If you haven't had a chance to read this at Yahoo! Sports, you should make the time... It shows a side of Troy we all know is there, but rarely get to see. Excellent article. Even better role model. Are there any other reasons why Troy is so beloved in Pittsburgh?
One reason why I hold the Super Bowl Steelers of the 70s in such high esteem is because the team was largely made up of quality individuals. Strong faith. Unmeasureable determination. Fearless teamwork in pursuit of a common goal. Troy is a throwback to that generation, and it is in the still waters of his quiet approach that we see the true strength of character that makes him one of the elite players of all time.
May your God bless you Troy, and your wife. (And your three English bulldogs!)
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
Monday, September 24, 2007
3-0... Feels so good, looks even better
37-16... and to tell the truth, not even that close.
Yes, the Niners had a few sustained drives, but the Steelers were in complete bend not break mode. Led by the combination of the powerful legs of Fast Willie, the sure hands of Heath Miller and the (perhaps too) careful guidance of Big Ben, the O did a great job playing ball control, efficient offense to rule the day. Throw in some excellent return work from Allen Rossum and a game-busting Defensive TD, and you spell success.
Maybe, just maybe, the team will start getting some national recognition? Oh wait, Green Bay is 3-0 too? OK, let them continue to spread the spotlight on the non-story of the year (Brett Favre) and the overblown media-made controversy that is Donovan McNabb in Philly... The Steelers will earn their due come the important Division games about a month away. And if not then, they will surely get plenty of exposure come playoffs, because this team is going there.
Ben has certainly exorcized the demons of last year's 8-8 disappointment. He is showing true leadership on the field, and while you can see he still thinks he can make a big play on every play, he is doing a great job of constraining that belief and keeping his cool.
The O-line played very well, especially in the running game... there were a few breakdowns in pass protection, but no glaring examples come to mind. The Niners show excellent team speed, and I think they will upset a few NFC teams along the way (if not Steeler divisional opponents?).
Perhaps the biggest stars of the game for the Steelers - well, McFadden's INT and 50-yard TD return was certainly a thing of beauty... but to me, it was the line domination of the unsung D-Line. Casey Hampton, Hoke, Smith, Eason... I remember seeing each of them busting up plays before they had a chance to launch.
This week brings a reunion with the Steelers' former O braintrust (Head Coach Ken Whisenhunt and his Assistant Head Coach Russ Grimm). I was pulling for either or both to take over the reins when Cowher decided to step down. I think the team might have responded to either or both in the same manner they are taking the lead of Coach Tomlin.
But you know what? I think the Rooney's made the best decision going with Tomlin (the unkown entity). And I think this week's match-up in the desert heat will show how cool Tomlin will remain as he leads this team into a new era of excellence.
Yes, the Niners had a few sustained drives, but the Steelers were in complete bend not break mode. Led by the combination of the powerful legs of Fast Willie, the sure hands of Heath Miller and the (perhaps too) careful guidance of Big Ben, the O did a great job playing ball control, efficient offense to rule the day. Throw in some excellent return work from Allen Rossum and a game-busting Defensive TD, and you spell success.
Maybe, just maybe, the team will start getting some national recognition? Oh wait, Green Bay is 3-0 too? OK, let them continue to spread the spotlight on the non-story of the year (Brett Favre) and the overblown media-made controversy that is Donovan McNabb in Philly... The Steelers will earn their due come the important Division games about a month away. And if not then, they will surely get plenty of exposure come playoffs, because this team is going there.
Ben has certainly exorcized the demons of last year's 8-8 disappointment. He is showing true leadership on the field, and while you can see he still thinks he can make a big play on every play, he is doing a great job of constraining that belief and keeping his cool.
The O-line played very well, especially in the running game... there were a few breakdowns in pass protection, but no glaring examples come to mind. The Niners show excellent team speed, and I think they will upset a few NFC teams along the way (if not Steeler divisional opponents?).
Perhaps the biggest stars of the game for the Steelers - well, McFadden's INT and 50-yard TD return was certainly a thing of beauty... but to me, it was the line domination of the unsung D-Line. Casey Hampton, Hoke, Smith, Eason... I remember seeing each of them busting up plays before they had a chance to launch.
This week brings a reunion with the Steelers' former O braintrust (Head Coach Ken Whisenhunt and his Assistant Head Coach Russ Grimm). I was pulling for either or both to take over the reins when Cowher decided to step down. I think the team might have responded to either or both in the same manner they are taking the lead of Coach Tomlin.
But you know what? I think the Rooney's made the best decision going with Tomlin (the unkown entity). And I think this week's match-up in the desert heat will show how cool Tomlin will remain as he leads this team into a new era of excellence.
Saturday, September 22, 2007
Niners' Clements a Challenge for Ward
One interesting matchup to keep track of this Sunday is Niners' DB Nate Clements against Hines Ward, Santonio Holmes and the WR gang... Clements is physical and makes the smart plays that can change games in a flash...
NFL.com holds a fan vote for player of the week. Clements was last week's winner.
I don't think Clements alone can make the difference, it just makes it more interesting to watch when you know the guy lining up opposite Hines likes to plays just as physical a game. Let's hope that Hines' smile rules the day.
NFL.com holds a fan vote for player of the week. Clements was last week's winner.
I don't think Clements alone can make the difference, it just makes it more interesting to watch when you know the guy lining up opposite Hines likes to plays just as physical a game. Let's hope that Hines' smile rules the day.
Thursday, September 20, 2007
Tomlin Era - Early Success = Old Questions
As fun as it has been to watch the first two games this year, it has been equally interesting to watch the developments off the field as the new Tomlin Era Steelers team approaches its third game...
The early success (face it, any time you start off 2-0 with a 60-10 scoring ratio, it is a successful start), has talk show hosts and beat reporters in a frenzy. Are the Steelers that good or have their first two opponents been that bad?
Today, I see shots being taken at former Coach Bill Cowher's over-dominating tactics vs. his conservative restraint. According to Ed Bouchette in today's P-G, Defensive Coordinator - the Wizard - Dick LeBeau has been unleashed to do what he wants with the D.
