Six Appeal

Steelers Win Rooney His 6th Lombardi Trophy

If you are the NFL or one of its key business partners, you leave Tampa today feeling pretty positive about Super Bowl XLIII. Despite the "Recession Bowl" talk last week, the livelier-than-expected nightlife scene and easy to navigate I-4 corridor helped quiet the skepticism surrounding the entire event. The league scored big points with the performances of both Bruce Springsteen and Jennifer Hudson, and the Steelers and Cardinals deliver an instant classic on the field. The early overnight for the game comes in at a 42.1/65, down just 5% from Super Bowl XLII, and NBC is receiving strong reviews for its work during the game. The net is lauded for its deft camera work, and Al Michaels and John Madden earn props from the sports media for their call of the game.

When There's Smoke... 
Phelps' second public slip-up not likely to hinder marketing prowess, but certain to taint his image.

Ad-In  
Doritos ends A-B's run atop USA TODAY Ad Meter with user-generated Super Bowl spot -- could it signal a troubling future for ad agencies?

Ad-Out
While A-B, Coca-Cola and CareerBuilder earn high marks for SB spots, SoBe Lifewater and Hyundai are not quite as fortunate.

The Gold Standard 
Steelers cement legacy as NFL's most decorated team; marketing opportunities for MVP Santonio Holmes could be few and far between. 

So Happy Together?
Goodell remains optimistic about reaching labor peace, but his denial of NFLPA report darkens an already contentious relationship. 

Owners Receive Good News    
Jerry Richardson undergoes successful heart transplant; Ralph Wilson earns long-sought spot in HOF. 

Spanish Acquisition 
U.S. Soccer set to appoint Univision Sports President David Downs to lead World Cup bids.