10 Questions to the Editor - Bracket Style

Since Pay is our resident bracket expert, I decided to speak with a friends, a few comments from Fannation, and see if we can't get him to get to the bottom of a couple of pressing questions.

10 to be exact.

Better yet, we're surprising him with them.
Lucky him, right?

Call Me Crazy #1: Is Hasheem Thabeet - despite the dominance of Blake Griffin and sound steadiness of Tyler Hansbrough - the new frontrunner for the Naismith?
Credit: CNNSI.com

ACC Country
1) With FSU enjoying plenty of recent success, who has a tougher road to an at-large birth in the crowded ACC: Virginia Tech or Boston College?
2) Is Maryland only a miracle-run in the ACC Tourney away from returning to the Big Dance?

Big East Talk
3) Cincinnati appears to be on the upswing while Georgetown remains stuck in the abyss after a tough loss at the Carrier Dome. Meanwhile, Notre Dame shakes off 7-straight losses - many of them ugly ones - to destroy Louisville. Last night, West Virginia pounds Villanova and reminds us about their dangerous talent. Assuming UCONN, Pitt, Marquette, Louisville, Villanova, and (maybe) even the Cuse are locks for March Madness...what happens to the "rest of the field", including the aformentioneds (Georgetown, Cincinnati, Notre Dame, West Virginia) as well as Providence.

CAA Speak
4) Do you think a darkhorse can emerge come CAA Tournament time, or do you believe VCU/Mason are the odds on favorites - even with a talented Northeastern team tied atop the standings - to cut down the nets in Richmond?

Big Ten Bias
5) Will Penn State right the ship, or are they looking more and more like an early bloomer who will fade well before Selection Sunday?

Missouri Valley Time
6) With an impressive showing Bracketbuster weekend (more below), can Northern Iowa and Creighton secure bids, assuming one of them wins the conference championship over the other?

Pac-10 Pontification
7) I can't figure out this conference one bit. Can we get a sentence or two on the postseason "likelihoods" for Arizona, USC, and Cal?

WCC
8) What's the best case (realistic) scenario for St. Mary's - sans Patty Mills - right now? If he can return before tournament time, how much can the Selection Committee take into account his injury and their play before it? Is that fair to do so?

Free-for-All
9) Who is this year's San Diego (winning their conference tournament unexpectedly and then making noise opening weekend of the tournament)? Maybe Portland/Nevada/Niagara/Belmont? Okay, probably not Belmost.

Bracketbusting
10) What are your favorite Bracketbuster matchups? Who has the most to gain from the weekend's matchups? Who has the most to lose? Individual team or conferences may apply.

Call Me Crazy #2: Is it possible that Ty Lawson - not Psycho T - is the most pivotal Tar Heel for Roy's Boys winning a 2nd national championship?



Good night and good luck, good sir.

Predicting UNC/Duke ... Not Really

As many of you know, tonight is this season's first rendition of the best college basketball rivalry ever: UNC and Duke. As our regular readers know, I grew up a UNC fan and cannot tolerate Duke. Here are 10 things I guarantee will happen in tonight's game.

1. Duke Vitale will crowd surf with a group of booksmart half-wits, known to the public as the Cameron Crazies and claim to be objective during the game whilst describing an anecdote from a book signing he had. The odds are probably 3:1 that he will do this before the 8-minute media timeout in the first half.
   
2. Mike Patrick - no stranger to using hyperbole to the point that it is an arrestible offense - will at some point call this game, "Perhaps the best in the rivalry" ... when the score is 10-8.
3. I will mute the TV out of respect for my ears and waning intelligence.
   
4. Tyler Hansbrough will look like a dear in headlights at least twice.
   
5. Greg Paulus will pound the floor ... because he is a floor-pounder. He just is. Barring injury (if this happens, atheists should reconsider their stance on God) or an uncharacteristic blowout, I can almost guarantee the bank account on this one.
6. Mike Patrick will use Brian Zoubek's name in the same sentence as Tyler Hansbrough that does not sound like, "Brian Zoubek could not clean Tyler Hansbrough's 8th pair of shoes."
7. ESPN will show Gerald Henderson 'punching' Tyler Hansbrough from two seasons ago at least twice.
8. A Duke player will take a charge (real or flop) and Duke Vitale will attribute it to Coach K, and mention that K has never dissociated himself from his Chicago roots.
9. At halftime, someone in the studio will point out that though Carolina has given up [insert #] points, they rank 20th nationally in defensive efficiency and that Roy Williams does not get enough credit for instilling defensive principles.
10. Either Danny Green or Gerald Henderson will have a highlight reel dunk that you will replay on your DVR. Make sure you look for John Scheyer's face for his reaction. He always has one. This has nothing to do with tonight's game, but here's a picture of Chris "Gary" Duhon (credit on the nickname: BP) wearing a stupid hat.
    

