Well NE is not a very balanced team. They are all offense and struggle against a strong defense. They didn't face one in the SuperBowl. The defense was most flatteringly described as a bend but don't break defense. I don't think they ever forced a punt but held the 11 drives the Patriots had to only 6 scores (the patriots had the ball when the clock ran out in both haves so the clock gets partial credit for 2 of the 5 scoreless stops). Many of the score were field goals. The Patriots D was not as successful at keeping the Eagles from getting points. The Eagles punted once but were efficient when the downs were running out (3rd and 4th down). Both teams missed extra points. The Eagle also missed two attempts at two-point conversions. The Pats missed a field goal. These special teams gaffs pretty much balance out. So the Pats were outplayed on offense in terms of getting it done when it counted and defense in terms of bend but don't break. The Eagles had 5 TDs and were forced to kick 3 field goals but the Pats were held to just 4 TDs and 2 field goals.