Black Eyed Peas Super Bowl Halftime Show Disappoints As America Gives It Two Thumbs Down

The Black Eyed Peas Super Bowl halftime show was panned by the majority of the viewing public, as evidenced by the less than glowing real-time Twitter reviews and polls immediately following the show. Take, for instance, this ESPN poll, in which the wide majority of viewers gave the Black Eyed Peas a solid "F" for a show that left many longing for Bruce Springsteen again.

Want to watch the show again? Too bad, I'm not subjecting you to a second viewing. However, SB Nation's Spencer Hall did find the show in a handy 20 second format, giving you a chance to relive the highlights, which were few and far between.

Whew! Much better. 

As we found out later, the Black Eyed Peas weren't even paid for the show, as is customary with Super Bowl hafltime shows. Instead, the show is used as a platform in an effort to boost record sales and gain exposure. But did the Black Eyed Peas gain the right exposure? After all, any publicity is good publicity, right?

In this case, it might've done more harm than good. At least the glowing people looked cool, though.

Christina Aguilera's National Anthem Rendition At The Super Bowl An Interesting Remix

I couldn’t have been the only one to turn to the person next to me and say ask if Christina Aguilera just botched the National Anthem. Mid-song, it felt like something went wrong as the words were suddenly jumbled together. I didn’t think it was possible for Aguilera to screw up the National Anthem on the nation’s biggest stage, but sure enough, she did.

Listen closely and see if you can spot the mis-fire.

Aguilera repeated the “what so proudly we hailed” twice, forgetting about those pesky ramparts. To be honest, I can understand the mistake. If it were me — and I don’t have the singing voice for that, I’d flub the words just out of pure nervousness. Hundreds of millions are watching your every move at that moment, and no amount of practice will make those butterfly’s away.

The jokes came flying in soon after, with Twitter set ablaze by the misstep. The best tweet, however, came from new Hall of Fame member Deion Sanders, who had a perfectly good explanation for the remix.

Y’all leave Christina alone i was just informed that was the remix. The nfl was running behind so she was sweet enough to help us out.

I don’t care if it’s true or not, Deion nailed it. Way to go to bat for your girl, Prime Time.

Super Bowl 2011 Stats: Aaron Rodgers Puts On Passing Display, Green Bay Defense Holds Strong

Between the Green Bay defense's big plays and Aaron Rodgers' super passing performance, the Super Bowl gave us plenty of interesting stats. The Packers forced the Pittsburgh Steelers into three turnovers in Super Bowl XLV, converting each into touchdowns. The tone was set early when Nick Collins intercepted an underthrown pass from Ben Roethlisberger, taking it back for the touchdown just moments after Green Bay broke a scoreless tie. It was the first of many turnovers forced, a big difference in the game.

While the Packers' defense was superb, it was the Aaron Rodgers show on Sunday. Rodgers completed 24 of 39 passes for 304 yards and three touchdowns without an interception. In a game where mistakes cost the Steelers, it was Rodgers solid play that kept the Packers in front, always just out of Pittsburgh's grasp.

Rodgers did it all without one of his biggest weapons after Donald Driver limped off the field in the second quarter. Without Driver, Jordy Nelson stepped up and stepped into the limelight, catching nine passes for 140 yards and a touchdown. Greg Jennings was solid as usual, catching four passes for 64 yards and two touchdowns. And they did it all without a run game to speak of as James Starks rushed for just 52 yards on 11 carries.

On the other side of the ball, Roethlisberger bounced back from early interceptions to nearly lead the Steelers all the way back. He finished the game completing 25 of 40 passes for 263 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions -- both of which came in the first half. Those early mistakes, though, proved costly, and forced the Steelers to play from behind throughout the game.

Mike Wallace was Roethlisberger's favorite target and he came through. Wallace was targeted 16 times, catching nine passes for 89 yards and a touchdown. Hines Ward was Roethlisberger's second option, catching seven passes for 78 yards and a touchdown. Antwan Randle El added two catches for 50 yards.

The Steelers were able to get it going on the ground, led by Rashard Mendenhall, as usual. Mendenhall finished as the game's leading rushing, carrying 14 times for 63 yards and the only rushing touchdown in Super Bowl 45. Ben Roethlisberger scrambled for 31 times, with Isaac Redman adding 19 yards and Mwelde Moore adding another 13 on the ground.

In the end, it was the turnovers that made the difference, with a few timely stops by the Packers helping the cause. Green Bay came through in the clutch after forcing those three interceptions, forcing an incompletion on fourth down with under a minute to go to preserve the win. With the 31-25 victory, Green Bay had its fourth Super Bowl championship, keeping the Steelers from winning their seventh.

For more on the game, check out our Super Bowl XLV StoryStream.

Super Bowl 2011 Score: Aaron Rodgers Leads Green Bay Packers To 31-25 Win Over Pittsburgh Steelers

The Green Bay Packers jumped out to a 14-0 lead in Super Bowl XLV, scoring twice in a matter of seconds after 11 scoreless minutes to open the game. In mere moments, it looked like the Packers were ready to run the Pittsburgh Steelers off the field, turning what looked to be a close matchup on paper into a blowout. Luckily for us, it didn't happen.

The Packers widened the gap after the Steelers hit a field goal in the second quarter when Aaron Rodgers, MVP of the Super Bowl, found Greg Jennings for 21 yards and a touchdown. Needing a touchdown before the half, the Steelers answered when Ben Roethlisberger found Hines Ward in the corner of the end zone for the touchdown as Pittsburgh headed into the half down 21-10.

Early in the third quarter, we suddenly had a game on our hands after the Steelers used a punishing ground game to string together a quick drive, ending with Rashard Mendenhall's eight-yard touchdown scamper up the middle. At the end of three, the Packers still led the Steelers, but the margin was far from comfortable at 21-17.

Rodgers gave Green Bay some breathing room in the fourth, finding Jennings again in the end zone, this time from eight yards out. The Steelers refused to roll-over, though, and Roethlisberger answered again with time winding down. Mike Wallace was on the receiving end this time, streaking down the sideline and snaring a perfectly-thrown ball from Roethlisberger for 25 yards and the touchdown.

Mason Crosby tacked on a field goal as insurance with just over two minutes to go, putting Green Bay up 31-25. The Steelers had a chance with one timeout and the ball, but the Green Bay defense was up to the task. With under a minute to go, the Packers stopped Roethlisberger on fourth down, forcing an incompletion and sealing the win.

From a potential blowout to an exciting finish, Super Bowl XLV was a rollercoaster ride throughout. The Steelers and Packers put on a show for the millions watching at home, with Green Bay hoisting the Lombardi Trophy after a hard-fought win. It was everything it was billed to be, and lived up to the pregame hype.

Relive all the action from the game in our Super Bowl StoryStream, which will also be update with stats and more throughout Monday.

Super Bowl 2011 Final Score: The Green Bay Packers Defeat The Pittsburgh Steelers 31-25 To Become Super Bowl Champions

The Lombardi Trophy is coming back to Green Bay.

The Green Bay Packers defeated the Pittsburgh Steelers tonight in Dallas to become The champions of the 45th Super Bowl. Green Bay jumped out to an early lead, then held on in the closing moments for a 31-25 win.

Aaron Rodgers performed up and down all night, he had over 300 yards passing and no interceptions, but his decision making and accuracy were on and off all night. He performed well enough to take home the MVP trophy and lead the Packers to their fourth Super Bowl title.