NCAA Tournament Bracket Projections - February 9, 2009

For the third straight set of projections, UConn tops the charts. This pick was solidified by exemplary defense as well as two subtractions from the UNC roster (Marcus Ginyard ruled out by injury and Will Graves suspended for reasons that Roy Williams decided not to elaborate).

Though they have only one loss (to Arkansas), Oklahoma remains on the 2-line. Due to a matchup conflict, I placed them in the 6^th overall spot, though we project them to be higher than Louisville, who greeted February with a setback on Monday and an uninspiring performance on Sunday.

In terms of whose stock rose, look no further than the Tigers of Memphis and Missouri.

* I expected Memphis to be competitive against Gonzaga, but I did not expect to punish and demoralize the Bulldogs. John Calipari's management of Tyreke Evans - who came in with a selfish tag and is suddenly one of the best floor generals in the country since his move to the point – is worthy of Hall of Fame consideration on its face.

* As for Missouri, they are living up to their gaudy eye test metrics (top 25 national rating in offensive and defensive efficiency). Because they are now the 3^rd team in the Big XII, they will be the hunted and will not catch teams off guard.

Meanwhile, stock is plummeting in Austin, Lafayette, Las Vegas and State College.

* On the heels of three consecutive conference losses to teams not named Oklahoma or Kansas, Texas is in the midst of an identity crisis and it is due in part to being banged up and not having an NBA-caliber point guard in the backcourt. However, this is why Rick Barnes gets paid the big bucks. He will have this team turned around, though it may not be immediate.

* While I do not think Robbie Hummel is the best player for the Boilermakers, his absence has been felt in two losses this week. If he remains out, expect more of the same. The beneficiaries of this loss will no doubt be Ohio State, Illinois and Minnesota, who are all battling for a 'protected' seed (i.e. 4 seed or better).

* UNLV is playing awful. When you lose close games, the finger will undoubtedly be in the direction of either the best player or the point guard. In this case, it's the same player. Yeah, I'm calling you out Wink Adams. Another week like this and my stretch of a Mountain West championship becomes no more. Utah is starting to normalize.

* As highlighted by other folks, in a week that Penn State needed a split, the Nittany Lions came out empty-handed and they have three halves of utter futility to thank for it. After winning unexpectedly in East Lansing, Penn State tanked against fellow bubble teams with back-to-back double-digit losses. That's toxic for a resume and I cannot emphasize that enough.

Moving down to the last four in, I went in with the notion that I am choosing the best 34 at-large teams. Miami-FL may finish 7-9 in the ACC and may garner serious at-large consideration, especially if Kentucky (who they defeated at Rupp Arena) rights the ship and Ohio State (who they would have beaten had Jack McClinton not been wrongfully ejected) continues to play well. In the end, it came down to Arizona and Kansas State. While I think that it is slightly irresponsible to have six from the PAC 10, Arizona has a better resume than Kansas State.

On a final note, Georgetown, who was a protected seed, is out of the field. The tipping point was an overtime loss against Cincinnati, which I happened to attend. If the Hoyas can go 8-10 in the Big East given their tougher than average schedule with a semifinal run at Madison Square Garden, they carry a strong argument for an at-large bid. At this point, however, it is unrealistic to see Georgetown win four of their last seven and win at least two at MSG.

If you have any questions, comments, or just wish to send a shout, shoot me a line at phashemi@gmail.com.

