Best Super Bowl performances (during the pre-game)
I had no intention of watching the Super Bowl® game, because I had some projects to do around the house and, frankly, I had no dog in the fight. I don’t much care about the Cardinals or Steelers. But I did watch part of the pregame show, and here are three people that made an impression on me:
1) Tony Dungy. I lived in Minnesota when Tony was the quarterback at Minnesota, and was surprised when he began his professional career on defense. Although most people know him for his champtionship ring, Dungy has had some difficult moments in his life, most notably the suicide of his son. But his new passion for helping young people is nothing short of impressive. He just released a new book (Uncommon: Finding Your Path to Significance), and it atop of my list of future-reads. His comments about Larry Fitzgerald show what a star performer and star person Dungy is – a great role model.
2) Bob Costas. The Chicago Cubs’ icon Harry Caray always called Costas the “best young broadcaster in the business.” It couldn’t have been that long ago, was it? Costas is now clearly one of the best in the business – period. One thing that stood out for me during the pregame show was not only how smooth Costas is, but how he dealt with a set crowded with five people holding microphones. Maybe you have to be a broadcaster to appreciate this, but Costas was able to involve them all and make them all look good. Not many sportscasters/studio hosts can do that.
3) President Obama. Say what you want about his politics, but he was incredibly charming and engaging during his interview. Unlike previous presidents, who got all wishy-washy when asked to predict the big game, Obama unflinchingly said he was pulling for the Steelers. Of course, Steelers owner Dan Rooney had endorsed Obama, while Cardinals owner Bill Bidwell is a staunch Republican. But beyond that, Obama seemed very sincere when answering Matt Lauer’s wide range of questions. It almost felt like Obama was sitting there watching the pregame show with you. The interview was a definite winner for the new president.
By the way: If you need to pick up some home improvement materials, go to the hardware store during the Super Bowl. You will have the place to yourself.