The thing that sank the Steelers was turnovers -- three of them to be exact. Pittsburgh dug its hole early, allowing a first quarter touchdown followed by a interception return for a touchdown on the very next offensive play. Ben Roethlisberger would throw one more interception and Rashard Mendenhal would fumble once, as well. Each turnover resulted in a touchdown on the ensuing Green Bay drive as the Packers took advantage.

Had Pittsburgh been able to control the ball, the outcome may have been different, but Green Bay deserves all the credit in the world for not folding with its lead slipping away down the stretch.

Congratulations to the Green Bay Packers, your 2011 NFL Super Bowl champions.

For more on the game, check out our Super Bowl XLV StoryStream.

Super Bowl 2011 MVP: Aaron Rodgers Wins MVP After Leading Green Bay To 31-25 Victory

This was the stage that every child grew up dreaming of, and for Aaron Rodgers the dream was realized.

You could have made an argument for any number of people to win this award. I might have made a case for Greg Jennings. Yes, he only finished with a little under 70 yards, but he had some very big catches and had two of the three touchdown catches for the Packers.

But that is not the case. Rodgers is the MVP of Super Bowl 45 and it is a very well deserved honor. He finished with a little over 300 yards and three touchdown passes. The big stat for him was a zero in the turnover column. He may have made one or two reading or accuracy mistakes, but overall he was fantastic all night long. A great performance from a quarterback making his first start on the biggest stage of them all.

Congratulations to Aaron Rodgers and the Green Bay Packers, as they take the Lombardi Trophy back home.

For more on the game, check out our Super Bowl XLV StoryStream.

Super Bowl 2011 Score: Green Bay Scores And Extends It's Lead to 31-25, Sets Up For One Great Finish And Possibly Even Overtime

Green Bay needed to put together a great drive that drained a lot of time off the clock, and they did just that. The only thing that they could have improved on was the final result.

Aaron Rodgers led his team 70 yards down the field on a drive that took 5:24 off the clock.

This was a major drive, and to add to the fact that this was such a major drive, Green bay had all but given up on their running game, but they found it here.

They settle for a six point game and sets up what could be the first overtime game under the new NFL Overtime rules:

Each team must possess or have the opportunity to possess the ball unless the team that has the ball first scores a touchdown on its initial possession. Play continues in sudden death until a winner is determined, and the game automatically ends upon any score (by safety, field goal, or touchdown) or when a score is awarded by the Referee for a palpably unfair act. Each team has three time-outs per half and all general timing provisions apply as during a regular game. The try is not attempted if a touchdown is scored. Disqualified players are not allowed to return.

Also, thanks to Papa Johns, everyone gets free pizza if we get over time.

Super Bowl 2011 Score: Mike Wallace Score On Beatiful Pass From Roethisberger, Steelers Add Two Point Conversion To Cut Into Packer Lead 28-25

Here come The Steelers!

Ben Roethlisberger was able to cut into the Green Bay lead by launching a beautiful touch pass into the corner of the endzone to MIke Wallace. The score was from 25 yards out and put the Steelers down by five with the point after still to come.

Now that they had a chance to cut the lead down to five, The Steelers seized the opportunity and went for two. Ben Roethlesberger then ran an option to the near side of the field before pitching the ball to Randle El who took it in to the endzone.

After a 4:20 drive that gained 66 yards The Steelers cut the lead to the closest it has been all game. Pittsburgh has never lead, yet they have always been in this ball game.'

The Packers would greatly benefit by putting together a long drive, scoring, and taking a good four minutes off the clock.

Super Bowl 2011 Score: 38 Yard Pass From Aaron Roders to Jordy Nelson Sets Up Score To Make It 28-17

The touchdown came off of an eight yard pass to Greg Jennings, but the big play was a 38 yard pass from Aaron Rodgers to Jordy Nelson where he very nearly out ran Troy Polamalu into the endzone. That play came on a major third down conversion that saved, what looked like, an ugly looking drive from sure disaster.

This all started when Clay Matthews forced a huge fumble after hitting Rashard Mendenhall. The Steelers looked like they were poised to take the ball all the way down field and take the lead, until the fumble changed everything.

2:53 later, The Packers were celebrating and The Steelers were starting to get worried.

Of course, with a little under 12 minutes to play, there is more than enough time for Pittsburgh to get back into this thing, but they will need to be nearly perfect. They already have three turnovers, another one might just cost them this football game.

Super Bowl 2011: Tramon Williams Costs The Packers Valuable Field Position

Late in the Third quarter, Green Bay is sliding. They had a monster lead and now it's down to only four points. A good drive, of course, would remedy this. How do you start a good drive? There is no clear answer to that question. What I can tell you is that this is how to not start a good drive.

Big thanks to our friends over at mocksession.com

This stupid move forced Aaron Rodgers and The Packers to start this very important drive from their own 13 yard line. The offense, saddled with this major setback, layed a goose egg and punted after going three and out.

Green Bay wants to keep control of this game, and to do that, they need to play smart. A move like this is the exact opposite of that. Luckily, on the ensuing Steeler drive, The Packers were able to force a Mendenhall fumble that lead to a very good Packer drive.

Super Bowl 2011 Score: Steelers Turn Back To Run Game, Cut Green Bay Lead Down To 21-17

I have been saying all along that Pittsburgh needs to get their pass game going to get back into this game.

Looks like I was wrong.

Pittsburgh just took the ball 50 yards in five plays, all five were run plays. Rashard Mendenhall had 25 yards on the drive, pushing his total up to 55 yard on the night and cutting the Packers lead down to four.

Aaron Rodgers and The Packers had all the momentum in the world before giving up a late first half field goal and giving Pittsburgh a little momentum heading into half.

Now Rodgers is trying to answer after going three and out in the first drive of the second half, but the crowd is turning against them. Steeler fans are starting to get rowdy and starting to get loud, making it very difficult for Rodgers and his offensive to operate.

The Packers need to keep this lead. To do this, they need a big play to take this, so call "neutral" crowd out of the game.

2011 Super Bowl Halftime Show: Black Eyed Peas, And Special Guests, Perform Best Halftime Show In Years

We may have ruined the surprise early, but that doesn't mean it was any less awesome.

The Black Eyed Peas, with their special guests Slash and Usher, gave Super Bowl audiences the best halftime show in years.

I have never been a big fan of The Black Eyed Peas, but there is no denying that they tore Jerry Jones' billion dollar palace to the ground with their theatrics and music.

The started off with a bang, coming out in space age costumes, predictably, singing their hit, I've got a feeling. Over the course of the next ten minutes they performed most all of their hits.

The stage was fantastically designed. It was lit to make it look like any shape they wanted. It was surrounded by white jumpsuit clad dancers amidst a sea of strobe lights.

The highlight for me personally was when guitar legend, and former Guns and Roses guitarist, slash rose from the ground to give the famous guitar riff that kicked off a performance of sweet child of mine.

Usher also came in to join the madness performing his hit "OMG" with the help of the Black Eyed Peas.

Very fittingly, the group concluded with an encore of "I've got a feeling". I think we all hope that, no matter who wins, tonight will be a good night as we have a very close, competitive game.

Super Bowl 2011 Score: Roethlisberger To Ward Gets Pittsburgh Back Into The Game, Green Bay leads 21-10 At Half

The Steelers desperately needed to regain some momentum before they enter the locker room, and they did just that. Two straight passes from Ben Roethlisberger to Hines Ward ended with a touchdown for Pittsburgh and brought The Steelers to within 11 before the end of the first half.

