Pittsburgh Review

The Pittsburgh Steelers emerged victorious in Super Bowl XL, defeating the Seattle Seahawks 21-10 at Ford Field in Detroit, Michigan. The stadium was filled with enthusiastic Steelers fans, creating a home-like atmosphere despite the location.

Jerome Bettis, the celebrated running back who contemplated retirement the previous year, played a pivotal role in this game. Encouraged by quarterback Ben Roethlisberger to continue playing for another season, Bettis found himself competing for the championship in his hometown of Detroit.

The Seahawks initially led 3-0 but failed to maintain their advantage. The Steelers' momentum began late in the first half when Roethlisberger concluded an 11-play drive with a one-yard touchdown dive, putting them ahead 7-3 at halftime.

Willie Parker's impressive 75-yard touchdown run early in the second half extended the Steelers' lead to 14-3. However, Seattle narrowed the gap after Kelly Herndon's interception and Matt Hasselbeck's subsequent touchdown pass to Jerramy Stevens made it 14-10.

In the fourth quarter, Ike Taylor intercepted Hasselbeck's pass, thwarting a potential comeback by Seattle. A strategic play saw Antwaan Randle El throw a 43-yard touchdown pass to Hines Ward, who caught five passes for 123 yards and earned MVP honors.

Reflecting on their journey to victory, Coach Bill Cowher praised his team's chemistry and resilience: "It was special. It was a really special team," he said. "It might not have been our best team during my time there, but it was our closest team."

Cowher emphasized the importance of teamwork over individual talent: "Nothing was more evident of that than what they were able to do with Jerome at the forefront of that journey to Detroit."

The Steelers had overcome significant challenges leading up to their Super Bowl win, including winning their final four regular-season games and three road playoff matches. Cowher described this achievement as "a very special journey."