Personally, I haven't noticed much of a change in the Steeler D's approach... I have always expected to see them play aggressively, with Polamalu playing everywhere at the same time, and defensive ends dropping into coverage as Farrior or Foote roll into a blitz.
Whatever they are doing, they are doing it right. And, whomever you want to give the credit to - be it Tomlin, LeBeau or the players - please go ahead and do so... The true differences between Cowher and Tomlin will play out over time. I think this team was prime for the kind of level-headed change Tomlin seems to be bringing... the core of the team is still the guys who reached the pinnacle. They expect to be there (deep into the playoffs) if they execute the game plan prepared by the coaches week in and week out. I guess I expect the same!
The early success (face it, any time you start off 2-0 with a 60-10 scoring ratio, it is a successful start), has talk show hosts and beat reporters in a frenzy. Are the Steelers that good or have their first two opponents been that bad?
Today, I see shots being taken at former Coach Bill Cowher's over-dominating tactics vs. his conservative restraint. According to Ed Bouchette in today's P-G, Defensive Coordinator - the Wizard - Dick LeBeau has been unleashed to do what he wants with the D.
"Players and coaches, on and off the record, say LeBeau has the freedom to call
what he wants, when he wants under Tomlin, a freedom he did not previously have under Cowher."
Personally, I haven't noticed much of a change in the Steeler D's approach... I have always expected to see them play aggressively, with Polamalu playing everywhere at the same time, and defensive ends dropping into coverage as Farrior or Foote roll into a blitz.
Whatever they are doing, they are doing it right. And, whomever you want to give the credit to - be it Tomlin, LeBeau or the players - please go ahead and do so... The true differences between Cowher and Tomlin will play out over time. I think this team was prime for the kind of level-headed change Tomlin seems to be bringing... the core of the team is still the guys who reached the pinnacle. They expect to be there (deep into the playoffs) if they execute the game plan prepared by the coaches week in and week out. I guess I expect the same!
Sunday, September 16, 2007
Belichek: Cheater or just evil genius?
Without a doubt, Bill Belichick is a good football coach. Great even. But he will now and forever be known as a cheater. Bring on the asterisks, some are saying.
Jimmy Johnson pretty much indicted himself today, too, trying to defend his colleague, which actually did worse to save face for the genius than anything else I observed.
At first glance, the $500 K + $250 K plus the loss of draft pick(s) in 2008 penalties seemed to be a pretty fair response from the NFL... Now, after a weekend watching the games, and listening to the players and broadcasters, I don't think it went far enough and I think Roger Goodell needs to look further into the evidence and the history.
As I type this, the Pats are leading the Chargers 24-zip... They seem to be dominating all facets of the game, and the addition of Randy Moss gives Brady a weapon like he has never had before. The team has always seemed to be the 'thing' in New England, which was an enviable position, even for a Steeler fan.
But from now on, I will always question how good those second half adjustments and on field check-offs by Brady really were over the past years... One reporter today (I haven't located a link yet. when/if I do, I'll post it here) said that Belicheat has a library of tapes of opposing defensive coaches on the sideline, and that the matter is NOT closed as far as the NFL is concerned. For the good of the game, I hope so.
Jimmy Johnson pretty much indicted himself today, too, trying to defend his colleague, which actually did worse to save face for the genius than anything else I observed.
At first glance, the $500 K + $250 K plus the loss of draft pick(s) in 2008 penalties seemed to be a pretty fair response from the NFL... Now, after a weekend watching the games, and listening to the players and broadcasters, I don't think it went far enough and I think Roger Goodell needs to look further into the evidence and the history.
As I type this, the Pats are leading the Chargers 24-zip... They seem to be dominating all facets of the game, and the addition of Randy Moss gives Brady a weapon like he has never had before. The team has always seemed to be the 'thing' in New England, which was an enviable position, even for a Steeler fan.
But from now on, I will always question how good those second half adjustments and on field check-offs by Brady really were over the past years... One reporter today (I haven't located a link yet. when/if I do, I'll post it here) said that Belicheat has a library of tapes of opposing defensive coaches on the sideline, and that the matter is NOT closed as far as the NFL is concerned. For the good of the game, I hope so.
#500, 75 years in the making
26-3, good guys win again!
Whatever one thought about the throw-back uniforms (in my case, not much), the performance on the field was pretty enjoyable to watch. This team really does seem to be taking on the demeanor of Coach Tomlin, which is a very good thing. They seem driven, focused and very well prepared.
Fast Willie had 126 yards (3rd 100-yard game in a row going back to last year) with a nice 9-yard TD. Ben threw for 242 yards and a TD. The D had 4 sacks... about the only bad break was an injury to OLB James Harrison (shoulder), who actually returned to the field after being carted off thinking they would put him back in the game. Down boy, down... We have a couple hungry LBs who need some game experience, and Rookie phenom in the making LaMarr Woodley came through with one of the sacks... (There is no secret among my friends that I really wanted the Steelers to draft PSU stand-out and Hopewell native Paul Posluszny... Paul played well for the Bills, and I see a very bright future for the guy Jack Ham called "the best PSU LB of all-time.")
All in all, this was the team's 500th all-time victory... they are 500-479-20 all-time, and have become the fifth NFL franchise to reach that milestone... It only took 75 years to get there! That works out to a mere 6.67 wins per year... which reminds longtime fans of the many mediocre seasons before the 70s dynasty and the real fun began.
Now, let the good times continue -- but give us back our classic black & gold uni's, please?
Whatever one thought about the throw-back uniforms (in my case, not much), the performance on the field was pretty enjoyable to watch. This team really does seem to be taking on the demeanor of Coach Tomlin, which is a very good thing. They seem driven, focused and very well prepared.
