Jan 22 (Reuters) - Chris Hogan has come a long way since his college lacrosse days and the New England Patriots are grateful after the wide receiver set a franchise playoff mark with 180 receiving yards against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
The 28-year-old from Connecticut caught nine passes and scored two touchdowns, the second of them on a 34-yard flea flicker from quarterback Tom Brady, to help New England complete a 36-17 win on Sunday that earned them a spot in the Super Bowl.
For Hogan, who was signed by the Patriots as a free agent in March last year after head coach Bill Belichick described him as a "burner" with extraordinary athleticism, it was simply the latest chance for him to make the most of opportunities.