Sometimes, games live up to the hype.
But other times, after two weeks of hype, they don’t.
This will be one of those instances. Green Bay-Pittsburgh is getting hyped up beyond belief. The two largest fanbases are doing battle in Dallas. Along with the Cowboys and New York Giants, these are the two best franchises in the NFL’s history.
However, I like the Green Bay Packers to win this game by 17.
Here’s why:
1. We are due for a bad Super Bowl. Outside of the Baltimore-New York and Tampa Bay-Oakland Super Bowls, the last decade of Super Bowls has been incredibly competitive. Or, the games have at least been “in doubt.” I just think we’re due for a stinker. I hope I’m wrong.
2. Since I’m predicting a stinker, Green Bay is more likely to lay the beatdown. Can you imagine Pittsburgh’s offense sticking up 35 or 42 points, especially when their offensive line is dinged up and Green Bay’s defense is quicker this year than when they played last year? I just don’t see it. As much as I like Pittsburgh’s defense, I can see Green Bay sticking up a 31 or 35 number while its defense holds Pittsburgh under 20.
3. Green Bay plays better in doors and stuff. This has been a big media talking point. I’ll repeat it, but won’t go too much in depth on it. Basic premise: Speed kills in doors and outside of the Detroit Lions game, Green Bay has killed in doors.
4. Pittsburgh getting destroyed in halves…at home. There was much to be made about Green Bay’s dismal second half against the Chicago Bears. But one thing gone relatively unnoticed is how bad Pittsburgh was outplayed in the first half against Baltimore and in the second half against Gang Green. I just don’t think Pittsburgh is playing well. Take away that late fumble recovery and the Jets probably win that game.
5. Green Bay is the better team. If Aaron Rodgers was healthy and Green Bay’s linebackers were healthy, is there any question this team would have been 13-3? They’re at least 12-4 by the way Matt freaking Flynn played against the New England Patriots that night. Pittsburgh has been dinged up too, but Green Bay’s injuries were more severe. Oh, and they’re healthy now.
6. Aaron Rodgers. I’m not sure Pittsburgh has seen anything like him. Mark Sanchez gave the Steelers a lot of problems in the second half in Pittsburgh. I just like Rodgers’ mobility and if Pittsburgh doesn’t get a pass rush, forget about it.
Part of my fear of Pittsburgh is the last time they played a great quarterback, Tom Brady ripped them apart for 34 points in basically 19 minutes. Sanchez and Joe Flacco could be great in the future, but both need more experience.
I just think Rodgers will be on his game.
Green Bay 34, Pittsburgh 17