Fast Willie had 126 yards (3rd 100-yard game in a row going back to last year) with a nice 9-yard TD. Ben threw for 242 yards and a TD. The D had 4 sacks... about the only bad break was an injury to OLB James Harrison (shoulder), who actually returned to the field after being carted off thinking they would put him back in the game. Down boy, down... We have a couple hungry LBs who need some game experience, and Rookie phenom in the making LaMarr Woodley came through with one of the sacks... (There is no secret among my friends that I really wanted the Steelers to draft PSU stand-out and Hopewell native Paul Posluszny... Paul played well for the Bills, and I see a very bright future for the guy Jack Ham called "the best PSU LB of all-time.")
All in all, this was the team's 500th all-time victory... they are 500-479-20 all-time, and have become the fifth NFL franchise to reach that milestone... It only took 75 years to get there! That works out to a mere 6.67 wins per year... which reminds longtime fans of the many mediocre seasons before the 70s dynasty and the real fun began.
Now, let the good times continue -- but give us back our classic black & gold uni's, please?
Friday, September 14, 2007
Steelers 16th in Value?
Forbes came out with its annual list of NFL team values and somehow came up with a estimated worth of $929,000,000 for 'r Stillers... er, uh, the Rooney's Steelers. That value places the franchise #16 of the 32 NFL cities. Dallas Cryboys jumped into first at a cool $1.5 bil.
The $929 mil shows a jump of $49 mil over last year's estimated $880 mil value... nice return on an 8-8 season if you ask me!
Pretty amazing... Looks like ol' Art's investment 75 years ago was well worth it in more ways than one can count.
Now, maybe the team can shake out a few more bucks to keep Faneca happy for the next 4 or 5 years?
The $929 mil shows a jump of $49 mil over last year's estimated $880 mil value... nice return on an 8-8 season if you ask me!
Pretty amazing... Looks like ol' Art's investment 75 years ago was well worth it in more ways than one can count.
Now, maybe the team can shake out a few more bucks to keep Faneca happy for the next 4 or 5 years?
Women of Steeler Nation Lead by Example
It came as no surprise to read the results of a survey that concluded: "Pittsburgh has, by far, the largest base of NFL fans who are women."
As someone who grew up in a house in which it was Mom who always made sure the TV was tuned to the right station and the radio was blaring with Myron Cope and Jack Fleming on Sundays by noon, the survey results simply verify what I've always known.
Now, with two daughters of my own, the tradition continues in our household. (Well, the TV part at least... Myron is gone, and Billy Hillgrove took over for Fleming a few years ago.)
However, the notion that a female Steeler fan wants to wear pink instead of black & gold is just not true. Even my five year old scoffed at the thought, which is a shame, considering her aunt bought her a cute pink logo shirt last year that my daughter was supposed to grow into. She won't wear the thing, because it isn't the colors she sees all of us wearing on Sundays!
My little fan knows the team colors are black and gold (even if she did ask "Why do you call yellow 'gold'?") and she knows, too, that the official logo features three hypocycloids containing the primary colors of blue, red and yellow. I remind you, she is five! I couldn't even say 'hypocycloid' when I was five.
I know I bashed some rowdy Steeler fans in an earlier post, but I also know that the proud Steeler Nation is vast, with the most loyal and engaging fans in the sports world, too.
As someone who grew up in a house in which it was Mom who always made sure the TV was tuned to the right station and the radio was blaring with Myron Cope and Jack Fleming on Sundays by noon, the survey results simply verify what I've always known.
Now, with two daughters of my own, the tradition continues in our household. (Well, the TV part at least... Myron is gone, and Billy Hillgrove took over for Fleming a few years ago.)
However, the notion that a female Steeler fan wants to wear pink instead of black & gold is just not true. Even my five year old scoffed at the thought, which is a shame, considering her aunt bought her a cute pink logo shirt last year that my daughter was supposed to grow into. She won't wear the thing, because it isn't the colors she sees all of us wearing on Sundays!
My little fan knows the team colors are black and gold (even if she did ask "Why do you call yellow 'gold'?") and she knows, too, that the official logo features three hypocycloids containing the primary colors of blue, red and yellow. I remind you, she is five! I couldn't even say 'hypocycloid' when I was five.
I know I bashed some rowdy Steeler fans in an earlier post, but I also know that the proud Steeler Nation is vast, with the most loyal and engaging fans in the sports world, too.
Sunday, September 9, 2007
Big Ben - The stuff for which stadiums are named?
I spent a few hours with my daughter on Saturday afternoon watching my cousin's daughter lead her #1 ranked soccer team to an easy win at Joe Montana Stadium. That's the real name of Ringgold High School Stadium in Monongahela, PA. How do I know? There are two larger-than-life billboards of Joe in his 49er uniform plastered above both sets of bleachers, with the words "Welcome to Joe Montana Stadium" emblazoned alongside.
It got me thinking about a few comments I made watching Big Ben's incredible debut a few years ago. Whatever Joe had, Ben has it, too. That was my impression, and I'm sticking to it.
Watch Ben work a roll-out... He has that instinct -- like Joe had -- to take a quick glance behind him, and, in an instant, spot where the pursuit is, compute what kind of time he has, and then return his concentation to go through the reads down field. He does it exactly the way I remember Montana doing it... And he gets great results.
Like Joe, Ben is a leader on the field. He commands the attention and seems to win the respect of those around him. Bettis loved him. Faneca has grown enamored with the one-time rookie he derisively put in his place. Even new O-Coordinator Bruce Arians has revealed that Ben has final say on all play calls this year. That's the same way "genius" Bill Walsh treated ol' Joe in his glory years winning Super Bowls at the 'Stick.
As a Steeler fan, we have learned to live without the gushing fantasy league stats from our QBs. But it seems to me, Big Ben is going to be the kind of QB you'll want to start on your fantasy team every week. Ben is smart, mostly cool under pressure, and seems to be maturing after last year's tough lessons.
Yes, Ben made that awful flailing pitch-interception in the preseason. I said at the time that I hoped it would be the last time he makes that kind of stupid mistake. I know it won't be, because he does believe he can make the most of a bad situation. I just hope he remembers how stupid the play looked, how silly it made him look, and how much this team needs him to not just make the right decisions -- and to NOT make the wrong decision -- to give them the best chance for success.
