Super Duper Bowl

I know that the hype every year says that this could be the best Super Bowl ever. But without sounding redundant, this could be one of the best Super bowl ever. The Colts and the Saints are led by great quarterbacks, both have good young receivers, and both have very capable defenses. There are a few factors that will decide the winner, and they are the same that you have heard all week long.

The thing that you haven't heard much about is the Saints defense. New Orleans was one of the top teams this year in takeaways and defensive touchdowns. Now I know all the talk about Peyton Manning being better than any other quarterback the Saints have played this year but the game plan stays the same. They will put pressure on the quarterback with zone packages, and hit him hard. Brett Favre was not sacked in the NFC Championship Game, but the pass rush definitely disrupted his game. Peyton will need to get rid of the ball quickly, which he is good at, and make the right decision every time. If he turns the ball over than the Saints will have the upper hand and win. This is a dream scenario however. The Colts defense will have to also get pressure without losing guys in coverage. The biggest x-factor is the Saints running backs. Pierre Thomas and Reggie Bush are versatile and could have an effect on the passing game in addition to the running game. If the Colts try to accommodate the lack of pressure from a missing or hobbled Dwight Freeney with linebackers it will open up the screen and flair routes for the running backs. Should be a great chess match.

I look for the Colts to win this game. But if the Saints do pull the "upset" don't expect me to be surprised. Both teams seem to need it. The Colts for Peyton's legacy, and the Saints for the city of New Orleans. Live like no one is watching and enjoy the commercials! (That's when it is time for beer runs.)