PHSports Super Bowl XLIII Live Streaming…

Do we finally have DRAMA???? YES.
But this isn't one of the best Super Bowls ever. One of the best 4th quarters? YOU BETTER BELIEVE IT.

Madden: The gap between winning and losing is widest in sports.
Finally, succinct words.

Very below average first 3 quarters. Crappy commercials, too.
However, the ending was memorable to say the least.
Mike Tomlin can stand proud. He delivered Pittsburgh its NFL-record 6th Super Bowl.
Credit: Yahoo! Sports

...Madden Moment of the Night...
Did anyone else notice Madden's idiotic comment on James Harrison's play?
"If you make that nice of a play and run all the way downfield...you deserve a touchdown."
It's a nice thought, for an idiot. You don't deserve anything in professional sports. You either earn it or fall short. This isn't the "nice effort" league. It's the NFL. So Mr. Madden, stick your fat foot in your fatter mouth after that comment. While Harrison was in for the score, if he wasn't...he doesn't deserve anything.

10:15 p.m. -- 15 4th Quarter Thoughts
1) I refuse to believe one team is holding this much more than another. Then after you see the replays, you see Arizona is holding these Pittsburgh 3-4 ends. 91 yards in penalties on the Cards. Never a ticket towards anything but a deficit - 13 points now - in a Super Bowl.
2) Why is Ben Graham punting for this team, with a sore hamstring no less? I 'm serious folks, he SUCKS. So what if he can hold snaps. He can't punt!!!
3) I'm gonna say it: Arizona needs a lucky defensive TD or they have 0% chance. Not even .01%.
4) I have never seen so many personal fouls. Half of them are garbage too. Steelers fans could care less. I don't blame them.
5) Darnell Dockett willed himself to that sack. Great play. You know Big Ben expected to escape that. Who can blame him, either? Arizona needs a fluke play, perhaps a CB downfield to fall or become distracted by some local fanfare. I'd love to see Pittsburgh with the ball and a 20-14 game. I need SOME drama!!!
6) Even when the Steelers give up a downfield pass, they lay out the Cardinal wideout. No huddle time. Let's see if Warner forces something. Nice to see you again - even for only 6 yards - Mr. Fitzgerald.
7) JJ Arrington exposes the middle of the field. With the safeties 30-yards off, where has this been before? Warner can't screw up again.
8) 3rd and goal at the 1 for Arizona. Interesting...
9) Ike Taylor played that well. However, "Swagger" lost out to Fitzgerald at the highest point. What a catch. You couldn't even dream of challenging it, too. WOW. (I'm rooting for a losing cause in Arizona. Sue me.)
10) We just might have a ball game. Dockett vying for underdog MVP honors. Then again, he might have to just enjoy a victory as the offense will need a touchdown to win. At least we finally have some drama again. Will the no huddle return? How about the Pittsburgh zone?
11) There's the stat. Basically, the Steelers don't lose with 11+-point leads. 152-1-1 (including postseason) is a daunting number.
12) Al Michaels just burned Ike Taylor. "Not swagging now". I just gained newfound respect for him. Mike Tomlin looks nervous...
13) I honestly thought I'd be chewing on my words after the Fitzgerald touchdown. What an amazing playcall. Troy Polamalu doesn't deserve this ring. Not after today's horrific performance.
14) Santonio Holmes has overcome the marajuana arrest, I suppose. He should be MVP. Harrison is a punk and a thug for what he did on that special teams play. How was he not ejected? I know! The refs have no stones.
15) Great 4th quarter. Much like 1999. Kurt Warner and Larry Fitzgerald needed a stop on defense. It just wasn't meant to be. Pittsburgh earned it. No need to challenge the Warner fumble. 100%. Although I do wonder if a Favre, Ben, Brady, or Manning had it happen...would a review had come?

9:00 p.m. -- 10 3rd Quarter Thoughts
1) Edgerrin James running well early on in the 3rd quarter. Haley and Wisenhunt know that forcing something downfield won't work against this defense. Question is: will a deep ball to Fitzgerald be available for Warner and company. Is Anquan Boldin hurt again? Two words: uh oh.
2) You look at Pittsburgh's roster and you see just how well they draft; especially on the defensive side of the ball. Big stop by Pittsburgh on Warner and Harrison ends up with another turnover. Oh goodie. Fortunately, the refs made the right call (per review). Maybe we do need review. Why doesn't Arizona get 2 new challenges?
3) Pittsburgh is NOT winning this game because of the refs. However, I have two issues:
A) The facemask on Holmes would've been a 5-yarder; if the NFL kept that penalty and made the refs make judgment calls on facemask penalties.
B) Dansby's late hit wasn't a personal foul.
4) Adrian Wilson's personal foul was more idiotic than the woman screaming in the careerbuilders.com commercial. Guess which site I'll never recommend?
5) 20-7 score. How different might this game have been if it was 10-10 at the half? Not as different as you might think (I think).
6) JJ Arrington has been horrific returning kicks. Why isn't Breaston back there? Man, these commercials are horrific. Although I do want to see GI Joe and Transformers 2. Then again, I don't need a commercial for that either.
7) Too many underneath routes for the Cardinals. I can't remember a throw downfield outside of Boldin's. Eventually, they're going to have to take a chance with Fitzgerald. Polamalu, zone, or whatever withstanding.
8) Anquan Boldin looks disinterested. It's odd because I've always seen him as one of the more emotional players - even on a notoriously poor team - in the NFL. It's a real shame.
9) Through 3 quarters, Warner has attempted 1 - count 'em 1 - pass past 10 yards downfield. Not good.
10) 3 boring quarters. I don't see a 1999-like 4th quarter. We were spoiled last year. Don't let a short-term memory fool you. Another crappy Super Bowl.

7:45 p.m.-- 15 2nd Quarter Thoughts
1) Sum says it best again: "When did Larry Fitzgerald start wearing #89? Leonard Pope with an AMAZING catch. Maybe he should "bailout" our economy? Ha! No. No...
2) Using Edge in the pass game is a brilliant check-down. Warner tripping yet again. Not surprising. Bad drop by Edge on 3rd and 22 for field position.
3) Arizona's D needs to get a Steeler punt. It's not even about forcing a turnover or making a huge sack. Wrap up and don't give Big Ben unlimited time. Willie Parker is making the first guy miss, 5 yards in the backfield often, with relative ease (aka automatically). Still waiting for that holding call on the Stillers.
4) I am sick to my stomach that the Jets could've taken DRC instead of Gholston with the 6th pick. SICK!
5) Whadu know? Pittsburgh's gonna punt. Say it with me now. [Insert Chappelle's Show random memory: "Calvin's Got a Job!"]
6) Steve Breaston showed up today. He knew he'd have a lot available and he's ready. I hate to plug Michigan football these days, but Breaston played in plenty of big games. No blocks in the back either. Props to Stevie.
7) Penalties resulting from blitzes causes Cardinal penalties. OC Todd Haley needs to take that into account on rollout plays. 3rd time the Cardinals have had a down and 20+. First sack of the game ensues. LaMarr Woodley arrives...another Wolverine. 5th sack in the postseason. Impressive to say the least.
8) Missing: Larry Fitzgerald.
9) These commercials S-U-C-K. Fortunately, the game appears to be getting better.
10) Ben Graham sucks. I'll say it now and forever. Worst punter in Super Bowl history. Don't let Michael Adams' strong coverage fool you. The guy NEVER pins people inside the 10. EVER!
11) Quite the year for U of R (University of Richmond) football. First a national championship (FCS) and Tim Hightower has done the rest. You think the residents of "Swagger" liked Ike Taylor getting his ankles broken so badly on 3rd and long?
12) Welcome to the Super Bowl Larry Fitzgerald. Let's see if Warner can avoid going Sam Bradford in the redzone. Clever, right? Boldin takes some NASTY hits. I love the guy. Risky call to get that 1st down at the 2. Better be careful with those timesouts Kenny. (Have they mentioned Russ Grimm yet?)
13) James Harrison might've just won a MVP award with that run back. W-O-W. That may suck the Cardinals dry. That is one of the worst mistakes by a QB in Super Bowl history. Kurt Warner will be blamed if the Cardinals lose the Super Bowl. And he should. He should.
14) Longest play in Super Bowl history. And you know what? It ended this game. I guaran-damn-tee.
15) Don't worry, there won't be 45 3rd quarter thoughts. Do the math.