I don't know if they have renamed Ben's high school stadium after him yet or not. Seems a little premature if they have. But I do think he is on his way to having the kind of magical career that led the folks in Monongahela to reclaim Joe Montana as its favorite son. Oh, I also hope Ben matches -- or exceeds, even -- Joe's number of rings when his career is complete. He's got his first... this is as good a year as any to get his next one.
*As for watching a girls' high school varsity soccer game on a sultry 90-degree September Saturday? Well, soccer is still probably my least favorite sport, but it was surprisingly enjoyable. Of course, it helped that my cousin's daughter is being touted as one of the best players in Pennsylvania. So, it was great fun to let my kindergarden-aged daughter watch her 2nd cousin excell on the field! She finished with two assists and two goals, including a highlight reel special that showed the hype she is enjoying is well deserved. Go Mackenzie! Good luck. PTKA, for sure.
It got me thinking about a few comments I made watching Big Ben's incredible debut a few years ago. Whatever Joe had, Ben has it, too. That was my impression, and I'm sticking to it.
Watch Ben work a roll-out... He has that instinct -- like Joe had -- to take a quick glance behind him, and, in an instant, spot where the pursuit is, compute what kind of time he has, and then return his concentation to go through the reads down field. He does it exactly the way I remember Montana doing it... And he gets great results.
Like Joe, Ben is a leader on the field. He commands the attention and seems to win the respect of those around him. Bettis loved him. Faneca has grown enamored with the one-time rookie he derisively put in his place. Even new O-Coordinator Bruce Arians has revealed that Ben has final say on all play calls this year. That's the same way "genius" Bill Walsh treated ol' Joe in his glory years winning Super Bowls at the 'Stick.
As a Steeler fan, we have learned to live without the gushing fantasy league stats from our QBs. But it seems to me, Big Ben is going to be the kind of QB you'll want to start on your fantasy team every week. Ben is smart, mostly cool under pressure, and seems to be maturing after last year's tough lessons.
Yes, Ben made that awful flailing pitch-interception in the preseason. I said at the time that I hoped it would be the last time he makes that kind of stupid mistake. I know it won't be, because he does believe he can make the most of a bad situation. I just hope he remembers how stupid the play looked, how silly it made him look, and how much this team needs him to not just make the right decisions -- and to NOT make the wrong decision -- to give them the best chance for success.
I don't know if they have renamed Ben's high school stadium after him yet or not. Seems a little premature if they have. But I do think he is on his way to having the kind of magical career that led the folks in Monongahela to reclaim Joe Montana as its favorite son. Oh, I also hope Ben matches -- or exceeds, even -- Joe's number of rings when his career is complete. He's got his first... this is as good a year as any to get his next one.
*As for watching a girls' high school varsity soccer game on a sultry 90-degree September Saturday? Well, soccer is still probably my least favorite sport, but it was surprisingly enjoyable. Of course, it helped that my cousin's daughter is being touted as one of the best players in Pennsylvania. So, it was great fun to let my kindergarden-aged daughter watch her 2nd cousin excell on the field! She finished with two assists and two goals, including a highlight reel special that showed the hype she is enjoying is well deserved. Go Mackenzie! Good luck. PTKA, for sure.
First Impressions
34-7. Terrific start. Cleveland looks to be its usual inept self. Winslow could play for most teams, other than him???
'R Stillers were fortunate to open with such a patsy... not to say it wasn't a hard-hitting game. The Brahwnies got a couple good shots in, especially at the start of the second half. But instead of being intimidated, the Steelers stepped up to the challenge and pounded the dogpounders back into submission.
Tomlin seems to be the right kind of coach for this current collection of Steelers. Especially Ben. Quiet confidence. Determined. Prepared. Let the more emotional players do the rah-rah-ing. His "job" is to manage the game.
Ben even got in a small "dig" after the game. He said with Tomlin, it was unlikely "to be spit on or have things thrown at him" by the new coach. Maybe there really is something to the Ben-Chin rift?
Hines Ward is a master. He took a bad late-hit penalty (justified call, this time). But his TD catch was one for the ages. What can I say? There is not a wide receiver I would rather have on my team out of every guy in the league right now. He plays the game the right way, every play, until the whistle blows (and every once in a while, a teensie bit past the whistle.)... And, he does it with a smile. Does anyone enjoy playing football more than Hines?
Santonio Holmes (Maybe we can call him "Show" for short?) is emerging. He blew past the hapless Cleve safeties on his TD. And Ben connected on a perfect pass. We could get used to that kind of execution! He turned the corner nicely on his end-around as well. Hope to see lots more of this Show as the season goes on.
O-line... well... they had their moments. The helped the running game churn out 150+ yards, and Ben was only harrassed a few times. Everyone's worried about Faneca mailing this season in. But he is playing for a BIG contract, so I expect to see the best guard in football play like the best guard in football. Still, he looked silly being so far in front of the one screen or reverse (forget exactly how the play started -- I was too busy laughing at him trying to catch his breath after he had to run full speed for more than 4 yards trying to find someone to hit!).
The D was mostly excellent. Six sacks, two interceptions, three fumble recoveries... The Brahwnies were/are pretty inept -- but the Steeler D made them look even worse than they are.
As always, I love our Polamalu -- 'r Stiller version of Cousin IT! is THE most exciting defensive player in the game. Period.
All-in-all, a very good start to a promising new era. Bring on the BuffBills. This could be a very fun season to be a rabid Steeler fan.
'R Stillers were fortunate to open with such a patsy... not to say it wasn't a hard-hitting game. The Brahwnies got a couple good shots in, especially at the start of the second half. But instead of being intimidated, the Steelers stepped up to the challenge and pounded the dogpounders back into submission.
Tomlin seems to be the right kind of coach for this current collection of Steelers. Especially Ben. Quiet confidence. Determined. Prepared. Let the more emotional players do the rah-rah-ing. His "job" is to manage the game.
