Two days ago, the NFL named its 42nd World Champion since the tradition of the Superbowl began in 1967. In the most anticipated and watched game in Superbowl history, the New York Giants beat the New England Patriots by a score of 17-14. The Giants victory was not only shocking, but significant on many levels.

The Giants

One of the reasons that I thought that this win was so significant for the Giants was due to the amount of criticism that they received during the season.

Tom Coughlin

Tom Coughlin was close to getting fired after an 0-2 start with the Giants, and a shaky victory in their third game of the season. Criticized for being too much a disciplinarian, he adjusted his coaching strategy and led his team to the Superbowl.

Eli Manning

Eli Manning had to be one of the most criticized players in the NFL this season. Already living in the shadow of his older brother Peyton, Eli had another mediocre season. However, he turned his game around in the playoffs, preforming very well. I think that this Superbowl victory will silence all the critics who have been so judgmental of Eli since he was drafted first overall in 2004.

Michael Strahan

Michael Strahan is definitely one of the feel good stories of the Superbowl. He has been in the NFL for 15 seasons, all played with the Giants, and finally won his first Superbowl. I’m assuming that he’s going to retire now, and it’s always nice to see respected veterans going out on a high note.

David Tyree

If for nothing else, David Tyree will forever be remembered for the most incredible catch (and pass) in Superbowl history. I am still amazed that he was able to hold on to that football with one hand and his helmet, and then still manage to keep it from hitting the turf, even with a defender contesting the catch the entire time. Simply amazing.

Plaxico Burress

Heavily criticized, by the Patriots especially, for his prediction of such a low score for the Superbowl, Burress came through and delivered exactly what he promised. There is still a soft spot in my heart for him after he left Pittsburgh, and I am happy to say that he scored the game winning touchdown to earn his second first Superbowl ring.

Giant’s Defense

I don’t think that many people would argue that the Giants, with a record of 10-6 after the regular season, were the best team in the NFL this year. However, they found a way to win in the playoffs, and even won 11 straight road games to finish out the season. The Giants defense played exceptionally well in the Superbowl, and I don’t think that enough praise can be given to them. They hit the Patriots offense (Tom Brady in particular) in the mouth, disabling the most powerful offense that the NFL has ever seen.

Sidenote: I wonder how Tiki Barber is feeling now after he criticized his former team and teammates, or if he regrets retiring the seasond before his team won the Superbowl. Probably not the best feeling in the world, but at least he still has his health.

The Patriots

Not to overshadow the Giants, but I think that the Patriots deserve recognition for their performance during the regular and post season.

Bill Belichick

As much as I don’t like his arrogant attitude, I give Bill Belichick credit for leading such a focused and effective football team. He put together the most efficient and powerful offenses in NFL history, and going 16-0 or even 18-1 is not an easy thing. He may not have much on-field class, but he is definitely a brilliant coach.

Other Patriots

I don’t have much to say about individual Patriot players (except for the exceptional seasons had by Brady and Moss), but would like to applaud how they played as a team this season. While other teams were running their mouths and making predictions, the Patriots kept quiet as far as taunting went, and just played football. Save a few close (and improbable) victories, they crushed their opponents this season. So, congratulations to them for playing as a single unit, and having a perfect regular season.

1972 Miami Dolphins

Mercury Morris and the 1972 Miami Dolphins had to wait a long time this year to drink their champaign and celebrate the fact that they are the only NFL team to finish the season with a perfect record. The Patriots were “the team” to join the 1972 Dolphins in that respect, but seeing the Patriots fail proves how hard it is to win ever game of the NFL season. This Patriots probably came closer to perfection than any other team that we will see. I really don’t think that a perfect season is possible in the NFL anymore.

To summarize, I’d like to say congratulations to all the Giants for overcoming adversity and winning the Superbowl. They definitely earned it. Thanks for an exciting and entertaining Superbowl.

So, those are my thoughts on Superbowl XLII. Do you agree or disagree with any of my points? Have anything to add? Let me know in the comments.

Sidenote: the commercials for the Superbowl were absolutely horrendous this year. I found myself being amused maybe once or twice. I was really disappointed with the lack of creativity. For $2.4 Million per commercial, you would think that these companies could come up with better stuff. Superbowl commercials are way over-hyped. If you are looking for Superbowl commercial rankings/reviews check out jbomb.net.