The Broncos flat out outplayed 'R Stillers and seemed to be a step quicker all night long.
What can I say?
Ben did a good job of rallying the O to tie the game with under two minutes left to play in regulation, but the D gave up critical late game yardage (again) and second-year starter Jay Cutler showed more precision and promise than he has at any other time in his brief NFL career, leading the previously woeful Broncos to a fateful last-second winning field goal.
The Steelers' strategy of throwing early and often puzzled some observers, but you could see they were doing it in a way to spread the field, hoping to establish the run by softening the periphery with quick hits and a couple long throws ... Fast Willie had his moments, but overall, the O-line suffered its worst game thus far.
The real problem, it seemed to me, was an overactive D that was possibly trying too many tricks to throw-off the inexperienced Cutler. Instead of throwing him off his game, the Bronco QB seemed to be prepared for all of the different looks, and the D just couldn't muster the kind of pass rush that had them near the league leaders in sacks and pressures after the first few games this season. Kudos to Shanahan for a strong game plan and Cutler for great execution.
I was truly hoping for a win leading into this three-game stretch versus division rivals, but maybe the loss will be the kind of bitter medicine the team needs to get their game into gear?
Hey, we can hope, can't we?
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Monday, October 8, 2007
Home Field Advantage
Oh, how well we remember the talk of the Steelers having a home field advantage when the team faced the Seahawks in the non-neutralized environment of Detroit?
Well, now I guess the Seahawks know what it is like to face the Steelers enjoying a true home field advantage at Heinz Field.
Steelers 21, Seattle 0. Zilch. Nada. And the game wasn't nearly that close.
Even with the Steelers missing their two best defensive starters (Troy Polamalu and Casey Hampton -- each of whom is arguably the best player at his position league wide -- as well as key DB Bryant McFadden), and on the other side of the ball, the Steelers missing both of their starting wide receivers (Hines Ward and late scratch Santonio Holmes); the team put on a display of teamwork and domination nothing short of remarkable.
Its becoming monotonous for me to write, but this team seems to be a perfect match for the cool, calm, collected demeanor of new coach Tomlin. In fact, it was great to see Tomlin as fired up, smiling and playful as we have witnessed so far in his short tenure here. He is building such a strong rapport with Big Ben, I could have sworn the cameras caught him doing a flying butt-bump with his star QB (did anyone else catch that during the telecast or at the game?).
One thing that seems certain: last year was the blip.
This team is capable of the tremendous 15-1 record of three years ago as well as the Super Bowl Championship of two years ago.
Enjoy the bye-week. Then enjoy the ride... more and more, it looks like we are in the midst of another wild and crazy season.
Well, now I guess the Seahawks know what it is like to face the Steelers enjoying a true home field advantage at Heinz Field.
Steelers 21, Seattle 0. Zilch. Nada. And the game wasn't nearly that close.
Even with the Steelers missing their two best defensive starters (Troy Polamalu and Casey Hampton -- each of whom is arguably the best player at his position league wide -- as well as key DB Bryant McFadden), and on the other side of the ball, the Steelers missing both of their starting wide receivers (Hines Ward and late scratch Santonio Holmes); the team put on a display of teamwork and domination nothing short of remarkable.
Its becoming monotonous for me to write, but this team seems to be a perfect match for the cool, calm, collected demeanor of new coach Tomlin. In fact, it was great to see Tomlin as fired up, smiling and playful as we have witnessed so far in his short tenure here. He is building such a strong rapport with Big Ben, I could have sworn the cameras caught him doing a flying butt-bump with his star QB (did anyone else catch that during the telecast or at the game?).
One thing that seems certain: last year was the blip.
This team is capable of the tremendous 15-1 record of three years ago as well as the Super Bowl Championship of two years ago.
Enjoy the bye-week. Then enjoy the ride... more and more, it looks like we are in the midst of another wild and crazy season.
SB XL Memories
Dan Gigler of the P-G put together this quaint mulitmedia report at yesterday's Steelers-Seahawks game... It is fun to watch some of the fans reminisce and predict 'r Stillers return to the big dance...