Ben even got in a small "dig" after the game. He said with Tomlin, it was unlikely "to be spit on or have things thrown at him" by the new coach. Maybe there really is something to the Ben-Chin rift?
Hines Ward is a master. He took a bad late-hit penalty (justified call, this time). But his TD catch was one for the ages. What can I say? There is not a wide receiver I would rather have on my team out of every guy in the league right now. He plays the game the right way, every play, until the whistle blows (and every once in a while, a teensie bit past the whistle.)... And, he does it with a smile. Does anyone enjoy playing football more than Hines?
Santonio Holmes (Maybe we can call him "Show" for short?) is emerging. He blew past the hapless Cleve safeties on his TD. And Ben connected on a perfect pass. We could get used to that kind of execution! He turned the corner nicely on his end-around as well. Hope to see lots more of this Show as the season goes on.
O-line... well... they had their moments. The helped the running game churn out 150+ yards, and Ben was only harrassed a few times. Everyone's worried about Faneca mailing this season in. But he is playing for a BIG contract, so I expect to see the best guard in football play like the best guard in football. Still, he looked silly being so far in front of the one screen or reverse (forget exactly how the play started -- I was too busy laughing at him trying to catch his breath after he had to run full speed for more than 4 yards trying to find someone to hit!).
The D was mostly excellent. Six sacks, two interceptions, three fumble recoveries... The Brahwnies were/are pretty inept -- but the Steeler D made them look even worse than they are.
As always, I love our Polamalu -- 'r Stiller version of Cousin IT! is THE most exciting defensive player in the game. Period.
All-in-all, a very good start to a promising new era. Bring on the BuffBills. This could be a very fun season to be a rabid Steeler fan.
Thursday, September 6, 2007
Reasons to Hate Steeler Fans
I've been thinking about some of the nasty events I've witnessed in the parking lots around Three Rivers Stadium and Heinz Field through the years. I think it has something to do with the constant barrage of barbs spewed at local Steeler fans by ESPN-Pittsburgh radio bloviator Mark Madden, too. (I never liked Madden, never will, probably.) Anyway, it reminded me: Steeler fans really can be cruel, crude, lewd, rude, violent, overbearing, ignorant, mean and foolish.
I realize the same can be said for the core fans of every pro football team -- especially the sad folks in Cleveland and Cinncinnati. But I digress.
It's not that there aren't a bevy of knowledgeable and fun-loving fans, too. It's just, when I look back, I remember being embarrassed by things I've witnessed a hell of a lot more than proud of the "classiness" I've seen being shown by the fans here in my hometown. (What I've witnessed and experienced on the road is fodder for another post some day.)
What always comes to my mind first was the occasion when a Cleveland fan was accosted in the parking lots outside of 3RS before the final visit of the old-era Browns. It was already kind of sad for Brahwnie fans -- they knew they were about to lose their team to Baltimore. But what happened to that dude still makes me shiver.
It was a bitter cold morning, and one group of Stiller "fans" had a fire going in one of those big, heavy gauge oil barrels. You know the kind of visual movies use to portray street bums trying to stay warm against a biting freeze? That's the scene. Except these bums were all wearing black & gold, with many bearing bold numbers like "12," "58," "75" and "95" on their jerseys. Not unusual, right? Except it dawned on me even then that it had been nearly 20 years since those numbers represented any of the players actually playing the game that day. (Well, except for #95 -- Greg Lloyd's Llunatics were still in full force that day, if memory serves me correctly?)
Most of the gang seemed to be in their 20s or early 30s at most. So, they had probably not "lived" through the Super Bowls. They were the next generation, much like the team was generations apart from the teams with those names on their jerseys.
We had been observing the antics of this particular set of lunatic bums from across the way. Our tailgate set-up was separated by a cyclone fence and a well traveled artery that was used to usher buses and parking traffic to the sea of parking spaces that surrounded the old park. (Thank goodness most of those "convenient spaces" are now a thing of the past, although I do miss some of the great tailgating we used to do there.) We saw orange hats being snatched out of unsuspecting buses only to be fed to the fire. At another point, someone delivered a Browns banner that gave the feeling of a third-world flag-burning protest of an imperial invader when it was set ablaze and paraded about. Somehow, a Christmas tree with brown and orange garland even made it onto the pyre at one point.
We had arrived at about 9 am to tailgate before the 1 pm kickoff. We watched the shenanigans from a distance for a few hours. At first, it seemed like some good, rowdy fun was being had. Still, I remember asking about the lack of security, and the amazement with how it seemed to be truly unchecked rowdy behavior, when something really disgusting happened.
Along the thoroughfare came an unfortunate guy wearing an orange tossle cap and a genuine NFL Properties "Browns Edition" nylon winter bomber coat. I don't remember if he had a beer can in his hands, but I know that most of the rowdy group he was about to encounter had one in theirs. The guy was getting catcalls all along the way, and since he was walking with someone wearing black and waving a terrible towel, it seemed to be mostly good-natured invective being shared between rival fans.
Someone from our party yelled out that the guy better watch his hat. And wouldn't you know it, the thing was snatched from his head within nanoseconds. He tried to follow the perpetrator thinking it was just a little monkey-in-the-middle business. He stopped running when he saw his cap being fed to the fire amid a crazed throng of loonies. Too late to save that bit o' memorabilia. He -- and we -- didn't realize that he was also displaying something the unruly band o' thugs would demand. Something that would make things suddenly get uglier, and colder, for him and us witnesses as well. That's right, his official Browns pelt, er, jacket.
I'm not sure if there was anything the guy could've done to save his "skin" at that point... But actively arguing with the mob around the fire was not atop anyone's list of bright ideas. By now, the thugs were happily "sharing" cans of beer with the Brahwnie fan. And with every splash sent his way, the situation worsened. Finally, a big oaf in a black #95 shirt grabbed Brahwnie by his collar. In pure hockey fight fashion, he had the bottom pulled up over the flailing dude's head in a single jerk. The next jerk had the coat completely off just as quickly. Fun and games among rivals, right? Surely he'd hand him back the coat with a warning and a playful kick in the ass?
