The New England Patriots know exactly what they’re up against in Super Bowl LX - and it starts with trying to contain one of the NFL’s most dynamic young receivers in Jaxon Smith-Njigba.
Seattle’s second-year wideout has emerged as a true game-changer, a player who doesn’t just rack up stats but tilts the field every time he lines up. And while many have pegged the Seahawks as favorites heading into this matchup, Mike Macdonald’s squad will have to earn that title on the field - especially against a Patriots team that’s been anything but a pushover this postseason.
One of the most compelling matchups in this Super Bowl? Smith-Njigba vs.
Christian Gonzalez. It’s strength on strength - an elite route technician going up against one of the league’s best young cover corners.
Gonzalez might not have an interception to his name this season, but that’s more a testament to his reputation than his ball skills. Quarterbacks simply haven’t tested him much.
When they have, the results haven’t been great: he allowed just a 53.6% completion rate and a passer rating of 79.9 in coverage. That follows a stellar rookie campaign in 2024, where he posted a 71.7 rating allowed - numbers that put him in the upper echelon of NFL corners.
And Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel knows exactly what his defense is up against. When asked about Smith-Njigba, Vrabel didn’t hold back, offering a breakdown that reads like a scouting report from someone who’s spent hours in the film room.
“Sudden, savvy, competitive,” Vrabel said. “Really good play strength for his stature… He’s really good at contested catches… Good route craft and understanding in zone and man. Great body control.”
That “play strength” Vrabel mentioned? It’s a huge part of what makes JSN such a mismatch.
He’s not the biggest receiver on the field - he’s not built like a prototypical No. 1 - but he plays like one. His lower-body strength lets him break tackles and churn out yards after the catch like a power back.
He’s slippery in space, tough in traffic, and smart enough to find the soft spots in both man and zone.
And while JSN will draw plenty of attention from Gonzalez and the rest of the Patriots’ secondary, Seattle knows it can’t just rely on him alone. Offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak has been in his bag lately, dialing up creative looks and timely play calls to keep defenses honest. His design on Jake Bobo’s touchdown in the NFC Championship Game against the Rams was a perfect example - a well-timed wrinkle that caught the defense off guard.
Expect more of that in the Super Bowl. Kubiak has been mixing personnel and formations with confidence, using JSN’s gravity to open things up for others. That’s been the key to Seattle’s offensive rhythm down the stretch - and it’ll be critical against a disciplined New England defense.
But make no mistake: this game could swing on the battle between Smith-Njigba and Gonzalez. Two rising stars, one on each side of the ball, both capable of taking over a game in their own way.
If JSN can find space and make plays, Seattle’s offense opens up. If Gonzalez locks him down, the Patriots tilt the odds in their favor.
Both teams know it. Vrabel knows it. And come kickoff, we’ll all be watching to see who blinks first.