Super Bowl Should End with Colts as Champs
Kristian Wiles
February 7, 2010
Posted under Indianapolis Colts, New Orleans Saints, Super Bowl
Alright, this is the most important prediction of the year. The Super Bowl is set between the two teams with the best records at the end of the season. Both had exciting seasons and despite some loss of steam at the end of the year, their playoff runs were fun to watch. Even if the NFL would have been happier with a Favre v. Manning matchup, Brees v. Manning will do just fine.
Keys to Victory
Turnovers – The two offenses are explosive and should live up to that reputation during this game. However, that can be dangerous for either opponent and, more importantly, you and I. This game could get out of control quickly if there are early turnovers. If one of the team has a player leave himself vulnerable while trying to make a move or get an extra yard the game could get ugly leaving only the commercials and the halftime show as entertainment. Not good.
Pass Rush – To slow Manning or Brees the pass rush must be able to break their rhythm. It looked like both Brees and Manning were going to have a tough outing early on in the conference championships but eventually both were able to get enough time to find their receivers and make plays. You can’t hope to stop either QB, but if you can make them uncomfortable in the pocket you have a chance to get ahead and kill any semblance of a running game. The Saints seem to have a slight advantage here because of Dwight Freeney’s questionable ankle and the recent success of RBs Reggie Bush and Pierre Thomas. That brings me to my next key to victory.
Running Game – The Colts and Saints are not high powered running teams. In fact, both feature a passing attack that sets up the run. This key here isn’t about a whole lot of success at running the ball but at creating a balance that forces the opposing defense to back off their pass rush. Everyone knows the Saints and Colts are going to throw the ball, but mixing it up will keep the pressure off of Manning and Brees.
Composure – The Colts are young at several key positions but have savvy veterans, including some champions, to steer the ship. The Saints are mostly featuring veterans but very few have played in the big game before. If the Saints come into this Sunday’s game with too much emphasis on winning one for the great city of New Orleans, it will be a long day.
That leads me to my predictions. I will eat too much food, drink too much assorted liquor, and sit on the couch way too long. And I will be doing all of these thing while I am watching the Colts beat the Saints in a great game.
