Richard Sherman is going to have a big month, no matter what happens on Sunday

January 10, 2015; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Seahawks cornerback Richard Sherman (25) reacts after free safety Earl Thomas (29) intercepts a pass against the Carolina Panthers during the first half in the 2014 NFC Divisional playoff football game at CenturyLink Field. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Football is just a game, even when it’s the Super Bowl. There is no bigger example of that right now than what is going on in Seattle Seahawks cornerback Richard Sherman’s life. Win or lose, the Super Bowl won’t be the biggest thing to happen to Sherman in the next few weeks.

Sherman announced in his column for Sports Illustrated’s Monday Morning QB that he and his girlfriend are expecting a baby “any day now.” He also said that becoming a father has helped him to become better man.

"I’ve realized in the last year that I can evoke change by being a great role model: a man who respects women and police officers, who graduated from college and does everything in his power to be successful within the rules."

Sherman has always been a role model for the effects of hard work and perseverance. He’s overcome a lot to get to where he is today. Now he says he’ll work to pass those lessons on to his son.

"My son will understand that he’s in control of his own destiny and that education, work ethic and discipline will guide him to an even better life than I’ve enjoyed. He’ll be the man who makes this world a better place through positive actions and influence."

Those of us at 12th Man Rising would like to offer our our congratulations to Sherman and Ashley, his girlfriend. Parenthood is an interesting and challenging adventure, which is something I know first hand.