Even if you’re not a devoted football fan, you’ll probably be watching the game.
Maybe you’re on the fence about who to root for in this Sunday’s Super Bowl. When in doubt, cheer for players from the Magnolia State.
The Patriots roster boasts three Mississippians.
There are two homegrown running backs. Brandon Bolden played for Ole Miss and LaGarrette Blount hails from East Mississippi Community College. And when New England’s special teams squad takes the field, one name may sound familiar.
Special teams captain, Matt Slater, is the son of JSU legend Jackie Slater. The elder Slater is also a Pro Football Hall of Famer.
The Patriots’ kicker, Stephen Gostkowski is from the Magnolia state as well, and played at Madison Central.
Cornerback Malcolm Butler of Vicksburg was hailed as the Super Bowl hero in the Patriots’ last victory in 2015 will be sure to show out again this year.
For the Atlanta Falcons, Jalen Collins is CB and though a Kansas City Missouri native, he played for both Olive Branch and Desoto Central High schools in Mississippi.
