Hello SportsHollywooders!
I'm going to make this week's column short and sweet, as I am sure you are like me, getting ready for the big game this Sunday. Of course I refer to the Grizzlies/ Hornets, in Memphis...tip-off at 3pm Eastern, so set your schedule now and start thawing the steaks!
Of course if that particular NBA battle doesn't quite get your sports heart thumping, you can always flip over to that little NFL matchup on Fox...a little something the kids call THE SUPER BOWL!!!
Now I don't think any of you faithful readers will be looking to Big Ed for his Super Bowl Pick as my record in the post season prognostication has not the best, but hey, I have to give it one more shot!
Ok, here it goes!
Rams Vs Patriots:
My pick...one of these teams will win. The other will lose. You can take that to the bank! Good enough? No? Ok, I predict this game will go one of two ways. Either the Rams will run away with the game very early and leave the Patriots in the dust for the four full quarters, OR the Patriots will keep it very close and squeak out an upset victory.
The key for New England to do win will be threefold. 1. The Patriots defensive schemes will need to confuse Kurt Warner and get to him early and often. They also needs to hold the Rams potent offense to early field goals, not long touchdowns. 2. The Patriots special teams need to continue their post-season dominance like last week in Pittsburgh. 3. Tom Brady must stay away from kryptonite and continue his Superman-like year.
All said, I just hope the game will be competitive enough to make for an interesting Super Bowl XXXVI.
Staying with the NFL, I have to say how happy I am Tony Dungy has taken over the Colts. With their offense led by Manning, Harrison and James, and now with Tony's defensive mind, the Colts will finally be able to get to the next level. Great hire, great guy.
Last thing I want to address is the team character of Drew Bledsoe. Here is one of the best and highest paid players in the game. He has not started a game since coming back from a devastating injury. Bledsoe is a competitor, a Pro-Bowl QB and he is backing up Tom Brady, a formerly unknown backup. In my view, Bledsoe has handled himself with dignity and grace in an amazingly awkward and painful situation, and showed last week in coming off the bench that he has lost nothing in the months off. To me Bledsoe has demonstrated true leadership and dedication to his team through his selfless actions.
I'd love for you guys to write in afterward the game with your thoughts and comments! Till next week, take care and have a happy and safe Super Bowl celebration!
February 2, 2002
edmarinaro@sportshollywood.com