Ben Roethlisberger, who had struggled to hit open receivers and had throw a couple interceptions, got his head back in the game and led his team on a seven play, 77 yard drive that resulted in a touchdown. The key plays were the final two, both from Roethlisberger to Ward. The first pass was 17 yards and the second one was into the endzone eight yards away.

The game started a little slow, with both teams trying to get a feel for their surroundings, the game has really picked up. If this can continue, we should be in for a real shoot out in the second half.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Seattle as we cover the Halftime show, the second half, the postgame festivities, and so much more.

Super Bowl 2011 Score: Aaron Rodgers To Greg Jennings Gives The Packers A 21-3 Lead

Aaron Rodgers is on the top of his game, and the Steelers are have a difficult time trying to stop him.

Aaron Rodgers led his team on a four play, 53 yard drive that concluded on a 21 yard pass to Greg Jennings, but it was all set up by a Jarrett Bush interception that gave Green Bay the ball on their own 47 yard line. They would never look back as they drive down and score on a drive that took 2:04 off the clock.

Ben Roethlisberger is looking a bit nervous back in the pocket, that was his second interception of the game, both resulted in touchdowns. Now The Steelers have the ball, with the clock working against them, and they are staring at a 18 point deficit heading into half time.

Roethlisberger is 9-16 with a little over 100 yards passing. The Packers are trying to get their passing game back up to speed. They'll need to to stay in this game.

Super Bowl Score: Packers Lead 14-3 After Sean Suisham Puts The Steelers On The Board

After throwing an interception on the last drive, Ben Roethlisberger rebounds and leads his Steelers on a 13 play drive that spanned 49 yards and drained 6:27 off of the clock. While they would have loved another 16 yards in order to put the call in the endzone, The Steelers will settle for three points and ending the shutout

The big play in this drive was the Roethlisberger scramble for 18 yards to end the first quarter. He had just recovered from, what looked like it may have been, a serious knee injury. Not only Roethlisberger show the world that he wasn't hurt, but he converted on a big time third down that kept the drive alive.

The Steelers need a couple more drives like this to stay in the game, but they need to finish them soon. Getting the pass game up to speed will help the Steelers a lot, as they only have 37 yards passing six completions up to this point. Compare that to the 51 yards on nine rushes and The Steelers are looking very one-sided.

14-0 Green Bay At The End Of The First Quarter: Green Bay Has Total Control

Ben Roethlisberger drops back on the first play after the Packer touchdown, gets hit hard, and throws a lame duck pass that is easily intercepted.

This is the story of the first quarter for Pittsburgh.

Aaron Rodgers has struggled a bit, but he was able to lead his team on one heck of a drive. it was a nine play drive that took up nearly five minutes and resulted in a huge touchdown.

On the other side, Pittsburgh has struggled through the air, going only 4-8 with 20 yards. The running game has picked them up a bit. They have 53 yards on the ground, 33 of these coming from running back Rashard Mendenhall.

There was a bit of a scare near the end of the quarter as Ben  Roethlisberger slipped and appeared to hurt his leg. However, on the very next play, he scrambled and took the ball for 18 yards and a first down.

14-0 Green Bay: Aaron Rodgers To Jordy Nelson Give The Packers The First Lead, Nick Collins Adds To It With A Pick Six

It was a masterful performance from Aaron Rodgers as he settled down and led his Packers on a 9 play, 80 yard drive culminating in a 29 yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Jordy Nelson.

Rodgers started a little shaky but seems to have settled into a grove. He completed five straight to end the drive and threw a perfect pass to Nelson who caught it falling into the endzone.

Meanwhile, Pittsburgh is looking a little flustered. On the very first play following the touchdown drive, Roethlisberger threw a horrible pass after being pressured and it landed right in the hands of Green Bay’s pro bowler Nick Collins.

It appears as if Big Ben is hurting without his all-star center. If they can’t get the ball back and re-establish momentum, this could be a very long game.

If The Packers can get Rodgers to settle into his rhythem and take control of this game, few defenses can stop this explosive receiver core in green and yellow.

Christina Aguilera Starts The Super Bowl Off On The Wrong Foot, Messes Up On National Anthem

The Super Bowl is the pinnacle of perfection for the entire NFL. Apparently that's not the case for the entertainment that performs at the biggest event in America.

(Hat Tip to mocksessiondotcom)

That's not how it's done... Here's what it's supposed to be:

What so proudly we hailed at the twilight's last gleaming?
Whose broad stripes and bright stars, through the perilous fight,
O'er the ramparts we watched, were so gallantly streaming

Here's what Christina did (See the flub at about the 55 second mark):

What so proudly we hailed at the twilight's last gleaming?
Whose broad stripes and bright stars, through the perilous fight,
What so proudly we watched, were so gallantly streaming

Nice work Christina. Better luck next year.

Christina Aguilera Kicks Off Super Bowl Festivities By Flubbing The National Anthem

Well, that was the longest six and a half minutes of my life. Christina Aguilera forgot a couple of the words to the National Anthem today, and repeated a couple of lines too.

Ms. Aguilera is, apparently a huge fan of proudly hailing, but not a huge fan of watching ramparts. She repeated the line “What so proudly we hailed” in place of “O’r the ramparts we watched”.

Also, in true Aguilera style, she held out a few notes for a couple of seconds. Combine that with her lack of words and we have a pretty bad opener to the big game. Let’s hope the teams themselves can have a little bit of a better show.

For more on the big game, check out our 2011 Super Bowl StoryStream throughout the game. From commercials to scoring drives to the halftime entertainment, we've got all your needs covered.

The 2011 NFL Hall Of Fame Class To Handle Coin Flip Duties

In a move that makes a whole lot of sense, the duty of the all important coin flip will be handled by the newest members of the NFL Hall of Fame.

As the "Visiting team" this year, The Pittsburgh Steelers will be calling heads or tails as some of the NFL's best flip the coin.

Among the people represented are  Shannon Sharpe, Chris Hanburger, Marshall Faulk, Deion Sanders, Richard Dent and Steve Sabol. Sabol represents famous NFL Films creator, and 2011 inductee, Ed Sabol.

Also, in a very surprising stat: The NFC has won the past 13 coin flips, but that doesn't mean very much. The NFC has just won 3 of those thirteen games.

In case you're curious: Yes, you can bet on the outcome of the coin toss and surprisingly, the bet is at even odds for heads vs. tails. I can't image why the odds would be 50/50 for each result, it's almost like it's a coin flip.

Bill O'Reilly Interviews President Obama And Discuss Politics, Life As President, And Sports

Bill O'Reilly and President Obama sat down for a nice conversation just an hour and a half before kick off and, while there were disagreements, the two had a very intelligent and civil conversation.

O'Reilly started the interview by thanking Obama for helping Fox News journalists in Egypt, Obama says that it had to be done in order to save freedom of speech and religion.

The conversation then turned to politics as O'Reilly asks Obama about the situation in Egypt. Obama says that he has no idea when, or even if, Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak will step down, but he did say that he was confident that Egypt will eventually settle to be a stable, "representative government".

After Egypt talk subsided, the thoughts of both men turned to Obama's controversial "Obama care" health care plan. It's clear that both mean had strong opinions about this issue as the interview kind of degraded from a conversation to an argument.

