Shocking close to Super Bowl presents important lessons, says psychologist

SANTA CLARA, Calif. (KTVU) -- As football fans wait just over a year until Super Bowl 50, many were still talking about the high drama of Super Bowl 49 and one of the most dramatic interceptions in football history.

"I couldn't believe they passed it," said Jason Cumberland visiting the Bay Area from Denver.

It seems no one could believe the decision to pass instead of handing the ball to the best running back in the league, Marshawn Lynch.

"I think it comes down to the decision makers on the sidelines who didn't quite get it right," said Daniel Greengarten who watched the game in Santa Clara.

The unforgettable goal line interception by Malcolm Butler saved the game for the New England Patriots, stunning Seattle.

Seahawks coach Pete Carroll took blame for the final play and for blowing the team's chance at NFL bliss.

San Jose psychologist Adam Dorsay told KTVU Super Bowl 49 offered a great example of the thrill of victory and the agony of defeat. 

The game's improbable hero, the undrafted and largely unknown Butler, offered life lesson number 1: Make things happen.

"Just go for it," Dorsay said. "Had Butler over thought his actions...If you watch the tape, he didn't. He went with his instincts."

Dorsay said it's important to stay at the top of your game so you can capitalize on the smallest opportunities.

And he said, even when things don't go your way, don't act like a sore loser.

The Seahawks' hard-fought battle ended with a fight.

Life lesson number 2: Show some respect (or lose the respect of those around you.)

"They handled anger very poorly in that moment," Dorsay said. "What happens is a succession of denial, anger, bargaining, depression and acceptance. They quickly went from denial, this isn't happening, to I'm so angry about this."

Finally Dorsay said don't linger on the loss.

For the Seahawks, there's always next year and in the business world, there's always another client.

Life lesson number 3: Move on

"We know that sometimes those losses make us ultimately better people, better professionals, better parents and actually offer a sweeter sense of life when those future wins do come around," Dorsay said.