Super Bowl XLV has hit a bit of a wall as the Green Bay Packers and Pittsburgh Steelers are struggling to get points on the board. After an explosive first half, Aaron Rodgers and the Packers have only one first down as the third quarter comes to an end.
While neither team is exactly rolling right now, the Steelers have more of the momentum. After getting a bit touchdown in the final minute of the first half the Steelers forced a three and out to start the second half. They then got a big return and a bogus face mask penalty to set themselves up on the 50 yard line. Five plays later Rashard Mendenhall scored a touchdown on an eight yard rush.
The Steelers forced another punt on the ensuing Packers possession, but the Steelers blew a golden opportunity to cut the lead to one, or even take the lead. The Steelers drove down to the Green Bay 34 but stalled out and attempted a 52-yard punt. Shane Suisham shanked it wide left and the Steelers left points on the board.
The Packers find themselves dealing with some big injuries, the most notable of which is the loss of Charles Woodson. The all-world cornerback injured his shoulder and is sitting out the final 30 minutes of the game. The Steelers have started to take advantage of Woodson’s absence, and will need to continue doing so if they’re going to complete the huge comeback.
To continue following this developing game from a Cal perspective (for all the Aaron Rodgers fans), head over to the California Golden Blogs open thread.