The Most Unlikely Championship Run in NFL History: The Blankenship Eagles

The 2017 NFL season was one for the ages, with teams from across the league rising to the top in spectacular fashion. Among the most surprising storylines of the year was the underdog Philadelphia Eagles, who defied all odds to win their first Super Bowl in franchise history. But what made this championship run so remarkable? The answer lies in the unlikely heroism of kicker Jake Blankenship, who provided the team with clutch performances that ultimately helped seal their victory.

As a relatively unknown quantity in the league, Blankenship was the last player the Eagles would have expected to rise to stardom. Despite this, he proved to be an x-factor in their success, and his story serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and determination.

The Road to Super Bowl LII

Philadelphia's Transformation into a Contender

The Eagles had been in a state of flux for years, struggling to find consistency and making little progress in the NFL. However, with the arrival of head coach Doug Pederson and general manager Howie Roseman, the team underwent a significant transformation. Under Pederson's leadership, the Eagles adopted a more aggressive and dynamic playing style, which allowed them to tap into the team's pent-up potential.

Key Factors in the Eagles' Success

• Strong Defensive Line: The Eagles boasted one of the best defensive lines in the league, led by defensive tackles Fletcher Cox and Brandon Graham.
• Explosive Offense: Quarterback Carson Wentz led a high-powered offense that averaged over 28 points per game.
• Improved Special Teams: The Eagles' special teams unit, led by special teams coordinator Andy Weltnow and kicker Jake Blankenship, was a major factor in their success.

Blankenship's Rise to Prominence

The Making of a Super Bowl Kicker

Jake Blankenship was not exactly the first player to come to mind when thinking about the Eagles' 2017 roster. A fifth-round draft pick in 2015, Blankenship had been a steady presence on the team's practice squad but had not yet broken through to the active roster.

Challenges and Setbacks

• Injury Plight: Blankenship struggled with injuries throughout his rookie season, which limited his playing time and hindered his development.
• Competition from Robert Maasaetoka: The Eagles also had rookie kicker Robert Maasaetoka on the roster, which led to a bidding war for starting kicker duties.

Breakthrough Moments

• Proving Himself in Training Camp: Blankenship's impressive performance during training camp helped secure him a spot on the active roster.
• Career-Defining Catches: Blankenship made several clutch catches, including a touchdown, during the Eagles' regular season finale against the Washington Redskins.

The Impact of Blankenship's Kickers on Game Day

A Key Factor in the Eagles' Success

The Eagles' decision to start Blankenship in place of Maasaetoka proved to be a masterstroke. Blankenship's clutch kicking performances were a major factor in the team's success, particularly in high-pressure situations.

Unlocking Hidden Potential

• Clutch Performances: Blankenship converted several game-winning field goals, including a 52-yarder in the regular season finale.
• Pre-Game Routine: The Eagles developed a pre-game routine that helped Blankenship get in the right mindset, including listening to the song "Uptown Funk" and conducting a 52-yard field goal warm-up.

The Final Showdown: Super Bowl LII

Eagles vs. Patriots: The Most Dominant Game in Super Bowl History

The Eagles' Super Bowl LII victory was a 41-33 win over the heavily favored New England Patriots. The game was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams trading blows throughout.

Breakthrough Performances

• Nick Foles: Eagles quarterback Nick Foles, who replaced Carson Wentz in the playoffs, had a breakout performance, throwing for 373 yards and three touchdowns.
• Wide Receiver Nelson Agholor: Agholor caught six passes for 84 yards and a touchdown, including a 40-yard reception that set up the Eagles' game-winning field goal.

Legacy of Jake Blankenship

Redefining the Position of Kicker

Jake Blankenship's achievements in the 2017 season redefined the position of kicker in the NFL. His performances proved that kickers were capable of making game-winning plays, and his influence on the Eagles' success cannot be overstated.

Redefining a Team

• Going from Obscurity to Heroism: Blankenship's story serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and determination, as he went from obscurity to heroism in a matter of months.
• Unlocking a Dynasty: Blankenship's clutch performances helped unlock the Eagles' dynasty, which would go on to win two more division titles and a Super Bowl in the following years.

• Super Bowl LII's Most Underrated Player

• Breakthrough Storyline

• Enduring Legacy