PatsFaninAZ

Maybe it's just my imagination, but it seems as though in close super bowls, there is a ton of scoring late in the game -- at least it's been that way in the last decade since they increased the commercial time and the halftime length.

I think the defenses are exhausted in these marathon games. They start late, last long, and have lots of standing around time. I think after 3 hours, the adrenaline has long since burned off and many of these teams are playing on fumes.

I'm think, for example, of the NE/Rams game, where 17 points were scored very late. The Carolina game, where defense was nonexistent at the end. Last year's game, where the teams scored 14 of the total 31 points in 2 minutes. And this game where there were 21 points in 8 minutes. Maybe there are others.

It also seems as though you want the ball in your hands with a chance to win. So long as there's some manageable amount of time on the clock and you're not in a hail mary situation, teams seem to be able to drive to win.

DisgruntledTunaFan

I thought Tomlin tried to play not-to-lose when they were up by double digits in the 4th. For a moment, it looked like Dungy Ball out there.

Yeah-when your offense is doing alot of 3-and-outs, your defense will be out there for longer stretches, and they're only going to get tired.

borg

I was just thinking the same thing. Tired defenses and offenses pulling out all the stops. One thing I found myself yelling at the TV was how Arizona would rush 5 and 6 players leaving single coverage...and Big Ben was able to evade the pressure, step to the side and deliver. BB would have dropped 8 or 9 and forced the O to string shorter plays together. Both strategies are frustrating when they don't work...which seems to be in 4th qtrs of SBs.

Disco Volante

Here's a hypothetical.

Assuming you have an equally balanced offensive/defense team, would you rather have...

A: A four point 4th quarter lead with 2:30 left on the clock, kicking off.
B: Down 4 points with 2:30 left, getting the ball.

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DisgruntledTunaFan

It all comes down to execution and matchups. The coaches can only do their very best jobs-the players have to finish the deal.

Rob0729

I think the Steelers scoring on the last drive had more to do with stupid play calling than a tired defense. The Cards just rushed too many players at Roethlisberger and didn't leave enough in coverage. If you are going to blitz Roethlisberger, you have to force him not to leave the pocket. Otherwise, no matter how fresh your defense is, he is going to hurt you. I think that was the Cards' mistake.

PatsFaninAZ

I think in a regular game, I'd take A every time.

In the super bowl? I'm not so sure. If it's by kick off, so that I have a good chance of starting at the 20 or better, I'd have to think about it. A lot depends on the other team's offensive/defensive balance too.

pheenix11

It crossed my mind that Fitzgerald might have been better off taking a Westbrook nosedive at the 1 so the Cards could run some time off the clock. Big gamble I know.

I just hate when these teams score with a couple mins left and start celebrating. Damnit, its NOT over.

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maverick4

Kurt Warner will forever be known for throwing killer int for TD's in Superbowls.

pheenix11

Yeah he's like the Bledsoe of the Superbowl.

He did have a helluva game yesterday except for that 1 crucial mistake. Such a shame.

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