O'Reilly asked Obama why the majority of American's disagree with his health care plan. Obama contended this point, but offered an explanation none the less. Obama said that when people look at congress all they see is bickering and arguments. Because of this, people feel like congress isn't focused on what the people want.

After a sizable health care debate, talk turned to Obama's approval rating. O'Reilly accused Obama of, more or less, becoming less liberal to appease more and more people. Obama denied this point and stated that his policies haven't changed at all.

After, the real issues are dismissed, we turn to less important topics. When asked what his least favorite part of being the leader of the free world is, he says that he hates having to wear a tie on Super Bowl Sunday.

O'Reilly raises the fact that Obama is hated by a large amount of people and asks what it feels like to be hated. Obama gives a fantastic answer to a very interesting question:

"What people hate is the funhouse mirror image of you that's [in the media]. They don't know you as a person"

On the football side, Obama says that his guests will have to take a backseat to the game. He'll talk to all his guests pregame, but during the game, Obama wants to sit back, relax, and enjoy, what he hope is a great game.

"Once my Bears lost, I don't pick sides" "I just want a good game"

President Obama Welcomes All-Star Cast To White House Party, Features All-Star Menu

A couple weeks ago, President Obama stated that he would become the first sitting president to go to a Super Bowl, as long as his hometown Bears beat The Packers to win the NFC championship. Well, The Bears didn't win and President Obama decided to stay in Washington and throw a party instead.

As can be expected, the party has an all-star guest list feature such names as Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood, Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano, selected leaders from Wisconsin and Pennsylvania and, of course Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony.

When there's an all-star guest list, there's an all-star menu:

Bratwurst
Kielbasa
Cheeseburgers
Deep Dish Pizza
Buffalo Wings
German Potato Salad
Twice Baked Potatoes
Snyders Potato Chips and Pretzels
Chips and Dips
Salad
Ice Cream

He is also offering quite the open bar:

Obama is offering Yuengling Lager and Light, brewed in Pennsylvania, and Hinterland Pale Ale and Amber Ale, all the way from Wisconsin. Independents can pour down some White House Honey Ale if they like.

Barack Obama, Bill O'Reilly Face Off In Super Bowl Interview On FOX

Finally, the matchup we've been waiting months for. Two super powers are going head to head and there will be no survivors. That's right: it's Obama vs. O'Reilly in the fight for media supremacy.

Sports Illustrated's Richard Deitsch has confirmed that President Barack Obama will enter "The No Spin Zone" on Fox's super-mega pregame extravaganza between 1:30 PM and 2 PM.

The big question will be content. If the interview is just twelve minutes of fluff, asking Obama who he favors in the Super Bowl or who he thinks will be the MVP, then it's just a complete waste of time. What I'm looking for is O'Reilly to really delve into the interviews and, if you've ever seen O'Reilly's show, you know that it shouldn't be that big of a worry.

O'Reilly says, on his personal blog, that he has to be on top of his game to make this interview a success:

On Sunday, I can ask the president valid questions, but he doesn't have to answer them. He can say what he wants. If I interrupt him too much, I look like a dope. And with only 12 minutes to work with, I have to frame my questions with precision. The president is an eloquent man; he can easily run out the clock if he wants to. Also, the interview is live, so there's no editing. In other words, there's nowhere to hide if things don't go well.

As long as we can get these two men, who are the leaders of their own respective sides, dive into the issues that really matter, every viewer, no matter your own personal political feelings, will come out a winner in this interview.

Super Bowl 2011: Halftime Show To Feature Fergie And The Black Eyed Peas

Breaking a long stretch of geriatric halftime acts, the hip-hop sensation The Black Eyed Peas take the stage after 30 minutes of football. The schedule is still a secret, but some of the surprises have leaked out.

According to a report from The Associated Press, both pop superstar Usher and former Guns and Roses guitar legend Slash are slated to make appearances. It isn't known yet what they are going to do, but this certainly represents a shift in the tame and relaxed acts that past performances from the likes of Paul McCartney and The Rolling Stones have brought.

Another shift in perspective is brought by the fact that this is the first half time show to feature a woman since the infamous "Wardrobe Malfunction" show with Janet Jackson and Justin TImberlake in Super Bowl XVIV. Fergie takes this honor very seriously.

"It is a challenge because you want to give a little sex appeal but you don't want to get into any trouble," Fergie said Thursday at a Super Bowl press conference in host city Dallas. "So we're very particular on the wardrobe. There will be no more malfunctions."

2011 Super Bowl: Time, TV Schedule, Announcers And Ads For Packers-Steelers Matchup

The Super Bowl is just hours away, with fans across the country gearing up for the big game. Between the food, pregame entertainment and the game itself, Sunday is one of the most action-packed day of the year. Because of the hectic nature of the day, we've put together a quick, handy guide with all the information you'll need. In it, you'll find the kickoff time, location, last-minute odds, broadcast information and even everything you'll need to know about the commercials we all know and love.

Let's get down to business and get ready for the game.

Location: Jerry Jones' billion dollar toy, Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

Weather: Cold with a chance of snow, though the game will be inside the climate-controlled Cowboys Stadium. Weather won't be a factor inside, but considering the trouble with falling ice and the snow that snarled travel, the area around the stadium could be a mess.

Kickoff Time: The game is set to kick off at exactly 3:29 p.m. here on the West Coast. Of course, we can expect delays as the pregame festivities typically run a bit long.

National Anthem: Wondering who has the honors this year? None other than Christina Aguilera. The former pop queen had fallen off the face of the Earth, but will make a triumphant return at the Super Bowl, singing our National Anthem.

TV Information: FOX has the broadcast and will be live from Cowboys Stadium throughout the day. Between the pregame show, airing now, and the game itself, FOX has a busy day. For more on the pregame show, check out this update. 

Announcers: Joe Buck and Troy Aikman have the call, with Pam Oliver and Chris Meyers on the sidelines. The four makeup FOX's all-star cast, broadcasting each of the biggest games the network has aired.

Commercials: One of the best parts of the Super Bowl is the ads that come along with it. From creative to thought-provoking to hilarious, Super Bowl ads rarely disappoint. Check out our running Super Bowl commercialsStoryStream. For a schedule of which companies are advertising and when the ads will be aired, go here.

Teams: Green Bay Packers, winners of the NFC, and Pittsburgh Steelers, AFC champions.

How They Got Here: The Packers, as the No. 6 seed in the NFC, had the toughest path to the Super Bowl, hitting the road for each of the three playoff games they won. In the first round, the Packers took care of the Philadelphia Eagles, 21-16. The Atlanta Falcons were next, and the Packers marched into the Georgia Dome and snuffed out the Falcons playoff hopes, 48-21. Finally, in the NFC Championship, the Packers took care of NFC North-rival Chicago, 21-14.

The Steelers had an easier path as the No. 2 seed in the AFC. After a first-round bye, Pittsburgh hosted the Baltimore Ravens, winning 31-24. Next up, in the AFC Championship, was the New York Jets, whom the Steelers dispatched, 24-19.

Odds: The Packers opened as a 2.5-point favorite and the line has held steady throughout the last two weeks. With the game just hours away, Green Bay is 3-point favorite.

For more on the game, check out our Super Bowl StoryStream. For everything from news to commercials to information about all the pregame shows, be sure to check out SB Nation, as well.