The good looking dude at approx. 3:36 into the video just happens to be Fred, my brother-in-law, extolling the mantra of every Steeler fan "the goal stays the same." Meaning, Steeler fanatics expect nothing less than a Super Bowl. Way to go Fred... the guy shoving the chunk of steak into his mouth and the brothers talking about "2nd mortgaging the house for Bob Eucker seats" are some of Fred's closest, lifelong friends. I'm glad Gigler gives them some exposure here. They are true black & gold Steelers fans, and the force behind some of the biggest and best organized Steeler and Pirate tailgate parties one will ever witness.
The good looking dude at approx. 3:36 into the video just happens to be Fred, my brother-in-law, extolling the mantra of every Steeler fan "the goal stays the same." Meaning, Steeler fanatics expect nothing less than a Super Bowl. Way to go Fred... the guy shoving the chunk of steak into his mouth and the brothers talking about "2nd mortgaging the house for Bob Eucker seats" are some of Fred's closest, lifelong friends. I'm glad Gigler gives them some exposure here. They are true black & gold Steelers fans, and the force behind some of the biggest and best organized Steeler and Pirate tailgate parties one will ever witness.
Tuesday, October 2, 2007
Random Notes
Steelers' injuries not as bad as thought (Troy expected to be back this week, but I sure hope they don't rush him!)
Santonio Holmes getting press to match his performance... Sign of good things to come?
Random thoughts over at SteelCityInsider.com ... sample: It's a little eerie how many connections this Cardinals team has to Pittsburgh. It's not just Whisenhunt and Grimm, or the Pittburgh players who followed them to Phoenix like Morey, Mike Barr, and Chukky Okobi. They've got Pittsburgh's best college player from the past several decades in Fitzgerald, and another prominent alumnus in Hayes. No wideout in the league plays so similar a game to Ward than his injured Arizona counterpart, Boldin, and as unique a player as is Polamalu, Adrian Wilson probably mimics his versatility as closely as any safety.
Santonio Holmes getting press to match his performance... Sign of good things to come?
Random thoughts over at SteelCityInsider.com ... sample: It's a little eerie how many connections this Cardinals team has to Pittsburgh. It's not just Whisenhunt and Grimm, or the Pittburgh players who followed them to Phoenix like Morey, Mike Barr, and Chukky Okobi. They've got Pittsburgh's best college player from the past several decades in Fitzgerald, and another prominent alumnus in Hayes. No wideout in the league plays so similar a game to Ward than his injured Arizona counterpart, Boldin, and as unique a player as is Polamalu, Adrian Wilson probably mimics his versatility as closely as any safety.
Monday, October 1, 2007
Whiz, Bang, Loss
Cards 21 - Stillers 14. But, hey, still in first place...
'R Stillers ran into a team of giant woodpeckers in the climate-controlled stadium in otherwise hot and dusty Glendale, AZ. Not to mention, running into their former O-Coordinator and O-line coaches who happen to be pretty good studies on the Steelers' run blocking schemes and pass blocking tendencies. Hell, who needs clandestine video when you know the playbook and the personnel as well as the coaches on the other side of the field calling the plays? (If not better? Bruce Arians' play-calling was questionable all game long... Whether Ben was checking out of plays or not, the Steelers looked too predictable and too cautious for much of the first 3 quarters.)
Not to mention, it seems like Big Ben let his ol' coach get into his head with some off-season comments (from both sides)? Who really knows? Ben? Man-up. Whiz helped you win a lot of games and a ring. Give him his due, and yours will come too.
Ben actually had one of his better pocket-passing games in recent memory. He stepped out of trouble several times, although he got caught way too often too... And then there was the unforgivable INT from the 2 after the Steelers had been given a gift of 1st and goal at the Cardinals 4. Surely, we all thought, Fast Willie would take it around a corner or find a crease and make a quick conversion? Not to be. Willie had one of his least memorable games and seemed to be running into a lot of backs (instead of holes) all day long.
Key injuries to key players also became a factor. With Hines Ward out, Ben was one tool short in this new-fangled ball control O. Then the D imploded. It was devastating to see DeShea leave the game with a nasty stinger... and watching Troy mysteriously standing on the sideline instead of wreaking his usual havoc was more than just unsettling - it was an eery reminder of how quickly a season can turn. Next, the loss of Casey Hampton then Chris Hoke, and, oh no. Still, the Steelers were able to keep it interesting.
