*** SUPER BOWL XL *** (2 Viewers)

[mad sweeney]

The Steelers are known for the occasional option pass play. They have Randel-El who can throw it. In Super Bowls, some clubs believe in emptying the playbook (the thinking being "why save it?")

Do you think we get a trick play where someone other than Ben throws a pass?

Without a doubt. I would be very surprised if there aren't at least 2 or 3. And look for Seattle to maybe break the Walrus mold and pull a trick or two involving Seneca Wallace. Unloading him as a Randel-El type of player as a surprise attack is highly probable too.

They did it last week and they are desperate to get Wallace on the field. They had him scheduled to eturn punts just to get the ball into his hands, but when they lost Dilfer they had to reserve him. He caught a beautiful catch last game, no reason to suspect they won't use him again.

 

[Blackhawk 69]

The Steelers are known for the occasional option pass play. They have Randel-El who can throw it. In Super Bowls, some clubs believe in emptying the playbook (the thinking being "why save it?")

Do you think we get a trick play where someone other than Ben throws a pass?

Without a doubt. I would be very surprised if there aren't at least 2 or 3. And look for Seattle to maybe break the Walrus mold and pull a trick or two involving Seneca Wallace. Unloading him as a Randel-El type of player as a surprise attack is highly probable too.

They did it last week and they are desperate to get Wallace on the field. They had him scheduled to eturn punts just to get the ball into his hands, but when they lost Dilfer they had to reserve him. He caught a beautiful catch last game, no reason to suspect they won't use him again.

 

[mad sweeney]

The Steelers are known for the occasional option pass play. They have Randel-El who can throw it. In Super Bowls, some clubs believe in emptying the playbook (the thinking being "why save it?")

Do you think we get a trick play where someone other than Ben throws a pass?

Without a doubt. I would be very surprised if there aren't at least 2 or 3. And look for Seattle to maybe break the Walrus mold and pull a trick or two involving Seneca Wallace. Unloading him as a Randel-El type of player as a surprise attack is highly probable too.

They did it last week and they are desperate to get Wallace on the field. They had him scheduled to eturn punts just to get the ball into his hands, but when they lost Dilfer they had to reserve him. He caught a beautiful catch last game, no reason to suspect they won't use him again.

I see a future in GOP speech writing for you.

 

[Kleck]

There's a lot of truth in the Riley article. We Seahawk homers are just nicer than the average fan. Sad day when that counts as insult or a character flaw.

 

[Irish]

Steelers - 34

Seahawks - 20

I just think that LeBeau and Whisenhunt have been doing such a great job in the playoffs and that will continue. The game plans have been outstanding and the Steelers have more balance as a team than they've ever had. It's hard to have watched this team the last three games and think there's a team out there that can beat them right now.

Seahawks 27Pittsbugh 21

Best offensive play caller in the NFL has the edge. A couple 80+ yard touchdown drives will do it. With 25 touchdown drives of 80+ yards during the year, the Hawks have a couple in them for this game.

For the record, Mike Shanahan is the best play caller in the NFL. How did Shanahan fare against LeBeau's defense again?

 

[seahawk 17]

Steelers - 34

Seahawks - 20

I just think that LeBeau and Whisenhunt have been doing such a great job in the playoffs and that will continue.  The game plans have been outstanding and the Steelers have more balance as a team than they've ever had.  It's hard to have watched this team the last three games and think there's a team out there that can beat them right now.

Seahawks 27Pittsbugh 21

Best offensive play caller in the NFL has the edge. A couple 80+ yard touchdown drives will do it. With 25 touchdown drives of 80+ yards during the year, the Hawks have a couple in them for this game.

For the record, Mike Shanahan is the best play caller in the NFL. How did Shanahan fare against LeBeau's defense again?

See, this is the problem with Steeler fans and the media. The Steeler's have not faced a team this season, as good as the Seahawks. They are strong and balanced across the board.

 

[seahawk 17]

Upstart Hawks have 'got it' won

By ART THIEL

P-I COLUMNIST

DETROIT -- Someone who has had some non-interview contact with Seahawks players around town this week spoke slowly, to emphasize his words.

"The Seahawks ... are ... pissed."

He wasn't a Seahawks employee, and didn't want his well-known name used. He was offering more evidence to the inescapable feeling that the Seahawks resent the hell out of being street urchins at the kitchen door of the NFL establishment, begging for scraps.

Yes, the respect theme is overused. And the Seahawks have said little publicly about their dismay.

This time, it's real, albeit real quiet. From signs great and small, the Seahawks are honing their pique as sharply as their talents. The national media doesn't get it. Fans don't get it. Oddsmakers don't get it.

They'll get it Sunday, when the Seahawks win Super Bowl XL 27-24.

Sure, that reads like a hometown pick. But anyone who has been a regular reader here knows that local-team sentiment appears as often as eloquence in a Bush news conference.

The forecast doesn't preclude the notion that a special-teams screw-up, or a bad call, or another Immaculate Reception from Pittsburgh won't change things. Nor should it be construed as a dismissal of the Steelers, a premier outfit from ownership through coaching to players. The fan base's intensity and loyalty ranks with any in the sports world.

The Steelers deserve every salute.

They just don't happen to be the better team. The Seahawks have the NFL's best record over the past three regular seasons for more reasons than a loud home crowd.

The single most significant element Sunday is the Seahawks' offensive line. Not Jerome Bettis' return to his hometown. Not Steelers linebacker Joey Porter's insipid yammering. Not Pittsburgh's 3-4 defense. Not four Super Bowls won in the 1970s. Not 19 Hall of Famers compared to Steve Largent. Not because Bill Cowher is the epitome of an NFL coach.

Forget history, tradition and sentiment. On Ford Field Sunday, the Seahawks line will give running back Shaun Alexander room and quarterback Matt Hasselbeck time.

Not a lot of either. But enough of both.

The ultimate test of a line is offense in the red zone, especially around the goal line, where the field is short and options fewer. The fact the Seahawks led the NFL in close-in scoring is based not on schemes, or tendencies averted.

It is based on the fact Walter Jones, Steve Hutchinson, Robbie Tobeck, Chris Gray and Sean Locklear, along with fullback Mack Strong, are stronger, smarter and -- attention Steelers! -- tougher than the best defense.

In the pelting rainstorm of interviews this week, there was one shining shaft of light from Hasselbeck that explained what most football pundits have been missing.

