We've saved our thoughts for Super Bowl XLIII between the Cardinals and Steelers until now. It's a little more than 24 hours before the game as we put this together and we're feeling good about our prediction. So, read along and send us your thoughts right here as to your predictions for the "Big Game." Thanks to everyone for voting on the poll too!
It would be easy to pick the Steelers. It would be easy to say that the Steelers defense is just too tough for the Cardinals offensive line to handle. It would be easy to say that the Cardinals won't be able to run the ball and that they will limit Larry Fitzgerald and Kurt Warner in the passing game. It would be easy to say that Willie Parker will grind it out and that Ben Rothliesberger will make just enough big plays for the Steelers to win.
Yes, it would be easy to do all that. But I won't!
Here's the thing that I keep coming back to with this game. Yes, the Steelers have a great defense, but they don't fare as well when facing an offense that can spread it out like the Cardinals can. Just check back to how the Patriots have always been able to move the ball against them. Same for the Colts. When teams have three and four, sometimes five options against the Steelers, it limits the blitzing abilities. Warner's faced the blitz before, just one game ago against the Eagles and handled it just fine in the first, second and fourth quarters. He'll be able to get the ball out of there against a secondary for Pittsburgh that does not match up well when pressed.
Arizona will throw it up to Fitzgerald, there's no question about that. More importantly is how effective can Anquan Boldin, Steve Breaston and the combination of Edgerrin James and Tim Hightower be when called upon in a big spot during a crucial spot. I think they'll be alright.
As for the Steelers, yes, they will put up some points in this one. But as we know, Big Ben has always been good for a couple of turnovers a game. Arizona's +9 in the turnover battle in three postseason games. The Steelers are +9 for the season. The Cards will force just enough turnovers to keep this one close in the fouth quarter.
I think this one comes down to the final seconds. No, wait, I think it comes down to overtime as the Super Bowl goes to an extra session for the first time in history. Neil Rackers ends it with a 47-yard field goal midway through as the Cardinals end the 61-year championship drought.
Arizona 37 Pittsburgh 34 (OT)
Let the game begin!
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