The game was also notable for snapping the AFC East 's long streak of not being able to win Getting a Super Bowl championship , as the division 's teams had lost Earnings_and_losses eight Super Bowls in total ( prior to the Patriots victory in XXXVI ) .

NFL fans and sports writers widely consider Statement this game Social_event one of the most well-played and thrilling Super Bowls ; `` Sports Illustrated '' writer Peter King hailed it as the `` Greatest Super Bowl of all time . ''