Umm. No.
As the towel-toting companion held his friend back from a possible ugly mob beating, his coat was fed to the flames. Nylon mostly melts. But it does burn, too. And it seems to do so quickly in a high flame.
Somehow, any joviality surrounding the pregame tailgating ritual melted away in those moments as well. Loud profanities were shared in all directions, including a few choice words for the thugs from appalled Steeler supporters. The line had been crossed.
Finally, other more peaceful (less drunk?) Steeler fans were moving toward the drunken thug fans with enough outrage to let the gang know they had gone too far. A few minutes later, a single cop showed up on a motorcycle, and then some other parking lot security guys appeared and they turned the barrel over and spread the embers and ashes with their feet to douse the flames. The #95 thug had long disappeared into the crowds heading into the stadium for the kickoff.
The Brahwnie fan was ushered in the direction of the stadium, too. Whether he actually went into the stadium that day, or to a police station, is something I do not know.
It sure was cold, even for those of us prepared for the weather. Colder still, I'm sure, when your coat has been ripped from your body in a noontime, open view mugging.
The Steelers won. But what I witnessed that day still gnaws at me whenever I revisit the scene in my mind's eye. There is a degree of guilt for not doing something -- anything -- about what I could tell was developing trouble. But it is more the rage I feel against such boorish behavior in the guise of being a "fan."
I don't think I'd sit back and watch the events transpire the way I did that day. At least, I hope I wouldn't. And I hope any true Steeler fan would do the right thing if such ugliness threatens to rear its head this or any season. Enjoy the game. Cheer for your team. May the better team win, and if the Steelers aren't the better team, let's hope they find a way to win anyways. There shouldn't be reasons to hate any team's fans.
I realize the same can be said for the core fans of every pro football team -- especially the sad folks in Cleveland and Cinncinnati. But I digress.
It's not that there aren't a bevy of knowledgeable and fun-loving fans, too. It's just, when I look back, I remember being embarrassed by things I've witnessed a hell of a lot more than proud of the "classiness" I've seen being shown by the fans here in my hometown. (What I've witnessed and experienced on the road is fodder for another post some day.)
What always comes to my mind first was the occasion when a Cleveland fan was accosted in the parking lots outside of 3RS before the final visit of the old-era Browns. It was already kind of sad for Brahwnie fans -- they knew they were about to lose their team to Baltimore. But what happened to that dude still makes me shiver.
It was a bitter cold morning, and one group of Stiller "fans" had a fire going in one of those big, heavy gauge oil barrels. You know the kind of visual movies use to portray street bums trying to stay warm against a biting freeze? That's the scene. Except these bums were all wearing black & gold, with many bearing bold numbers like "12," "58," "75" and "95" on their jerseys. Not unusual, right? Except it dawned on me even then that it had been nearly 20 years since those numbers represented any of the players actually playing the game that day. (Well, except for #95 -- Greg Lloyd's Llunatics were still in full force that day, if memory serves me correctly?)
Most of the gang seemed to be in their 20s or early 30s at most. So, they had probably not "lived" through the Super Bowls. They were the next generation, much like the team was generations apart from the teams with those names on their jerseys.
We had been observing the antics of this particular set of lunatic bums from across the way. Our tailgate set-up was separated by a cyclone fence and a well traveled artery that was used to usher buses and parking traffic to the sea of parking spaces that surrounded the old park. (Thank goodness most of those "convenient spaces" are now a thing of the past, although I do miss some of the great tailgating we used to do there.) We saw orange hats being snatched out of unsuspecting buses only to be fed to the fire. At another point, someone delivered a Browns banner that gave the feeling of a third-world flag-burning protest of an imperial invader when it was set ablaze and paraded about. Somehow, a Christmas tree with brown and orange garland even made it onto the pyre at one point.
We had arrived at about 9 am to tailgate before the 1 pm kickoff. We watched the shenanigans from a distance for a few hours. At first, it seemed like some good, rowdy fun was being had. Still, I remember asking about the lack of security, and the amazement with how it seemed to be truly unchecked rowdy behavior, when something really disgusting happened.
Along the thoroughfare came an unfortunate guy wearing an orange tossle cap and a genuine NFL Properties "Browns Edition" nylon winter bomber coat. I don't remember if he had a beer can in his hands, but I know that most of the rowdy group he was about to encounter had one in theirs. The guy was getting catcalls all along the way, and since he was walking with someone wearing black and waving a terrible towel, it seemed to be mostly good-natured invective being shared between rival fans.
Someone from our party yelled out that the guy better watch his hat. And wouldn't you know it, the thing was snatched from his head within nanoseconds. He tried to follow the perpetrator thinking it was just a little monkey-in-the-middle business. He stopped running when he saw his cap being fed to the fire amid a crazed throng of loonies. Too late to save that bit o' memorabilia. He -- and we -- didn't realize that he was also displaying something the unruly band o' thugs would demand. Something that would make things suddenly get uglier, and colder, for him and us witnesses as well. That's right, his official Browns pelt, er, jacket.
I'm not sure if there was anything the guy could've done to save his "skin" at that point... But actively arguing with the mob around the fire was not atop anyone's list of bright ideas. By now, the thugs were happily "sharing" cans of beer with the Brahwnie fan. And with every splash sent his way, the situation worsened. Finally, a big oaf in a black #95 shirt grabbed Brahwnie by his collar. In pure hockey fight fashion, he had the bottom pulled up over the flailing dude's head in a single jerk. The next jerk had the coat completely off just as quickly. Fun and games among rivals, right? Surely he'd hand him back the coat with a warning and a playful kick in the ass?
Umm. No.
As the towel-toting companion held his friend back from a possible ugly mob beating, his coat was fed to the flames. Nylon mostly melts. But it does burn, too. And it seems to do so quickly in a high flame.