7:05 pm -- 5 1st Quarter Thoughts [Pittsburgh leads 3-0, driving for 10-0.]
1) Great challenge by Wisenhunt; nevertheless, I HATED him deferring to the second half. You might be getting the ball down 17-0 if Pittsburgh has early momentum.
2) Sum said it best: "House would be pissed with Tomlin kicking a field goal from 1-foot yard line."
3) 5 offensive plays in the 1st quarter for the Cardinals. If you told any of us that, we'd have guessed the score was worse than 10-0. Their first possession in the second quarter better be steady.
4) Heath Miller is exposing the Cardinal LBs and secondary. Not good.
5) Polamalu was quite quiet. That'll change. Especially if Breaston continues being open. He'll take a shot or two if Fitz and Boldin continue to struggle to be Warner's 1st option.

Note: I always have believed - and have plenty of evidence - that Pittsburgh gets away with more holds than any team in the NFL. Just watch for it. Really try and watch.

See you after the 1st quarter, my friends.

6:15 p.m. -- 10 Thoughts: Pre-Game Analysis
1) Nobody is prouder of Bob Costas than Bob Costas. I still cringe when I think
of him saying in the NBA Finals, “This could be the last time Michael Jordan (insert verb) on a basketball court. 2) It sickens me how much I’ve enjoyed seeing Rodney Harrison during pre-game coverage. He was extremely classy when dealing with the David Tyree-catch – which has to haunt his nightmares – and very succinct behind the microphone.
3) It’s brutal to watch Matt Millen speak so profoundly and not forget how much of an absolute failure his way-too-long tenure in Detroit was.
4) Brenda Warner still scares me a little.
5) Mike Holmgren picked against the Steelers. Shocker.
6) National Anthem = meh. Unless it’s Whitney Houston bellowing it out in 1990 or Ray Charles singing “America, the Beautiful”, these are a dime a dozen for me. Sorry. Hudson did well, but the delay on the PA made it seem like she wasn't singing live.
7) Cris Collinsworth called Kurt Warner the best football player on the field. Troy Polamalu – my MVP pick – may have an argument tonight.
8) Al Michaels has traded in his hair piece of the past few years for a set of hair plugs. Either way, he and Madden both look like train wrecks in the booth. I really miss the Summerall/Madden booths of the earlier and mid-90s on CBS & FOX.
9) I love Springsteen, but the Halftime Show is for people over 40. They might as well give women – and some men – what they want and have Neil Diamond up there next year. Especially if the Panthers end up Super Bowl-bound.
10) Commercials. I love how they have been taken over as the “real thing to watch” by women. Oh women, we love you. First, it was being able to cook for us on the big day and now it’s the commercials. Just admit you just want to be around us lazy, balding, fatties during the top sporting event of the year. Admit it.

5:45 p.m.
Check in throughout the game for PHSports analysis - mainly from Clement's mouth - on Super Bowl XLIII.

We'll have quotes, referee call-outs, play-by-play analysis, and other random fanfare you might be able to live without, but know you're better off enjoying L-I-V-E.

See you shortly after kickoff...

***Check out the poll on the top right of the page NOW. Call your shot with the MVP for tonight's big game. Good luck.****

5 NFL Questions: Super Bowl Sunday

Okay, so it's gonna be more like "15 Questions".
What we need from YOU ALL is some answers, before the opening kickoff (if you dare).

***Poll Results***
"Who Will Win the Super Bowl"
Steelers edge the Cardinals 145 votes to 126 (46% to 40%).
For you political junkies, that means there wasn't a plurality.
Why? Because 41 votes came in from people who "Didn't Care".
How many of those were Pay, though?

Next poll is up: Super Bowl MVP.
You have the guys to call it now?
Or before its awarded?

Feel free to check out the following too:
Previews and Pre-Game Analysis
Final Score and MVP Predictions/Projections
Madden Simulation [Super Records SHATTERED!!!]

Checking the "tale of the tape" the average PHSports projection comes out to 27-21 Pittsburgh.
Think you can do better??? Comment and let the record stand!!!
Credit: SportsWarehouse.com

5 "Super" Super Bowl Questions:
1) What are the respective health and psychological statuses of Cardinal WR Anquan Boldin and Steeler WR Hines Ward?
2) Which QB is more pivotal towards their team winning Super Bowl XLIII (and their second Super Bowl, respectively): Warner or Roethlisberger?
3) I hate to be "that guy"; nevertheless, will we see any of Matt Leinart or Byron Leftwich in this game?
4) Will Edgerrin James or Tim Hightower or even JJ Arrington receive the majority of touches out of the Arizona backfield?
5) Since too many fans (myself included) blame the refs for every loss: which team is getting hosed more often tonight?

5 Arizona Questions:
1) How will Neil Rackers and Ben Graham play in the biggest moments of their respective kicking lives?
2) Can Karlos Dansby put on the top performance - for either team - at the linebacker position?
3) How will Bertrand Berry and Darnell Dockett apply pressure and bring down Big Ben most effectively?
4) Will the tight ends for Arizona be able to do anything of value in the receiving game?
5) Will Kurt Warner protect the ball or become statue-esque?

5 Pittsburgh Questions:
1) Is Ike Taylor a mediocre cornerback or perhaps one of the NFL's most unknown emerging talents?
2) Which of the linebackers - specifically Harrison and Woodley - gives Warner the most anxiety?
3) Will Heath Miller be a redzone target the Cardinals neglect to locate?
4) What's your call for another big play from Santonio Holmes on offense and/or special teams?
5) Will Casey Hampton be able to plug the middle and stiffle the Arizona rush attack from early on?

Man I love this catch. But seriously, who goes from unknown to known in a matter of 60 seconds after today's game? Nate Washington? Jeremy Urban? I know who it won't be...Limas Sweed.
Credit: Google Images

We've seen the previews, the predictions, a Madden simulation, and now 15 questions.
All we have left to do now is enjoy the game.

Check in for quarter-by-quarter analysis and some live streaming.

See you after kickoff!!!

PHSports Simulation Series: Super Bowl XLIII [Madden-Style]

Check out previews and predictions before enjoy the Madden Simulation.
Quarter-by-quarter streaming updates and instant analysis (from the entire staff) will begin tomorrow at 6pm. See you then!!!

It worked so well last year…it’s back!!!

It’s not about who’s the BIGGEST.
It’s not about who’s the STRONGEST.
It’s about something MORE.
It’s about WHO WANTS IT MORE!

In a tradition that has gone as far back as…last year…we here at PHSports are ready to do away with computer and metric-based simulations and instead focus on something random, yet incredible entertaining.

Super Bowl XLIII…one day early.
How does it happen? The power of technology!

Enter an XBOX360, the Pittsburgh Steelers versus the Arizona Cardinals, a 26-inch flat-screen television and Microsoft’s willingness to update rosters on a seemingly weekly basis.