"If the defense knows it's coming, so what -- let's do it better," he said. "Look at what we do on the goal line. Shaun is the best goal-line back in football. He scores every time we're down there. We don't change. People know it's coming.

"I'm under center and guys that used to play for us (such as Carolina cornerback Ken Lucas) are yelling, 'Here it comes! Right here! We got it!'

"But they don't got it."

Intentionally bad grammar notwithstanding, Hasselbeck is right. They don't "got it." About many aspects of the Seahawks.

Part of why they don't "got it" is because the Seahawks' best asset is their most immeasurable, by standard football metrics. It was explained in another simple burst of light, this from Strong, whom you may know by now is neither braggart nor fool after 13 NFL seasons.

"We take pride," he said, "in being the smartest team in the league."

That was said of another team a few years ago, the one Warren Moon thinks reminds him, in both talent and temperament, of these Seahawks.

"They are a lot like the Dallas teams of the 1990s," said the former Seahawks and Huskies quarterback, who is a candidate for the Hall of Fame in today's voting. The Cowboys won three Super Bowls, including the 1996 game over Pittsburgh, 27-17, behind quarterback Troy Aikman, running back Emmitt Smith and linemen Nate Newton, Erik Williams, Larry Allen and Mark Tuinei, plus a superb defense.

Of course Moon, the club's radio analyst, is biased. So is much of the NFL culture when it comes to considering the chances of a team with modest history and minimal previous success.

That part of it apparently has been manipulated with great care by coach Mike Holmgren, who months ago began to describe privately how dismissed the Seahawks would be if they reached the pinnacle.

Alexander suggested to a gaggle of reporters that all has gone as scripted.

"I think you guys have been great," he said, smiling and laughing. "Mike had a plan for this whole Super Bowl. Actually, he started the plan about Week 8. You guys are doing exactly what we want you all to do.

"You guys are really making Mike look like a genius."

Unplanned little things stoked the fire. Hasselbeck was scheduled to be a guest on ABC's "Jimmy Kimmel Live" late-night show that has been in Detroit this week. But his appearance was reduced to cue-card boy and a seat in the band, playing a tambourine. He never made the couch.

Then there was the Pistons-Lakers game this week, attended by several Seahawks. Up on the big screen, the crowd was introduced to Cowher, sitting next to Pistons owner Bill Davidson, as well as other Steelers. Mad cheers for the Pittsburghers, no mention of the Seahawks.

At a charity bowling tournament put on by Bettis, Detroit Mayor Kwame Fitzpatrick talked about the Steelers back bringing the Lombardi Trophy home for a visit.

Then there was tight end Jerramy Stevens, a player oft-maligned for his dubious past in Seattle, standing up to a media onslaught Wednesday by a horde desperate to provoke him into making as big a dip of himself as his new rival, Porter.

For nearly an hour, no matter how repetitive or foolish the question, Stevens calmly answered without rancor, contempt or retaliation, for which he drew much deserved praise. Again, another deft execution of script.

Holmgren added a finishing touch this week. The Super Bowl is supposed to be a neutral field. But because of Detroit's proximity to and affinity for Pittsburgh, Holmgren had the offense work on silent counts, the counter to hostile-crowd noise.

The Seahawks know exactly what they are up against. They are pissed ... and delighted.

The rest of the NFL world that don't "got it" starts the learning curve Sunday.

 

[The Jerk]

Steelers - 34

Seahawks - 20

I just think that LeBeau and Whisenhunt have been doing such a great job in the playoffs and that will continue.  The game plans have been outstanding and the Steelers have more balance as a team than they've ever had.  It's hard to have watched this team the last three games and think there's a team out there that can beat them right now.

Seahawks 27Pittsbugh 21

Best offensive play caller in the NFL has the edge. A couple 80+ yard touchdown drives will do it. With 25 touchdown drives of 80+ yards during the year, the Hawks have a couple in them for this game.

For the record, Mike Shanahan is the best play caller in the NFL. How did Shanahan fare against LeBeau's defense again?

See, this is the problem with Steeler fans and the media. The Steeler's have not faced a team this season, as good as the Seahawks. They are strong and balanced across the board.

I give the Seahawks a decent chance of winning tomorrow, but to suggest the Steelers haven't faced a team as good as the Seahawks is just wishful thinking on your part. And yet, even with comments like this, it's the Seahawks fans who keep talking about no respect.

 

[The Jerk]

Upstart Hawks have 'got it' won

By ART THIEL

P-I COLUMNIST

DETROIT -- Someone who has had some non-interview contact with Seahawks players around town this week spoke slowly, to emphasize his words.

"The Seahawks ... are ... pissed."

...

Interesting article. Reminds me of what was written when the Steelers played the Cowboys in SB XXX. Funny thing is, though, that didn't help the Steelers win the game.Do you think the Steelers beat the Colts because they were angry/disrespected? Or the Broncos? I think they won because they were the better team, at least on that day. The same is true for tomorrow. The Seahawks will win if they are the better team, not because of anger or disrespect. Same for the Steelers. They won't win because they are favored, respected, not favored, not respected. It's all about the game. The team that plays better wins the game -- period. Always has been, always will be.

 

[seahawk 17]

Steelers - 34

Seahawks - 20

I just think that LeBeau and Whisenhunt have been doing such a great job in the playoffs and that will continue.  The game plans have been outstanding and the Steelers have more balance as a team than they've ever had.  It's hard to have watched this team the last three games and think there's a team out there that can beat them right now.

Seahawks 27Pittsbugh 21

Best offensive play caller in the NFL has the edge. A couple 80+ yard touchdown drives will do it. With 25 touchdown drives of 80+ yards during the year, the Hawks have a couple in them for this game.

For the record, Mike Shanahan is the best play caller in the NFL. How did Shanahan fare against LeBeau's defense again?

See, this is the problem with Steeler fans and the media. The Steeler's have not faced a team this season, as good as the Seahawks. They are strong and balanced across the board.

I give the Seahawks a decent chance of winning tomorrow, but to suggest the Steelers haven't faced a team as good as the Seahawks is just wishful thinking on your part. And yet, even with comments like this, it's the Seahawks fans who keep talking about no respect.

Do we have to start the stat debate again? Which I don't want to do, so here is my point.1. BEST OFFENSIVE LINE IN THE NFL(I don't think anyone disputes that)

2. NFL MVP and Rushing Champion Shaun Alexander

3. #2 offense in the league.

