This Week's SI

This Week's SI

Al Tielemans/SI

Alabama turned what was supposed to be a defensive showdown into an offensive beatdown, and by the second half the only competition remaining was between the school's old coach and its current one. Tim Layden writes about the dominance that Alabama displayed and the continuing ascendance of a living legend in Nick Saban. <italics>(Check out SI's </italics><italics>web version of the magazine.)</italics>

David Bergman/SI

What is it like to be a fan of a team that is a top regular season team and never a champion? Over more than two decades, Thomas Lake has learned some of life's most bitter lessons as a hopelessly devoted fan of luckless Atlanta. But this year? This year might be different. Meet Thomas Lake, a Falcons' addict. <italics>(Check out SI's web version of the magazine.)</italics>

Doug Pensinger/Getty Images

The Broncos' D, best in the playoffs, rides on the shoulders of a young Von Miller, a sack machine who is still learning his job. Jim Trotter profiles last year's Defensive Rookie of the Year, who reminds Trotter that "when guys see #58, I want them to say they have to go to the other side." <italics>(Check out SI's web version of the magazine.)</italics>

John Biever/SI

A title-tested quarterback, a fearsome pass rush, a healthy roster and the confidence to win on the road ? Green Bay and Aaron Rodgers fit the Lombardi formula. But they'll have to get past Peyton Manning. Peter King offers up his Super Bowl pick now that the Divisional Playoffs are set and the Super Bowl is in sight. King also offers up his selections for year-end honors with a few surprises.<italics>(Check out SI's web version of the magazine.)</italics>

Bob Rosato/SI

Retirement near and his image rehabilitation seemingly complete, Ray Lewis remains most compelling for the pure intensity that he brought to the field. S.L. Price discusses the enigmatic and entertaining career of the NFL's most visible and vocal linebacker. <italics>(Check out SI's web version of the magazine.)</italics>

Courtesy of TLC

Charlie Hustle hits the airwaves. He won't be in this year's Hall-of-Fame class, instead Pete Rose will be on a new reality television show ? one that offers an amusing and affecting look at the improbable domestic life of the baseball legend <italics>(Check out SI's web version of the magazine.)</italics>