Somehow, any joviality surrounding the pregame tailgating ritual melted away in those moments as well. Loud profanities were shared in all directions, including a few choice words for the thugs from appalled Steeler supporters. The line had been crossed.
Finally, other more peaceful (less drunk?) Steeler fans were moving toward the drunken thug fans with enough outrage to let the gang know they had gone too far. A few minutes later, a single cop showed up on a motorcycle, and then some other parking lot security guys appeared and they turned the barrel over and spread the embers and ashes with their feet to douse the flames. The #95 thug had long disappeared into the crowds heading into the stadium for the kickoff.
The Brahwnie fan was ushered in the direction of the stadium, too. Whether he actually went into the stadium that day, or to a police station, is something I do not know.
It sure was cold, even for those of us prepared for the weather. Colder still, I'm sure, when your coat has been ripped from your body in a noontime, open view mugging.
The Steelers won. But what I witnessed that day still gnaws at me whenever I revisit the scene in my mind's eye. There is a degree of guilt for not doing something -- anything -- about what I could tell was developing trouble. But it is more the rage I feel against such boorish behavior in the guise of being a "fan."
I don't think I'd sit back and watch the events transpire the way I did that day. At least, I hope I wouldn't. And I hope any true Steeler fan would do the right thing if such ugliness threatens to rear its head this or any season. Enjoy the game. Cheer for your team. May the better team win, and if the Steelers aren't the better team, let's hope they find a way to win anyways. There shouldn't be reasons to hate any team's fans.
Nod to Mondesi's House
I was perusing Mondesi's House (a quirky Pittsburgh-related sports blog listed in my list of links -- over there, to the left). There are some really interesting things there, including a great trash-mouth series of reader columns on the subject: "Why [name of team] are better than the Steelers this year."
I read a few -- the one from the Dolphin's Fan was my favorite -- and then I took a look at some of the other things the blog has covered. It really is a comprehensive and fun site. Lots of Steelers stuff, some depressing Pirates coverage as well as eternally optimistic Penguin chatter.
If you haven't ever visited with ol' Raul, you should give it a look (the site was named in honor of Raul Mondesi, the one-time rent-a-Buc who found a way to retire to get out of his Pirate's contract within a month of signing it).
Anyway, I hope this humble blog generates the same kind of interest some day. I'm not sure I can compete with Raul, but I do hope to make it interestin'.
I read a few -- the one from the Dolphin's Fan was my favorite -- and then I took a look at some of the other things the blog has covered. It really is a comprehensive and fun site. Lots of Steelers stuff, some depressing Pirates coverage as well as eternally optimistic Penguin chatter.
If you haven't ever visited with ol' Raul, you should give it a look (the site was named in honor of Raul Mondesi, the one-time rent-a-Buc who found a way to retire to get out of his Pirate's contract within a month of signing it).
Anyway, I hope this humble blog generates the same kind of interest some day. I'm not sure I can compete with Raul, but I do hope to make it interestin'.
Wednesday, September 5, 2007
Did Ed Bouchette 'Bury the Lead' Today?
P-G Steeler Beat Writer Ed Bouchette filed an otherwise hum-drum article in today's (9/5/07) P-G. Tomlin was in "make no news" mode, apparently, so Bouchette did a nice inconsequential story to touch all the bases we fans are interested in seeing in this lead-up week to the opener.
Except for the real news: 1st Round Pick Timmons is being prepped for a move to ILB. (Shouldn't that be the lead, with an exclamation point even?)
Rotoworld.com views the move as a result of LT's "unproductive" performance in the preseason.
I thought I saw a few stellar plays from a guy who was hampered by a nagging injury early in camp, but who emerged in the later contests as an athlete who can flow to the ball and make some big hits. Tomlin's comments seemed to point to a player who is capable and eager to contribute however and wherever he can.
I realize I am always biased when it comes to how I feel my Stillers are covered by the national press. They are revered and yet written off so often it makes my head spin... just today I heard a talking head on the radio telling John MacIntire he sees the Steelers winning no more than 6 games this season?
Is that really how the team is being viewed ahtside the hills and valleys of western PA?
Wow, am I ready for this season to start!
Except for the real news: 1st Round Pick Timmons is being prepped for a move to ILB. (Shouldn't that be the lead, with an exclamation point even?)
It's why rookie outside linebacker Lawrence Timmons has added another position to his repertoire, that of inside linebacker, where his future may lie.
"Lawrence is just trying to get in where he can fit in," Tomlin said of his first draft choice. "Thankfully, he's a sharp guy and he's capable of cross training positionally. He seems to be picking it up pretty well.
"We just expect him to be a good teammate and to compete for a helmet this week. If he gets one, go out and make plays regardless of what phase he's
playing in, whether he gets a chance to play in the base defense, the sub-package defense or kicking game."
Rotoworld.com views the move as a result of LT's "unproductive" performance in the preseason.
Timmons had as unproductive an offseason as any other first-round pick, including Robert Meachem. He's not likely to see a lot of action as a rookie
behind Larry Foote, James Farrior, and top sub Clint Kriewalt.
I thought I saw a few stellar plays from a guy who was hampered by a nagging injury early in camp, but who emerged in the later contests as an athlete who can flow to the ball and make some big hits. Tomlin's comments seemed to point to a player who is capable and eager to contribute however and wherever he can.
I realize I am always biased when it comes to how I feel my Stillers are covered by the national press. They are revered and yet written off so often it makes my head spin... just today I heard a talking head on the radio telling John MacIntire he sees the Steelers winning no more than 6 games this season?
Is that really how the team is being viewed ahtside the hills and valleys of western PA?
Wow, am I ready for this season to start!
I Believe Cowher, Do You? (& Does anyone care?)
Bill Cowher sounded pretty convincing to me when he said he has "no interest" in coaching again -- but especially next year -- in the NFL.
