Despite the freezing cold weather, thousands of screaming fans packed into Cowboy’s stadium, while a record breaking 111 million more watched on television, some waving Terrible Towels, others wearing cheese heads, but all anticipating a Super Bowl they would never forget. This year’s Super Bowl was the product of extensive media hype as two of the NFL’s oldest franchises, led by two elite quarterbacks, met in the championship game. Super Bowl 45 did not disappoint.
How it played out
The Packers jumped out to a commanding 21-3 lead with two minutes to go in the half, but the Steelers clawed their way back as Hines Ward caught a touchdown pass just before halftime to gain momentum. In the third quarter, the Steelers picked up right where they left off as Rashard Mendenhall ran it into the end zone from eight yards out to bring his team within four. After being shut out in the third quarter, the Packers offense reemerged as Aaron Rodgers completed a touchdown to Greg Jennings, but Big Ben Roethlisberger quickly responded by throwing a touchdown of his own less than two minutes later.
Following the touchdown Pittsburgh successfully attempted a two-point conversion bringing the game to within two points, with only four minutes to play. However, Rodgers led his team right back down the field and set up Mason Crosby to kick an easy 23-yard field goal that proved to be the last points of the game. The young Packer defense then stopped the Steelers offense on fourth and long, allowing Packer fans and Steelers haters around the nation to begin their celebration. The night ended with a final score of 31-25.
First timer shows up seasoned player
In the weeks leading to this thrilling Super Bowl, NFL fans and experts debated whether Ben Roethlisberger should be included as one of the best quarterbacks ever to play the game of football. Many argued that Big Ben possessed a quality that even quarterbacks like Peyton Manning lacked – the ability to simply win big games. However, on the biggest stage of his life, millions of people watched as Roethlisberger struggled, throwing for 263 yards, two touchdowns and two devastating interceptions.
Turnovers proved to be the key of the game as Pittsburgh had three turnovers and Green Bay had none. This disappointing performance was unexpected from the two-time Super Bowl winner, but it was Rodgers, the first-timer, who stole the spotlight. Aaron Rodgers and the entire Green Bay team overcame incredible obstacles to even reach the playoffs this year. After they lost their starting running back, talented tight end and many other players to injury, most people wrote them off. But somehow, these injuries did not stop them. They were not satisfied with simply making a playoff appearance; they had their minds set on winning the championship.
Packers determined to win
Injuries continued to torment the Packers even during the Super Bowl, when they lost their defensive captain Charles Woodson, and their veteran wide receiver Donald Driver in the first half. After realizing he would not return to the game, Woodson, with tears in his eyes, inspired his team with three simple words, “get it done.” And they did.
Rodgers takes MVP
While the Packers’ win showed amazing teamwork as they overcame injuries and obstacles, it was Aaron Rodgers who stood out from among the rest. Rodgers earned MVP for his performance throwing 303 yards, three touchdowns and no interceptions in his first Super Bowl appearance ever. But it certainly won’t be his last.