The Seedings

1: UConn (Big East), North Carolina, Pittsburgh, Duke (ACC)

2: Louisville, Oklahoma (Big XII), Michigan State (Big Ten), Wake Forest

3: Memphis (C-USA), Villanova, Clemson, UCLA

4: Marquette, Xavier (A-10), Kansas, Ohio State

5: Butler (Horizon), Syracuse, Illinois, Purdue

6: Minnesota, Washington, Gonzaga (WCC), Missouri

7: Arizona State, Florida State, West Virginia, Texas

8: Tennessee (SEC), Davidson (Southern), California, Florida

9: Boston College, Dayton, Virginia Tech, UNLV (MWC)

10: Utah State (WAC), LSU, USC, Utah

11: Cincinnati, South Carolina, Wisconsin, Miami-FL

12: Siena (Metro Atlantic), BYU, Kentucky, Arizona

13: Creighton (MVC), VCU (CAA), Buffalo (MAC), Western Kentucky (Sun Belt)

14: Stephen F. Austin (Southland), North Dakota State (Summit), Vermont (America East), Cornell (Ivy)

15: VMI (Big South), American (Patriot), Tennessee-Martin (Ohio Valley), Belmont (Atlantic Sun)

16: Weber State (Big Sky), Long Beach State (Big West), Morgan State (MEAC), Robert Morris (Northeast), Alabama State (SWAC)

IN: Wisconsin, BYU, Miami-FL, Cincinnati, Creighton, Tennessee-Martin

OUT: Penn State, Georgetown, Northern Iowa, St. Mary's, Providence, Austin Peay

Last Four In: Miami-FL, Cincinnati, Kentucky, Arizona

Last Four Out: Kansas State, Mississippi State, San Diego State, Michigan

Next Four Out: Penn State, Georgetown, St. Mary's, Nebraska

Seeding Summary (Multi-Bid Conferences Only in Order of Percentage)
ACC: 8/12

Pac-10: 6/10

Big East: 8/16

Big Ten: 6/11

SEC: 5/12

Big XII: 4/12

Mountain West: 3/9

A-10: 2/14

PER - February 8, 2009

To say that the day job has been a hindrance to blogging regularly the last two months is like saying it's cold. As an attempt to be somewhat sustainable over the next month or so and later on when the day job really does not want to cooperate, I am establishing the PER: Point, Evidence, Relevance.

I make a point. I provide the best evidence on this fine net. Then, I state why it's relevant.

If you disagree with my thoughts, let me know why.

********

Please Stay Off Of Your Sandbox - A Message to Fans of Nebraska, Kansas State and Duquesne

In spite of big wins this week and/or strong play for each team this week, I will be surprised if any find your way into bracket projections this week.

Let's start off with the Dukes. First, congratulations on your program-building win against Xavier. My thoughts about head coach Ron Everhart aside, their only other win against a team currently in most fields is basketball powerhouse Robert Morris. Winning two-thirds of your games in the A-10 nine games into the season and ranking in the 200s in defensive efficiency will result in February losses.

On Kansas State and Nebraska, both have entered the conversation for an at-large bid, but I will be very surprised if either enters the PHSports Field of 65 tomorrow. Since both compete in the weaker Big XII North with one-win squads (Colorado, Iowa State), it is imperative that each team wins 5 of their 7 before the Big XII Tournament to reach the magical 10-win mark and ensure at-large bid.

While Kansas State (@ Cleveland State, v. Missouri, @ Texas, @ Texas A&M) and Nebraska (v. Creighton, v. Missouri, v. Kansas State, v. Texas) have some good wins, neither has a signature win and they rank 291st and 322nd in non-conference SOS. If you recall last year on Selection Sunday, a certain team from a stronger conference with better wins did not make the tournament. They were Arizona State and the Selection Committee was quick to point out that Arizona State's non-conference SOS (i.e. the games they scheduled with their free will) was in the 300s.

Saturday Morning College Basketball Musings...

Far from a STACKED lineup today; nevertheless, it's still an entertaining set of matchups.

#20 Syracuse @ #17 Villanova
Note: I started this post before tip-off, by the time I finished typing it was 12-2 Villanova. Crocodile tears are ready to flow.
Syracuse and 'Nova split last year (each winning by double-digits on the other's home court). While neither may be "bubbling it" come March, both have a somewhat realistic shot at the coveted 4-seed (UCONN, Marquette, Louisville, & Pitt have the inside track). Keys for the road Orange have to center around the healthy of there center (yes, I just said that) Arinze Onuaku and 'Nova will need backcourt balance combined with an ability to force the Cuse into sloppy passes and lazy turnovers.
Call it: 'Nova trades baskets for the first 35 minutes, pulling away mid-way through the second-half for a 8 point victory.

