The 2012 Pro Bowl started off slow, but it provided plenty of excitement and great plays as the AFC beat the NFC 59-41. Early on, the NFC built a sizable lead behind Larry Fitzgerald's two touchdown receptions. But the AFC stormed back, tying the game at the half and then pulling away in the 4th quarter. Despite multiple trick plays (including onside kicks, reverses, fake punts, laterals, and a drop kick attempt), the NFC could not outdo Brandon Marshall's multiple circus catch touchdowns, including one where he caught the ball on a bounce on his back. Marshall also recorded 4 touchdown receptions, the most of any Pro Bowl player in a game since Jimmy Smith's 3 touchdown performance almost a decade ago. Of course, the big question now will be whether the Pro Bowl remains in Hawaii in forthcoming years, now that the contract Hawaii has with the NFL is officially up. A lot of players would like the game to stay in the islands, which would probably be the best case scenario. Assuming Hawaii governor Neil Abercrombie doesn't screw up negotiations, this process should be an easy one logistically. Unlike the 3 other major sports, the Pro Bowl always takes place at the end of the year, in the same city. Moving the Pro Bowl to the Super Bowl city would be Plan B, but that move would be unpopular with many players. Who would want to play in Houston or Jacksonville when an AFC South player has already been to those cities during the year. The Hawaii aspect of the game offers a unique chance for players to enjoy the island hospitality while feeling a sense of reward for a good season. It also allows the state to make money from tourism. The Pro Bowl could become even more of a sham if it is constantly on the move in cold-weather cities, with many players deciding not to go and attendances dropping, so it would be ideal to keep it in Hawaii for the foreseeable future.
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