2011 Super Bowl: Packers-Steelers Kickoff Time, Pregame Show, Broadcast Information And More

Finally, it’s just about time for the Super Bowl, the biggest sporting event of the year. Super Bowl XLV pits the Green Bay Packers, winners of the NFC, against the Pittsburgh Steelers, AFC champions in a battle for all the marbles. With a full schedule of events, there’s plenty to keep viewers entertained all the way up to, and throughout, Sunday’s big game. Pregame shows, the game itself and postgame shows dominate the TV schedule on Sunday, with every major media outlet focused on Super Bowl 45.

Here’s the full schedule of events.

Pregame show: The real pregame show gets started at 11 a.m. local time on FOX with a wide range of guests, musical performances and more — with President Barack Obama even stopping by. All the pregame information can be found here.

Super Bowl coverage: FOX transitions into its Super Bowl 45 coverage at 3 p.m., broadcasting live from Cowboys Stadium, site of the big game. Of course, the beginning of the coverage doesn’t mean the game itself kicks off at 3 p.m., leaving you plenty of time for last minute preparations before kickoff.

Kickoff time: No matter what else you may hear, the Super Bowl kicks off at 3:29 p.m. at Cowboys Stadium in Dallas. The pregame festivities, including the National Anthem, music performances and more, should last about half an hour.

Postgame show: The official Super Bowl XLV postgame show is set for 7 p.m., but will actually begin immediately following the game. FOX will have interviews with the winning team, the presentation of the Lombardi trophy and the presentation of the Super Bowl MVP, all broadcast live from the stadium.

With a full slate of action, tune-in early and often for everything Super Bowl throughout the day. For more on the game, check out our Super Bowl XLV StoryStream.

2011 Super Bowl Odds: Final Packers-Steelers Line Still Favors Green Bay

With just hours to go until the Super Bowl, it's time to take one final look at the odds and point spread for Sunday's game. The Green Bay Packers opened as small favorites over the Pittsburgh Steelers and the betting line has held steady throughout the last two weeks. If anything, in fact, the Packers have picked up a little stream, with the line moving slightly more in their favor.

As of now, the Packers are 3-point favorites at both Bodog and 5Dimes, two of the most prominent online sports books. The Packers opened as 2.5-point favorites two weeks ago, with the line settling at three-points on Saturday, the day before the big game. It's no surprise at all considering the love-affair much of the betting public has had with Green Bay throughout the playoffs.

The over/under for the game, a wager on the total points scored, has settled between 44.5 and 45.5, remaining steady throughout the last two weeks. At Bodog, it's 45.5 points, slightly higher than 5Dimes 44.5 point over/under. If the line, couple with the statistics of each team, is any indication, we're looking at a low scoring affair on Sunday.

We'll keep an eye on the line as last minute action comes in. It's typical for bettors to wager heavily in the hours leading up to the game, getting late money in and, perhaps, causing the line to shift at the last moment. Keep an eye on our 2011 Super Bowl StoryStream for more on the game, as well.

Super Bowl 2011: What To Watch Before The 3:29 PM Kickoff

I know that you're thinking exactly what I'm thinking: Why does Fox need seven-and-a-half hours for Super Bowl pregame? Included in this extra long block is a little something for everyone. For you TV news junkies you can watch an hour of Fox News Sunday with Chris Wallace and his special guest Roger Goodell. For fans of politics, Bill O'Reilly has a very special interview with President Obama.  For music fans you can see performances from Keith Urban and Maroon 5. Oh yeah, there's game previews too.

The following is the full Super Bowl pregame TV schedule. All events, unless otherwise listed, are on Fox and all times and listings are based on Seattle's TV listings.

7:00 AM (Fox Soccer Channel) - "The Game Before The Game" - Chelsea FC vs. Liverpool FC

Fox Soccer channel tries to get in on the action and feed off of the Super Bowl hype. They will air this all-star matchup between two of soccer's biggest teams in, what they call "The Biggest Day in Football/Futbol". All of you Soccer fans should give this one a shot. It is bound to be one jolly good matchup.

8:00 AM - Fox News Sunday with Chris Wallace

This very special edition of this Sunday morning news show, Chris Wallace brings his show to Dallas and welcomes special guest, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell. Along with the king of American football, Chris brings former NFL players Lynn Swann, Jerry Kramer, Terry Bradshaw, Howie Long and Michael Strahan on to more than likely argue about something. The math equation for good TV news is simple total agreement does not equal good ratings.

9:00 AM - Road to the Super Bowl

For the 41st consecutive season, NFL films has produced another masterpiece of documentary. The Road to the Super Bowl recaps the entire season, from opening day to the conference championship games. NFL Films never fails to make fantastic compelling TV, this should not be any different. Just take it from the mouth of Mr. NFL Films himself, Steve Sabol:

"For those who love football, this show is red meat," said NFL Films president Steve Sabol. "No interviews, no talking heads, all action."

Sound good to me.

10 AM - Inside The Rings with Troy Aikman

Can't get enough Troy Aikman? I know that I wouldn't be able to last single Super Bowl day without hearing at least 5 hours of him talk. Well, Aikman lovers, we're in luck. In this special Troy welcomes "Some of the most exciting people in recent Super Bowl history" including Drew Brees, Kurt Warner and Jerome Bettis.

11 AM - NFL Pregame Show

Wait... This is the pregame show? What did I just watch for the past four hours? Fox has some great surprise for all of you sports fans out there, the headliner of which is President Obama entering the No Spin Zone. The entire four hour pregame will be anchored by Curt Menefee and Terry Bradshaw and they will throw it correspondents all over Cowboy Stadium. Here's the full run down of Fox's all star pregame:

• 11:30 AM - Michael Strahan and Maria Menounos team up to host the Red Carpet show featuring mega stars like Jennifer Beal and Catherine Zeta-Jones. 
• 12:30 PM - TMZ hosts it's "review of the week's Super Bowl scene and night-life in Dallas". Yes, I know. I can't wait to find out which players went to which restaurants and what they got, but we'll have to wait until 12:30
• 1:30 PM - This is really the first thing on the schedule that kind of makes me want to watch. Whether you agree or disagree with the politics of either man, the interview should be a good one, as long as they get into real issues and don't just talk about fluff concerning Super Bowl weekend.
• 2:53 PM - In what has become a Super Bowl tradition on Fox they will air a "Declaration of Independence" special where NFL legends and military heroes read excerpts from the famous document.

Some time in all of these will also be music performances from Maroon 5 and Keith Urban and a feature interview from Terry Bradshaw with Pittsburgh quarterback Ben Roethlisberger. Fox is really playing up the angle about current and former Steeler greats in this one.

At three o'clock on field events start as players take the field and Christina Aguilera sings the national anthem. Kickoff is scheduled to take place at exactly 3:29 PM.

SB Nation Seattle will be with you all day today with all the coverage you could ever need. Stay tuned to this story stream and you won't need to go anywhere else.

2011 Super Bowl Odds: More Prop Bets For Packers-Steelers Matchup

We went over a few of the Super Bowl XLV prop bets earlier, but there’s a few more hilarious bets on a wide-array of off-the-wall things that could happen during Sunday’s game. From bets on which type of Gatorade the winning team will use to whether Troy Polamalu or Casey Matthew’s hair will fare better, the odds have been set for any and every Super Bowl related event.

Here’s a look at a few off-the-wall bets that gamblers can wager on ahead of Sunday’s big game.

