NEW YORK - In a surprise move, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell announced today that the Super Bowl will be contested during the Steelers-Ravens game Saturday night at Heinz Field. The decision came one day about Ravens linebacker Terrell Suggs declared Pittsburgh and Baltimore "the two best teams in the NFL," and that "the winner of this game will most likely go on to win the Super Bowl."
"We don't normally listen to what players say," Goodell said. "But it's impossible to ignore his logic on this one. It's the best rivalry. They always play close, so it won't be boring like some Super Bowls. I think it's an idea that has real merit."
Goodell acknowledged that many corporate clients will be shut out from attending the game. "Clearly Heinz Field doesn't have the capacity that the Cowboys' stadium has," he said, "and it's too late for us to snatch tickets from season ticket holders like the NHL did for the Winter Classic. But we invite all our corporate friends to come out and tailgate with the crowd in the parking lot. They're a pretty fun group.
"I'm sure Dallas will whine about losing the game, but that's just the way they are there," the commissioner joked.
Money may be playing a part as well. "We're in tough times, and the NFL has been hurt by the economy, too," Goodell said, echoing an earlier email. "By having the Super Bowl this weekend, we can save significant money by not holding several more rounds of playoffs. Then we can get a head start on the lockout."
