Super Bowl XLIII: All Eight Teams Showing Signs They Are Destined To Win

Dan Parzych by Senior Analyst Written on January 08, 2009
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A few days ago, linebacker James Harrison was rewarded with the Associated Press Defensive Player of the Year award. Harrison recorded 16 sacks and forced seven fumbles for the Steeler defense.

Despite having one of the top defenses in the league, the Steelers offensive lineman have struggled protecting Ben Roethlisberger most of the season. Big Ben is recovering from a mild concussion he received in the season finale against the Cleveland Browns. He is expected to play this weekend against the Chargers.

 

Destined To Win After All Hope Seemed Lost...San Diego Chargers

After losing to the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship last season, many analysts picked them as a favorite to win the Super Bowl this season. Unfortunately, their season has been a roller coaster ride.

First, they lose pro bowl linebacker Shawn Merriman for the season with a knee injury. LaDainian Tomlinson struggled with injuries for a majority of the season but was still able to put up average numbers.

With a 4-8 record, the Chargers season appeared to be finished. At one point late in the season, the Denver Broncos held a three game lead in the division and were on their way to becoming AFC West champions. Thanks to their collapse, the Chargers were able to win the title with an 8-8 record.

Last weekend, the Chargers ended the Indianapolis Colts nine-game winning streak by defeating them in overtime 23-17. Despite the win, the Chargers suffered a loss when they lost Tomlinson to a groin injury. Lucky for them, Darren Sproeles ended up rushing for 105 yards and two touchdowns, including the game winner in overtime.

Whether you like it or not, the Chargers are playing in the playoffs and are one of the hottest teams in the league right now. If they can find a way to win at Pittsburgh this weekend, there is a good chance we will see them playing in Tampa Bay come February.

 

Destined To Win With A Replacement Quarterback...Tennessee Titans

With the number one seed in the AFC, one question comes to mind when we think of the Tennessee Titans. Would they still be in this position if Vince Young was quarterback?

After Young suffered an injury in Week One, 37-year old quarterback Kerry Collins took over. His numbers may not be worthy of a pro bowl (2,676 yards passing, 12 touchdowns), but he has done enough on offense to help lead the Titans to a 13-3 record.

Another reason for Collins success is the support he has at the running back position. Rookie Chris Johnson and third-year running back LenDale White have combined for over 2,000 yards rushing and 24 touchdowns to help the Titans offense this season.

The Titans defense is another reason for their success as they rank second in the league in points allowed per game (14.6) and seventh in yards allowed per game (293.6).

They have shown us they have what it takes to represent the AFC in the Super Bowl after manhandling the Pittsburgh Steelers 31-14 a few weeks ago. If your favorite team ends up playing these guys, you may be in for a long game. The Titans are one of those teams that nobody wants to play come playoff time.

 

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written on January 08, 2009 Opinion

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