Super XLI: Dungy and Smith Make History
History will be made today when the Indianapolis Colts take on the Chicago Bears in Super Bowl XLI. For the first time ever, two African-American head coaches will match wits to determine who will be world champs.
But, while much ado is being made about the race of Tony Dungy and Lovie Smith, perhaps more should be made about the character of these two men. In addition to being brilliant coaches, both are men of integrity. Both share a common faith in Jesus Christ. Both put their families first. And, in an era when the spotlight is often on players and coaches who make the most noise, who tout their own abilities, who cause off-field problems, we should all pause to applaud two men who are excellent role models — two men who have attained their success the right way. I only hope there will come a time when their character will be the headline, rather than their color.
As for the game itself…I predict it will be close. In my opinion, it will come down to turnovers. If Peyton and co. can take care of the ball, the Indianapolis Colts will win. If the Bears defense can force turnovers, Chicago will win. I admire Peyton Manning and will be rooting for him as he finally gets his shot at the “big one” that has eluded him throughout his career. However, in the end, I think the Bears defense will be the difference:
Chicago — 31, Indianapolis — 27
Amen to your comments on the two coaches. They are class guys that deserve to be recognized for their accomplishments on the field, but also their character both on & off the field.
As far as the game goes… I think Indianapolis proved they were the much better team. If it had not been played in a constant downpour, the game would have been a slaughtering. The injury losses of Mike Brown and Tommie Harris earlier in the year, really proved to be a big difference in this game. The Bears defense is still good, but without those two it is nowhere near the level of excellence that people were describing them in. Plus, you add in another inept performance by Grossman and you have the ingredients for a Super Bowl loss. The Bears coaching staff could have tried some different things, but ultimately this game was lost on the field by the players.
I like Peyton Manning a lot. I think he is a class guy and an extremely smart/talented quarterback. He finally proved that he is one of the best to have played the game.
Dungy is a classy guy…. and a former Viking assistant coach!