The Front Row: Science versus faith

The hype is finally over. It’s time to play some football.

Only one question is left to ask: Who is going to win?

Scratch that, I have another question: Who should win, and why?

Those two questions seem awfully similar on the surface, but they shoot for completely different philosophical ideals.

On Thursday, “Lost” made its triumphant return to the airwaves on ABC, picking up where its remarkable season three finale left off.

The crux of this groundbreaking television series has been the conflict between science (represented by spinal surgeon Jack Shepard) and faith (represented by John Locke).

Should we put our trust solely in raw data and empirical evidence, or do the real answers that matter lie beyond the physical realm?

And what does any of this have to do with today’s football game?

If you’re on Jack’s side, you believe the New England Patriots will not only win, but destroy the New York Giants.

The Patriots are completely superior on both sides of the ball and have major advantages at the two spots that count the most: quarterback and head coach.

However, if you’re on Locke’s side, you find yourself rooting for the Giants.

They have overcome adversity all season and found ways to win games they had no business winning.

So unless you’re from New England or the Tri-State area, you have a very important decision today.

Would you rather see perfection achieved or the culmination of a very surprising success story?

Do you believe in numbers and data, or do you think a mysterious cadre of “football gods” can manipulate the outcome?

As for me, I’m torn.

Part of me wants to see the Patriots pull off the impossible dream of a 19-0 season, but a larger part of me wants to see the Giants pull off the impossible dream of a Super Bowl XLII upset.

Science’s pick: New England 48, New York 14. Tom Brady throws for 420 yards and five touchdowns in a game that brought back memories of Super Bowl blowouts like Bears-Patriots in ‘86, 49ers-Broncos in ‘90 and Cowboys-Bills in ‘93.

Faith’s pick: New York 24, New England 23 on a last-second Lawrence Tynes field goal, much like his remarkable kick to win the NFC Championship game.

Ultimately, I must admit I’m a man of science, at least when it comes to football.

However, when it comes to mysterious islands, I think Locke might be onto something.

nprevenas@gvnews.com | 547-9747