshawn Lynch, who had been dominant throughout the game.

Coach Pete Carroll defended the call, stating that the Patriots were likely expecting a run and that a pass could exploit potential weaknesses in coverage. However, many argue that handing the ball to Lynch would have maximized their chances of scoring.

Bill Belichick’s defensive strategy on that final play—a deliberate decision to allow the run and focus on stopping the pass—was later praised as a brilliant tactical move.

Frequently Asked Questions About Super Bowl 2015

Who won the Super Bowl in 2015?

The New England Patriots won Super Bowl XLIX in 2015, defeating the Seattle Seahawks 28-24.

What was the final score of Super Bowl XLIX?

The final score was New England Patriots 28, Seattle Seahawks 24.

Where was Super Bowl 2015 held?

Super Bowl XLIX was played at State Farm Stadium (then known as University of Phoenix Stadium) in Glendale, Arizona.

Who was named MVP of Super Bowl 2015?

Tom Brady was named Super Bowl MVP after throwing for 328 yards and four touchdowns.

What happened on the final play of Super Bowl XLIX?

With the Seahawks at the 1-yard line and 26 seconds left, Russell Wilson’s pass intended for Ricardo Lockette was intercepted by Patriots cornerback Malcolm Butler, sealing the win.