Super Bowl XLIII at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Fla. was one that will not be easily forgotten.
The Arizona Cardinals and the Pittsburgh Steelers gave viewers all across the country a look at history in the making. The stakes were high; Pittsburgh would be making history for the most won Super Bowl titles in NFL history, and Arizona would win its franchises’ first title. With all the pressure, the Steelers came out on top and took their sixth stand at Super Bowl Champions.
Pittsburgh started the game off making a statement that this was its game to win. A short touchdown run by quarterback Ben Roethlisberger was challenged by the Arizona coaches and got called back. Despite the call back, the quick run up the field showed that the strength of the Pittsburgh offense was not to be taken lightly.
Pittsburgh kicker Jeff Reed made a field goal to put the Steelers on the board. Shortly after, running back Gary Russell ran in for another Pittsburgh touchdown — this one undebated.
Arizona took note of the offense Pittsburgh had by showing off their own offense, getting tight end Ben Parker his first touchdown all season. The score was 10-7, Pittsburgh.
The score quickly changed as history was made when Pittsburgh linebacker James Harrison, NFL defensive player of the year, made a 100-yard interception return for a touchdown. At halftime the score was 17-7, Pittsburgh.
The third quarter was a great example of both teams’ offensive and defensive expertise as the score remained enchanged.
The fourth quarter had three touchdowns and a safety, keeping viewers and players, intrigued at the action occurring on the field. Wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald scored two touchdowns for Arizona.
To Arizona players, coaches and fans’ disappointment, the Steelers Santonio Holmes, made a touchdown look simple, as he made a catch to give the Steelers a 4-point lead with 35 seconds left on the clock.
A fumble ended Arizona’s final drive, as the game ended with a Steelers’ victory of 27-23.
The Pittsburgh Steelers made NFL franchise history, by earning its sixth Super Bowl title.