The difficulty was boosted to All-Madden, attributes were reset to system levels, ditto for rules/preferences/options. We tried to silence Cris Collinsworth as much as we could, but we had no hope.

Even an MVP was named.

Remember Jet fans. Blame the "Madden-curse" for this year's downfall. Duh.
Credit: Yahoo! Sports

Let’s check the highlights…

1st Quarter

Pittsburgh called the toss (heads) and lost. Cardinals receive and the game is underway. Arizona opened running the ball unsuccessfully with Edgerrin James (2 carries for -3 yards) and a short hitch to Edge from Warner that resulted in only 5 yards and a 3 and out. After an average punt and good field position – on their own 44 – Pittsburgh followed with a 3 and out as Santonio Holmes dropped a first down in Arizona territory. The game’s first 1st down came on a 3rd and 3 in which Warner saw the blitz coming and hit Fitzgerald on a 13-yard hitch route. 3 runs from Edge ensued after a key 3rd down to Fitz again and the Cardinals were inside the Steeler 20. Roughing the passer on James Harrison led to a 3 yard TD plunge by Edgerrin James and a 7-0 Arizona lead with 4:43 to play in the 1st quarter. Edge looks very good thus far.

Pittsburgh again 3 and out. Great pressure from Dockett up the middle on 3rd and 6. Hines Ward has not been a factor, being targeted 0 times. After a quick 1st down, a steady diet of Edge leads to 3rd and 15 and a big sack by LaMarr Woodley for a 9-yard loss. Cardinals punt from their own 42. Big Ben fumbles the snap on 2nd and 10 (0-2 with a 39.2 QB rating and the aforementioned fumble) and its recovered on the Pittsburgh 25 by Karlos Dansby. Cardinals in business. Shocking news from the sideline. Kurt Warner’s shoulder is bruised and he is probable (2 quarters) to return. Enter Matt Leinart and on 1st down a second sack for Woodley on an all-out blitz. 35-yard FG by Rackers is GOOD; fortunately, Leinart found Fitz on second down for a much-needed 10 yard completion. 2:49 left in the first.

Steelers go three and out again. Roethlisberger’s first completion to Miller for only 5 yards on 1st down. Pittsburgh’s offense is strug-a-ling. Leinart sacked by Aaron Smith on 3rd and long – too much JJ Arrington this drive – on his own 11. Leinart without a first down in two drives. Steelers have a costly false start penalty and – you guessed it – go 3 and out. Ben has plenty of time, but his receivers aren’t open. His checkdowns aren’t looking well. Ball is punted down inside the 10 yard-line. No Edge or Hightower again, surprising to see so much Arrington. Cardinals 3 and out, punt from their own 11 yard line. Holmes makes the fair catch at mid field. Steelers get their first 1st down on a 12 yard completion on 3rd and 2 from Big Ben to TE Heath Miller. Francisco on a safety blitz gets Big Ben down, no attempt for a 50-yard FG by Jeff Reed. Cardinals begin the 2nd quarter at their own 6 yard line. 10-0 Arizona after 1.

After a great first quarter, Fitzgerald would become a forgotten man.
Credit: EASports

2nd Quarter

4 rushes in 6 plays for Edge for a total of 21 yards. Fitzgerald already has 6 catches for 75 yards. Bad drop by Fitz though inside the Steeler 20 on 3rd and 6 from the 32. No attempted 49-yard FG for Rackers. Punt is a touchback, barely. Great play by Holmes to let it bounce. And just like that, we have a game. 80-yard TD from Roethlisberger to Santonio “Playoffs 2009” Holmes. Rod Hood was beat on a double-move without a safety over the top. Rolle blitzed and Parker picked him up beautifully. 10-7 Arizona leads.

Keisel and Hampton team up for a big sack on 2nd down. Let it be known Edgerrin James has 18 rushes for 66 yards and a TD already. Leinart is 6 of 8 but has been sacked in critical spots. Big Ben with a key 3rd down conversion on a 6-yard rush, shaking of DRC on another Cardinal blitz. Holmes drops a touchdown – after beating Hood again – that forces another Steeler punt in Arizona territory. Cardinals dodge a big bullet with 4:27 left in the 1st half. Leinart sacked again, Woodley’s 3rd on the day, on 3rd down. He isn’t reading blitzes on the outside well at all. Casey Hampton is giving the Arizona interior line fits. Hines Ward with his first two catches – for a total of 28 yards – Big Ben goes 5 for 5 on the drive, including an 11-yard TD toss to Heath Miller on 3rd and 9 on the Arizona 11. Miller beats Dansby to the corner on a beautiful tight end waggle. Pittsburgh leads 14-10. Will Kurt Warner be ready after halftime to return?

Leinart hits his tight ends (Pope for 16 yards on 3rd down & Patrick for 13 yards on 3rd and 7) for big completions downfield. The blitz is being picked up much better with Edge in the backfield on 3rd down. Hightower without a carry thus far. Another Blitzburgh sack, this time Keisel by himself, on 3rd down. Cardinals punt as the 2-minute warning approaches. Pittsburgh doesn’t call a timeout to save 12 seconds. Steelers start on their own 3, but punt by the time they reach their 21. Leinart sacked AGAIN – that’s 7 first-half sacks. 0 for James Harrison though. Odd fake punt call by the Cardinals from the Pittsburgh 41 on 4th down. Ryan Clark with an INT at the 30. Steeler ball. Big Ben is on fire. 4 for 4 on the drive for 59 yards. Holmes is wide open 2 out of every 3 plays. Hines Ward catches his 2nd Super Bowl TD of his career (1st of the night) with 6 seconds left on a 3 yard WR screen from Big Ben. 3 2nd quarter TDs for the Steelers. 21-10 Pittsburgh leads. Halftime.

Remember this run from "Fast" Willie? Get ready for plenty more this second half.
Credit: EASports

3rd Quarter

Steelers fair catch a great kickoff. After a quick first-down by “Fast” Willie, Big Ben is sacked on consecutive downs by Bertrand Berry. Steelers punt. Kurt Warner returns, yet the Cardinals stall out near midfield as Warner is sacked by Polamalu on 3rd down. Anquan Boldin is not starting the second half due to leg cramps. 1 catch all game. Steeler football returns as the rush game comes alive. A methodical drive ensues with manageable 2nd and 3rd downs. Parker plunges over the top for 1 yard for a fourth-consecutive Steelers TD. 28-10. Warner and Wisenhunt look rattled on the sideline. Leinart doesn’t. Wouldn’t you know it, but another Arizona 3 and out. This game is rapidly ending already. This game appears over with another dominant Pittsburgh drive. Willie Parker has been unstoppable this 3rd quarter. He may only have 88 rushing yards, but 79 of them are in this quarter alone. Funny enough, Mewelde Moore tacks on a short TD dive from the goalline to give the Steelers yet another 3rd quarter touchdown. Pittsburgh is now winning 35-10.

Warner’s first throw of the next drive is intercepted by James Farrior down to the Arizona 11. Next play: Roethlisberger’s 4th TD toss and second to Hines Ward. Pittsburgh is beating down the Cardinals in a 3rd quarter that is in the record books now. The quarter ends and the Cardinals have nothing left to play for but pride. 42-10.

You won't be seeing this. The guy played ZERO snaps in the second half.
Credit: Photobucket

4th Quarter

Kurt Warner hits Fitzgerald for a nice 21-yard pass play downfield. However, next pass ends up in Polamalu’s hands at the goalline. After a bad pass interference call on Adrian Wilson, Willie Parker goes 59-yards for his second touchdown. The guy loves dynamic Super Bowl rushes over 50 yards, right? 49-10 Steelers. Is the scoring record of 55 in danger? YES.