How can you say that you have faced a better team? Without being a homer?

 

[The Jerk]

Steelers - 34

Seahawks - 20

I just think that LeBeau and Whisenhunt have been doing such a great job in the playoffs and that will continue.  The game plans have been outstanding and the Steelers have more balance as a team than they've ever had.  It's hard to have watched this team the last three games and think there's a team out there that can beat them right now.

Seahawks 27Pittsbugh 21

Best offensive play caller in the NFL has the edge. A couple 80+ yard touchdown drives will do it. With 25 touchdown drives of 80+ yards during the year, the Hawks have a couple in them for this game.

For the record, Mike Shanahan is the best play caller in the NFL. How did Shanahan fare against LeBeau's defense again?

See, this is the problem with Steeler fans and the media. The Steeler's have not faced a team this season, as good as the Seahawks. They are strong and balanced across the board.

I give the Seahawks a decent chance of winning tomorrow, but to suggest the Steelers haven't faced a team as good as the Seahawks is just wishful thinking on your part. And yet, even with comments like this, it's the Seahawks fans who keep talking about no respect.

Do we have to start the stat debate again? Which I don't want to do, so here is my point.1. BEST OFFENSIVE LINE IN THE NFL(I don't think anyone disputes that)

2. NFL MVP and Rushing Champion Shaun Alexander

3. #2 offense in the league.

How can you say that you have faced a better team? Without being a homer?

My friend, you need to calm down. Please read what I actually posted, not what you saw. You will see that I didn't say the Steelers have faced a better team. I simply said that it's untrue that the Steelers haven't faced a team as good as the Seahawks. You really need to get past the disrespect thing. It makes you look like you're not very confident.EDITED TO ADD: Specifically, I'd nominate Denver and Indy to be at their level. And please note that is not an insult. Indy was 13-0 and being compared with the greatest NFL teams of all time only a few weeks ago. And Denver went 13-3 against one of the most difficult schedules in the league.

 

[Tom Servo]

How can you say that you have faced a better team? Without being a homer?

And you have a head lock on objectivity. Pretty much because the AFC is widely acknowledged as the superior conference, not just this year, but for the last couple. The AFC has the NFC this year head-to-head meeting this season.

Indianapolis and Denver had great offenses with decent defenses and the Steelers beat them both.

Can the Seahawks win? Absolutely; anything can happen in a single game. Do I think they will? Nope.

30

Seabirds 14

 

[Smoo]

The Steelers are known for the occasional option pass play.

As long as they exercise the option of throwing it to Marcus Trufant a few times, that's cool.

I read that one time in college Trufant intercepted a ball with his nose. Last year with the Seahawks he successfully placed THIS bowling ball in his nose for charity.

Nobody's arguing that he isn't an ugly, ugly man.

 

[Irish]

Steelers - 34

Seahawks - 20

I just think that LeBeau and Whisenhunt have been doing such a great job in the playoffs and that will continue. The game plans have been outstanding and the Steelers have more balance as a team than they've ever had. It's hard to have watched this team the last three games and think there's a team out there that can beat them right now.

Seahawks 27Pittsbugh 21

Best offensive play caller in the NFL has the edge. A couple 80+ yard touchdown drives will do it. With 25 touchdown drives of 80+ yards during the year, the Hawks have a couple in them for this game.

For the record, Mike Shanahan is the best play caller in the NFL. How did Shanahan fare against LeBeau's defense again?

See, this is the problem with Steeler fans and the media. The Steeler's have not faced a team this season, as good as the Seahawks. They are strong and balanced across the board.

I give the Seahawks a decent chance of winning tomorrow, but to suggest the Steelers haven't faced a team as good as the Seahawks is just wishful thinking on your part. And yet, even with comments like this, it's the Seahawks fans who keep talking about no respect.

Do we have to start the stat debate again? Which I don't want to do, so here is my point.1. BEST OFFENSIVE LINE IN THE NFL(I don't think anyone disputes that)

2. NFL MVP and Rushing Champion Shaun Alexander

3. #2 offense in the league.

How can you say that you have faced a better team? Without being a homer?

Colts at Indy is a lot more impressive team than Seattle away from the Pacific Northwest. How can you say that's not a true statement without being a homer. Seahawk fans do realize that this game is not being played in Seattle right?

 

[BGP]

Steelers - 34

Seahawks - 20

I just think that LeBeau and Whisenhunt have been doing such a great job in the playoffs and that will continue. The game plans have been outstanding and the Steelers have more balance as a team than they've ever had. It's hard to have watched this team the last three games and think there's a team out there that can beat them right now.

Seahawks 27Pittsbugh 21

Best offensive play caller in the NFL has the edge. A couple 80+ yard touchdown drives will do it. With 25 touchdown drives of 80+ yards during the year, the Hawks have a couple in them for this game.

For the record, Mike Shanahan is the best play caller in the NFL. How did Shanahan fare against LeBeau's defense again?

See, this is the problem with Steeler fans and the media. The Steeler's have not faced a team this season, as good as the Seahawks. They are strong and balanced across the board.

I give the Seahawks a decent chance of winning tomorrow, but to suggest the Steelers haven't faced a team as good as the Seahawks is just wishful thinking on your part. And yet, even with comments like this, it's the Seahawks fans who keep talking about no respect.

Do we have to start the stat debate again? Which I don't want to do, so here is my point.1. BEST OFFENSIVE LINE IN THE NFL(I don't think anyone disputes that)

2. NFL MVP and Rushing Champion Shaun Alexander

3. #2 offense in the league.

How can you say that you have faced a better team? Without being a homer?

Colts at Indy is a lot more impressive team than Seattle away from the Pacific Northwest. How can you say that's not a true statement without being a homer. Seahawk fans do realize that this game is not being played in Seattle right?

Because Dungy is 5-8 lifetime in postseason. Its not like Cowher beat a great head coach here. I noted as much even before he lost to the Steelers:

Has there been an all star class of head coaches in the same post season that would compare to this one? I'm having trouble thinking of one.

I know. And Dungy seems completely outclassed.

Yeah, I'm feeling more and more nervous about picking the Colts to win the super bowl.

Some head coaches just always come up short in the postseason.In this case, perhaps Dungy needed to have his OL better prepared for the Steelers' blitzing schemes. Perhaps a truly great head coach DOES have them prepared and wins that game.

