Why I’m Not Making a Super Bowl Prediction

This is a shot of the Saints taking the field at the Superdome on December 31, 2006. I was there. Sitting at the 50 yard line (yeah, I got lucky with great seats).

I love New Orleans. This April, I’m going to Jazz Fest, which will mark my 7th trip to the Big Easy. Two Final Fours. Three Jazz Fests. One wedding. One New Year’s/post-Katrina volunteering trip.

In other words, I cannot be objective about this game. I’m not going to break down the pros and cons, the game plans, the schemes. I’m rooting for the Saints. Pure and simple. If you really want a prediction, I say the Colts win the game. And it would not surprise me if it was a shoot-out in the 35-31 range.

But I’m not concerned about that. I’m cheering with all my heart for the Saints. For the city of New Orleans. For my friends who live there. For my friends who love the city. For everybody who wants this great story of rebirth to continue.

The game has already made the city a winner this weekend. Hotels are at capacity, bars are packed. People from all over have descended upon the city to watch the game. The mayor has already promised a parade for the team, win or lose. Isn’t that what this is about? I say yes. For once this isn’t just about the game on the field. It’s about the impact of a team off the field.

So, I’m going to enjoy this game and I hope you do too. Even if you’re rooting for the Colts. Who Dat!

POST GAME QUICK TAKE:

I’ve never been so happy to be wrong about a prediction. Which is why I didn’t want to make one. But I did say the Saints would score 31.

Seriously, what a win. What a game. What an ending. Who dat could have asked for anything more? Instant classic.