February 13, 2011
Yes, I’m a week late. I didn’t want to compete with the frenzy of Super Bowl media following the game, so delayed my post a week. Last Sunday I decided to enjoy the Super Bowl in a way I never have before. Alone. Instead of attending the typical Super Bowl gathering, I decide to watch the game in solitude. Yes, weird, but I’m a little weird.
I guess I wasn’t completely alone, I had my dog Madison and my laptop. As I watched the broadcast, I decided to write down my observations.
The Ads
Commercials aren’t what they used to be thanks to the web and social media. Or are they? Rumor has it Audi’s commercial–that I didn’t like–was the first commercial to use a #hashtag. I found this out moments later via twitter. This wasn’t the only conversation about the commercials, thus extending the reach of each commercial. Why discuss these commercials at the chips and dip when you can discuss with friends around the world?
In short, the web has created more advertising noise than the world has ever seen. These commercials provide a chance (an expensive chance) to rise above the noise and be heard. The catch is to stay above the noise by engaging additional marketing strategies and encouraging discussion.
The Half time
I hate halftime shows. Even in the Super Bowl, even Fergie. I like football and I like concerts, but I don’t like concerts at the halftime of a football game.
The Game
There is alot to talk about here, but I just want to recognize two underlying principles that stood out to me.
1. Visualize Success
The only overlapping theme I found in the preparation for the game was in visualization. The Steelers listened to Phil Collins, In the Air Tonight (great tune) while visualizing making plays. Aaron Rodgers (MVP) also recognized this was his focus leading into the game. This emphasis on visualization isn’t surprising on America’s largest sporting stage.
2. Never Give Up
The Packers were the 6 seed.
Donald Driver claimed at the age of 14: “Man, I’m going to make it.”
The Packers survived a season with 15 players on injured reserve, and the loss of 3 key players during game.
The stories of small colleges, walk ons, you’re too small, slow, and you’ll never make it are endless. In fact, there were only 2 five star recruits starting on either side of the football. What’s the commonality? They never gave up.
The Rest (of my observations)
Arm Chair Quarterbacks. I know they’ve existed since the beginning of sport and entertainment, but social media has given them a new voice. National anthem this, catch that, run here, pass how, sing what, etc., all delivered from the comfort of their arm chair, with no real appreciation or understanding of the sacrifices made.
Take Lemons and make Lemonade. “Cheese Head” was a Chicago criticism of Wisconsin. It’s now their iconic apparel.
Load the band wagon. How is the sell of Packer apparel? Great! I visited San Francisco during the World Series and couldn’t help but notice the number of “so called fans” sporting their brand new Giants apparel. It is easy to like a winner, but it’s not easy to win.
On a final note, who’s going to win the Super Bowl next year? That’s the beauty of pro football today. The dynasties are over.