by John Krutz

Created on: January 24, 2009

Super Bowl XLIII pits the unlikely Arizona Cardinals against the favorite Pittsburgh Steelers. Everyone is raving about the Cardinals and their dramatic run through the playoffs. They do deserve the praise, but they should enjoy it while they can. The Steelers are an experienced team and boast an incredible defense that will determine the game. Look for this game to come down to how well Kurt Warner can handle the Pittsburgh pass rush.

This game will very simply come down to Pittsburgh's defense against Arizona's passing attack. The run game for Arizona shouldn't be much of a factor simply because the greatness of Pittsburgh's defense. We have all been amazed at Kurt Warner passing ability in the playoffs and how the Cardinal's offense has moved the ball very well through the air. Larry Fitzgerald has been simply a pleasure to watch and his playoff record for receiving yards is proof to his effectiveness. However, Pittsburgh's defensive pressure will get to Warner in this game.

Pittsburgh will pressure Warner consistently in this game and historically Warner does not perform well when he doesn't have much time in the pocket. I'm sure Arizona will have many check downs and quick passes to try and beat the Pittsburgh blitz, but I don't think it will be enough. Pittsburgh will get to Warner and make him turn the ball over or make him take sacks for big losses.

Pittsburgh's ball control offense will also help keep Warner off the field. Pittsburgh should be able to run the ball somewhat effectively against Arizona and their passing attack will be able to pick up first downs even if Heines Ward doesn't play. Pittsburgh's offense has never been flashy, but they always seem to get the job done. I expect the Steelers to consistently get good field position and they should only need a couple of big plays on offense to put points on the board, and you never know their defense could help out with that too.

The key factor in this Super Bowl will be how Kurt Warner is able to handle the pressure from the Pittsburgh defense. The reason why Kurt Warner was let go by other teams was simply due to the fact he performs poorly when he doesn't have much time in the pocket and is very prone to turnovers. Now Warner may surprise everyone and play the game of his life, but that's not what I am predicting. I think Pittsburgh's defense will prevail and the offense will do enough to get it done. I am predicting another title for Pittsburgh 21-10.

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