 

[Steelers4Life]

Steelers - 34Seahawks - 20

I just think that LeBeau and Whisenhunt have been doing such a great job in the playoffs and that will continue.  The game plans have been outstanding and the Steelers have more balance as a team than they've ever had.  It's hard to have watched this team the last three games and think there's a team out there that can beat them right now.

Seahawks 27

Pittsbugh 21

Best offensive play caller in the NFL has the edge. A couple 80+ yard touchdown drives will do it. With 25 touchdown drives of 80+ yards during the year, the Hawks have a couple in them for this game.

For the record, Mike Shanahan is the best play caller in the NFL. How did Shanahan fare against LeBeau's defense again?

See, this is the problem with Steeler fans and the media. The Steeler's have not faced a team this season, as good as the Seahawks. They are strong and balanced across the board.

I give the Seahawks a decent chance of winning tomorrow, but to suggest the Steelers haven't faced a team as good as the Seahawks is just wishful thinking on your part. And yet, even with comments like this, it's the Seahawks fans who keep talking about no respect.

Do we have to start the stat debate again? Which I don't want to do, so here is my point.

1. BEST OFFENSIVE LINE IN THE NFL(I don't think anyone disputes that)

2. NFL MVP and Rushing Champion Shaun Alexander

3. #2 offense in the league.

How can you say that you have faced a better team? Without being a homer?

Colts at Indy is a lot more impressive team than Seattle away from the Pacific Northwest. How can you say that's not a true statement without being a homer. Seahawk fans do realize that this game is not being played in Seattle right?

Because Dungy is 5-8 lifetime in postseason. Its not like Cowher beat a great head coach here. I noted as much even before he lost to the Steelers:

Has there been an all star class of head coaches in the same post season that would compare to this one?  I'm having trouble thinking of one.

I know. And Dungy seems completely outclassed.

Yeah, I'm feeling more and more nervous about picking the Colts to win the super bowl.

Some head coaches just always come up short in the postseason.

In this case, perhaps Dungy needed to have his OL better prepared for the Steelers' blitzing schemes. Perhaps a truly great head coach DOES have them prepared and wins that game.

LOL, you mean, like, I dunno... Mike Shanahan? The Steelers put great pressure on Plummer, too. You just can't give the Steelers credit, can you?

The Seahawks will have a hard time with the Steelers' defense tomorrow just like everyone else normally does. The Seahawks DO have the talent to be successful, so we'll see what Lebeau came up with.

His zone blitz defense was specifically designed to stop the West Coast offense. We'll see how the Seahawks offense is prepared to attack it.

 

[BGP]

Because Dungy is 5-8 lifetime in postseason. Its not like Cowher beat a great head coach here. I noted as much even before he lost to the Steelers:

Some head coaches just always come up short in the postseason.

In this case, perhaps Dungy needed to have his OL better prepared for the Steelers' blitzing schemes. Perhaps a truly great head coach DOES have them prepared and wins that game.

LOL, you mean, like, I dunno... Mike Shanahan? The Steelers put great pressure on Plummer, too. You just can't give the Steelers credit, can you? The Seahawks will have a hard time with the Steelers' defense tomorrow just like everyone else normally does. The Seahawks DO have the talent to be successful, so we'll see what Lebeau came up with.

His zone blitz defense was specifically designed to stop the West Coast offense. We'll see how the Seahawks offense is prepared to attack it.

In the game thread before kickoff I gave the Steelers a fair chance to win the AFC title in Denver. I noted that, while Shanahan has obviously led great clubs to the title, that this was not a great Denver club.In the Colts, we have a great club but not a great coach.

In the Broncos we have a great coach but not a great club.

With the Seahawks we have a great club and a head coach who has proven he can lead great clubs to a title.

 

[Steelers4Life]

Because Dungy is 5-8 lifetime in postseason.  Its not like Cowher beat a great head coach here.  I noted as much even before he lost to the Steelers:

Some head coaches just always come up short in the postseason.

In this case, perhaps Dungy needed to have his OL better prepared for the Steelers' blitzing schemes.  Perhaps a truly great head coach DOES have them prepared and wins that game.

LOL, you mean, like, I dunno... Mike Shanahan? The Steelers put great pressure on Plummer, too. You just can't give the Steelers credit, can you? The Seahawks will have a hard time with the Steelers' defense tomorrow just like everyone else normally does. The Seahawks DO have the talent to be successful, so we'll see what Lebeau came up with.

His zone blitz defense was specifically designed to stop the West Coast offense. We'll see how the Seahawks offense is prepared to attack it.

In the game thread before kickoff I gave the Steelers a fair chance to win the AFC title in Denver. I noted that, while Shanahan has obviously led great clubs to the title, that this was not a great Denver club.In the Colts, we have a great club but not a great coach.

In the Broncos we have a great coach but not a great club.

With the Seahawks we have a great club and a head coach who has proven he can lead great clubs to a title.

If you really believe that Holmgren is a better coach than Cowher, you might want to look at their career records, even in the postseason. Holmgren won the Super Bowl with Favre, and that's the only leg up he has on Cowher.This game's matchups have been beaten to death, but making a comment like the Seahawks should be expected to win easily is ignorant at best.

 

[BGP]

Because Dungy is 5-8 lifetime in postseason. Its not like Cowher beat a great head coach here. I noted as much even before he lost to the Steelers:

Some head coaches just always come up short in the postseason.

In this case, perhaps Dungy needed to have his OL better prepared for the Steelers' blitzing schemes. Perhaps a truly great head coach DOES have them prepared and wins that game.

LOL, you mean, like, I dunno... Mike Shanahan? The Steelers put great pressure on Plummer, too. You just can't give the Steelers credit, can you? The Seahawks will have a hard time with the Steelers' defense tomorrow just like everyone else normally does. The Seahawks DO have the talent to be successful, so we'll see what Lebeau came up with.

His zone blitz defense was specifically designed to stop the West Coast offense. We'll see how the Seahawks offense is prepared to attack it.

In the game thread before kickoff I gave the Steelers a fair chance to win the AFC title in Denver. I noted that, while Shanahan has obviously led great clubs to the title, that this was not a great Denver club.In the Colts, we have a great club but not a great coach.

In the Broncos we have a great coach but not a great club.

With the Seahawks we have a great club and a head coach who has proven he can lead great clubs to a title.

Holmgren won the Super Bowl with Favre, and that's the only leg up he has on Cowher.

