1. What did you like about the Super Bowl? (Sarcastic responses have about 35 other threads to go to.)
1. I like when the lesser known players (Ike Taylor, Willie Parker) step up and make major contributions. I also liked that Matt Hasslebeck had a very strong game and quieted a lot of critics (I myself was also skeptical but he played great).
2. What did Pittsburgh do well yesterday to actually deserve to win?
2. Big Ben made 3-4 huge plays with his feet, especially in the fourth quarter. They also made the necessary big plays to blow the contest open. Finally, they closed out the game like only they know how - smashmouth football.
3. Where could Seattle improve?
3. The Seahawks lack a killer instinct that instills fear in the other teams. And it starts from the coach, imo. Holmegren made some questionable calls. The one that stands out is punting on fourth and long with only 6 minutes left. Even if they lose possession and give up a FG, its still only a two possession game (it was a two possession game anyway). Thats the only thing lacking imo.
4. What do you like about the NFL right now?
4. So many things:
A. I love the passion of the fans. In these playoffs, Pittsburghs fans showed how dedicated and loyal they are. Their terrible towers are a great prop that adds to the game environment. Seattles home field advantage in the playoffs was also tremendous - almost deafening at times.
B. I love football's "complexity". I also love the patience required to succesfully drive down the field. In that regard, its unlike any other sport in the world (except maybe Chess, if thats a sport). Think about it - a simple running play requires all 11 players to work in unison while each performing their own specific task - all to compile a modest gain. And to think that on every play all 11 defenders are running an equally complex counter-scheme to bust up the play. Just fascinating to watch.
C. On the flip-side, I love the explosive, game-changing plays that can swing the game in an instant. Think a Fast Willie Parker Running play or an Antwan Randel El reverse option.
D. I love that Bill Cowher has been with the Steelers for 14 years. I love that Pittsburgh has had two coahces over the last 40 years.