What color Gatorade will the winning team dump on its coach? Yellow is favored at 5-6, with clear/water close behind at 3-2. Orange (5-1), Lime Green (11-2), Red (12-1) and Blue (12-1) round out the rest of the odds.

How much time will be left when the winning coach gets a Gatorade bath? Under 45 seconds is favored at -125, with the over’s line at +120.

Who will the FOX announcers say has better hair on TV during the Game? Troy Polamalu is at even while Casey Matthews is at -140.

Will a Steelers player do the Aaron Rodgers Championship Belt Celebration during the game? No is favored at -155 with yes at +115. Remember, he has to get into the end zone for a celebration to be possible.

What will be the Result of the Super Bowl XLV Coin Toss? Heads and tails are each at -105. This might be the most ridiculous bet around, but it will, of course, get plenty of action.

More prop bets can be found at Bodog’s Super Bowl prop bet central. For more on the game, check out our 2011 Super Bowl StoryStream.

2011 Super Bowl Predictions: Packers-Steelers Matchup Favors Pittsburgh

he moment we've all been waiting for has finally come! That's right, it's almost time for the Super Bowl XLV Halftime Show featuring The Black Eyed Peas.

Wait... I'm being told that there is also a game being played. Also, I hate The Black Eyed Peas.

Obviously, the game is what everyone has been waiting for. NFC vs. AFC. Cheese-heads vs. Terrible towels. Wisconsin vs. Pennsylvania. Green Bay vs. Pittsburgh. Packers vs. Steelers for the Lombardi trophy.

Now, lots of people like to make predictions, but predictions, by definition, are more than likely wrong. Most people, on so-called "professional" websites, claim to give you their "best" prediction, not here on SB Nation Seattle. Here, I pride myself on giving the right prediction. In fact, I guarantee a correct prediction. If I'm wrong, I'll give you back all of your, totally free (So therefore non-existent), subscription payment. That's the SB Nation Seattle guarantee.

Let's start by looking at who has the advantage in each separate position.

Quarterback:

Key Players: Ben Roethlisberger vs. Aaron Rodgers

Roethlisberger is making his third Super Bowl start. Of course, we here in Seattle remember his first start. Meanwhile, Rodgers is in his first long playoff run after losing in the Wild Card round one year ago. If we base this matchup on purely how many rings each has, it has to go to Big Ben. But I'm not going to do that...

Pass offense: PIT: 14th in NFL (225.1 yards per game), GB: 5th in NFL (257.8 yards per game)

The thing that hurts The Steelers in this matchup is the injury to star center Maurkice Pouncey. It doesn't matter what tools Roethlisberger has to throw to, if his offensive line can't keep him upright. Doug Legursky, who made four starts at guard earlier this year, will start in Pouncey's place making his first start at center. The Steelers are confident that Legursky will be able to fill the slot, but I'm not so sure. I'm giving the edge to Rodgers and Green Bay.

Running Back:

Key Players: Rashard Mendenhall vs. Brandon Jackson

The Packers, who have had a lackluster run game all year long, have seen a late season surge from James Starks, who ran for 73 yards in week 13 and 123 yards in the wild card playoff game against Philadelphia. But against a very good Steeler rush defense, Starks is going to need to step up his game.Meanwhile, Rashard Mendenhall has been on all season, he leads the team with 1273 rushing yards averaging almost four yards per game.

Rushing yards: PIT: 11th in NFL (120.3 yards per game), GB: 24th in NFL (100.4 yards per game)

I think that it's clear, especially with how good the Steelers are on defense against the run, that Pittsburgh has the clear advantage. As mentioned above, the injury to Maurkice Pouncey could hinder Mendenhall and the Steeler's rushing game but, I just don't think that the Packers will be able to keep up this late season running game resurgence. Give the edge to Pittsburgh.

Wide Receiver:

Key Players: Mike Wallace vs. Greg Jennings

Green Bay may have a supreme pass defense, but Mike Wallace has been on a tear lately. Wallace had over 70 yards receiving in eight of his last nine games. Greg Jennings hasn't had a bad year himself. He leads the Packers with 1265 yards.

Passing yards: PIT: 14th in NFL (225.1 yards per game), GB: 5th in NFL (257.8 yards per game)

The two are pretty evenly matched in this department. They both have a ton of talented and capable receivers, but in the end, I'm going to have to give the edge to Green Bay. The Packer offense is more tailored to taking it to the air and, with the middle of the road pass defense expect Pittsburgh to exploit this area.

Defense:

Key Players: Troy Polamalu vs. Clay Matthews

Ok, so I only picked this matchup because of the hair... The glorious, glorious hair! These two are, arguably, the best players on their respective defenses. Polamalu leads The Pittsburgh defense with seven interceptions (The next closest is a six way tie with two each). Matthews leads Green Bay with 13.5 sacks (The next closest is Cullen Jenkins with seven). These two take control of their defenses and it's fun to watch.

Rush yards allowed: PIT: 1st in NFL (62.8 yards per game), GB: 18th in NFL (114.9 yards per game)

Pass yards allowed: PIT: 12th in NFL (214.1 yards per game), GB: 5th in NFL (194.2 yards per game)

The key stat is the rush yards allowed stat above. Green Bay has, at best, a lackluster run game (ranked 24th in the NFL). What Pittsburgh tackle leader Lawrence Timmons and the rest of the front seven bring to the run defense is valuable and it will give Green Bay fitz in the running game. That's the main reason that I'm giving the edge in the defense category to Pittsburgh.

So we're even, tied at two a piece. When kickoff rolls around, I think we'll be looking for a close, lower scoring game. Look for Aaron Rodgers to throw for at least two touchdowns and look for Rashard Mendenhall and The Steelers to run it in for a couple too. The key to the game will be who can break through the others defensive specialty first. Can Green Bay run against a supreme Pittsburgh run defense? Can Pittsburgh throw against a very good Green Bay pass defense? I'm going to say that I have more faith in Big Ben, Mike Wallace and company than the recently resurgent Green Bay rushing game.

Final Score: Green Bay 24 - Pittsburgh 28

2011 Super Bowl: Time, TV Schedule, Announcers And More

With just two days left until the big game, it’s time to get geared up for the Super Bowl. The biggest sporting event of the year kicks off on Sunday with wall-to-wall coverage from every network that covers sports, including FOX, the official broadcast partner of the big game. Coverage will begin early and carry-on throughout the day, culminating when the Green Bay Packers and Pittsburgh Steelers his the field in Super Bowl 45 on Sunday evening.

Here’s a quick rundown of the schedule and other relevant information, with more to come later.

Teams: Green Bay Packers vs. Pittsburgh Steelers

Time: 3 p.m. PST.

Location: Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, Texas, home of the Dallas Cowboys

Television Information: FOX has the broadcast, with coverage beginning at 9 a.m. with the Road to the Super Bowl. The pregame show is set to take place at 11 a.m., as well, leading up to the game itself at 3 p.m.

Announcers: Joe Buck and Troy Aikman have the call for FOX with Pam Oliver and Chris Meyers roaming the sidelines.

For more on the game, check out SB Nation’s Super Bowl StoryStream. The boys from SB Nation are also in Dallas, reporting live from the Super Bowl. Be sure to check out their outstanding coverage leading up to, and throughout the game.

For more of our own coverage, check out our 2011 Super Bowl StoryStream.

