GO PACK GO!!!!

Sooooooo, despite the crisis happening in Egypt, I’ve somehow decided to write on a less dangerous, but equally serious topic—which team I’ll be supporting for the Super Bowl.

First, I have to say, I like both teams.  Both are exciting, dynamic, and play defense with an intensity of the anti-Mubarak protesters in Egypt—I couldn’t resist a Middle East reference, sorry.

But after a long and drawn out analysis of both teams, I decided I have to cheer for Green Bay.  My decision is based not on an overwhelming anti-Steelers sentiment, but I generally have a stronger feeling toward the Packers. 

For starters, one can never get a true sense of Americana without a visit to Lambeau Field.  I’ve had that luxury—Favre’s last regular season home game.  The fans could have not been any more gracious, welcoming, and energetic.  It was party in its truest sense:  RV ride over to the stadium packed with 30+ supporters; Beer, Brats, and Bean Soup at the tailgate; the stadium itself; the fans; and the history.  Of course, Steelers fans would argue that this point is invalid as I’ve never been to Heinz Field.  I recognize this, but remain steadfast in using this point—Heinz Field doesn’t have the history.

As far as the players go, I must admit that I like Aaron Rodgers much more than “Big Ben.”  I’ve liked him since his time at Cal, so I’m not jumping the bandwagon.  His style of play is much more academic, intelligent, and clinical than Big Ben (I’m not saying Big Ben isn’t this way, it’s just that Aaron Rodgers demonstrates these qualities more than Big Ben).  More often than not, I cheer for players like this.  So, for the sake of consistency, I have to cheer for Rodgers.  His off the field behavior is also laudable and should be replicated by all athletes—I had to go there. 

But, I do have a small connection to the Packers; their punter is from Murray, KY.  I spent several years there while studying at Murray State University.  When in Murray, I coached his younger brother’s soccer team.  So, in hopes of supporting acquaintances—however distant they may be--reach the pinnacle of their chosen career/profession I’m throwing my support behind Tim Masthay and the Green Bay Packers.

Lastly, the Steelers have won two Super Bowls over the last six seasons and possibly a third if they win on Sunday.  Green Bay’s last Super Bowl win was in 1995, it’s high time for another.  It will be essential to burying the Favre hatchet. 

As hard as it to choose a team for the Super Bowl, I’m cheering for the Packers on Sunday. 

GO PACK GO!!!!