New England Patriots reach record NINTH Super Bowl as they storm past the Pittsburgh Steelers in 36-17 rout

TOM BRADY led the charge with an imperious display as the New England Patriots stormed into Super Bowl 51.

The quarterback - suspended for four matches due to the Deflategate scandal - threw a franchise play-off record 384 yards.

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It will be 39-year-old Brady's seventh trip to NFL's showpiece with coach Bill Belichick as the duo go for a fifth crown.

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The Pats enter a record ninth Super Bowl after blowing away in-form Pittsburgh.

Chris Hogan caught two of Brady's three touchdowns while Julian Edelman added eight receptions for 118 yards and a score.

The Steelers - six-time champions - lost star running back Le’Veon Bell late in the first quarter to a groin injury and never looked like challenging Brady & Co.

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Opponents Atlanta were even more impressive as they destroyed the Green Bay Packers 44-21 in the other championship game.

Quarterback Matt Ryan and superstar receiver Julio Jones were at their lethal best while the Falcons defence came up when it mattered.

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Aaron Rodgers headed into the game in the form of his life but came unstuck against a dominant pass rush.

But the Pats are still strong favourites to be crowned champions as bookies tip Brady and Belichick to use their know-how.