I feel people play a shell game with comments like this. Among the ping-pong balls they have been moved around over the years:1. Kordell is the great QB.

2. The reason Cowher has never won a super bowl is because he's never had a great QB.

3. The Steelers always draft incredibly good.

4. The Reason Cowher hasn't won a super bowl is because his teams aren't that good.

I think its better to keep it simple. He's been a head coach since 1992. He's been close many times. He's not won it yet.

 

[apalmer]

Too bad there isn't an objective way to measure offensive line play. I keep reading Seahawk fans predicting that the Steelers won't be able to get past their line to pressure Hasselback the way they did Manning and Plummer. So how come Hasselback was sacked 24 times in the regualr season, Plummer 24 and Manning 17? If Seattle's line is so superior to Indy and Denver in protecting the QB, where are the results?

 

[Steel City]

Because Dungy is 5-8 lifetime in postseason. Its not like Cowher beat a great head coach here. I noted as much even before he lost to the Steelers:

Some head coaches just always come up short in the postseason.

In this case, perhaps Dungy needed to have his OL better prepared for the Steelers' blitzing schemes. Perhaps a truly great head coach DOES have them prepared and wins that game.

LOL, you mean, like, I dunno... Mike Shanahan? The Steelers put great pressure on Plummer, too. You just can't give the Steelers credit, can you? The Seahawks will have a hard time with the Steelers' defense tomorrow just like everyone else normally does. The Seahawks DO have the talent to be successful, so we'll see what Lebeau came up with.

His zone blitz defense was specifically designed to stop the West Coast offense. We'll see how the Seahawks offense is prepared to attack it.

In the game thread before kickoff I gave the Steelers a fair chance to win the AFC title in Denver. I noted that, while Shanahan has obviously led great clubs to the title, that this was not a great Denver club.In the Colts, we have a great club but not a great coach.

In the Broncos we have a great coach but not a great club.

With the Seahawks we have a great club and a head coach who has proven he can lead great clubs to a title.

Holmgren won the Super Bowl with Favre, and that's the only leg up he has on Cowher.

I feel people play a shell game with comments like this. Among the ping-pong balls they have been moved around over the years:1. Kordell is the great QB.

2. The reason Cowher has never won a super bowl is because he's never had a great QB.

3. The Steelers always draft incredibly good.

4. The Reason Cowher hasn't won a super bowl is because his teams aren't that good.

I think its better to keep it simple. He's been a head coach since 1992. He's been close many times. He's not won it yet.

BGP, I give you credit for being a good with statistics. Can you argue with this guy though? Let me know what you think.Here's the link: Stats

 

[seahawk 17]

Too bad there isn't an objective way to measure offensive line play. I keep reading Seahawk fans predicting that the Steelers won't be able to get past their line to pressure Hasselback the way they did Manning and Plummer. So how come Hasselback was sacked 24 times in the regualr season, Plummer 24 and Manning 17? If Seattle's line is so superior to Indy and Denver in protecting the QB, where are the results?

Hmmm, this is a good point. Perhaps they are best at running the ball and not so much at pass protection? Either way, good point.

 

[seahawk 17]

Five reasons why Seattle will win

On the eve of Super Bowl XL, here are Schein's five reasons why Seattle will be crowned champion:

1. I have a scoop for you. The league MVP is playing in the Super Bowl.

It's a bit amazing when you stop and think about it. Shaun Alexander's season for the ages is being pooh-poohed a bit going into the championship game. The running back's 28 touchdowns and more than 1,800 yards on the ground are almost an afterthought as a storyline, and in a lot of circles, for a variety of reasons, being dismissed.

And with Jerome Bettis coming home to Detroit to finally win the big one in this final game of his Hall of Fame career, Alexander isn't even the most talked about running back in the Super Bowl.

Instead of being celebrated en route to the clash against the Steelers, Alexander is getting questioned, with the whispers being spoken in unison that they create a rather large shout.

"What about Alexander in the big game?" ... "The game against the Panthers was a mirage, Carolina was banged up." ... "Who cares what he did against the pathetic NFC West!" ... "Is Alexander tough enough to play well against the bone-crushing Steelers?"

In talking to Alexander for a good chunk of time on Wednesday, he admits he is hearing the conversation. Alexander said he was unaware of the "big-game" issues until the media started asking him how he felt to finally have a 100-yard rushing game in the playoffs in the NFC title game against the Panthers.

Now the highly-effective game against Carolina was a great performance in a pressure-packed spot. I don't want to hear that the Panthers were road-weary. That Carolina defense was tough, physical, and strong at the linebacker and safety positions. It can be a harbinger of things to come for Alexander against the stingy Pittsburgh defense.

And while the Steelers play the 3-4 defense, with outstanding nose tackle Casey Hampton plugging the middle and demanding major attention from offensive linemen, creating breathing room for play-making linebackers James Farrior, Larry Foote and Joey Porter to punish the ball carrier, Alexander will have room to run behind the best offensive line in the NFL.

And after being the best running back, and overall player, in the NFL this year, as good as the Steelers defense is, we need to pay attention and believe that Alexander can go over the century mark for rushing yards in the Super Bowl.

2. Matt Hasselbeck told me on Tuesday that he doesn't worry about anyone beating Walter Jones. Ever.

Walter Jones anchors a strong Seahawks line. (Jamie Squire / Getty Images)

And this offensive line is even deeper than simply having the best left tackle in the game. Steve Hutchinson is the sturdiest left guard in the NFL, Robbie Tobeck an All-Pro center, and don't minimize how good the right side of the line is, too. Even against the brilliantly-coached Steelers defense, I truly believe the Seattle line is up for the challenge. And no, I haven't forgotten this is the same defense that shredded talented linemen in Cincy, Indy, and Denver. I just think Seattle is better than those aforementioned lines.

As a result, Hasselbeck, the best QB in the NFC this season, should have time to throw the ball and spread the rock around. And it is more than fair to say Hasselbeck has played brilliantly in the postseason, taking the entire team on his shoulders in the Washington win when Alexander went out with a mild concussion. And, as the quarterback told me Tuesday, a big key to his playoff success are his timely runs that move the chains when the pocket collapses.

Ben Roethlisberger has been a wizard in the postseason, but you cannot ignore the greatness Hasselbeck has shown in the playoffs.

And there's one thing you never worry about with Hasselbeck — confidence. His cockiness infects the rest of his teammates in the huddle. There are certain players that you worry about whether or not the moment will be too big for them. Not the Seattle QB.