Arizona gains 2 meaningless first downs and Warner is picked AGAIN, this time by Ike Taylor. A lazy drive ensues, with Fast Willie still burning it up, before it stalls inside the 5. Jeff Reed, who must be dog tired, kicked a 19-yard FG. 52 unanswered points has it 52-10. No Boldin still. Each team trades 3 and outs. An Arizona QB is sacked for the 10th time. Wow. Jeff Reed ties the Super Bowl record of 55 points with a 48-yard FG. The Steelers might as well give Tomlin the Gatorrade bath now with 4:27 remaining.

Byron Leftwich enters after Warner is unsuccessful on 4th and 2 from the Pittsburgh 41. Fitzgerald is visibly frustrated (obviously!). New scoring mark set at 58. Pittsburgh plays for blood as it keeps Willie Parker in – alongside Doug E Fresh (Leftwich) after sacking Warner on his own 32. Reed’s 28 yarder with 1:22 left is the last score of the game (I pray). Edge pads his stats with 5 useless rushes for 33 yards. Tick tock. Bryant McFadden intercepts Warner who may lose the Hall of Fame bid after this second half. Remember it was once 10-0 Arizona. Leftwich downs it and Super Bowl XLIII is O-V-A. 58-10. Yes, you read that right. Thankfully, this abomination is over for me too.

Tomlin gets the bath as Pittsburgh annihilates Arizona. Sorry Cinderella, go home. Pittsburgh with 714 yards of total offense and 0 turnovers (compared to Arizona’s 5). Pittsburgh was 7 for 7 in the redzone with 5 TDs and 2 FGs. Great day for Jeff Reed, too.

Doug E Fresh took a few snaps after it was 55-10. Now there's a moment.
Seriously, other people besides myself and SVP see it, right?
Credit: Z.About.com

Pittsburgh earns it’s 6th Super Bowl ring in record fashion.
Here are some more specifics…

Final Score: Pittsburgh wins 58-10
MVP: Ben Roethlisberger [30-39, 409 yards, 4 TDs, 0 INTs]

Scoring Summary

1st Quarter

Cardinals: Edgerrin James 3 yard rush for TOUCHDOWN.
[14 plays, 79 yards, XP Good]
Key Play -- 15-yard personal foul on James Harrison setting up Arizona 1st and goal on the 6.
Arizona leads 7-0.

Cardinals: Neil Rackers 35-yard FIELD GOAL.
[3 plays, 4 yards]
Key Play -- Ben Roethlisberger fumbles the snap on his own 25, recovered by Dansby.
Arizona leads 10-0.

2nd Quarter

Pittsburgh: Ben Roethlisberger 80-yard pass to Santonio Holmes for TOUCHDOWN.
[1 play, 80 yards, XP Good]
Key Play -- Holmes not fait catching a punt at the 8, allowing it to bounce for a touchback.]
Arizona leads 10-7.

Pittsburgh: Ben Roethlisberger 11-yard pass to Heath Miller for TOUCHDOWN.
[8 plays, 60 yards, XP Good]
Key Play -- Hines Ward’s first two catches softened up sideline routes later in the drive.
Pittsburgh leads 14-10.

Pittsburgh: Ben Roethlisberger 3-yard pass to Hines Ward for TOUCHDOWN.
[7 plays, 70 yards, XP Good]
Key Play -- Big Ben avoids a mega-blitz and goes 9 yards to Holmes on the sideline on a key 3rd and long.
Pittsburgh leads 21-10.

3rd Quarter

Pittsburgh: Willie Parker 1-yard rush for TOUCHDOWN.
[13 plays, 89 yards, XP Good]
Key Play -- Arizona commits a stupid 5-yard offsides penalty on a 3rd and 3.
Pittsburgh leads 28-10.

Pittsburgh: Mewelde Moore 3-yard rush for TOUCHDOWN.
[11 plays, 75 yards, XP Good]
Key Play -- Anytime Willie Parker touched the ball, he gained at least 7 yards.
Pittsburgh leads 35-10.

Pittsburgh: Ben Roethlisberger 11-yard pass to Hines Ward for TOUCHDOWN.
[1 play, 11 yards, XP Good]
Key Play -- Farrior’s interception of Warner followed by a stiff arm to Warner on the return.
Pittsburgh leads 42-10.

4th Quarter

Pittsburgh: Willie Parker rush for 59-yard TOUCHDOWN.
[2 plays, 80 yards, XP Good]
Key Play -- Willie Parker shook off Dockett for a potential 5-yard loss and then was untouched.
Pittsburgh leads 49-10.

Pittsburgh: Jeff Reed 19-yard FIELD GOAL is good.

Pittsburgh leads 52-10.

Pittsburgh: Jeff Reed 48-yard FIELD GOAL is good.
[5 plays, 39 yards]
Pittsburgh leads 55-10.

Pittsburgh: Jeff Reed 28-yard FIELD GOAL is good.
[6 plays, 32 yards]
Pittsburgh leads 58-10.

Key Statistics

Arizona Cardinals
Kurt Warner: 17-33, 148 yards, o TDs, 4 INTs
Matt Leinart: 11-16, 120 yards, 0 TDs, 1 INT
Edgerrin James: 34 rushes, 140 yds, 1 TD
Tim Hightower: 0 rushes, 0 receptions
Jeremy Urban: 7 catches, 84 yards
Larry Fitzgerald: 9 catches, 81 yards, 2 drops
Anquan Boldin: 1 catch, 18 yards
Gerald Hayes: 19 tackles, 1 sack
Karlos Dansby: 9 tackles, 1 sack, 1 fumble recovery
Bertrand Berry: 4 tackles, 3 sacks
Adrian Wilson: 2 tackles, 1 sack, 3 penalties
Rod Hood: 1 tackle (gave up 3 TD passes in coverage)

Pittsburgh Steelers
Ben Roethlisberger: 30-39, 409 yards, 4 TDs, 0 INTs
Willie Parker: 31 rushes, 198 yards, 2 TDs
Mewelde Moore: 15 attempts, 79 yards, 1 TD
Santonio Holmes: 9 receptions, 183 yards, TD
Hines Ward: 7 catches, 96 yards, 2 TDs
Heath Miller: 4 catches, 37 yards, 1 TD
Casey Hampton: 11 tackles, 3 sacks
LaMarr Woodley: 5 tackles, 3 sacks
Brett Keisel: 7 tackles, 2 sacks
Ryan Clark: 6 tackles, 1 INT
Troy Polamalu: 5 tackles, 1 INT
Ike Taylor: 3 tackles, 1 INT

PHSports Play of the Game: Santonio Holmes' 80-yard touchdown pass was the moment in which the game officially slipped away from Arizona. Up 10 with the Steelers on their own 20, Holmes burned Hood down the sideline and ran with open field for 65 yards. It might've been 10-7, but Pittsburgh clearly had seized control.

Art Monk Award: Casey Hampton, DT [Pittsburgh]
-Despite not as much barking as Foote and Farrior, Hampton led the Steeler D with 11 tackles and 3 sacks. He was unstoppable from start to finish. Unreal performance from the DT.

Defining Moment: Kurt Warner’s injury with the Cardinals leading 10-0 allowed the Steeler D time to relax (with Leinart in) and their offense enough time to start the motors running. Remember that it was 10-0 after the 1st quarter in Arizona’s favor, 58-0 the final 3 for Pittsburgh.

In case this worried you about tomorrow. Check this out for a smile!
God bless you, YouTube.



I hope you enjoyed it, it was horrific to watch. But kinda fine to write.

