And the Pick Is...

The Pittsburgh Steelers -4.

Here are my reasons:
1) I love the way they are playing right now, especially Ben Roethlisberger. I've always said the most important thing in determining the winners and losers of football games is turnovers. And that's what makes football so hard to predict. But I think the Steelers are less likely to make that game ending bad play. I love the way they've been coached in the playoffs. Their game plan for the Colts and Broncos was excellent and if they get up a couple scores on Seattle early I think it will be the same result.
2) The AFC. I thought all season the AFC team was going to win the Super Bowl. Seattle had a relatively week regular season schedule. And they beat the 5 and 6 seeds at home to get here. The Steelers beat 1, 2 and 3 on the road.
3) Bettis. Something about all that's been going on, it just seems right that he should win.
4) The Pistons game. The Steelers seem to be having a lot more fun this week wearing Chauncey Billups jerseys at the Pistons game. I think the looser team has an advantage.
5) Tommy Maddox. Had he not thrown one or two games while Ben was hurt the Steelers would have been a 2 or at worst 3 seed in the playoffs. Everything would have been different and the spread would be bigger and the Seahawks wouldn't have this 1 vs. 6 card to play. Basically the Steelers are a better team than they are even getting credit for. They shouldn't be underdogs, Cinderellas, they should have been division winners if not for Tommy Maddox.
6) Smokey. I think it would be bad karma to root against my long-lost brother Smokey, who will be going to the game. Smokey and Krista were able to get tickets from a friend, at face value. Since they will be in Detroit and I don't want their trip ruined I will be rooting for Pittsburgh. Carson Daly and Earl Hickey will agree with me on this point.
7) The tights. Even though Cleveland eventually lost to LeBron and his magic tights, Smokey will be wearing his in Ford Field and I believe in the power of the tights.

One thing that worries me, too many people are picking the Steelers and a lot of times popular opinion is wrong. Also I feel like I am inviting Eliminator to pick Seattle, as his one chance to win the pool (but he could fall down several spots if he does that and loses). But if the Steelers cover the points is moot. I'll be going with the retired #44 as my total points for the game. Steelers 24-20 would be a push, and a victory.

Go Stillers!!!!!!!!!!! or push!