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15 bold predictions for Super Bowl 51

By John Buhler

Sep 11, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; New England Patriots wide receiver Julian Edelman (11) against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Patriots defeated the Cardinals 23-21. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 11, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; New England Patriots wide receiver Julian Edelman (11) against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Patriots defeated the Cardinals 23-21. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 11, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) celebrates after throwing a 64-yard touchdown pass in the third quarter against the Los Angeles Rams during a NFL football game at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 11, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) celebrates after throwing a 64-yard touchdown pass in the third quarter against the Los Angeles Rams during a NFL football game at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /

12. Matt Ryan will complete over 70 percent of his passes

It’s a forgone conclusion that Falcons offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan will leave Flowery Branch after the Super Bowl to become the next head coach of the San Francisco 49ers. He will be begin a massive rebuilding project in Santa Clara with first-time general manager John Lynch.

In the meantime, Shanahan will have his last foray in being strictly an offensive coordinator. He’s not going to fail in his final game before being an NFL head coach. So how is he going to do this? Devise a passing game plan that will showcase Ryan’s best trait: pinpoint accuracy.

Ryan has thrown one of the most catchable balls since coming into the league in 2008. He nearly completed 70 percent of his passes during the 2016 regular season. While New England is well-coached in the secondary, the Patriots are more reactive in coverage than aggressive.

Limiting yards after catch will be more important than leaving one’s feet for risky pass breakup opportunities. Ryan will have passing lanes to work with underneath. Look for him to complete over 70 percent of his passes on Super Bowl Sunday.

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