Picks and predictions for Superbowl XLV.
Artwork By: Hayden Johnson
After four intense weeks of playoff action, the NFL Superbowl is here and the stage is set for one of the best games of the year. The Steelers’ iron clad defense will take on the Packers’ high flying offense in a match up for the ages in Arlington, Texas.
Steelers will win if…
The Pittsburgh Steelers have proven their worthiness of being in the position they are in and are without question one of the power houses of professional football. The Steelers have been here before, and are looking to take the lead in the NFL for the most post season wins in history with a win in this Superbowl. Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger already has two championship rings to his name in his young career and is having another Superbowl worthy season this year. To win this game, the Steelers need their “Steel-Curtain” defense to have yet another big game in this post season. Defensive End James Harrison and the rest of the Steelers line will need to continue their presence in the face of the quarterback and force Aaron Rodgers into bad throws which he doesn’t do very often. If the Steelers are able to get pressure on Rodgers and record sacks or create turnovers, they will put the Packers on their heels and take control of the game.
The Packers will win if…
The Green Bay Packers have proven their worth late in the season. Going on a five game winning streak coming into the Super Bowl and beating some of the best teams in the NFL including the Eagles, Bears, and Falcons, the Packers look unstoppable. They have won battles all over the field, despite being a team that has been overrun by injuries, especially in the tailback position. James Starks has done an excellent job at stepping into the tailback position and has been a silent hero for the Packers as he gives the team a new threat on the field and relieves some of the pressure off of Aaron Rodgers shoulders. Adding in the factor of a running game gives Aaron Rodgers the opportunity of a play action pass game and has been a leading contributor in these playoffs. I think if the Packers can continue their dynamic and double threat offense, they will be able to put the very talented Steelers defense on their heels and reach their deep threats down field in Greg Jennings and Donald Driver. I like the Packers matchup against the Steelers secondary, and I think that if the Packers can find a way to subdue the Steelers relentless pass rush, they will make big plays down field and will control the short passing game, keeping the chains moving. Also, I think that the Packers will dominate in the trenches with B.J. Raji and Cullen Jenkins and will continue to put the quarterback on the ground as they already have 10 sacks so far in these playoffs.
My final pick for the game is I think the Packers will win because Aaron Rodgers will come up big and get his championship “belt” that he has been celebrating already. Dom Caper’s Defensive scheme will certainly not disappoint and the Packers will win the game 24-17.
