Super Bowl LI to Feature a Couple of Former Arizona Wildcats, Brooks Reed and Gronkowski

Whether your team is in the Super Bowl or not, as football fans, you’re probably doing your last minute shopping in preparation for the big game.

The NFL season officially comes to an end this Sunday with the meeting of Atlanta and New England in Super Bowl. Whether your team is in the big game or not, at least Arizona fans have something to be excited about.

Super Bowl LI will feature a couple of former Wildcats, Brooks Reed and Rob Gronkowski (although Gronk won’t play because of injury). Reed the former Wildcat standout and Tucson native, has had a nice impact for the Falcons.

Sure, it’s been the Matty Ice (Matt Ryan) and Julio Jones show in Atlanta, but it’s perhaps been the Falcons defense in need of some praise. A unit that wasn’t expected to be overly great beginning the year, they have improved immensely over the last few weeks.

Head coach Dan Quinn, the former leader of those fantastic Seattle Seahawks defenses took over the Falcons just a few seasons ago, brought his own flare to the South.

Atlanta Falcons defensive end Brooks Reed (50) works out prior to the game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

He has infused the team with talent, bringing in a few solid pieces on defense, one namely being Reed, a former standout at the University of Arizona. In 2011, Reed was drafted to the Houston Texans in the second round.

While with the Texans, Reed played along side talents like JJ Watt, Brian Cushing and others. Making his presence known for tough play, Reed has brought that to Atlanta as well.

So far in these playoffs, he has four tackles and a sack, really helping diversify the Falcons’ defense, immensely improving the pass rush. On Sunday, he will have the challenge in getting to Tom Brady, which is certainly no easy feat for any defensive player.

In a game that is sure to likely be an offensive one, perhaps Reed and the Falcons defense could be the Wildcard in this one.

As Brady is set to appear in his seventh Super Bowl, he knows what it takes to win, and definitely seems to thrives under pressure.

At Zona Zealots, we are anticipating what should be a good game, and of course will be partaking in the Super Bowl festivities. We encourage are fellow Wildcats to be smart and safe today, and also we want to wish our former Cats good luck! Bear Down, Arizona!