3. I like the match-up for the Seahawks when you break down their wide receivers against the Steelers defensive backs.

Darrell Jackson has performed exceptionally well in the postseason. When healthy, he is the best of the very deep and versatile receiving core.

And there is the rub for the Steelers defense; who do you roll coverage towards? As John Madden said on Friday, he believes that the always clutch Bobby Engram is going to have a big game. Throughout his career, Joe Jurevicius has had a great knack for always coming up with big plays and being a top option in the redzone. The sure handed veteran wideout totaled 10 touchdowns this year. And Hasselbeck gushed about what Jerramy Stevens had added down the stretch of the season and in the playoffs. Forget the conversation going back and forth with Joey Porter this week — Stevens can play. Just look at how wide open he has been over the middle this post-season for Hasselbeck.

Ike Taylor, Deshea Townsend, and Byrant McFadden have talent, but you can throw on them. I think Seattle's depth at the receiver position will play a big part in the outcome in the Super Bowl.

4. For all of the talk about Jerome Bettis coming home, let's not make him out to be the player he was a few years ago.

The Bus can still churn out hard-earned yards to get first downs and score touchdowns, but to expect too much from him in the Super Bowl would be a mistake.

I like how the Seattle defense matches up with the Steelers running game. Chuck Darby, Marcus Tubbs and Rocky Bernard account for a formidable rotation of defensive tackles that totally shut down Clinton Portis in the second round of the playoffs.

Chuck Darby (91) and Rocky Bernard harassed Panthers QB Jake Delhomme in the NFC title game. (Jonathan Ferrey / Getty Images)

Besides Troy Polamalu, you could certainly make the case that Lofa Tatupu has been the best defensive player in the postseason. And Tatupu. LeRoy Hill, and D.D. Lewis can do a good job bottling up Willie Parker when he busts to the outside.

Now I fully expect Roethlisberger to have a very good day throwing to Hines Ward, Heath Miller, and Antwaan Randle El, but I think the Seahawks defense will be able to make the Steelers a bit one-dimensional.

5. Mike Holmgren has changed for the better.

Perhaps the great addition of adding Tim Ruskell to run the football operations department allowing Holmgren to solely coach helped out. Perhaps getting rid of Koren Robinson was the key to locker room chemistry. Perhaps calling Alexander constantly over the "off-season," as Alexander told me Wednesday, was paramount to Alexander having a monster season. Perhaps it all finally clicked in the relationship / tutoring with Hasselbeck.

Whatever "it" was, it is working.

And I really like what Holmgren has done the last few weeks, keeping the exact same schedule as the team had during the season, an adjustment from the last time he was in the Super Bowl with the Packers

 

[Steelers4Life]

Because Dungy is 5-8 lifetime in postseason.  Its not like Cowher beat a great head coach here.  I noted as much even before he lost to the Steelers:

Some head coaches just always come up short in the postseason.

In this case, perhaps Dungy needed to have his OL better prepared for the Steelers' blitzing schemes.  Perhaps a truly great head coach DOES have them prepared and wins that game.

LOL, you mean, like, I dunno... Mike Shanahan? The Steelers put great pressure on Plummer, too. You just can't give the Steelers credit, can you? The Seahawks will have a hard time with the Steelers' defense tomorrow just like everyone else normally does. The Seahawks DO have the talent to be successful, so we'll see what Lebeau came up with.

His zone blitz defense was specifically designed to stop the West Coast offense. We'll see how the Seahawks offense is prepared to attack it.

In the game thread before kickoff I gave the Steelers a fair chance to win the AFC title in Denver. I noted that, while Shanahan has obviously led great clubs to the title, that this was not a great Denver club.In the Colts, we have a great club but not a great coach.

In the Broncos we have a great coach but not a great club.

With the Seahawks we have a great club and a head coach who has proven he can lead great clubs to a title.

Holmgren won the Super Bowl with Favre, and that's the only leg up he has on Cowher.

I feel people play a shell game with comments like this. Among the ping-pong balls they have been moved around over the years:1. Kordell is the great QB.

2. The reason Cowher has never won a super bowl is because he's never had a great QB.

3. The Steelers always draft incredibly good.

4. The Reason Cowher hasn't won a super bowl is because his teams aren't that good.

I think its better to keep it simple. He's been a head coach since 1992. He's been close many times. He's not won it yet.

I know you do. You like to judge things like points per yard and total point differential without looking at the underlying reasons for them. You don't like to consider the schedules teams have faced or the style of offense/defense they run, but not everything is always black and white.Regarding your points...

1. Kordell was never a great QB. He was able to make plays with his feet early in his career, but when he ran into defenses that were able to limit the effectiveness of his legs and the Steelers' running game, he looked like a deer in headlights when he was forced to throw.

2. It's true that a large part of Cowher's shortcomings in the playoffs have been due to terrible QB play compared to the opposition. It's why they've lost matchups in playoffs against guys like Montana, Aikman, Elway, and Brady while having teams led by O'Donnell, Stewart, and Maddox. He didn't just figure out how to coach this year, but this IS the first time he's had a QB capable of making a playoff quality defense pay for stacking the line to stop the run.

3. They've done a tremendous job drafting in the past 8 years or so. 17 of the 22 starters on this Super Bowl team and about 4 or 5 key backups were drafted since 1998. And Willie Parker was a free agent pickup.

4. I think Cowher has led teams to overachieve just to get to the points they've gotten to. His conservative offenses were normally a result of his personnel and their limitations.

 

[Trey]

Steelers 24

Seahawks 20

Book it.

 

[CrossEyed]

4"-8" of snow by noon in Detroit. Remind me why they play these games in northern cities again?

 

[Irish]

Steelers - 34Seahawks - 20

I just think that LeBeau and Whisenhunt have been doing such a great job in the playoffs and that will continue. The game plans have been outstanding and the Steelers have more balance as a team than they've ever had. It's hard to have watched this team the last three games and think there's a team out there that can beat them right now.

Seahawks 27

Pittsbugh 21

Best offensive play caller in the NFL has the edge. A couple 80+ yard touchdown drives will do it. With 25 touchdown drives of 80+ yards during the year, the Hawks have a couple in them for this game.

For the record, Mike Shanahan is the best play caller in the NFL. How did Shanahan fare against LeBeau's defense again?

See, this is the problem with Steeler fans and the media. The Steeler's have not faced a team this season, as good as the Seahawks. They are strong and balanced across the board.

