I truly enjoy sports. In a media world where plots are painfully predictable and reality shows are anything but real; there is a venue where outcomes are not predetermined and story lines are rich.
Such was the case this Sunday. Peyton Manning was playing against Tom Brady. Brady has the upper hand in head to head matches. Manning owns the record book. A strange twist happened last week. Peyton found himself needing a win to salvage his legacy.
When one thinks of all that Peyton has done, why is his legacy vulnerable?
Two reasons. First; at this level, Super Bowl rings are all that matters. Second; we have a short memory. Peyton, we know you have one ring, but what have you done for us lately?
This evaluation comes at a time when media people did a survey. The man who is most trust worthy in the NFL? Peyton Manning. At least part of his legacy is secure.
Manning and Brady battled. Both played well, Manning was better. Manning was gracious in winning. Brady was gracious in defeat. This is exactly what we expect from our heroes. We want Herculean effort and the grace to accept the outcome.
The NFC game was a different matter. These teams do not like each other. These coaches really do not like each other. Their rivalry goes back to college coaching days. It was strength versus strength. Will versus will. Mano a mano.
With the game on the line, Collin Kapernick throws a potential game winning pass to the back corner of the end zone. Richard Sherman was guarding Michael Crabtree for the 49ers. In this moment of ultimate stress, character was revealed. Sherman tipped the ball away and it was intercepted. Game over. Sherman won his individual battle ad the team was headed to the Super Bowl.
Then the stress of the moment revealed a deeper flaw. Sherman taunted Crabtree. The taunts continued after the game. It was a classless performance. It tainted a great effort by himself and his teammates.
The story line is now set for the Super Bowl. Sherman is the villain. Manning the hero. The NFL could not buy this type of press.
So here is the question. Is Sherman a bad guy or was this just a bad moment? None of really want to be judged by our worst moment do we?
Well, now he has a chance at redemption. He will be tested by Manning. There will be two tests for Sherman. Can he defend passes from one of the greatest arms in history? Can he handle himself with grace; despite the circumstances?
America loves to tear down its heroes. America also cheers the repentant hero who is redeemed. Only time will tell. Is it too much to hope that it all comes to down to one play...Manning versus Sherman...the hero and the villain? That seems too simplistic doesn't it?
I will be pulling for Manning. I have to. My life loves him. I will also be pulling for Sherman. I would love for him the chance to show us that he is not willing to be defined by one bad moment.
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