On 5th February 2006, it’s Superbowl XL, this year hosted in the “motor city”, Detroit, at Ford Field. It’s meant to one of the most watched events on television, and I will be one of those watching it on the box. The NFL playoffs are currently in full swing, with the conference championships due to be played this coming Sunday (22nd Jan). There have already been a few shocks in the playoffs, the biggest by far was Pittsburgh dumping the Indianapolis Colts out last weekend. The Colts, who were 13-0 at one point (that means 13 wins, no losses), were the favourites to reach the superbowl from the AFC, and quite possibly the favourites to go on and win them. The other shock (well it is in my opinion) was the Bears losing to the Panthers, the Bears had probably the best defence in the league, with defensive MVP Brian Urlacher at the head of it. The Panthers however have Steve Smith, who is one of the best wide receivers in the league, and we just couldn’t stop him. Anyway, on to the conference championships this weekend.
AFC Championship: Pittsburgh Steelers @ Denver Broncos
The Steelers have already pulled off two shocks, beating the Cincinnati Bengals (quite literally) and the Indianapolis Colts, I don’t think they’ll be able to pull of three, which is a pity, as with it being Jerome “the Bus” Bettis’ last season, I’m sure he’ll love to make it to the superbowl. The Broncos defense is strong, they won 3 fumbles against the Patriots, and nearly scored a 100 yard interception touchdown, also Roethlisberger, the Steelers quarterback, has been nursing a hand injury for quite a while, and from the clips I saw of the Colts match, he aggravated it again.
NFC Championship: Carolina Panthers @ Seattle Seahawks
In my opinion, this has to be the Seahawks’ game, they have homefield advantage, and in Seattle I think this will give them a huge advantage. Before their game against the Redskins, it had rained for 27 straight days, and I thought Manchester was wet. Provided Shaun Alexander has recovered from his mild concussion, then I cannot see the Panthers being able to stop them, although I’m sure Steve Smith will try his hardest.
Thanks to Mr. Murdoch, I’ll have to monitor superbowl.com for the scores, and then watch the highlights on ITV1 on monday 