In the interviews I've seen, he tried his darndest to come across as sincere in his statements. On Jim Rome's show yesterday, he said there was no way he was going to walk out of his daughter's life again, especially when she will be in her senior year, to coach an NFL team. I believe him. But you know what, I don't care. Nor should you or any other Steeler fan.
He made his decision to exit the Steeler organization on his terms. They (the Rooneys) were satisfied and have moved on. He is satisfied -- and is taking piano lessons, no less -- and has moved on as well.
Whether Cowher is eventually wooed back, well, good luck. It is an enticing challenge, I'm sure, for someone as young and driven as ol' Chin appears to be. Hope he wins a few big games -- none against the Steelers, of course -- and hope he gets the compensation he desires.
The Cowher Era is over. Let the Tomlin Era begin!
In the interviews I've seen, he tried his darndest to come across as sincere in his statements. On Jim Rome's show yesterday, he said there was no way he was going to walk out of his daughter's life again, especially when she will be in her senior year, to coach an NFL team. I believe him. But you know what, I don't care. Nor should you or any other Steeler fan.
He made his decision to exit the Steeler organization on his terms. They (the Rooneys) were satisfied and have moved on. He is satisfied -- and is taking piano lessons, no less -- and has moved on as well.
Whether Cowher is eventually wooed back, well, good luck. It is an enticing challenge, I'm sure, for someone as young and driven as ol' Chin appears to be. Hope he wins a few big games -- none against the Steelers, of course -- and hope he gets the compensation he desires.
The Cowher Era is over. Let the Tomlin Era begin!
Saturday, September 1, 2007
Gay (is a) Steeler
William Gay, the Rookie 5th round DB selection out of Louisville has landed a roster spot.
Not sure if he is related to the other prominent Gay athlete (Tyson Gay), who is dominating the sprint world championships taking place in Japan this week, but he truly earned his place on the squad. Other than one very noticeable drop of an easy interception in the third preseason skirmish, he has been a ballhawk every time he took the field in the preseason.
Gay seems to have a lot of good tools as well as very good quickness... Sure, at a listed 5-10/190, everyone wishes he was a little taller and a little heavier, but if he can turn into a shut-down corner, the joke will be on the opposition instead of the first openly Gay Steeler in their long 75-year history.
Not sure if he is related to the other prominent Gay athlete (Tyson Gay), who is dominating the sprint world championships taking place in Japan this week, but he truly earned his place on the squad. Other than one very noticeable drop of an easy interception in the third preseason skirmish, he has been a ballhawk every time he took the field in the preseason.
Gay seems to have a lot of good tools as well as very good quickness... Sure, at a listed 5-10/190, everyone wishes he was a little taller and a little heavier, but if he can turn into a shut-down corner, the joke will be on the opposition instead of the first openly Gay Steeler in their long 75-year history.
Hard-Working Verron is Gone
The most interesting cut to me is the cutting of Verron Haynes, the 6-year veteran out of Georgia.
Haynes has gone from being a Pittsburgh Magazine "Most Eligible" Bachelor to a possible smart pick-up for any team seeking a hard-runner with explosiveness (but not breakaway speed).
Haynes was in a tough position, having been dropped in the off-season due to salary dealings. When he finally came to terms, his years of service paled against the youth and speed -- and especially, special teams skills -- of his primary competitors Carey Davis and Gary Russell.
Haynes was featured in the team's last preseason tussle, and while he showed good instincts and hard running, the young guns simply showed more value...
The Steelers also made a last-minute deal with the Falcons, offering a conditional 2008 draft pick for the services of Return Man extraordinaire Allen ROssum... the diminutive Rossum was ST player of the Year a few years ago... He was brought in to either replace the troubled Willie Reid, or to give the Steelers options in their punt return unit.
Haynes has gone from being a Pittsburgh Magazine "Most Eligible" Bachelor to a possible smart pick-up for any team seeking a hard-runner with explosiveness (but not breakaway speed).
Haynes was in a tough position, having been dropped in the off-season due to salary dealings. When he finally came to terms, his years of service paled against the youth and speed -- and especially, special teams skills -- of his primary competitors Carey Davis and Gary Russell.
Haynes was featured in the team's last preseason tussle, and while he showed good instincts and hard running, the young guns simply showed more value...
The Steelers also made a last-minute deal with the Falcons, offering a conditional 2008 draft pick for the services of Return Man extraordinaire Allen ROssum... the diminutive Rossum was ST player of the Year a few years ago... He was brought in to either replace the troubled Willie Reid, or to give the Steelers options in their punt return unit.
Chucking Chukky
It's official... Chukky Okobi, the heir apparent to the most stable position in (possibly) the whole professional sports arena -- starting center for the Pittsburgh Steelers -- is going to have to take his multi-million dollar contract elsewhere.
Time ran out on the 2001 5th round selection out of Purdue. Drafted to fill-in behind the recently acquired (and now retired) Jeff Hartings until he could assume the starting role, Okobi was a perennial also-ran who could never impress the coaching staff enough to win the position.
Sean Mahan, the off-season free agent signing from the Tampa Bay Bucs, now assumes the mantle passed from ol' Ray Mansfield, to Mike Webster, Dermontti Dawson, and then Hartings. Ironically, Mahan was also a fifth-round draft choice, but that was two years after Okobi's draft year.
While none of the Steelers linemen played particularly well in the preseason, Mahan showed a steadiness the new coaching staff likes as we enter the '07 season.
Time ran out on the 2001 5th round selection out of Purdue. Drafted to fill-in behind the recently acquired (and now retired) Jeff Hartings until he could assume the starting role, Okobi was a perennial also-ran who could never impress the coaching staff enough to win the position.
Sean Mahan, the off-season free agent signing from the Tampa Bay Bucs, now assumes the mantle passed from ol' Ray Mansfield, to Mike Webster, Dermontti Dawson, and then Hartings. Ironically, Mahan was also a fifth-round draft choice, but that was two years after Okobi's draft year.
While none of the Steelers linemen played particularly well in the preseason, Mahan showed a steadiness the new coaching staff likes as we enter the '07 season.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
