Superbowl XLII
In typical Stan fashion, I'm posting an entry about one of the things I am the most passionate about in my life.
The New England Patriots.
In case you haven't heard, they're in their fourth Superbowl in 7 years. They've won three in the past six, and aim to win their fourth. Only one team has ever done this. The Pittsburgh Steelers from 1975-1980.
However, there's one thing that the 2007 Patriots have going for them that no other team has ever had.
18-0 going into the Superbowl.
Perfection is on the line. In the world of today's professional sports, I don't believe that any team has ever come this close to perfection. I'm proud to even be a fan of this team. There are just so many incredibly talented players on this team. Obviously it starts with Tom Brady. Then there's Randy Moss. But it goes way beyond this. Wes Welker is, for my money, the best slot receiver I've ever seen. The offensive line has played better than I've ever seen. Maroney has come on strong. The defense is as tough as I've ever seen. They have the same intensity as any year.
It's harder in today's sports to be dominant - there are many systems in place to ensure parity (salary cap, free agency, etc). That's why it's so rare and impressive to watch the Patriots do what they do.
I can't forget to mention the coach, Bill Belichick. There's very little that hasn't been said about this man. What I will say is that he's the best head coach the NFL has ever seen. He's a premiere strategist and a tremendous motivator. I am very proud to be a fan of this organization. Their work and dedication have provided me with countless happy memories from my young adulthood - memories that many sports fans around the country don't get to take part in.
Good luck today, Patriots. Make me ever prouder.
(End gushy sports fan rant.)
The New England Patriots.
In case you haven't heard, they're in their fourth Superbowl in 7 years. They've won three in the past six, and aim to win their fourth. Only one team has ever done this. The Pittsburgh Steelers from 1975-1980.
However, there's one thing that the 2007 Patriots have going for them that no other team has ever had.
18-0 going into the Superbowl.
Perfection is on the line. In the world of today's professional sports, I don't believe that any team has ever come this close to perfection. I'm proud to even be a fan of this team. There are just so many incredibly talented players on this team. Obviously it starts with Tom Brady. Then there's Randy Moss. But it goes way beyond this. Wes Welker is, for my money, the best slot receiver I've ever seen. The offensive line has played better than I've ever seen. Maroney has come on strong. The defense is as tough as I've ever seen. They have the same intensity as any year.
It's harder in today's sports to be dominant - there are many systems in place to ensure parity (salary cap, free agency, etc). That's why it's so rare and impressive to watch the Patriots do what they do.
I can't forget to mention the coach, Bill Belichick. There's very little that hasn't been said about this man. What I will say is that he's the best head coach the NFL has ever seen. He's a premiere strategist and a tremendous motivator. I am very proud to be a fan of this organization. Their work and dedication have provided me with countless happy memories from my young adulthood - memories that many sports fans around the country don't get to take part in.
Good luck today, Patriots. Make me ever prouder.
(End gushy sports fan rant.)