Microsoft was built on technology, but it can also get up close and personal with consumers and fans in the NFL, where the company is in the midst of a five-year, $400 million alliance with the league. As director of sports and alliances for Microsoft Jeff Tran relates, this is a crucial season for Microsoft in technology, business and consumer relations as well as for the NFL, which is dealing with serious on- and off-the-field issues even as it builds toward an historic Super Bowl 50.