Until next Super Bowl…

Super Bowl XLIII: Final Thoughts and Predictions from the PHSports Football Experts

The Steel crew are 7 point favorites ... but will any of the PHSports crew pick the Cards to peck away at victory?

Armin:

I used the perfect analogy last year. Mike Bibby and the 1997 Arizona Wildcats, playing the role of giant killers and the team of destiny, all the way to the National Championship. The Arizona Cardinals would be a better fit, if for nothing else than the fact that they play in the same state as the Wildcats. While this year is not as big of a giant killing situation, as the Patriots went into the game 18-0, the signs still point to Pittsburgh winning this game. Last year, I should have followed my gut and predicted a Giants win. This year, I'm not going against my gut (except maybe going on a diet). I pick the Cards (which might be bad news for the Cards). My home-away-from-home team will win the championship and bring credibility to the franchise. Most importantly, they will do it as partial payback to the legacy of Pat Tillman. Somewhere he will be smiling down on the Cards as they celebrate as World Champs.

Cardinals 31

Steelers 27

MVP: Kurt Warner, QB

Clement:

I’d be lying if I said I was a supporter of either of these two teams. While I used to be quite anti-Pittsburgh, I respect Mike Tomlin (aka Omar Epps), root for Big Ben when he's crazy in the pocket, and like guys like Farrior/"Fast" Willie/Ike Taylor. Meanwhile, Arizona has always been a bit of a joke; nevertheless, I’ve enjoyed their ride through the playoffs this season. Watching Fitzgerald is pure fun and I hope Boldin has a big play or two in him on Sunday evening. I’ll be rooting for Arizona, but suspect the Pittsburgh (or Blitzburgh) defense will be a little too much for Warner, Fitz, and Edge. A large part of me wants to see Edge with a ring in the desert; especially with all the good he has done for rookie Tim Hightower. After last year’s epic affair, what we all should be rooting for (those of us not with specific rooting interests, of course) is a fun, competitive game. It won’t happen. Polamalu will make his mark (and earn an MVP award, even as a safety) and Hines Ward will be game enough to catch his second Super Bowl TD (this time from Big Ben). I just don't think Arizona will be able to convert on 3rd and less than 5 as often as they need to. Steelers win 21-10, in a game odd reminiscent of the 2006 Super Bowl. Or is it eerily reminiscent…

Steelers 21
Cardinals 14
MVP: Troy Polamalu, S

Paymon:

I contemplated completely boycotting this farce of a Super Bowl, as my Eagles were on the business end of two horrendous calls in the final minutes. The first was a block in the back by Reggie Wells on Darren Howard at the 10-yard line (I have DVR'd the play and it's obvious), which opened the pathway for rookie running back Tim Hightower to fight his way to paydirt. The second was a blatant pass interference in which Rod Hood (on an island, no less) pushed off against Kevin Curtis. To many, this is ancient history. To the vigilant, it is one more instance of officials deciding games. Seriously, who cares about the game other than Steelers fans? Pittsburgh wins it because they are the tougher team on both lines and Arizona will actually get flagged for holds and blocks in the back, because referees always call it tight during the Super Bowl. Don't worry, Big Ben will turn the ball over once or twice to keep it mildly exciting.

Steelers 28
Cardinals 16
MVP: Ben Roethslisberger, QB

Sum:

There have been three constants in the NFL Playoffs and their coverage in PHSports. 1) I have analyzed the Arizona Cardinals game each week. 2) I have predicted the Cards to lose each week. 3) The Cards have shat on my prediction each week. (A fourth could by my mentioning of Kurt Warner + Depends each week ... but nah). Each week I have suggested that Arizona's opponent would learn from the mistakes of the team(s) in the week(s) before. That the opposing team would stay true to its running attack and would also beat the snot out of Kurt Warner with an intense pass rush. And it seems that those teams have steadily avoided my advice as if I was Dave Shula. But there's really no way that Dick LeBeau doesn't rush a QB. And there's no way that a Pittsburgh football team goes pass-happy. Right? It just wouldn't make sense ... it'd be like the Cardinals winning three straight playoff games ...

Steelers 31
Cardinals 23
MVP: Willie Parker, RB

Super Bowl XLIII Pre-Game Analysis: Pittsburgh vs. Arizona

Pittsburgh Do’s and Don’t’s - Clement:

Do your best to jam Larry Fitzgerald at the line of scrimmage. If Fitzgerald is given too much space, he's going to cause havoc in the worst ways possible. Before you know it, a trick player will be opening up – even with Polamalu's savvy – and Breaston/Boldin will be running deep sideline routes. While Fitzgerald is murder in the redzone, the crossing route allows him plenty of space to rumble. Beware.

Do your best to allow Woodley and Harrison to go 1 on 1 with the Arizona tackles. The Arizona tackles have been the weakest link on the Cardinal line. Harrison, the NFL's Defensive Player of the Year, is a sack machine and Woodley may, in fact, be the more talented overall pass rusher. Both are strong and sturdy throughout the game. Arizona will need to mix up protection schemes and their backs – especially the rookie Hightower – better be more than ready to chip. Effective runs to the outside and screens against the blitz are perfect remedies.

Do your best to get Santonio Holmes in open space. If you didn't see his punt return against the Chargers or his YAC-scamper against the Ravens, you missed out. With Ward "dinged" up and Limas Sweed being a PUNK, Holmes may be asked to make 2 or 3 big downfield catches. The best way to free him up isn't with the deep ball though, it's within the 10-15 yard range with space to run. That means Big Ben better be ready to withstand plenty of hits within the pocket.

Don't forget about Anquan Boldin. Larry Fitzgerald may be the best wideout in the NFL; however, Boldin isn't far behind. Sure he's been unhealthy and too much of a primadonna in recent weeks, but Boldin is also a redzone B-E-A-S-T and lethal on the edges. He'll play his heart out and has seen far more bad than good with this franchise. Don't forget just how deadly this duo is.

If the Steelers worry too much about Larry Fitzgerald, Anquan Boldin may give them nightmares they won't recover from.
Credit: Yahoo! Sports

Don't underestimate the talent in the middle of the Cardinal defense. Darnell Dockett, Karlos Dansby, and Adrian Wilson are flat out studs. While there are other playmakers on that side of the ball – see Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie – these three have to seize control of the line of scrimmage, the center of the field, and the deep ball. While Wilson's run stopping abilities aren't too shabby, his ability to lock into a quarterback is highly underrated. Each will need to help their defense for 2-3 Big Ben miscues for the Cardinals to pull off the upset.

Don't forget about "Fast" Willie Parker. The rush game is vital to the Steelers opening up their playbook and putting real pressure on the Cardinals. If Warner struggles early, the Steelers would be wise to pound the Cardinals into submission with the speedy, yet stealthy Parker. Just ask the Seahawks of 2006 how quickly Parker can hit the corner and rush to paydirt. If Parker has 20+ carries, the Steelers should win by two touchdowns.

Don't underestimate the importance of special teams. I don't want to elaborate too much. However, if you can pin the Cardinals inside the 10, you better. Free yardage is the LAST thing you want to give Warner, Fitz, Boldin and company. If Rackers struggles with his kickoffs, burn the Cardinals early and often.

Arizona Do’s and Don’t’s - Sum:

Do make use of the plethora of bulletin board material out there. You've been underdogs EVERY WEEK of this postseason, and the Super Bowl is no exception with the Steelers as 7 point favorites. Heck, even President Obama wants Pittsburgh to win. That's gotta sting ... now turn that sting into solid play on the field. If Barack won't be bipartisan on Super Sunday, you shouldn't be either.