Notre Dame @ #15 UCLA
Notre Dame dropped to 3-7 in conference with a brutal 2nd half showing at Cincinnati. With Louisville, UCONN, and Villanova still on their schedule, the Fighting Irish need to start piling up impressive victories. While this tussle in Pauley Pavilion won't help their conference standing, it'd be a MAJOR boost before Thursday's visit from Rick Pitino and company. Meanwhile, UCLA has been under the radar - even for a West Coast team - and can't afford a slip up against the struggling Irish.
Call It: UCLA withstand an early 3-point barrage and balances their way - on both sides of the ball - to a hard fought 6-point victory.

Miami (FL) @ #2 Duke
Miami has had an up-and-down campaign to say the least. Forcing OT against Tech two weeks back was trivial as they lost down the stretch in OT. However, pounding Wake (Mistake?) Forest has them 4-5 in conference. Unfortunately, they will need another upset - at Cameron of all places - to reach .500 and respectability in conference. Statements wins are the only way the Cannes will be dancing in March.
Call It: Duke rebounds - by shooting the 3 better and Henderson enforcing the middle - and pounds Miami by 20+. It's gonna be ugly.

Indiana @ #13 Michigan State
Remember when this game mattered? Indiana is 1-8 in the Big 10 and you can't blame Tom Creen yet, can you? Seems a lot like Rich Rodriguez over here. Except Kelvin Sampson can take the majority of this blame. It's great he still assumes little to no responsibility.
Call It: Indiana will be competitive, for around 8 minutes, before Michigan State cruises to a W. In the Big Ten, that means they win by 10.

Florida State @ #10 Clemson
A couple ACC friends of mine claim that there will be two spots for Boston College, Virginia Tech, and Florida State. While the Noles and Hokies are 4-3 in conference, FSU still has two shots to beat a top 10-team like Clemson; whereas the Hokies blew a 15-point lead (at home, no less) to the Tigers. While FSU appears to easily be the team "outside" the aformentionmed equation, no time like the present to make a statement. Meanwhile, Clemson is riding high off of perhaps its most impressive regular season showing in the last 10 years.
Call It: The word letdown has to have been talked about in the locker room. It will be close, but it won't happen today. Clemson wins a squeaker by 5.

#19 Minnesota @ Ohio State
I can't figure out either of these teams. If someone much smarter than me can shed some light, I'll owe you. I will enjoy the coaching matchup though. You call it, I'm too scared.

#14 Memphis @ #18 Gonzaga
The WCC is entirely different with St. Mary's sans-Patrick Mills; meanwhile, Memphis may never again lose a Conference USA game. The Tigers haven't seen much - outside of Tennessee I suppose - since a tough home loss to Syracuse. Tyreke Evans has turned it around and Coach Calipari has his few veteran leaders playing much better. Nevertheless, this is a brutal matchup in Spokane and I'm take the home team.
Call It: Memphis has plenty of athleticism and momentum; however, the only thing I love more than semi-colons in this post, is picking the sturdier home team.

Enjoy the matchups.

The Big East Schedule Broken Down

In the Big East this season, teams play 18 conference games, in which they face 12 teams once and 3 teams twice. The list below shows who plays whom twice. In the interest of brevity, I am including those Big East teams with a realistic shot at the NCAA Tournament.

Marquette - DePaul, Georgetown, Villanova

UConn - Notre Dame, Pittsburgh, Seton Hall

Louisville - Notre Dame, West Virginia, South Florida

Pittsburgh - UConn, West Virginia, DePaul

Providence - Cincinnati, Rutgers, Villanova

Villanova - Marquette, Providence, Syracuse

Syracuse - Villanova, Georgetown, Rutgers

West Virginia - Louisville, Pittsburgh, South Florida

Cincinnati - Providence, Georgetown, St. John's

Georgetown - Marquette, Syracuse, Cincinnati

Notre Dame - UConn, Louisville, St. John's

Does this negatively alter your perception of Marquette, Providence and Cincinnati? Or, does it garner sympathy for the likes of Notre Dame or West Virginia in the case that either finishes 8-10 in conference?