2011 Super Bowl: Ice Falls From Cowboys Stadium Injuring At Least Five

The ice storm in Dallas is becoming a problem in many ways, the biggest of which has to do with travel into and around the area. Not only is it hazardous for drivers taking to the streets, but also those walking near Cowboys Stadium, site of Super Bowl 45. Earlier on Friday, ice came crashing down from the stadium, landing on a group of people and injuring five.

CNBC’s Darren Rovell posted a screen-cap of a local news report on the situation, which doesn’t look pretty.

So not only has it been impossible to get to Dallas ahead of the Super Bowl, but also dangerous to be in the city ahead of Sunday’s game. I can only imagine the damage done when sheets of ice fall from a tall structure such as Cowboys Stadium. With as many people as there are in the area — the stadium holds 100,000 and many more are expected to be around it this week — it truly is a hazardous situation.

Be careful out there with the weather frightful and ice pelting the area. For more from the game, check out our Super Bowl StoryStream.

Super Bowl 2011: Maurkice Pouncey Out For Pittsburgh Steelers

Maurkice Pouncey has been huge for the Pittsburgh Steelers throughout the 2010 season, but the Steelers will be without their Pro Bowl center on Sunday as they take the field in the Super Bowl. Pouncey injured his ankle in the AFC Championship, but head coach Mike Tomlin had been keeping his status for Super Bowl 45 close to the vest, still holding out hope he could take the field against the Green Bay Packers. When Pouncey was unable to practice on Friday, he was ruled out for the game, according to a live report on ESPN, leaving the job up to backup Doug Legursky.

It’s been impossible to tell what Pouncey’s injury actually is, with reports ranging from a simple ankle sprain to a broken ankle in the two weeks leading up to the Super Bowl. At media day, Pouncey was wearing a boot, but sounded more than optimistic about his chances to play, telling the media he wanted nothing more than to be there for his team on Sunday. On Thursday, his ankle boot was removed, further increasing the chances he may be able to go.

In the end, Pouncey simply ran out of time. The Steelers take a big hit without him in the middle of the offensive line, and though Legursky is a capable replacement, it’s still a step down. Facing an athletic front seven that can bring pressure from anywhere, how Legursky steps up will be a key for the Steelers on Sunday.

For more on the game, check out our Super Bowl StoryStream.

Super Bowl 2011: Dallas Weather Still Nasty, Travel A Nightmare

If you’re thinking of taking a last-minute trip to Dallas for Super Bowl 45, you may want to think again. Flights into Dallas-Fort Worth are still being canceled by the dozens, leaving fans stranded and scrambling to find new ways to get into Texas. Once they’re in Dallas, though, it doesn’t get any easier, with snow and ice paralyzing travel in the city. With an extra dusting of snow rolling through on Thursday night, travel didn’t get an easier with just two days to go until the big game.

The NFL has a long history of choosing warm locales to host the February Super Bowl in an effort to make travel as comfortable as possible while turning the week leading up to the event into a vacation atmosphere for all. Dallas seemed to be a safe choice at the time, but this week’s unexpected ice storm threw a wrench into the best laid plans. In the week leading up to Sunday’s Super Bowl, the Dallas area has done a fantastic job scrambling to make everything work, allowing teams to practice at high-tech indoor facilities.

The show will go on despite the nasty weather, with the game itself taking place inside the climate-controlled confines of Jerry Jones’ billion dollar Cowboys Stadium. The tickets are already sold — and still moving on ticket broker websites for a premium — and everyone will still make money, no matter how much of a headache travelers have to go through. Even Mother Nature can’t stop the biggest event of the year, but it sure can slow it down.

Now, remind me again why Seattle can’t host a Super Bowl?

For more on the big game, check out our 2011 Super Bowl StoryStream.

2011 Super Bowl Odds: Prop Bets Range From Standard To Off-The-Wall

The best part about gambling on the Super Bowl is not the point spread or any of the normal odds you’d see related to an NFL game. Instead, a whole host of prop bets are posted for the Super Bowl, ranging from tame to just downright weird. For Super Bowl 45, bettors can wager on a wide-array of props, from player scores the first touchdown to who will win the Super Bowl MVP to how long Christina Aguilera will take to sing the national anthem.

Here’s a random smattering of props posted ahead of the big game.

How many times will FOX show Jerry Jones: The over/under is set at 3.5, with the over favored at -145.

How many times will Brett Favre be mentioned during the game: The over/under on this one is 2.5, with the under favored at -140. We all know Favre will be mentioned at least that many times in the first quarter alone. This is easy money.

Will a player attempt a Lambeau Leap during the Super Bowl: No is favored here at -260. The line on yes is +180.

You can also bet on cross sport props. Among them, whether Aaron Rodgers will have yards, attempts, completions or touchdowns than Brett Favre did in Super Bowl XXXI.

There’s even bets on who the Super Bowl MVP and Super Bowl winning coach will thank first in their post-game speech. For the MVP, God is favored at 1-1, followed by teammates (2-1), nobody (3-1), family (4-1) with the coach a long-shot at 9-1. For the coach, team is favored at 2-3, followed by God (6-5), nobody (4-1), family (8-1) with the rest of the coaching staff listed as a long-shot at 10-1.

Finally, you can bet on which team Barack Obama will pick to win and whether or not he’ll be correct. For the pick itself, the Steelers are favored to be chosen by Obama at -140. The line on whether he’ll be correct favors no, at -125.

For a full list of prop bets, check out this handy pdf spreadsheet. We’ll be back with more interesting ones we dig up in the days leading up to the Super Bowl.

For the latest on the game, check out our Super Bowl 45 StoryStream.

2011 Super Bowl: Packers, Steelers Fans Beware Of Heart Attacks

You know that feeling you get when a dramatic sporting event hits its climactic moment? Your heart starts racing, your palms sweat and it becomes impossible to sit still. For fans of the Green Bay Packers and Pittsburgh Steelers, Sunday’s game could have ill effects on the body, especially if the Super Bowl goes down to the wire. Could fans literally live and die with their team this Sunday?

According to a study released on Monday, a dramatic Super Bowl may, in fact, cause a spike in heart attacks for emotionally-invested fans.

In 1980, when the Pittsburgh Steelers staged a fourth-quarter comeback to beat the underdog L.A. Rams, heart-related deaths shot up 15% among men and 27% among women in the subsequent two weeks, compared with the same period in 1981 through 1983.

There was also a significant increase in deaths among people ages 65 and older, the study found.

It brings new meaning to the term die-hard, doesn’t it? The study compared heart attack rates following close, dramatic Super Bowls to those after comfortable wins, looking at death certificates in Super Bowl teams’ cities. It also found a possible link between Super Bowl losses and heart attacks, though that link seems shaky, at best.

There may be a correlation between dramatic Super Bowls and heart attack rates, but, as we know, correlation doesn’t necessarily imply causation. Did a team’s loss cause heart attacks or did the emotional ride of a back-and-forth game stress the body its limitations? The latter seems more plausible than the former, in this case.

For casual fans watching the game at home, the Super Bowl is a fun-filled event filled with good food and good company. For fans in Pittsburgh and Green Bay, Sunday is sure to be a roller coaster — a ride that this study warns could be too much for the heart. Check out the full study for more interesting tidbits, including a look at how the Super Bowl effects women and other factors that may be involved in the heart attack rate spike.

For more on Sunday’s big game, check out our 2011 Super Bowl StoryStream.