Do keep on executing your playoff game plan. I know I've used that one before, but it's working. The shift away from your pass heavy offense (15 more rushes than passes against Carolina; 29 rushes to 28 passes against Philly) gives one playoff veteran (Warner) time to breathe, while another playoff veteran (Edge) gets to prove his worth again. The D has been stout against the run, and it will need to be again this week since Pittsburgh likes to grind it out.

Do go to Steve Breaston early and often. I expect Pittsburgh's heavy hitters to come out hard early, whacking whoever has the ball. The last thing the Cards need is for Larry Fitzgerald or Anquan Boldin to be laid-out by Polamalu and Co. Breaston is a quality receiver, so he can make the catches ... and as evil as this sounds, it's better for him to get upended than Fitz. Plus, with Boldin already hobbling around the field, he'll be an easy target early in the game.

Don’t expect Kurt Warner to have the same time to throw the ball as he has had in 11 of 12 quarters this postseason (the 3rd quarter of the NFC Championship being the exception). Dick LeBeau has himself a mighty fine defense with an exceptional front seven. They will look to smack Warner around early and often. This is why it will be key to keep running the ball, even if it's with limited success. If you don't, then pack some extra Depends for Kurt.

The Cards had better hope Warner doesn't wear this uniform on Sunday ...

Don't think that an injury to Roethlisberger will be good for you. Byron Leftwich has proven himself more than capable in his relief appearances this year, particularly in the Monday Night game at Washington. But if Big Ben does go down to an injury, CHANGE YOUR DEFENSIVE SCHEME. Byron is a different quarterback who won't be rattled in the same ways that Ben will be. Still keep the heat on him, but rushing only one extra guy at a time. You WILL need your secondary beefed up if Leftwich comes in the game.

Don’t buy into this crap comparing Whisenhunt to Jon Gruden of the 2003 Super Bowl. Yes, both took their new teams to face their old teams in the Super Bowl, but there are key differences. First, Oakland promoted Gruden's successor, Bill Callahan, from within and kept Gruden's system intact. Pittsburgh brought a new head coach altogether into the fold and immediately began adapting some of the offense, giving Ben Roethlisberger more responsibilities. Second, Gruden faced his old team the very same year he left them. The Steelers have had 2 seasons to change their Whisenhunt-isms on offense. If the Cards win this game, it will not be due to Pittsburgh using the same signals and playcalls that they used 2 years ago.

Matchups - Armin:

When the Pittsburgh has the Ball:

Hines Ward vs. Roderick Hood & Santonio Holmes vs. Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie ("DRC")

Hood and DRC have been playing their best football in the playoffs, while Roethlisburger, Ward and Holmes have nothing to prove. The questions remain: Can Hood play that physical game with Ward, and can DRC keep in stride with Holmes. If Ward starts making those tough catches down the stretch, and Holmes gets open for a couple of big plays, Arizona faces a steep uphill battle.

When Arizona has the Ball:

Mike Gandy and Levi Jones vs. James Harrison and Lamarr Woodley

How do you beat Kurt Warner? It's simple. You hit him. Gandy and Jones are up for their toughest task of the season. They must keep NFL Defensive Player of the Year, Harrison, off Kurt Warner. At the same time, they're dealing with Harrison's bookend, Woodley, who is surging during the playoffs. If Gandy and Jones don't step their game up a notch and keep Warner off his back, the Steelers defense will make short work of the Cardinals offense.

Intangibles - Armin:

Super Bowl Experience

Both 2nd year head coaches are in their first Super Bowl in that role. However, Whisenhunt won a Super Bowl as the offensive coordinator for the Steelers and Tomlin won one as the DB coach for the Buccaneers. Which coach will do a better job pulling from his Super Bowl experience? Tomlin also has a bit of an advantage here. He has many players that were on the team during Pittsburgh's triumph in Super Bowl XL. Whisenhunt, on the other hand, has very few who draw upon that experience. Kurt Warner is about all he has. There is no question that Whisenhunt is at an intangible disadvantage. However, the Cards seem to have destiny on their side.

... and the Steelers had better hope Coach Tomlin quits his day job alongside Gregory House

Win It For Pat

Last time around, the Steelers wanted to win it for Jerome. Now, it's the Cards who are the Team of Destiny. Can they muster up enough intestinal fortitude to play like Pat Tillman is standing behind them? Can they win it for Pat? While some don't like cliche's like "Win one for the Gipper", this situation screams for Tillman to be the reason for a franchise he proudly played for to win the Lombardi. Here's hoping that if the Cards are holding that trophy after the game, that they point their fingers to the sky and pay homage to a man who may have been the first in the NFL to say, I WANT to play football for the Arizona Cardinals.

Predictions

Come back tomorrow for final predictions from the PHSports crew...

InClement Weather: Super Bowl XLIII Approaches...

While I admittedly was in and out of much of the Steelers/Ravens game (it's not like they pay me to do this), I did decide to collect a few thoughts on the two championship games. Luck you, right???

Arizona defeated 32-25 to win the NFC Championship

Darnell Dockett and the Cardinals have to plant Big Ben every time they get the slightest of grips on him. Otherwise, he will make them pay.

Credit: Yahoo! Sports

1) If anyone had Arizona in the Super Bowl at the following points, you are either crazy or a mad genius. Funny how the two intersect so easily.
A) Pre-season
B) After their Thanksgiving meltdown out east in the Linc
C) After the "snow-bowl" BEATDOWN (even with nothing to play for) against the Patsies
D) Before the Atlanta game
E) Before the Carolina game
F) When Philly took the lead 25-24 on that insane TD pass to DeSean Jackson.

2) Kurt Warner proved that even though Peyton Manning won the NFL, there is no more important quarterback to his team than Warner is to his Cardinals. 21-28, 279 yards, and 4 TDs in the franchise's biggest game (and then some) in Arizona. Not to mention the poise on that last drive. Wow.

3) Tim Hightower, a 5th round pick, couldn't handle being "the man" in Arizona down the stretch. Nevertheless, thanks to guys like Edgerrin James (more on him later), he's a rookie making major contributions on a Super Bowl team.

4) Edgerrin James had to leave Peyton Manning and Indianapolis and go out west - to the desert of Arizona - to get his Super Bowl trip. Funny, eh?

5) Larry Fitzgerald is worth the price of admission. I hope Anquan prays he's both healthy and Todd Haley wants him heavily involved in two weeks.

6) Donovan F. McNabb showed a lot of class, poise, and even a smile or two Sunday afternoon. Philly fans still don't deserve him.

7) Andy Reid is 1-4 in NFC Title games. Question is: how many of those "should" his teams have won?

8) DeSean Jackson is electric. I hope he's not a flash-in-the-pan wideout/returner.

9) Assante Samuel wasn't himself Sunday afternoon. Neither was Brian Dawkins.

10) That was a pass interference call the refs missed. You know the play. However, Curtis knows he had to somehow still catch that ball and the Eagles know they left that game on the field. They didn't lose because of the refs.


Pittsburgh defeated Baltimore 24-13 to win the AFC Championship

Joe Flacco didn't lay the biggest turd on the field Sunday. Instead, this guy was the biggest turd. And it wasn't even close. Nice job faking an injury.

Credit: Yahoo! Sports

1) Two Super Bowls in five years for Big Ben. Not too shabby.

2) Troy Polamalu doesn't care who anyone considers the best safety in the NFL, he just delivers when it matters most.

3) Hines Ward's health will be a major factor come two weeks.

4) Don't automatically assume Pittsburgh will cakewalk their way to Super Bowl XLIII. They won't.

5) LaMarr Woodley looked a lot more today like the NFL's Defensive Player of the Year.

