I meant to post this sooner, but shit happens. Before I start, this is not a rant, nor the ravings of a bitter fan. These are simply facts as I have experienced them.
As a lifelong Pittsburgh Steelers fan, I have nothing against the Ravens, their players, their quality organization or their fans. First and foremost I am a football fan. I will watch the worst two teams play even during preseason. I love football that much.
But it's baseball season now. And a few years ago, for one summer, I was an Orioles season ticket holder. I have always been an Orioles fan. Last season was a treat for O's fans as the team finally showed some real promise. This season is no different. I occasionally wear an Orioles hat in public, whether it be at a grocery store or out getting gas. But since the Super Bowl on February 3rd of this year, something odd has taken place.
The Ravens beat the 49ers 34-31 in an exciting game. I was happy for all. It would not have broken my heart had the 49ers rallied at the end, but that may be a topic for another entry.
Anyway, since the Super Bowl, no matter where I go, someone is always decked out in Ravens gear as if it was December and the team had already locked up the AFC North.
I guess some folks are still high off their Super Bowl victory. Look, I rooted for the Ravens when they beat the Giants like a drum in Super Bowl XXXV. I rationalized that if not the Steelers, at least someone in our division.
I knew a lot of Ravens fans who felt the same way. They ALL have changed. They hate the Steelers and want to see them do poorly forever. Oh well. I also find that people who are new to me and seemingly think I'm a decent guy, soon change their opinion when they find out that I support the Steelers.
It's just a kid's game, played by rich men, who are not nearly as fanatical as you or me or any other crazy fan that bleeds Purple, Black and Gold, or Philly Green.
In a nutshell, I will continue to support the Black and Orange, rooting for Mr. Jones, Crush, my all-time favorite Greek player, and Manny the Kid. But when the Steelers play their first regular season game on Sunday, September 8th against the Tennessee Titans, I will be cheering my Black and Gold to victory.
But I'll also continue rooting for the Black and Orange. Go O's.
