Though the New England Patriots are Super Bowl bound, the best news they’ve received this week surrounds their defensive coordinator Terrell Williams. Williams was diagnosed with prostate cancer following New England’s week one loss to the Las Vegas Raiders, and has spent the entirety of the season away from the team as he’s undergone treatment.
Now, Williams has been declared cancer-free, delivering joy to the team ahead of their upcoming Super Bowl matchup with the Seattle Seahawks. Williams has continued to appear at the facility throughout the season for meetings in between treatment, and remains a rallying point for the team.
He’ll be with the team in Santa Clara for the Super Bowl, though in more of an advisory/support role. Pats’ linebackers coach Zak Kuhr has been the defensive play caller for New England while Williams has been out, and he’ll remain the play caller for the Super Bowl.
Jaylinn Hawkins Delivers Words of Encouragement to Williams
Patriots safety Jaylinn Hawkins has had a career year, and enjoyed his time working with Williams ahead of the season, before he was diagnosed with cancer.
“Thank God, we need that too, man that’s big,” Hawkins said of Williams’ recovery. “Obviously we know what he went through and what he battled and he overcame that and that’s a blessing. He’s been a great coach as well, especially early on when he was able to coach.”
Williams himself delivered praise for everyone who has supported him through his recovery.
“All of the doctors, all of the nurses at Mass General, and everyone that’s taken blood samples, all the people there, they’re so important and good at what they do,” Williams said to Andrew Callahan of the “Boston Herald”. “I appreciate those guys. And I appreciate this organization and the people of New England. When I say that, I mean it. I’m just shocked at how kind the people are up here. And it’s been unbelievable.
“Hopefully we can bring a smile to their faces on Sunday.”
Patriots Looking to Continue Historic Defensive Run
Not only have the Patriots made an improbable run to the Super Bowl, they’ve done it in historic fashion on the defensive side of the ball. Of any team with a minimum of three playoff games, New England has allowed the eighth fewest points in NFL history in their playoff run.
The Patriots have allowed just 8.7 points against per game in their three postseason games, including a near shutout against the Los Angeles Chargers and just one touchdown allowed against the Denver Broncos. The 8.7 papg is the lowest since the 2000 Baltimore Ravens, who went on to win the Super Bowl.
It has been an all-around dominant performance from the defense, from the pass rush, to the linebackers, to the secondary. New England has 12 sacks, five interceptions, and four forced fumbles in three games.
Leading the way are Carlton Davis with two interceptions, K’Lavon Chaisson with three sacks, and rookie Craig Woodson with 20 tackles.
Super Bowl LX kicks off in Santa Clara on Sunday, Feb. 8 at 6:30 p.m.
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