Super Bowl XLIV

Conference championship games: 1-1
Playoffs: 5-5

Indianapolis offense vs. New Orleans defense. What can be done to pressure Peyton Manning? The answer for years has normally been 'not much' and the Saints would have to use extraordinary measures to get it done. New Orleans' cornerbacks have been shaky all season, so all-out blitzing doesn't appear to be an option. The Colts' running game is good enough to get by. Advantage Indianapolis.

New Orleans offense vs. Indianapolis defense. Dwight Freeney of the Colts has the world's most talked about ankle. It's difficult to believe he'll be effective - Indianapolis' advantage is a better pass rush. The Saints had several games towards the end of the season where their offense was somewhat contained. The Colts have done a decent job despite young cornerbacks. Advantage New Orleans.

Special teams. Each team had just one return touchdown this season. New Orleans' Reggie Bush has the potential to be the difference-maker. The kickers couldn't be more different - the Saints' Garrett Hartley is 23 and in his second season, while Indianapolis has a 42-year-old with 20 years of NFL experience in Matt Stover. A missed field goal here and there is usually the deciding factor. Advantage Indianapolis.

Overview. The game story has been Manning against Drew Brees and two the league's best offenses. New Orleans' defense is under the most pressure - if the Colts are successful early the Saints may not recover. Bush is the one player who has the special skills to effect the game and New Orleans will need a couple of plays from him. Manning won't admit it, but he knows he cements his place in history with a win. Indianapolis 27, New Orleans 24.