Former Steelers WR Apologizes to Cardinals Fans

New Arizona State WR coach Hines Ward sent an apology to Arizona Cardinals fans.

ARIZONA -- The Arizona Cardinals and their fans will never forget Super Bowl XLIII.

Neither will former Pittsburgh Steelers WR Hines Ward, who helped the Steelers defeat Arizona in thrilling fashion to deny the Cardinals their first Lombardi trophy.

Arizona hasn't been back since, and on his first official day as the Arizona State Sun Devils' newest WR coach, Ward sent an apology to fans out in the desert for the heartbreak.

"I apologize for us beating the Cardinals years ago," Ward said to reporters. "So don't hold that against me. But I enjoy being here at Arizona State. Looking forward to meeting all the guys."

The move was made official over the weekend, when Ward offered an opening statement before joining the Sun Devils for spring practice.

"I am truly honored to join Arizona State University football as wide receivers coach," Ward said.

"It's an incredible opportunity to share my passion for the game with a group of talented young men and help them reach their full potential. The culture and energy here in the Valley is special and I can't wait to be part of it."

While Ward didn't do most of the damage to Arizona (shoutout to Santonio Holmes), perhaps his words are a step in the right direction for healing.