Super Bowl 53 was certainly no classic, that’s for sure. I never expected such a defensive struggle, and I’m pretty sure few others did either. I do think both defenses were pretty darn good and New England’s was spectacular. I also think the Rams’ offense was downright horrible. In the end, all that mattered was that the Patriots found a way to get it done again with another fourth quarter drive. That’s what champions do, and why the Patriots will get another ring.
• While I am no fan of the Pats I do think what they have accomplished in the free agent and salary cap era is remarkable. Tom Brady and Bill Belichick have now been to nine Super Bowls and have hoisted the Lombardi Trophy six times. That is hard to fathom. I feel certain that no team or duo will ever do what the Patriots have done.
• Bill Belichick is a defensive genius. His game plan against the Rams was one for the ages. Belichick has now been part of eight Super Bowl wins. He came up with the plan for the Giants that stopped the powerful Buffalo Bills in Super Bowl 25 that they still talk about. This latest defense he came up with in SB 53 to shut down the Rams was even better. Love him or hate him, Belichick is the best coach in the history of the game.
• So, the Patriots dynasty isn’t dead, and with Brady coming back again they could win it again next year. They have to be favored in the AFC again. And as we’ve seen, once the Patriots get to the post season they just find a way to win.
• The Penguins are going for it again. They finally dealt away Derrick Brassard, who just never seemed to fit in with the Penguins. They gave up a lot, including three future draft picks in the deal with Florida. Jim Rutherford knows the window is still open for the Penguins to win another Stanley Cup. This trade proves it.
• Tough loss for IUP at home Saturday against Mercyhurst, losing on a three point shot with under a second to play. Still, IUP is having a heck of a year and this loss may help them down the stretch. I’m sure Joe Lombardi will challenge his team after this loss. I look for IUP to finish strong.
• IUP honored its 1968-69 team over the weekend. I remember that team coached by the great Herm Sledzik quite well. Dave Smith, who went on to play for the Steelers, was part of that team and was in town for the celebration. Those guys were really special.
• RIP Bob Friend. He was an all-time great Pittsburgh Pirate and one of the most beloved guys in franchise history. Friend was part of the magical world championship team in 1960. He will be missed.
