It has been an interesting journey for Tom Brady throughout his career. Nevertheless, the one in 2002 was the most significant. A legendary career that saw Tom Brady win seven Super Bowls began with the tuck rule game in 2002. In a recent ESPN documentary, Brady discusses the profound effect of that game on his career.

ESPN released a 30 For 30 Documentary titled “The Tuck Rule”. In the documentary, Brady explains the impact the tuck-rule game had on his career. In his view, if not for the Tuck Rule, he would simply be Drew Bledsoe’s backup. Brady said via NBC Sports Boston, “I’m probably the backup QB going into 2002. I’m not the starter if we lose that game.”

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The call was one of the most controversial in NFL history. To date, it is construed as a fumble, and the tuck-rule is regarded as a ‘stupid rule’. Nonetheless, it was a stepping stone for a successful career that spanned two decades.

The Tuck Rule Game

The tuck-rule game was an AFC Divisional playoffs game between the Oakland Raiders and the New England Patriots. The game is also known as the snow-bowl because it was played during a heavy snowfall. Raiders cornerback Charles Woodson tackled Tom Brady in the fourth quarter, causing what appeared to be a fumble. After reviewing the play, officials determined Brady had stopped his passing motion to tuck the ball into his body. Thus, the pass was incomplete, and the ball was then returned to the Patriots.

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A few plays later, the Patriots were able to move the ball into field goal range. Vinatieri’s 45-yard field goal sent the game into overtime. In the end, the Patriots won the AFC Divisional playoffs game against the Raiders. Thus, if not for this rule, the Oakland Raiders would have advanced to the AFC Championship game instead. Eventually, the Patriots went on to defeat the Pittsburgh Steelers in AFC Championship and the St. Louis Rams in Super Bowl XXXVI.

Additionally, if it weren’t for the tuck-rule, we will never know if Brady would have won seven rings. The game did, however, start a legacy that turned out to be the greatest in the history of football. But, what if the tuck rule never happened? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

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