Metro’s panel of prognosticators has spoken — no clear-cut favourite for Super Bowl XLIV in Miami, Fla.
We asked 16 prominent locals who they think will win Sunday’s highly anticipated match-up between the New Orleans Saints and Indianapolis Colts.
A slight majority (nine) is picking Drew Brees and the Saints, but most expect it to go down to the wire as 14 of our prognosticators are predicting the final score to be within a converted touchdown.
Below are each person’s pick, score and justification. Enjoy.
STEVE SUMARAH
Saint Mary’s Huskies, Football Coach
Colts, 35-24
“I just think Peyton Manning is playing as well as any quarterback can play. He’s just playing unbelievable.”
PETER KELLY
HRM Mayor
Saints, 28-21
“I have to go with New Orleans winning by a touchdown. I like the grit they have shown in some of their games this year. I always like the motivational factor for the underdog.”
KAREN FURNEAUX
Olympic Kayaker
Saints, 31-24
“(The Saints win) with lots of running and (lots of) heart.”
T.J. GRANT
UFC, Mixed Martial Artist
Colts 34-31
“Peyton’s going to go down in the history books and he needs another Super Bowl. But it’s going to be a crazy one.”
FRANK CORBETT
Deputy Premier
Saints, 24-17
“In the aftermath of hurricane Katrina, (New Orleans) has shown immense pride and spirit, allowing it to overcome incredible challenges. This game will be no different.”
ERIC CROOKSHANK
Halifax Rainmen Forward
Colts, 24-17
“Peyton Manning is a more experienced QB with a great defence. But Reggie Bush will have a great game for the Saints.”
MEGAN LESLIE
Halifax MP
Saints, 20-13
“New Orleans to win by seven points. The city has endured so many struggles over the past few years — they deserve the win!”
COUN. DAWN SLOANE
Downtown Halifax
Saints, 40-29
“The New Orleans Saints have been doing well this season. I think it is their year.”
PETER DELMAS
Halifax Mooseheads Goaltender
Saints, 31-28
“Drew Brees is the man. And Peyton’s already won. Time to change it up.”
DESMOND FERGUSON
Halifax Rainmen Forward
Colts, 31-24
“I just can’t go against Peyton Manning and his greatness. He is the greatest quarterback of our time and can win the game by himself.”
STEVE MURPHY
CTV News Editor and Anchor
Saints, 34-27
“I’m not a huge NFL fan but I like underdogs so, I’m going to go with New Orleans. I freely admit, there’s some wishful thinking here. The people of New Orleans could really use a break.”
COLLEEN JONES
CBC Broadcaster
Saints, 21-14
“My brain might say the Colts but my heart says the Saints. I just think they have extra motivation with everything that’s gone on in New Orleans.”
PETER MACKAY
Defence Minister
Colts 27-24
“(Peyton) Manning has the experience and the will to win. He is a field general with the ability to see the field and pick apart New Orleans’ defence.”
COUN. SUE UTECK
Northwest Arm-South End
Saints, 37-34
“I have to go with New Orleans. It’s Cinderella all the way with Drew Brees vs. Peyton Manning. A high-scoring affair.”
JODY SHELLEY
San Jose Sharks Forward
Colts, 35-28
“The Colts have already won a Super Bowl and know what it takes to win.”
GEOFF REGAN
Halifax West MP
Colts, 34-27
“I expect Peyton Manning’s cool quickness and rocket-laser arm to win it for Indianapolis. Besides, the Colts are my oldest daughter’s favourite team.”
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