The National Football League has become one of the richest corporations in the United States. Under the control of Commissioner Roger Goodell it has grown, and, in the process, become more "politically correct,' in an attempt to appeal to a wider audience. Rule changes, and dictatorial policies have changed the game, and lessened its intensity in many ways.
Super Bowl XLVIII on February 2nd, was the worst in history. I can make that claim, because I actually watched every one of them. The Denver Broncos were not prepared for sports' biggest stage. Their offensive play lacked effort and intensity, and the defense was out-coached.
But the media is giving all the credit to the Seattle Seahawks. I have not heard the truth once from a single sportscaster or columnist.
Seattle is a good team, but not a great team. And the Broncos are a poorly coached team and acted as a division II NCAA team would have.
The absurdity of comparing the Seahawks to the great teams in the past is extreme. Anyone, such as myself, who has watched football for over 50 years, will tell you about the great defenses and teams we witnessed, and will never forget.
The number one defense of all-time is undoubtedly the 1978 Pittsburgh Steelers. Seven all-stars seemed to make the presence of an offense unnecessary.
In a close second are the 1985 Chicago Bears which had a unit that played perfectly together, and could stop any team, any quarterback at will.
Both of the previous teams had lethal offenses as well.
In addition, we must remember the 1972 Miami Dolphins, who remain the only undefeated team in the history of the game.
Add the "Fearsome Foursome' of the Rams, and the "Doomsday Defense' of the Cowboys in the 1970's, and Seattle does not compare. And don't forget the Vikings' "Purple People Eaters.'
Seattle should be proud. They deserve the Vince Lombardi Trophy. But let's stop the extremes spoken and written about them. They still have much to prove.
James Turnage
Op-ed
