With love from across the pond: 10 reasons why UK fans loved the NFL's centenary season

#3 Bosa, Sherman and that hard-hitting 49ers defense

San Francisco 49ers v Baltimore Ravens

Sure, the 49ers came up short in the second half of the Super Bowl, but that doesn't detract too much from an outstanding year at the Levi's Stadium, particularly on the defensive side of the game:

Cornerback Richard Sherman showed that age is truly just a number as he finished the regular season as one of the league's best defensive covers, winning a PFF award in the process. He was perhaps even better during the postseason, too, making big interceptions against the Vikings and the Packers en route to Miami.

Sherman, himself, was outshone on the 49ers defense this season, though; and by a rookie nonetheless! The NFL's Defensive Rookie of the Year Nick Bosa was outstanding at DE, his aggressive, full-throttle play being a true joy to watch.

Of course, rugby reigns supreme across the Atlantic but a big reason for its continued success is that fans love watching hard-hitting tackles go in and the physical, masculine side of the sport.

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#2 Patrick Mahomes is out of this world

Kansas City Chiefs v Tennessee Titans

If the Chiefs ever get that roof built at the Arrowhead Stadium, rumor has it that the underside will be inspired by Michelangelo's work on the Sistine Chapel and that for the next twenty-years, Patrick Mahomes will be painting it - the man is an artist.

UK sports fans can always appreciate genuine talent and that's what we have in this young KCC QB - he just might be the best to ever lace up the cleats. Only time will tell on the latter, but with an MVP award and a Lombardi under his belt at twenty-four, few would bet against his inclusion in the 2120 team of the century.

During the Chiefs' Superbowl victory, Mahomes had to come through some difficult periods, rebounding from not one but TWO interceptions and a host of hard-hitting tackles and sacks to storm the 49ers defense in the fourth quarter and lead the Chiefs to their first title in a half-a-century. So, if it's true what they say and the mark of a legendary QB is his ability to make clutch plays when the pressure is on and the chips are down, Mahomes must now be worthy of the title - legend.

UK fans love great athletes and Patrick Mahomes - love him or hate him - is exactly that. A lot of Brits (viewing figures incoming) tuned in to watch him get the job done in Miami last night and they won't have come away disappointed, we are sure of it!