The New England Patriots are preparing for their upcoming Super Bowl LX appearance, and for some players, the trip to the Bay Area holds special significance. The team will be trading the cold New England weather for the more temperate climate of Santa Clara, California, the game’s host city.
Defensive back Jaylinn Hawkins, who previously played college football at the University of California, is looking forward to the change in scenery. “Get ready to wear shorts again,” Hawkins said after a recent practice. “Get ready for good weather. Dress for the sun.”
The weather in the Bay Area next week is expected to be mild, with daytime temperatures in the 60s and nighttime lows in the 40s. This will be a welcome change for fans traveling from New England, where it is currently much colder. The Patriots and their opponents, the Seattle Seahawks, will play their game at Levi’s Stadium, where weather conditions are not expected to be a major concern.
“Enjoy the bay – it’s a beautiful place,” Hawkins said. “I’d say it’s like my third or second home because I was there for a while. Enjoy it. Go to the beach. Go sightseeing. It’s a beautiful place.”
Hawkins is not the only member of the Patriots with ties to the Bay Area. Craig Woodson, another defensive back, also played college football for the University of California. Tight end Austin Hooper grew up in San Mateo and played college football at Stanford. These players will likely be in uniform when the Patriots compete in their 12th championship game.
Hawkins emphasized the importance of enjoying the Super Bowl experience. “You’ve got to enjoy this whole process,” he said. “Enjoy everything that comes with it. But then at the end of the day, we have a game to play, and that’s what we’re there for.”
The Patriots also have historical connections to the Bay Area. Tom Brady, the team’s former quarterback, grew up in the area and idolized Joe Montana, the 49ers quarterback. Julian Edelman, a former Patriots receiver, attended junior college in San Mateo before continuing his college career and eventually becoming a key player for New England.
As the Super Bowl approaches, the Patriots are focused on preparing for the game. “I feel like at the beginning of the week it was like, ‘Whoa, we’re going to the Super Bowl,’” Hawkins said. “But now that we’re prepping it’s, ‘Let’s lock in. Let’s get ready.’”
The team has tried to handle distractions early in the week, making arrangements for tickets, family travel, and other personal matters before fully focusing on their rematch against the Seahawks. The Patriots previously defeated the Seahawks in Super Bowl XLIX, with Malcolm Butler’s interception securing a 28-24 victory.
Patriots coach Mike Vrabel mentioned the ticket process for the players. “I don’t really get into a lot of the details,” Vrabel said. “I think they do get two (tickets) and then can buy a certain number based on availability, based on practice squad – based on different things.”
Hawkins and his wife, Jayda, began planning their list of family and friends to invite to the game two weeks ago. The Patriots advanced to the Super Bowl by defeating the Chargers, Texans, and Broncos in the AFC playoffs. They have displayed strong defensive play in recent games, limiting opponents to less than 210 yards per game and forcing several turnovers.
“If we go to the Super Bowl, let’s get this list right,” Hawkins said. “Let’s make sure the people who are there are supposed to be there. I did that. Obviously with the tickets, you can’t bring everybody. It’s unfortunate. But the ones who will be there will be there.”
