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The Guardian - US
The Guardian - US
Sport
Oliver Connolly

The flawed Patriots face a harsh truth: only the very best teams get a Super Bowl sequel

Drake Maye contemplates defeat in Sunday’s Super Bowl.
Drake Maye contemplates defeat in Sunday’s Super Bowl.
Photograph: Julio Cortez/AP

The greatest lie a fanbase tells itself is that there is always next year.

It is the softest landing spot in sport, a comfort blanket after a crushing defeat. Next year, we’ll be healthier. Next year, we’ll fix our offensive line. Next year, we’ll add that superstar receiver and retain all our guys. Next year.

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