The Controversial Game

When you look at the current Pro Bowl roster for the game on Sunday, it's easy to see why they should not play this game. The players deserve the honor and recognition, but nobody really wants to play the game.

The rosters have already been weakened by the loss of those playing in the Super Bowl. There are replacements for them, but eventually, the talent level gets diluted. The game suffers because the best players are no longer playing.

It's easy to see why they play it because it's all about the money. The game draws 13 million viewers, better than the all-star games of the NBA, NHL and MLB. It has a big impact on the local Hawaiian economy with the numerous parties and charity events. It has become the opening event of the year for the tourism industry.

I can't blame Wes Welker for opting out based on injury. I have no doubt that he is banged up very badly. When his pending free agency, he stands to gain nothing by playing and has everything to lose if he gets hurt.

The Commissioner raised concern about the quality of the play in last year's game. It will be interesting to see how well the game is played. There will be grousing before and after the game, but as long as nobody suffers a catastrophic injury, the show will go on.