NFL Super Bowl 2014: Richard Sherman Offers Apology to Crabtree; 49ers won't take on Officials

Seattle Seahawks' player Richard Sherman has offered an apology to Michael Crabtree for taking a dig at him after the emotional win over the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday, which ensured them a place in the Super Bowl XLVIII.

Sherman received criticism from several quarters for his outburst at 49ers' Crabtree, during the post-match interview with Erin Andrews of Fox Sports. He was also flagged for making "choking" gesture during the game.

"I apologize for attacking an individual and taking the attention away from the fantastic game by my teammates," Sherman told ESPN's Ed Werder. "That was not my intent." 

Seahawks coach Pete Carroll is protective of his player, describing him as an understanding person.

"This is a very emotional kid, and this is what drives him," NFL.com quoted him as saying on Monday. "And I understand that. We did sit down and talk about it because I want him to present himself in his best light. He's an incredible kid. ... So when he puts out those kind of thoughts he has to know what he's saying and understand." 

"I think he's very understanding at this point he caused a stir that took something away from the club."

Sherman had also claimed that he was the best cornerback.

"I'm the best corner in the game. When you try me with a sorry receiver like Crabtree, that is the result you are going to get. Don't you ever talk about me," Sherman screamed.

When Andrews asked who was talking about him, Sherman shouted back: "Crabtree. Don't you open your mouth about the best, or I'm going to shut it for you really quick."

The Seattle Seahawks entered the Super Bowl after the 23-17 win against the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday. Sherman's deflection of a pass meant for Crabtree towards the end of the game was considered by many as the turning point of the thrilling win.

Taking the loss sportingly, the San Francisco 49ers players were not in the mood to blame anyone, despite a few controversial decisions by the officials that favored the Seattle Seahawks. The players were of the opinion that officials are not immune to wrong decisions and that only one team wins.

VIDEO: Richard Sherman rips Michael Crabtree in Erin Andrews interview