Today in Performance Sneaker History: Deion Branch Wins Super Bowl XXXIX MVP

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On Sunday, the Baltimore Ravens secured their first Super Bowl victory since 2001. One of the teams they went through en route to their appearance in the championship game was the New England Patriots, a squad that dominated the early 2000s. The Patriots won Super Bowls in 2002, 2004, and 2005, cementing them was one of the most successful franchises in recent years.

New England has appeared in two Super Bowl games since their 2005 victory (2008 and 2012), but the Lombardi trophy has eluded the team for eight years and counting. But on February 6, 2005, they would bring home the big win in a tightly contested game against Philadelphia. The Pats walked out with a 24-21 victory, and the night's MVP was receiver Deion Branch. Putting on a truly remarkable performance, Branch had a record eleven receptions for a total of 133 yards. Combined with his totals from the previous year's game, Branch also holds a record for most receptions in consecutive Super Bowls at 21.

During his stellar showing, Branch wore the Reebok NFL 4 Speed III, which was an official league-licensed cleat at the time. With a synthetic leather upper and Playdry lining, it provided the kind of no-frills performance traits necessary for an an MVP level player like Branch.

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