If I tried to link to every blog post about the Super Bowl, my week would be blown. It would probably be blown even if I limited my linkage to newspaper and magazine articles. So, I’ll just post what little is on my mind about the big game.

Two things about the game stand out above all else.

First, Saints’ Coach Sean Payton wasn’t afraid to try anything to bring home a win to a city that hasn’t had a win of any kind for a long time. Although he demonstrated his fearless bent several times, Payton’s biggest risk was the onside kick at the beginning of the second half. It worked and changed the game. If it hadn’t, the game would have probably belonged to the Colts.

When asked about the play, the Saints’ kicker said, “I wasn’t worried. I was terrified.” Terrifying decisions are hard to make and sometimes too reckless. But when everything is on the line, making a terrifying decision — whether you’re a coach, a CEO, a manager, or an employee — may be the most reasonable way to go.

Second, Colts’ quarterback, Peyton Manning, legendary for his game preparation, was for a split second out-prepared by Saints’ cornerback Tracy Porter, who intercepted Manning as the Colts were driving for a tying touchdown and then returned the ball for a 74 yard touchdown of his own. Porter recognized the play as one often called by Manning in third down situations. Amazingly, Porter’s preparation trumped Manning’s.

Taking risks and being prepared are necessary parts of any organization. Sometimes, those characteristics lead you to the top — if luck’s also on your side.