Here’s just a small sample of what is being talked about prior to the big game on Sunday.
The Head Coaches
Young African-American coach Mike Tomlin had big shoes to fill when he took over for Bill Cowher. Tony Dungy, who recently announced his retirement, has been a source of inspiration for Tomlin.
“The biggest thing is his unwavering belief in his message and in the men. It was on display all the time through the good and the bad. He was extremely consistent, and that’s probably the number one thing that I took from my time with him,” said Tomlin.The Pittsburgh Steelers certainly have a mystique about them and a reputation to uphold. Tomlin spoke about his team’s strategy.
“We are in the process of formulating our strategy in regards to the game. One thing that we won’t do is coach scared or play scared. That didn’t get us here. We are going to be the Pittsburgh Steelers and maintain our personality in that regard.”
Arizona head coach Ken Whisenhunt was asked about how the decision was made to appoint Kurt Warner his starting QB: ìIt was actually the Friday after we had ended camp. It was that Friday night that I stayed up all night making the decision on Kurt Warner. To Matt Leinart and Kurt’s credit, they both competed very hard for that position.
ìI really believe the reason we had success this year at the position was because of that competition. As I’ve said before, it was a very close competition.î
The Star Players
Wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald played college football at the University of Pittsburgh. He has a great deal of respect for the Steelers organization, and apparently, their cafeteria food too.
“I use to see Mr. Rooney all the time. From the very top guy in the organization, Mr. Rooney, to my buddy Todd who worked at the reception desk, they were all class over there. Everybody in that organization is first class.
“I used to go over there all the time and try to bum free lunches out of their cafeteria. They had great food over there.”
Ben Roethlisberger talked about how Dan Marino and Jim Kelly were inspirations for him as a young QB.
“I learn off my experiences talking to guys like Dan Marino and Jim Kelly, guys that know and have been here and are big-time players.
“For me to hear from guys who have done it and have that experience and are great players, it really means a lot.”
Kurt Warner garners a great deal of respect from Roethlisberger as well.