Super Bowl 2011: Packers-Steelers Line Holding Steady

After a bit of early movement, the betting line for Super Bowl 45 has settled, staying in the same place for the better part of the last week. Like any Super Bowl, betting will fluctuate in the two weeks leading up to the game itself, with action coming in heavy early and late. In the middle, the period we’re in right now, there tends to be a lull in betting, as evidenced by the lack of movement either way in this year’s line.

As it stands right now, the Green Bay Packers are favored between 2.5 and 3 points over the Pittsburgh Steelers. In Vegas, many sports books installed the Packers as 1.5 point favorites to open the action, only to move the line by Wednesday. The movement is a clear sign the betting public picked the Packers early, though that appears to have settled now.

The over/under for the game has also been interesting to watch as it’s an indication of whether betters believe we’ll see a defensive struggle or offensive fire-fight. Currently, the over/under sits at between 44.5 and 45, a clear sign we’ll see plenty of defense on Sunday. With that over/under, and the line that goes with it, you’d expect to see a game in the 20s.

Keep an eye on the betting lines as the Super Bowl nears. While it may not predict the winner, it does show where the allegiances of the public lie leading up to the big game. We’ll be back later with some of the prop bets as Super Bowl week kicks off in Dallas.

For more on the big game, check out our Super Bowl StoryStream.

Super Bowl 2011: Maurkice Pouncey Injury Shrouded In Speculation For Steelers

The Pittsburgh Steelers have a problem on their hands, if you believe the word from at least one offensive lineman. In the AFC Championship game, center Maurkice Pouncey went down with an injury, putting his status for the Super Bowl in question. On Wednesday, Chris Kemoeatu may have let the cat out of the bag when he said Pouncey wouldn’t be with the Steelers in the Super Bowl.

Here’s the money quote from Kemoeatu.

“We are definitely sad that he won’t be able to be with us in the Super Bowl. Definitely I feel bad for him. We just have to win it for him. We know how big this is for him and him not being able to play is definitely motivating for us to go out there and get that ring for him."

With another week to go until the Super Bowl, do the Steelers even know if Pouncey is out? Is unofficially declaring Pouncey out gamesmanship from Kemoeatu? Every team loves to play head games and though Pouncey’s injury looked serious, it’s impossible for the outside world to tell if he’ll be able to go next Sunday as of right now. Keep in mind, Pouncey himself said he would play in the Super Bowl come hell or high-water.

Without Pouncey, Doug Legursky would take his place. Legursky would be a step down for the Steelers, and earned Pro Bowl honors for his body of work in 2010. Against a front seven that loves to bring pressure from all angles, the Steelers would have a tough task on their hands without Pouncey in the mix.

Super Bowl 2011: Parking, Ticket Prices Inflated For Fans Traveling To Dallas

So you want to take in the experience of the Super Bowl, the NFL’s biggest game? Based on the sheer demand surround this year’s Packers-Steelers matchup, prices for everything Super Bowl have shot through the roof, pricing many out of the opportunity. From tickets to travel costs to parking, those heading to Dallas should expect to pay a premium, all for the chance to see their favorite team play for the championship.

Just to get into the building, fans are looking at spending an astronomical amount. On Stubhub, the average price of Super Bowl tickets has gone through the roof already, and will only rise ahead of the game.

Tickets for the 2011 Super Bowl are expensive. Very expensive. CNBC’s Darren Rovell reports that the average price on StubHub for a ticket to the game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and Green Bay Packers is averaging $3,678.

That’s just for a normal ticket. Prices for suites and tickets that include other amenities will cost fans into the tens, and even hundreds, of thousands.

So you bite the bullet and buy a ticket to the game. Once you get to Dallas, you’ll need to find parking somewhere near Cowboys Stadium. That could be a problem, however. One lot, a short hop away from the stadium, is charging $990 dollars. Getting further away, it will still cost drivers a pretty-penny, as well.

According to ParkWhiz.com, there is a spot available a tenth of a mile from Cowboys Stadium going for $990 at 908 North Collins at Ticketsource.com Parking. To be fair, you would have access to a restroom, on-site security and the ability to tailgate.

The other prices range from $550 at Ballpark Valero Event Parking, which also is a tenth of a mile away, to $55 at Five Georges Parking, a mile away near Six Flags

Ouch. If you’re headed to the Super Bowl, it may be wise to budget a year’s worth of salary for the event. Between parking, airfare, hotels and other accommodations, fans will undoubtedly leave the event much lighter in the pocket book.

Then again, watching your favorite team play in the Super Bowl is priceless, right?

2011 Super Bowl Odds: Packers-Steelers Line Slightly Favors Green Bay

The Green Bay Packers have become the darling team of bettors everywhere during the NFL playoffs and the Super Bowl is no exception. Anticipating heavy action on the Packers, oddsmakers installed Green Bay as a slight favorite shortly after the Super Bowl participants were known. Action has, apparently, come in heavy on the Packers, moving the line in their favor in the last two days as bettors make early moves to take advantage of the small point spread.

Green Bay opened as a 2.5-point favorite in most sports books on Sunday, with the over/under set at 45.5. Just two days later, the point spread is on the move, with the over/under dropping as well. At last check, Green Bay was favored by three-points. The over/under was at 44.5 to 45 points, as well.

It’s a small shift, but a sign of early action on the Packers. With both teams boasting stout defenses, it makes sense for the over/under to decrease, a sign the betting public is jumping on the under early.

The line is still in its infancy and with nearly two weeks to go until the big game, it should fluctuate quite a bit between now and kickoff. It’s likely early money comes in hard on the Packers before bettors waiting for the line to top-out near game-time jump on the Steelers.

We’ll continue to track the Super Bowl odds right up until game time on Feb. 6 in Dallas. For more on the game, check out our Super Bowl StoryStream.

Super Bowl 2011: Packers-Steelers A Throwback Matchup

The Green Bay Packers and Pittsburgh Steelers each have storied histories, yet have never met in the NFL's biggest game. That will all change on Feb. 6 in Dallas as the Steel Curtain battles the Pack in the Super Bowl. 

The Packers made it by running the gauntlet, performing best with their back against the wall. As the six-seed in the NFC, Green Bay never hosted a home game, instead hitting the road three-straight weeks against some of the NFC's toughest competition. Each week, the Packers shined, leaving the Philadelphia Eagles, Atlanta Falcons and Chicago Bears in their wake.

The Steelers road to the Super Bowl was easier, by comparison, but still filled with perils. As the two-seed in the AFC, Pittsburgh never had to leave the friendly confines of Heinz Field, using its first-round bye to rest and get healthy for the grind ahead. A last-minute win over the Baltimore Ravens propelled the Steelers into the AFC Championship, where the New York Jets awaited. Playing for a trip to Dallas, the Steelers jumped out to an early lead over the Jets, only to see it begin to evaporate in the second half as the offense struggled to move. Without scoring a single point in the final two quarters, Pittsburgh still managed to move on as the offense capped the game with a time-killing drive.

The Packers and Steelers hold nine Super Bowl championships in 11 tries between the two of them, with Pittsburgh boasting an all-time record six wins. With names like Lombardi and the Steel Curtain dynasty, each franchise has a strong history, adding to the intrigue in Super Bowl 45.

Will the Steelers take home a Super Bowl for the second time in three years or will the Packers return to glory, winning the big game for the first time since 1996? Tune in on Feb. 6 as the Packers and Steelers hit the field