I give the Seahawks a decent chance of winning tomorrow, but to suggest the Steelers haven't faced a team as good as the Seahawks is just wishful thinking on your part. And yet, even with comments like this, it's the Seahawks fans who keep talking about no respect.

Do we have to start the stat debate again? Which I don't want to do, so here is my point.

1. BEST OFFENSIVE LINE IN THE NFL(I don't think anyone disputes that)

2. NFL MVP and Rushing Champion Shaun Alexander

3. #2 offense in the league.

How can you say that you have faced a better team? Without being a homer?

Colts at Indy is a lot more impressive team than Seattle away from the Pacific Northwest. How can you say that's not a true statement without being a homer. Seahawk fans do realize that this game is not being played in Seattle right?

Because Dungy is 5-8 lifetime in postseason. Its not like Cowher beat a great head coach here. I noted as much even before he lost to the Steelers:

Has there been an all star class of head coaches in the same post season that would compare to this one? I'm having trouble thinking of one.

I know. And Dungy seems completely outclassed.

Yeah, I'm feeling more and more nervous about picking the Colts to win the super bowl.

Some head coaches just always come up short in the postseason.

In this case, perhaps Dungy needed to have his OL better prepared for the Steelers' blitzing schemes. Perhaps a truly great head coach DOES have them prepared and wins that game.

And tell me again what Holmgren has won without Favre and Reggie White?

 

[seahawk 17]

Steelers - 34Seahawks - 20

I just think that LeBeau and Whisenhunt have been doing such a great job in the playoffs and that will continue. The game plans have been outstanding and the Steelers have more balance as a team than they've ever had. It's hard to have watched this team the last three games and think there's a team out there that can beat them right now.

Seahawks 27

Pittsbugh 21

Best offensive play caller in the NFL has the edge. A couple 80+ yard touchdown drives will do it. With 25 touchdown drives of 80+ yards during the year, the Hawks have a couple in them for this game.

For the record, Mike Shanahan is the best play caller in the NFL. How did Shanahan fare against LeBeau's defense again?

See, this is the problem with Steeler fans and the media. The Steeler's have not faced a team this season, as good as the Seahawks. They are strong and balanced across the board.

I give the Seahawks a decent chance of winning tomorrow, but to suggest the Steelers haven't faced a team as good as the Seahawks is just wishful thinking on your part. And yet, even with comments like this, it's the Seahawks fans who keep talking about no respect.

Do we have to start the stat debate again? Which I don't want to do, so here is my point.

1. BEST OFFENSIVE LINE IN THE NFL(I don't think anyone disputes that)

2. NFL MVP and Rushing Champion Shaun Alexander

3. #2 offense in the league.

How can you say that you have faced a better team? Without being a homer?

Colts at Indy is a lot more impressive team than Seattle away from the Pacific Northwest. How can you say that's not a true statement without being a homer. Seahawk fans do realize that this game is not being played in Seattle right?

Because Dungy is 5-8 lifetime in postseason. Its not like Cowher beat a great head coach here. I noted as much even before he lost to the Steelers:

Has there been an all star class of head coaches in the same post season that would compare to this one? I'm having trouble thinking of one.

I know. And Dungy seems completely outclassed.

Yeah, I'm feeling more and more nervous about picking the Colts to win the super bowl.

Some head coaches just always come up short in the postseason.

In this case, perhaps Dungy needed to have his OL better prepared for the Steelers' blitzing schemes. Perhaps a truly great head coach DOES have them prepared and wins that game.

And tell me again what Holmgren has won without Favre and Reggie White?

Reggie White?? I think you have been watching to much tv today.

 

[tommyboy]

its official, a ten yr old psychic on KUFO 101.1 on Friday afternoon predicted Pittsburgh wins 24-17. Its a lock.

personally, my recollection and purely unscientific prediction, is that usually the team with the best defense (not the best offense) wins the Super Bowl, so I'm leaning Pittsburgh here.

 

[Irish]

Steelers - 34Seahawks - 20

I just think that LeBeau and Whisenhunt have been doing such a great job in the playoffs and that will continue. The game plans have been outstanding and the Steelers have more balance as a team than they've ever had. It's hard to have watched this team the last three games and think there's a team out there that can beat them right now.

Seahawks 27

Pittsbugh 21

Best offensive play caller in the NFL has the edge. A couple 80+ yard touchdown drives will do it. With 25 touchdown drives of 80+ yards during the year, the Hawks have a couple in them for this game.

For the record, Mike Shanahan is the best play caller in the NFL. How did Shanahan fare against LeBeau's defense again?

See, this is the problem with Steeler fans and the media. The Steeler's have not faced a team this season, as good as the Seahawks. They are strong and balanced across the board.

I give the Seahawks a decent chance of winning tomorrow, but to suggest the Steelers haven't faced a team as good as the Seahawks is just wishful thinking on your part. And yet, even with comments like this, it's the Seahawks fans who keep talking about no respect.

Do we have to start the stat debate again? Which I don't want to do, so here is my point.

1. BEST OFFENSIVE LINE IN THE NFL(I don't think anyone disputes that)

2. NFL MVP and Rushing Champion Shaun Alexander

3. #2 offense in the league.

How can you say that you have faced a better team? Without being a homer?

Colts at Indy is a lot more impressive team than Seattle away from the Pacific Northwest. How can you say that's not a true statement without being a homer. Seahawk fans do realize that this game is not being played in Seattle right?

Because Dungy is 5-8 lifetime in postseason. Its not like Cowher beat a great head coach here. I noted as much even before he lost to the Steelers:

Has there been an all star class of head coaches in the same post season that would compare to this one? I'm having trouble thinking of one.

I know. And Dungy seems completely outclassed.

Yeah, I'm feeling more and more nervous about picking the Colts to win the super bowl.

Some head coaches just always come up short in the postseason.

In this case, perhaps Dungy needed to have his OL better prepared for the Steelers' blitzing schemes. Perhaps a truly great head coach DOES have them prepared and wins that game.

And tell me again what Holmgren has won without Favre and Reggie White?

Reggie White?? I think you have been watching to much tv today.

Are you disputing Reggie White's importance as to why Holmgren has his 1 ring as a HC?

 

[brettdj]

4"-8" of snow by noon in Detroit. Remind me why they play these games in northern cities again?

Because that is the way football should be played.

