Super Bowl 49: Whose legacy will be most affected?

Apr. 2, 2013; Tempe, AZ, USA; Detailed view of the Super Bowl champions ring on the hand of Arizona Cardinals head coach Bruce Arians during a press conference to announce the signing of quarterback Carson Palmer (not pictured) at the Cardinals practice facility. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

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Jan 11, 2015; Denver, CO, USA; Indianapolis Colts kicker Adam Vinatieri (4) celebrates with defensive end Arthur Jones (97) after making a field goal during the fourth quarter in the 2014 AFC Divisional playoff football game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports /

Can The Patriots Win A Super Bowl Without Miracle Man Adam Vinatieri?

Positive Legacy Prospects:

Stephen Gostkowski has been the kicker in New England for 9 seasons – one fewer than Adam Vinatieri served in the same role. Adam Vinatieri is 4-1 in Super Bowls (3-1 with the Patriots); Gostkowski is 0-2.

Adam Vinatieri was best known in New England for kicking field goals that won Super Bowls.

If the New England Patriots win, Gostkowski can finally purge the ghost of kickers past.

Negative Legacy Prospects:

If the Patriots lose, Adam Vinatieri haunts this franchise forever as the team is 0-3 in Super Bowls without him.

Next: The Dual Threat Quarterback: Flash In The Pan Or Consistent Championship Threat?

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