6) Props to Terrell Suggs on a gritty effort.

7) Ray Lewis deserves better quarterbacks. Plain and simple.

8) Joe Flacco was exposed for what he truly is: a nice kid who is not going to be a very productive NFL quarterback in crunch time.

9) Prayers out to Willis McGahee.

10) Ryan Clark led with his helmet and may have broken a man's neck. Of course, he didn't mean to hurt someone. Nevertheless, that was helmet to helmet and a devastating illegal hit. He's lucky his own neck didn't break. The only realistic, sensible, and fair punishment is a suspension for the Super Bowl. However, the NFL is gutless - especially when dealing with top-tier organizations - and won't lift a finger to even fine Clark. Roger Goodell is a sham and probably a crook for not dealing with situations just like these. It makes his organization cower to the owners and the franchises. Pathetic. Speaking of which, Walt Coleman's crew should be ashamed of themselves for allowing such a hit to go unpenalized. Ashamed.

Congrats to both teams. Except Limas Sweed. Who clearly faked an injury after dropping a crucial potential touchdown pass. I hurt too when I blow easy touchdowns. Everyone in the room (in houses across the nation) knew he was gonna fake an injury too. Even Nantz (an idiot altogether) knew his pride was hurt and nothing more. He will forever be a yellow-bellied coward. And a faker. And butterfingers. Loser.

By the way, please don't be that Steelers fan who thinks his team is 100% class and Sweed was genuinley hurt. Don't be so naieve.

Think I'm angry? Not at all. But seriously, how did this movie make over $30-million on opening weekend? Aren't we in a recession???

Credit: IMDB.com

5 NFL Questions - Championship Weekend

Philadelphia Eagles @ Arizona Cardinals [3:00 pm on FOX]

Can 5th-round pick Tim Hightower be effective rushing the ball in the redzone today?
Credit: Yahoo! Sports

1) What protection schemes will Wisenhunt and Grimm come up with to protect Kurt Warner from the machinations of Jim Johnson's exotic blitz packages?
2) What are the respective health statuses of Anquan Boldin and Brian Westbrook?
3) Is Karlos Dansby prepared to play the game of his life?
4) Which rookie will have a greater impact: DeSean Jackson or Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie?
5) Will Andy Reid and Donovan McNabb finally come full circle from the "benching incident" against Baltimore?


Baltimore Ravens @ Pittsburgh Steelers [6:30 pm on CBS]

Can Big Ben expose a hole or two - if only for a second - in the Raven secondary with tight end Heath Miller in the "check-down" spot?
Credit: Yahoo! Sports

1) Will Joe Flacco be the first rookie QB to guide his team to the Super Bowl with 3 straight road victories in the playoffs?
2) Will the Steelers sweep the Ravens (and their defense) 3-0?
3) Which ballhawking safety will seal the game: Ed Reed or Troy Polamalu?
4) Is Terrell Suggs going to play or be a factor whatsoever?
5) Which team will establish their running game earliest and most often in each half?

Just in case you're bored at any time today with either game, hit up Blockbuster for this unforgettable Disney classic...



Enjoy the games...

NFL Divisional Playoffs Pre-Game Analysis: Philadelphia at NY Giants

Philadelphia Do's and Don't's:

Do your best to pack extra ice in the cooler. Brandon Jacobs is going to run, run, and run some more against the Eagles defense. The Giants should be wise enough to know you can't "save" a back for future games he's not guaranteed to see. A steady diet of Jacobs must be expected by Jim Johnson's defense, no matter how successful or unsuccessful the bruising back is on the Giants' opening few drives. All it takes is one brutal run downfield to inflict physical and psychological damage on an opposing defense.

Do whatever it takes to isolate Brian Westbrook on Antonio Pierce. Pierce is talented, but no linebacker in the NFL can keep up with Westbrook in the open field. Memories of Westbrook's TD against the G-Men last month have to be ringing through defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo's head. As they should.

Do your best to involve Kevin Curtis early. While Troy Aikman went a bit overboard in calling Curtis a potential "great player", Curtis has plenty of downfield speed to spare and can run a sharp corner route against soft coverage. He's Philly's top wideout-option (not named Westbrook, of course) and has proven that he is capable of going nucking futs if he starts going early.

Don't allow Kevin Boss to go unchecked in the secondary. Plaxico is going to be TERRIBLY missed. Duh. Nevertheless, Hixon deep and Steve Smith in the slot on third down can't be the only two objectives for Dawkins, Samuel, and company in the secondary. Boss often goes weeks without catches; yet, has just enough playoff experience and is sneaky-good in the redzone with Eli.

Don't let Darren Howard underperform. I'm not sure exactly how you do that; nevertheless, Howard needs to be in the backfield - among several other talented Iggle defensive lineman - and all over Eli Manning (get ready for it now...early and often). Rattling a Super Bowl MVP won't occur easily. However, I do believe Eli can be frustrated and the rush game can stall out at times. Not without a consistent in-your-face pass rush though.

New York Do's and Don't's:

Do use the Meadowlands to your advantage. The wind is one a kind and Donovan McNabb - despite tremendous poise last weekend - has been frustrated before in this stadium. Nothing will help your team (and the crowd) more then a strong start on offense and a 7-0 lead up on the scoreboard. Put the pressure on McNabb to throw the ball to keep up with your offense, especially if the elements are willing to help your defense.

Do your best to pop Hixon deep early. His drop several weeks ago still has to sting a bit, despite a solid performance after Plaxico went down from the emerging wideout talent. While Burress is obviously a noted absence, Eli seems to have developed a strong chemistry with Hixon. Use that to your advantage, especially since Assante Samuel (perhaps the top postseason NFL CB since a younger Ty Law) owns the flats and sidelines.

Don't allow Donovan McNabb to feel comfortable in the pocket. McNabb proved last week that despite a rush game that doesn't click immediately, if he has time he's going to beat you down the field. While Philly doesn't have an electric offense, they'll dink and dunk their way downfield very effectively; especially with their talented RBs in the screen game. If only LJ Smith didn't stink so much. If the Giant front four - particularly Fred Robbins up the middle and Justin Tuck on the edge - stall early, big problems may ensue downfield for their secondary.

Don't keep your eyes off of DeSean Jackson. He's one-of-a-kind on punt returns, reverses, and (yes, even) as a wide receiver. Any space and Jackson has the ability to take it to the house. It's tough enough gameplanning for the speed of Westbrook in the open field; however, Philly has a rookie wideout just begging for a playoff touchdown for the ages.

Don't forget about field position. John Carney has been nothing short of a godsend this season and has plenty of leg for this stadium, despite being on the wrong side of 40 years old. If the field goal isn't available, wise punting has to be practiced with the dangerous aformentioned Jackson waiting. The Giants' ability to both sack the quarterback and force costly turnovers is one of their greatest assetts. Nothing will help this team more than frustrating McNabb and Andy Reid deep inside their own territory.

Key Matchups:

When Philadelphia has the ball...
OTs Tra Thomas & John Runyan vs. DE Justin Tuck
I already took plenty of time to talk about the obvious: Brian Westbrook vs. Antonio Pierce. Instead, I'm going to take a chapter out of Sum and Armin's previews and talk about the play of offensive tackles and defensive ends. While previous matchups focused on names like Terrell Suggs and Julius Peppers on the defensive side, there might not be a more talented young, stud defensive end than Justin Tuck. Enter into the equation the play of two recognized Eagle tackles (Tra Thomas & John Runyan). If they bully and stymie Tuck early on the pass rush, it's the rush game that wins out most. Funny how that works, huh?