 

[Mik789fl]

its official, a ten yr old psychic on KUFO 101.1 on Friday afternoon predicted Pittsburgh wins 24-17. Its a lock.

personally, my recollection and purely unscientific prediction, is that usually the team with the best defense (not the best offense) wins the Super Bowl, so I'm leaning Pittsburgh here.

Isn't there a monkey somewhere who's picked the Super Bowl winner every year since,whenever. They put pictures of the logos on two pieces of cardboard and he points to one of them,he's been right for like forever. Come to think of it I can do that. Anyone know who the monkey picked this year?

 

[Irish]

I've read somewhere that stated that Seattle hasn't beat a winning team on the road since 2002. The trend continues.........

 

[brettdj]

I've read somewhere that stated that Seattle hasn't beat a winning team on the road since 2002. The trend continues.........

And the last time the Steelers won on neutral turf?

 

[CapnJB]

Steelers 24

Seahawks 20

Book it.

That would make vegas very unhappy.

 

[Godsbrother]

I've read somewhere that stated that Seattle hasn't beat a winning team on the road since 2002.  The trend continues.........

And the last time the Steelers won on neutral turf?

More recently than Seattle...

 

[hammerva]

Whoever thought that Stuart Scott hosting the Sunday NFL Countdown for 3 or so hours is a good idea should be shot. Hell I am blacker than Stuart. :X

 

[Peyton Marino]

Seattle 34

Pittsburgh 10

Despite Bettis being a class guy and deserving this win, Ben will screw it up by throwing 4 interceptions.

 

[Black&Gold]

The waiting...............

Steelers 33

Seahawks 24

And believe me, we aren't taking the Seahawks lightly. One for the thumb!!!

 

[Franknbeans]

 

[Hammered Finz]

Seattle is a good NFC team, but the schedule they played inflated their record.. SF twice, Ariz twice, Rams twice, etc..

AFC is flat out a better conference.. Seahawks haven't seen D like Pittsburgh.. that 3-4 D will make the difference...

Steelers 27

Seahawks 16

 

[mad sweeney]

Nice!!! I'm out, ca't look at or read any more. I think the Steelers are a classy team (obvious exception of TO Jr Porter) and a good team. It should be one of the best SBs in recent memory. I've been waiting nearly my whole life for this game and win or lose, this is the best season ever for me.

To all you classy Steeler fans, enjoy the game. Can't wish you good luck, but enjoy the game nonetheless.

To all you bandwagoners on either side, I hope this game goes down as one of the greats.

And to all us 'Hawk Faithful, I'm down here in L.A. (actually in shorts and flipflops today!) waving the flag like I have every year. Good luck guys. The sun will shine in Seattle today. And XL will always be known as Detroit: 'Hawk City.

GO GET 'EM HAWKS

Seahawks 34

Steelers 24

 

[Hammered Finz]

Nice!!! I'm out, ca't look at or read any more. I think the Steelers are a classy team (obvious exception of TO Jr Porter) and a good team. It should be one of the best SBs in recent memory. I've been waiting nearly my whole life for this game and win or lose, this is the best season ever for me.

To all you classy Steeler fans, enjoy the game. Can't wish you good luck, but enjoy the game nonetheless.

To all you bandwagoners on either side, I hope this game goes down as one of the greats.

And to all us 'Hawk Faithful, I'm down here in L.A. (actually in shorts and flipflops today!) waving the flag like I have every year. Good luck guys. The sun will shine in Seattle today. And XL will always be known as Detroit: 'Hawk City.

GO GET 'EM HAWKS

Seahawks 34

Steelers 24

enjoy the game

 

[seahawk 17]

Everybody enjoy the game, I am glued to the TV.

Everyone enjoy the game...

Seattle by at least 9, but I'll take a win by 1.

Steeler fans you have been alright.

 

[NorvilleBarnes]

SO looking forward to this Superbowl. XL The only time those freaking roman numerals look cool. Both teams deserve it.

I think the Steelers are going to win it - but I want the Seahags to take it all.

I want them to win by twice the points that any potential blown call could have produced. I want them to score so quickly it becomes a new metaphor for any sport ("The Spurs opened the game by going completely 'Seahawks' on the Jazz!"). I want them to win so convincingly that future teams will be encouraged by the sight of terrible towels. I want them to cause so much utter destruction that people will actually turn to Pat Robertson for a logical explanation.

Good luck Seattle

 

[jeff_eaglz]

Meaningless stat of the day (That I've seen so far):

NFC teams are perfect (7 or 8-0, I didn't really feel the need to write it down) in games broadcast by ABC.

Can we play the damn game, please? The hype / analysis is annoying to the point of unbearable.

Everyone please enjoy the game - remember this is it for months....

 

[Iron_Far]

Steelers - 34

Seahawks - 20

I just think that LeBeau and Whisenhunt have been doing such a great job in the playoffs and that will continue. The game plans have been outstanding and the Steelers have more balance as a team than they've ever had. It's hard to have watched this team the last three games and think there's a team out there that can beat them right now.

Seahawks 27Pittsbugh 21

Best offensive play caller in the NFL has the edge. A couple 80+ yard touchdown drives will do it. With 25 touchdown drives of 80+ yards during the year, the Hawks have a couple in them for this game.

For the record, Mike Shanahan is the best play caller in the NFL. How did Shanahan fare against LeBeau's defense again?

Where's the ":delusional:" icon for the guy that said this?

 

[Peyton Marino]

Steelers - 34

Seahawks - 20

I just think that LeBeau and Whisenhunt have been doing such a great job in the playoffs and that will continue.  The game plans have been outstanding and the Steelers have more balance as a team than they've ever had.  It's hard to have watched this team the last three games and think there's a team out there that can beat them right now.

Seahawks 27Pittsbugh 21

Best offensive play caller in the NFL has the edge. A couple 80+ yard touchdown drives will do it. With 25 touchdown drives of 80+ yards during the year, the Hawks have a couple in them for this game.

For the record, Mike Shanahan is the best play caller in the NFL. How did Shanahan fare against LeBeau's defense again?

Where's the ":delusional:" icon for the guy that said this?

Stiller fans = no class huh?

 

[RoarinSonoran]

Would it be wrong to celebrate a SEA win with ?

 

[shakeybarn]

Well, here's hoping Seattle wins, though I'm not optimistic. Give Hass time, and throw the Steeler defense playbook right back at them. No referee disasters, and no security issues/terror.