I tried to think of some pithy remark related to the Will Smith song about Miami, but it just wasn’t coming to me. Some things you just can’t force; I’m better off sticking to football anyway.
For the second time in four years the Indianapolis Colts will be the AFC representative in the Super Bowl and conveniently enough they will be returning to the scene of their first visit- beautiful, sunny Miami. Their opponent will be much more of an offensive threat this time in the New Orleans Saints. However, before talking about those guys I want to talk about the AFC Championship game one last time.
I have to admit that the first half made me a little nervous. Sanchez appeared to be coming out of his shell somewhat and seemed to really lead the Jet offense well; he just might turn Braylon Edwards into a fantasy threat once again.
What I really like about the game was that it was one of the more complete contests that the Colts have played this season. Now Peyton did have a banner day with close to 400 yards. While Joseph Addai did not crack 100, his 80 yards on the ground were vital to Peyton’s success.
What was really impressive was the way the defense really stepped up in the second half. They did not play poorly in the first half; the Jets were just able to capitalize on big plays. In that second half though Freeney and company made a rookie quarterback look like a rookie and two of the best runners in the game look like amateurs.
This win had to be a relief for Caldwell as well. Even if the guy never admits it, he had to be sweating this game at least a little after losing the regular season match up due to pulling the starters. Had the Colts Super Bowl run been stopped by the team that was in the playoffs only because the Colts let them in- well, I could only imagine the s*it storm that would have exploded on the radio and talk show circuit.
Anyway…Congratulations Colts; it was a great game to watch and I can’t wait to see you demolish the Saints in Miami!