On the first Sunday in February, the Pittsburgh Steelers and Green Bay Packers play for it all in Super Bowl XLV at Cowboys Stadium in Dallas, Texas. Millions of sports fans, young and old, will watch a contest that is now undoubtedly the most prominent sporting event in the United States of America.
The big game features two of most storied franchises in football – if not, all of sports – and fervent fan bases in the nation.
Pittsburgh will be playing in their second Super Bowl win in three years (and their seventh overall), while Green Bay (winners of three) will be looking for their first victory in the game since 1997.
The Steelers (12-4) emerged from the trials and tribulations with quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, rallied as team led by head coach Mike Tomlin and overcame it all to find themselves in this situation.
Meanwhile, the Packers (10-6) led by quarterback Aaron Rodgers and head coach Mike MCarthy, have been tested throughout the playoffs as they have had to win three straight road games to make to the Super Bowl. Furthermore, to just make the playoffs, they had to win their final two games of the regular season, defeating the New York Giants and Chicago Bears in succession.
As we look at both teams, each one has their issues going into the Super Bowl. Pittsburgh is known for their tough defense and gritty style of play on the turf; however, the offensive line has had a lot of work piled on them and the injury to Maurkice Pouncey – their center – may be a big story line.
If Roethlisberger is exposed – one would think that the Packers would try to go after him and gain the advantage.
Then again, Roethlisberger has always had a knack for coming through with the big play at vital moments. Despite his immense size, he’s surprisingly nimble and can read the field like no one else. If you need case study for this last paragraph, ask the Ravens…
The Green Bay Packers – while favored by odds makers – have to worry about the status of Rodgers. He’s been nursing a shoulder injury from a hit against the Chicago Bears last week and its unknown how severe it is; however, he should play in the Super Bowl.
While both teams are certainly worthy of the big game, Pittsburgh may have the edge right now.
The Steelers have veterans on their squad with a lot of experience in big games, plus Tomlin – the second African American coach to win a Super Bowl, after the retired Tony Dungy – which should be enough to overcome the Packers.
I predict: Pittsburgh 27, Green Bay 21.
