Collegiate Times

Running backs Reggie Bush and Pierre Thomas have combined for 205 yards and two touchdowns over the past two games. The Saints’ passing attack is what really has carried the Saints though, as Brees has thrown six touchdowns with no interceptions for 444 yards and a completion rate of 64 percent in the playoffs. Brees has also connected with five different receivers for touchdowns over the past three weeks.

"You understand just how explosive their offense can be," Manning said. "I think you have to be careful trying to get out of your rhythm in order to keep up with them. You still have to go play offense the way we have played all year, trying to be efficient.”

The Saints may be ailing as stars tight end Jeremy Shockey, free safety Darren Shaper and linebacker Jonathan Vilma are still nursing minor injuries from the NFC championship game.

Each was bothered by knee injuries two weeks ago, which was apparent in the game. Nonetheless, the three have progressed in practice throughout the week and may possibly be 100 percent by Sunday’s big game.

Even bigger news for the Colts — Dwight Freeney, arguably the best defense end

in the NFL, is still recovering from a torn ligament in his right ankle. Freeney’s absence would be a big blow to the Colts; however, Freeney has said the pain is subsiding and he hopes to play Sunday.

Family and hometown ties will be present on Sunday, to say the least. Manning faces his hometown team that his father, Archie, once quarterbacked. Archie played and still lives in New Orleans, which is also where Peyton played high school ball.

"New Orleans is a huge part of my life, as well as (his brother and New York Giants quarterback’s) Eli's life," said Manning. "My dad's been a part of the Saints organization for 39 years in some ways. We definitely have strong ties."

Wayne, Manning’s go to guy, also grew up in the Big Easy and Colts running back Joseph Addai suited up for Louisiana State University during his college career.

One thing is for sure: You won’t have a problem being entertained during this Super Bowl.

Whether it’s watching Manning hit Collie in stride, Reggie Bush running back a kickoff or even the talented Carrie Underwood singing the national anthem, Super Bowl XLIV will be one you cannot miss.

Kickoff is set for 6:25 p.m. on Saturday and the game will be televised on CBS.

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A version of this article appeared in the Feb 5 issue of the Collegiate Times.