THE "SUPERB BOWL"

To borrow from Mr. Dickens, "It was the best of times, it was the worst of times." The best came when Larry Fitzgerald caught Kurt Warner’s pass for a 64 yard TD to give the Cardinals the lead 23-20. The worst came when Santonio Holmes made the great catch and stayed in bounds for the winning TD with 35 seconds left in the game.

When Fitzgerald scored, I was ecstatic but had mixed feelings as I saw 2:37 left in the game. After I finished cheering, I told my wife that "They left too much time on the clock." While it is true that Holmes scored the game winner two minutes later, I think the game turned on the 100 yard interception by James Harrison at the end of the first half. The Cardinals were a couple yards from the lead and suddenly it went the other way. But, that’s football, and it’s not the first time spectacular plays have won games.

The Cardinals won in the total stats 407 to 314 thanks to the passing of Kurt Warner. Once again the running game was faulty gaining only 33 yards. Rather than fault James and Hightower, I think the fans need to understand the importance of Warner to the success of the team. Without him, they would not have been in Tampa. They would be wise to re-sign him to a two year contract even though it would take him to age 40. Is that too old for a QB? Those of you who remember George Blanda won't think so. At the same time, I think trading Leinart would be a good idea. He is anxious to play but it shouldn’t be here. I’m sure a trade could be made for a clipboard holder as good as he is.

Other decisions also have to be made. What about the unhappy Anquan Boldin? What about Dansby? Edgerrrin James probably won’t be back and, although he has been ineffective, who would replace him. Hightower? Maybe.

So, the hype is over, the Cards played valiantly and lost. It’s only a football game and we will recover but we have to thank the team for their efforts and praise Coach Whisenhunt and his staff. As far as a parade, I don’t think it would be appropriate. Parades are for the winners, no one ever proudly exclaimed "We’re Number 2!"

By the way, pitchers and catchers report for spring training in two weeks. Go Diamondbacks!