Here it is what we have all been waiting for the past two weeks: The Super Bowl. A matchup between two teams; one that was expected to make a run at the World Championship and the other who no one would have guessed would be here so I will hit a few quick points to watch and give a final prediction.
Arizona:
Havent we learned our lesson yet?
-Kurt Warner has always been able to defy the odds that everyone puts in front of him and its foolish of us to bet against him after all this time. When no one expected St. Louis to do it, they did and they were a field goal from winning the Super Bowl again, this time being the favorite. Warner is the underdog in this situation again and could have another ring on his finger. No matter what happens on Sunday night; Kurt Warner is a bonafide Hall of Famer.
Do they have the Edge?
-The reason the Cardinals are in the Super Bowl plain and simple is the improved running game all of the sudden with the re-emergence of the Edgerrin James who said he almost quit the team because he wasnt getting carries. Pittsburgh has the best defense especially on the aspect of running. They dont need a big carries tomorrow but just a couple big gains to open up the pass game.
Can O-Line Handle the Rush?
-They have no big name lineman but that might not matter. They are coached by Russ Grimm whose one of the best coaches in the business so who knows. They havent seen a rush quite like this one though. Warner has had great protection all throughout the playoffs and will need it badly tomorrow.
Pittsburgh:
Does Big Ben step up?
-This is something that Pittsburgh will need to win this game tomorrow. If Big Ben is on, I really find it hard to pick against the Steelers. If he takes over the game instead of manages the game; it will be a blowout trust me.
Does the running game show up?
-Its basically the same thing with Arizona as they will need somewhat of a running game and if they dont have it they are in trouble. The Steelers had it in the divisional playoff but they didnt have it in the championship. Willie Parker is another huge key to for success.
The best secondary versus the best receiving core.
- This could go in either category but seriously this is what I am most excited for is to see Larry Fitzgerald (who has made himself into a superstar) and Anquan Boldin versus Troy Polamalu and Ryan Clark. It will be the best matchup of the Super Bowl and if Polamulu can hold these guys in check, it will be game over.
Prediction:
In my opinion, this will be a better game than people think it will be. I think the media including me didnt believe in Pittsburgh all year (look at all picks on how I ripped them) or how people didnt believe Arizona in the playoffs so the "No Respect" aspect is out the window. The receivers of the Cardinals and the secondary of the Steelers will even out. Finally, my pick... I think the Steelers will win because they will be able to contain the running game of Arizona and Parker will be able to run the ball resulting in a win. PITT 24-17
-Charlie.
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