With most of the sports world either in or on the way to
Phoenix for Super Bowl XXX, it seemed appropriate to track
whether the build-up and hype that typically surround the year's
most watched sporting event translates onto the Internet. (1)
NBC, the NFL and Microsoft certainly hope so. Their joint site,
the much-heralded "Superbowl.com," is a one-stop shop for news on
the game, history from past Super Bowls, and a preview of NBC's
telecast. On Sunday, there will be a cyber-simulcast with
preparations being treated in the same manner as those for the TV
broadcast, according to John Knox, Producer of NBC Sports
Interactive. During the game, Randy Cross, Gil Brandt and Jeff
Hostetler will basically calling the game, offering analysis and
chatting with viewers. NBC Sports also promises to offer real-
time photos as frequently as possible. One possible feature is a
chance for surfers to rate Super Bowl commercials. (2) The Super
Bowl XXX Host Committee has a site at http://www. azsuperbowl.com
with keys for travel info and merchandise. (3) Phoenix
Newspapers Inc. has a Super Bowl section at its Arizona Central
site which includes a local golf directory.
Http://www.azcentral.com/depts/superbowl. (4) The Steelers'
official site is maintained by the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review
(http://www.steelershome/steelers/com). The Cowboys may not
trust the league on marketing decisions, but their in league
hands on online matters. The only official Cowboys site is at
Team NFL. The league provides info on all 30 teams at
http://www. nflhome.com. (5) The NFLPA's official Web presence
is on SportsLine USA. For info on their self-described "World's
Largest Super Bowl Party," click to
http://www.sportsline.com/u/promo/playersparty/index.html. (6)
It may be Super Bowl XXX, but it's Bud Bowl 8. Head to to
http://www.budbowl.com (THE DAILY).
