Super Bowl XLIV Preview

I’m sure you already that today is Super Bowl XLIV (44) and I’m also confident most of you know that I’m a huge football fan. A solid defensive struggle, a high-powered shootout, or even a complete blowout all give me my fix. It’s not just the games either; I love all the pre-game rituals as well. Breaking down the games to predict a winner, small wagers with friends and family, the long running rivalries amongst several teams, and the rush of free agency and the draft to improve your team, football is an amazing sport that transcends all levels and is truly an American gem.

Now, February 7th, two squads are ready to duke it out for the uniquely crafted Lombardi Trophy. The Indianapolis Colts, winners of Super Bowl XLII lead by four time league MVP Peyton Manning, vs The New Orleans Saints lead by Drew Brees and their high octane offense. Both teams are pretty equal featuring underrated defenses, streaky running games, and solid passing offenses.

Super Bowl XLIV is set to be a high scoring affair and I couldn’t be more excited. Both teams were clearly the best in their respected conference throughout the season and both played well in their previous postseason games. But which team has the edge to become world champions?

I consider both defenses pretty balanced so that side of the ball is a wash. On offense, the Colts were last in the league in 2009 rushing the ball while the Saints reached 6th in the regular season. Each team employs a running back by committee approach keeping their runners fresh, but I’d give the edge to the Saints.

The Colts get the edge at wide receiver. Reggie Wayne, a perennial pro-bowler, leads the group also including the young, yet productive Austin Collie and Pierre Garçon. The Saints do have Marques Colston and receiving tight end Jeremy Shockey among a group of overachieving receivers, but from what I’ve seen, the Colts receivers have been playing better.

When it comes down to it, Super Bowl XLIV is truly Manning vs. Brees. Both are in the upper echelon of QB’s and are both able to deliver accurate passes anywhere on the field. Brees, who was only a few yards away from the most passing yards in a season last year, has a chance to bring the first championship to New Orleans but he does have an Achilles heal, his height. At a short 6′ tall, Brees may have issues seeing over his line. While Manning is able to effortlessly sling the ball down field, it may be more difficult for Brees to pass under pressure. Manning gets the nod.

But Brees’ height hasn’t stopped him from being an incredibly successful QB. Brees and Manning are each great players and comparing the two is extremely difficult. Super Bowl XLIV is going to be extremely close with a talent-wise comparison favoring the Colts. Personally, I would love to see the city of New Orleans win a championship and am pulling for a Saints victory today at 6:00 PM, EST.