Keys to Victory for Super Bowl 44

Indianapolis Colts

1. Get what they can out of Dwight Freeney-Freeney is an offensive coordinator’s nightmare, and all opposing teams have to devote multiple players to try and block him.  Freeney has an ankle injury and is listed as questionable for the game.  If he is able to play, Freeney might not be as big of a threat as he is when he is 100%, but he still will create a lot of attention to free up other guys to get to Drew Brees. 

2. Run the ball every once in awhile-The Saints are a very opportunistic defense that thrive off forcing turnovers.  If Indy elects to primarily pass the ball and give up on the run, New Orleans has a great chance to pick off Manning a time or two.  However, if the Colts can mix up the offense a little, then Manning will be his usual unstoppable self. 

3.  Unleash Reggie Wayne and Dallas Clark-Wayne and Clark have been quiet as of late, but look for them to explode in the Super Bowl.   There isn’t anyone on the Saints that can cover either one of them one-on-one, and since they are the playmakers for the Colts’ offense, it would be wise to get them the ball early and often.

4. Don’t punt the ball to Reggie Bush-Enough said!

New Orleans Saints

Get pressure on Peyton Manning-The only reason the Saints are in this game was because of the hits they were able to put on Brett Favre.   They can’t expect to be able to hit Manning that frequently, but when they get their chances, they need to capitalize.  Otherwise, the Colts will stampede them. 

Get Reggie Bush more touches-This is the big stage, and Reggie Bush usually performs well in the spotlight.   Drew Brees can spread the ball around to all his receivers, but they need to make sure they get Bush as many touches in space as possible. 

Win the time of possession-Even though Indy has proved they can win even when they are doubled up in time of possession, it is still important to keep Manning on the sidelines for as long as possible.  The Colts offense can’t score when they are on the sidelines. 

Drew Brees be Drew Brees-Brees has had an outstanding season, but this is the biggest game of his life.   Since this is his first Super Bowl, there is little doubt he will be very nervous.  If Brees can settle into the game and not try to do too much, New Orleans should be just fine.  A calm Brees should rack up huge numbers and just might lead the Saints to their first ever title.