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For only the second time in the last eight years, the Madden NFL Football Super Bowl Simulation has been proven wrong. This year’s prediction picked the Steelers winning with a final score of 24-20. However, real life intervened, and the Packers emerged as Super Bowl XLV champs in a 31-25 victory.

Aside from the final score, the simulation’s accuracy is almost scary. In the simulation, Ben Roethlisberger threw two touchdowns (one each to Hines Ward and Mike Wallace) while Rashard Mendenhall ran one in. In real life, all of these events also occured. However, it’s the INT column that made all the difference as the simulation predicted Big Ben would throw one pick, but in real life, he threw two. The first of those interceptions was returned for a touchdown, putting the Packers up 14-0 early and ensuring their real life victory.

The other major difference between the simulation and real life is the performance of Aaron Rodgers. The simulation predicted he would toss two interceptions, including one in the final seconds that would have sealed the game for Pittsburgh. Instead, Rodgers was almost perfect on Super Bowl Sunday, throwing for three touchdowns and 304 yards. As you may have guessed, he was named the Super Bowl MVP at the end of the game.

And he’s likely the early favorite to appear on the cover of Madden NFL 12. Packer fans are no doubt preparing some kind of anti-Madden Curse ritual as we speak.