The Arizona Cardinals are in the Conference Finals

Over the holidays I was discussing the Cardinals playoff chances with my brother, my dad and Jeremy. I was deriding the Cards mercilessly. I was bitter. I have loyally watched the Cards every season. I have predicted that they would win the Super Bowl every season. I have played as them in ever season of Madden Football Video Game.

But after watching their passionless embarrassment in the snow of New England, I gave up on them. I predicted that they would be destroyed by the Atlanta Falcons.

Tyler defended the Cardinals. He presented counter arguments and rebuttals with a clarity and fandom that reminded me of a young me. Little did I know that his pleading was based on the fact that he had purchased a Christmas present for me of a Cardinals Authentic Jersey.

I have always wanted a Cardinals jersey. When I was 8 years old I was given a Dallas Cowboys uniform/costume I ripped the star decal off and put the Wildcat Logo on the side and I begged my mother for a cheap Steve Bererlein knock off Cardinals jersey and I pantomimed Cardinals glory in the backyard.

Receiving a real jersey from my brother was the culmination of those backyard fantasies. Not only did the gift commemorate my brief dominance of ESPN's Pigskin Pick'em but it had special playoff powers.

Since dawning the jersey the Cards have done the unthinkable. They play defense, they run the ball, and they capitalize on their offensive potential.

Phil asked me today how the Cards could win and I said that the finger of god would be the only possibility.

Little did I know but the miracle I wished for was covering my pudgy torso.

I have not washed the jersey and I will not until we win the Super Bowl.

Go Cards!