NCAA Tournament Bracket Projections - February 2, 2009

[NOTE: Bracket projections do not include results from February 2, 2009]

Talking Points

For the second week running, the UConn Huskies top the field of 65. On the heels of two road wins (that they were supposed to win anyways), North Carolina claims the #2 spot flanked by Duke, who lost at Wake Forest. One of the tougher choices this week was whether to elevate Oklahoma over Pittsburgh, who lost to Villanova. In the end, we foresee Oklahoma losing at Texas and at least two other conference games prior to the Big XII Tournament. Due to the relative strength of the Big East, Pittsburgh can afford two more losses and a loss in the finals of the Big East Tournament (to UConn) and still earn a #1 seed.

Unlike most weeks, this past week involved plenty of movement. Villanova, Boston College, Dayton and Penn State were among our highest risers. On the flipside, there was a whopping four teams – Notre Dame, Miami-FL, Michigan, Baylor – who fell out of the field from a 10 seed or better. In the case of the Irish, they were lifeless in the final four minutes of a must-win home game against Marquette and they continue to be obvious on offense and always place the welcome mat in the paint on defense. Miami-FL has lost 3 in a row and get to face Wake Forest, Duke and UNC. Good luck. As for Michigan and Baylor, both have become accustomed to losing games by double digits, which is never a good sign.

Moving down to the last four out, I felt the need to keep St. Mary's in the field because of Patrick Mills, which occurred at the end of the first half against Gonzaga when the Gaels were up. Mills will miss the next month, but should return prior to the WCC Tournament. Arizona took care of business at home (while Arizona State faltered) versus the Washington schools and has a realistic chance of completing a sweep on the Oregon trail this weekend prior to winnable games against UCLA and USC in Tucson. In spite of Providence's 30+ point loss to UConn on Saturday, they won the first game that they were not supposed to against Syracuse, which (along with Notre Dame's poor performances and future schedule) catapulted them into the field of 65. For the final spot, Utah edged Notre Dame and Texas A&M behind their current play and their win against Gonzaga.

If you have any questions, comments, or just wish to send a shout, shoot me a line at phashemi@gmail.com.

The Seedings

1: UConn (Big East), North Carolina, Duke (ACC), Pittsburgh

2: Oklahoma (Big XII), Louisville, Marquette, Wake Forest

3: Michigan State (Big Ten), Minnesota, Xavier (A-10), Clemson

4: Purdue, Villanova, Texas, Butler (Horizon)

5: Gonzaga (WCC), Syracuse, UCLA (PAC-10), Memphis (C-USA)

6: Washington, Illinois, UNLV (MWC), Kansas

7: West Virginia, Dayton, Davidson (Southern), Ohio State

8: Boston College, Tennessee (SEC), Arizona State, Penn State

9: Florida State, Florida, Missouri, Utah State (WAC)

10: Georgetown, South Carolina, Virginia Tech, California

11: LSU, Northern Iowa (Missouri Valley), USC, Kentucky

12: Siena (Metro Atlantic), St. Mary's, Arizona, Providence

13: Utah, VCU (CAA), Buffalo (MAC), Western Kentucky (Sun Belt)

14: Stephen F. Austin (Southland), American (Patriot), North Dakota State (Summit), Cornell (Ivy)

15: VMI (Big South), Vermont (America East), Austin Peay (Ohio Valley), Belmont (Atlantic Sun)

16: Weber State (Big Sky), Long Beach State (Big West), Morgan State (MEAC), Robert Morris (Northeast), Alabama State (SWAC)

IN: Penn State, LSU, Arizona, Providence, Utah, Northern Iowa, Alabama State, Buffalo, Weber State

OUT: Notre Dame, Miami-FL, Michigan, Baylor, Wisconsin, Prairie View A&M, Miami-Ohio, Portland State

Last Four In: St. Mary's, Arizona, Providence, Utah

Last Four Out: Notre Dame, Texas A&M, BYU, Mississippi State

Next Four Out: Miami, Baylor, Michigan, Maryland

Seeding Summary (Multi-Bid Conferences Only in Order of Percentage)
Pac-10: 6/10

ACC: 7/12

Big East: 9/16

Big Ten: 6/11

SEC: 5/12

Big XII: 4/12

West Coast: 2/8

Mountain West: 2/9

A-10: 2/14

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...