When New York has the ball...
RBs Brandon Jacobs & Derrick Ward vs. Philadelphia LBs (who remain nameless)
With all due-respect to Ahmad Bradshaw, I'll be surprised if the Giants gameplan more than 4-5 touches for him. Meanwhile, I already talked about the likely tremendous impact Jacobs will have on this game. Second half-stud Derrick Ward can't be forgotten either. Lethal in the late stages of several key games down the stretch this season, surprisingly in the short passing game as well as rushing the ball, Ward offers a surprising "breath of fresh air" for opposing defenses. Enter the somewhat unknown Eagle LBs. Not only will they have a runaway bulldozer coming at them; but also a talented fleet-footed back who will seem oddly fresh early in the second half. Good luck, gentlemen.

Intangibles

Haven't I Seen You Before???
I'm not going to rant about this, yet it matters a TON. This teams have seen each two times a year since the Bronze Age (didn't I use that reference last week?). In fact, in years past they've seen each other three times. Something tells me neither team will be too surprised at what the other throws at them. That usually means the bread-and-butter wins out. I gotta favor the G-Men's to the Eagles, despite being sans-Plaxico.

Legacies for Quarterbacks
Don't look now, but if Eli has two Super Bowl rings to brother Peyton's one, a legitimate conversation may arise as to who will have the greater legacy. Meanwhile, McNabb might not be Philly-bound for much longer. I can't help but wonder if his legacy may be far too clouded in the puking-incident against the Patriots in the Super Bowl. Both quarterbacks know that a win puts them in the driver's seat for the Super Bowl. Not a shabby place to cement your legacy...on your own terms.

Final Score Prediction
NY Giants win, 33-24

NFL WildCard Playoffs Pre-Game Analysis: Baltimore at Miami

Miami Do’s and Don’t’s:

It's not Clayton/Duper, but Bess and Ginn have as much speed as any duo in the NFL. Good thing when the Ravens secondary is in town.

Credit: Yahoo! Sports

Do your best to stack the box on obvious running downs. Force the rookie QB – starting his first playoff game on the road, no less – to beat you downfield. It puts a TON of pressure on your relatively young secondary; nevertheless, you have to like your odds more in that scenario.

Do take advantage of a quarterback with legit playoff experience. Pennington has been the gross underdog – home or away – and guided past (Jet) teams to playoff victories against "superior teams and QBs". Don’t be so casual to forget that he’s made the big throws – for better or worse – in scenarios much rougher than at home in Miami this weekend.

Don’t allow Derrick Mason to roam free in the middle of the field. He’s the sneakiest player at that position in the NFL. Far too often he becomes discarded or totally forgotten about, especially in the slot. He’ll take a crushing hit or too as well, whether for 15 yards or 1 ½ on the reception.

Don’t allow the pick-six to burn you. It’s not impossible to plan against this. Open up the playbook – just a bit – but don’t allow their talented secondary to bite on routes. Not to mention, their LBs (as Terrell Suggs proved in Week 7) will gobble up errand balls. Anything out of the zone is property of Ed Reed. Ball security from the QB must be a QB's #1 priority when you see the Ravens on the opposing sideline.

Don’t completely abandon the benefits of the Wildcat Formation. This Ravens team is not a prolific offense (obviously). If it struggles to gain first downs early, try your best to step on their throats. Put the vice on Joe Flacco with Joey Porter barking in his ear every time he hits the corner to sack the CAA-product.


Baltimore Do’s and Don’t’s:

Averaging less than 3 catches for 25 yards a game (with only 3 TDs), the former Pro Bowler remains lost in the shuffle of an improving offense, with a rookie QB at the helm. Will that change come playoff time?

Credit: CNNSI.com

Do your best to platoon McClain and McGahee from start to finish. Why not ride both horses down the stretch, regardless of the score differential. Joe Flacco is still a rookie and there remains a significant lack of chemistry between him and his talented TE Todd Heap.

Do slip in a trick play or two for the uber-talented Mark Clayton. He’s fast and an ever-emerging athlete in the Raven offense. The Miami defenders just faced a QB (last week) with a bum shoulder who underthrew everything. Now it’s time to air out a ball or two downfield early; especially if 1-on-1 coverage is isolated on corner/stop-and-go routes.

Don’t think it's automatic that your team can win without scoring above 20 points. It’s easy to ride your defense while grinding the ball playing field position. While the Dolphin offense and special teams won’t break the bank too often; they do force turnovers. Keep that in mind when you have a rookie QB taking snaps in the 4th quarter of a game much closer than your confident defense might've expected.

Don’t expect the Dolphins to be the least bit intimidated, especially at home. This should go without saying; however, playing with house money – even at home – allows teams to act like snakes lurking in the grass. Bad symbolism, but it still rings true. The Wildcat isn't going anywhere this weekend.

Don’t forget Cam Cameron was the head coach at Miami last season, for better or worse. It’s an X-factor that might go under the rug, yet might play more of a factor than expected. Not to mention, Miami did beat a very different Baltimore (offense) last season when they were winless sans-Pennington. I’m just sayin’…

Key Matchups:

When Miami has the ball…
RB Ronnie Brown vs. LB Ray Lewis

Whether or not the Wildcat formation can work against such a disciplined defense – who has seen it before mind you – is irrelevant. Seriously. What matters is how much confidence the Dolphin coaching staff has in attempting (throughout the game) to see if Ronnie Brown is or isn’t able to take the direct snap and make a play…even if it’s a simple pitch to a dive play for Ricky. Whether it be an end-around to Ginn, a fleaflicker back to Pennington, or potentially a throw from Brown in the redzone, finding holes against this one-of-a-king speedy yet savvy defense may give the Dolphins the big play or two they need to win.

When Baltimore has the ball…
FB Le’Ron McClain vs. LB Channing Crowder

I was one of those who questioned Channing Crowder’s ability to play linebacker – especially inside the 3-4 alignment – in the NFL. While he’s far from a Pro Bowler, his athleticism and tenacity (just ask Matt Light) is ever-improving. McClain, who you’ll see just as often as the primary RB, will have a size/strength vs. speed/agility matchup most FBs either dread or salivate over.

Intangibles

Poise and Patience
You’d think the QB advantage would immediately go to Chad Pennington; yet, I’m not so sure. Flacco seems to play with a (quiet) chip on his shoulder and has arguably the more talented set of wideouts and skilled offensive players. It’ll be interesting to see how Pennington performs in the playoffs, especially in the 1st half when previous (Jet) experiences have been far more positive than his second halves. Pennington won't be nervous at all, yet arm strength may become a factor against a blitzing onslaught from the Ravens D and their coordinator Rex Ryan.

Special Teams
Matt Stover was arguably the “offensive” MVP of the 2000 Super Bowl season for the Ravens. On the other hand, Miami has an unknown kicker (Carpenter) fresh off an impressive weekend in the Meadowlands; however they also have a return unit - in all major categories - ranked in the bottom 5 in the entire NFL. Protecting your half of the field is vital to both teams, who don’t exactly gameplan on lighting the scoreboard up.

The Coaches
Just when you thought I wouldn’t mention “him”…I will. Tony Sporano (gotcha!) is a first-year coach who has seen his fair share of recent playoff disappointments in Dallas. Nevertheless, he also has to realize the tremendous opportunity he has in front of him. Good coaches don’t take these games lightly. We might call it, "playing with house money", but good coaches know it just takes one win to survive and move on. Meanwhile, John Harbaugh has two savvy coordinators in his back pocket and (defensive) players who often play like they don’t need coaching. It’s almost poetic that both these two teams – both buried in last place last season – would be so fortunate to be lifted up by two talented first-year coaches.

Final Score Prediction
Baltimore wins 27-10