Michael Jackson. U2. Sting. Prince. Mick Jagger. What do all of these performers have in common? Each has had the honor to perform in the Super Bowl halftime show. This year Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers were added to this esteemed list of legends.

The band has been performing since 1976 and has sold over 50 million records. They have received 18 Grammy nominations and have a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame; and were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2002.

Every year the Super Bowl halftime is one of the most anticipated entertainment events and with such a highly accomplished band in the lineup, this year's show was no different.

According to the official National Football League Web site, "Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers bring prestige and undiluted rock and roll to the Bridgestone Super Bowl XLII Halftime Show."

Yet many students did not share this sentiment.

"I thought it was nice to bring back a big name like Tom Petty, but I always remembered the halftime shows being so much better than they are now. It's possible I've just grown up a bit since then but they are not the same," said senior Sarah Novotny.

This year's show had minimal flashy effects, yet many students commented that those were their favorite parts. The show started with a unique heart shaped stage that flashed red in the dark stadium in a steady heartbeat rhythm. Then a white Flying V guitar pierced the heart just like an arrow after first traveling along the field.

"That was pretty cool and was more fun than the show itself," said freshman Zack Lane.

Tom Petty gave a solid performance of his pieces "American Girl," "I Won't Back Down," "Free Fallin'" and "Runnin' Down a Dream." Yet, some students said that despite his efforts, the show, which was done in more of a concert style, was a flop that lacked any excitement.

"Ever since Janet Jackson had her 'wardrobe malfunction' in the 2004 Super Bowl, the performers have been very conservative.

The family-friendly performances have been a constant let down ever since. With all of the great performers of today, they definitely could have gotten someone more exciting," said junior Kim Russo.

"Tom Petty is a good artist, he just was a poor choice for the halftime show," said junior Marc Wilson.

"It was not upbeat enough to entertain a crowd who is more interested in the sport aspect of the night."

Of course at the end of the show there were a few fireworks set off for good measure. Yet aside from this, the only additional or showy effects were whatever appeared on the screen behind the band.

"It seemed like the longest 12 minutes ever," said senior Stephanie Strout. "I am not the biggest football fan but even I was ready for the game to start up again."