All they had to do was keep the game close... No mistakes, keep grinding... Then Pittsburgh's own Steve Breaston worked his magic. Given a second chance after a booming Sepulveda punt was called back on pick-em dueling penalties, the former Woodland Hills H.S. (and U. of Michigan) star Breaston danced and sprinted 73 yards to stick a dagger in our hearts.
Ben led a pretty dramatic length-of-the-field scramble to cut the lead to one TD... But the onside kick attempt landed in Breaston's hands... Still, the D was able to force a punt and before we knew it, Ben was directing one more rushed foray. The inevitable INT ended the fun, and the Steelers absorbed their first loss of the new Coach Tomlin Era.
Losses are going to happen, I know. It just seemed like things were going so well. Next up is Seattle at home and then a possibly well timed Bye week... Polamalu's abdominal injury is the most disturbing... I expect him to sit this week if he isn't absolutely 100% ... those kind of injuries can linger if not handled properly, so give him some rest. With all of the carnage throughout the AFC North Division, the Steelers are definitely contenders, and Troy IS a difference maker.
A little bit of adversity is to be expected for any and every new coach. Losses are bound to happen. Now we start to find out more about the Tomlin regime. I, for one, still have high expectations and even higher hopes for the Steelers this season.
'R Stillers ran into a team of giant woodpeckers in the climate-controlled stadium in otherwise hot and dusty Glendale, AZ. Not to mention, running into their former O-Coordinator and O-line coaches who happen to be pretty good studies on the Steelers' run blocking schemes and pass blocking tendencies. Hell, who needs clandestine video when you know the playbook and the personnel as well as the coaches on the other side of the field calling the plays? (If not better? Bruce Arians' play-calling was questionable all game long... Whether Ben was checking out of plays or not, the Steelers looked too predictable and too cautious for much of the first 3 quarters.)
Not to mention, it seems like Big Ben let his ol' coach get into his head with some off-season comments (from both sides)? Who really knows? Ben? Man-up. Whiz helped you win a lot of games and a ring. Give him his due, and yours will come too.
Ben actually had one of his better pocket-passing games in recent memory. He stepped out of trouble several times, although he got caught way too often too... And then there was the unforgivable INT from the 2 after the Steelers had been given a gift of 1st and goal at the Cardinals 4. Surely, we all thought, Fast Willie would take it around a corner or find a crease and make a quick conversion? Not to be. Willie had one of his least memorable games and seemed to be running into a lot of backs (instead of holes) all day long.
Key injuries to key players also became a factor. With Hines Ward out, Ben was one tool short in this new-fangled ball control O. Then the D imploded. It was devastating to see DeShea leave the game with a nasty stinger... and watching Troy mysteriously standing on the sideline instead of wreaking his usual havoc was more than just unsettling - it was an eery reminder of how quickly a season can turn. Next, the loss of Casey Hampton then Chris Hoke, and, oh no. Still, the Steelers were able to keep it interesting.
All they had to do was keep the game close... No mistakes, keep grinding... Then Pittsburgh's own Steve Breaston worked his magic. Given a second chance after a booming Sepulveda punt was called back on pick-em dueling penalties, the former Woodland Hills H.S. (and U. of Michigan) star Breaston danced and sprinted 73 yards to stick a dagger in our hearts.
Ben led a pretty dramatic length-of-the-field scramble to cut the lead to one TD... But the onside kick attempt landed in Breaston's hands... Still, the D was able to force a punt and before we knew it, Ben was directing one more rushed foray. The inevitable INT ended the fun, and the Steelers absorbed their first loss of the new Coach Tomlin Era.
Losses are going to happen, I know. It just seemed like things were going so well. Next up is Seattle at home and then a possibly well timed Bye week... Polamalu's abdominal injury is the most disturbing... I expect him to sit this week if he isn't absolutely 100% ... those kind of injuries can linger if not handled properly, so give him some rest. With all of the carnage throughout the AFC North Division, the Steelers are definitely contenders, and Troy IS a difference maker.
A little bit of adversity is to be expected for any and every new coach. Losses are bound to happen. Now we start to find out more about the Tomlin regime. I, for one, still have high expectations and even higher hopes for the Steelers this season.
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
Troy Polamalu = A quiet throwback
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!)
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!)
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.
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