SUPERBOWL 43 - Arizona v Pitsburgh

The Cindarella story ends here for the Arizona Cardinals. Despite suprising all firstly by defeating the Falcons and then even more by travelling East and dominating the Carolina Panthers, the Cardinals showed how susceptible there defense is against the Eagles, barely surviving a strong 2nd half from Donovan McNabb. Larry Fitzgerald has had a tremendous season (14.9 rec ave) but will he be able to break out when it counts? I just cant see Kurt Warner and Fitzegerald overcoming the best defense in the NFL. Despite the Steelers having one of the best Strong Safety's in the game Fitzgerald is a phenomenal talent and double coverage could be needed, but I see Fitzgerald most likely gainig the majoirty of his receptions from the equivalent of TE drags. gaining short yardage. Anquan Boldin's return is something that cannot be overlooked giving Warner another solid passing option. Warner was highly successful last week aainst the Eagles blitz and with Boldin's return you could argue Warner will have even greater success. So that leads to the question how will the Steelers offense fair against the Cardinals defense? This will more than likely be the decider. Will Ben Roethlisberger have the same time he did against the Ravens last week? - The Steelers have had blocking trouble and will need strong protection against the blitz, which the Cards have been reasonably successful with, Roethlisberger could have trouble. Particularly with a questionable Heinz Ward, the leading receiver may have trouble and will just need to become a strong route player. So at the end of the day i think it will come down to who can establish the running game. Here i give the Steelers a large advantage considering that they do have the No 1. rushing defense in the competition. Prediction - Steelers 24 - Cardinals 6