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Steelers vs. Ravens Open Thread: Time To Find Out What The Steelers Are Made Of

Mbean_tiny by Blitzburgh on Comment 340 comments

We've been waiting over eight days for the opportunity to see if the Steeelers could help us erase the tragic memory of last Sunday against the Philadelphia Eagles. Perhaps not coincidentally, this has been one of our more loquacious weeks on BTSC in quite some time. Coaching decisions, roster tweakings (or at least the ones we see fit from our omnipresent and all-knowing armchairs), the truly offensive offensive line To mix things up, you know, to change the atmosphere around here from being morgue-like 24/7, there was ample praise heaped on the defense for the amazing job they did keeping the team in the game despite how horrendous the offense was. And of course, we reminded ourselves we're not Browns or Bengals fans. Nothing quite changes the mood in even the darkest hour of a Steelers lifer. 

Whatever the subject, we either talked ourself off the proverbial ledge or vented our frustrations more spiritedly following last week's loss than in quite some time. Not sure what that means, but I'll give it a stab.

The writing's on the wall this next two weeks and we know it. We got out butts kicked last week. No two ways about it. Knowing what we do about this organization, and many of the individuals on the team, you can rest assured that they were eager to get to work this week to prepare for whatever Baltimore has in store for them tonight. But more importantly, I bet that guys like Hines Ward, James Harrison and Farrior, et al are going to make sure the Steelers are the team who comes out swinging. We saw it last year against Baltimore. You know what I mean, and what we saw last week was the antithesis of what setting the tone physically is.

Tonight, we have to prove we can stop the blitz. You know Baltimore's bringing it until we prove it an overly risky strategy. Tonight, we have to find a way to run the ball successfully, at least some of the time, even though we'll be relying on a rookie RB making his first NFL start, and even though we've have had next to no success in recent year's doing so against this Baltimore defense.  And we have to show we're capable of winning the line of scrimmage on defense without Casey Hampton and Brett Keisel. We managed last week masking the Diesel's absence. Doing the same for both is a much taller order.

Bruce Arians has to prove his apologetic words for last week were more than just words. I'm eager to see what he has in store for a defense that likely will be taking some big chances early on at getting after Ben. I'm eager to see if there will be any unexpected roster maneuverings. Max Starks's turn?

(I'd say something else about the defense but that'd be disingenous. They've been too damn good to raise a peep about their performance).

We know there are some issues with the team.  That's a somewhat dissapointing reality, but remember, there are teams with fewer glaring flaws that don't have the same upside we do.  When the team's on, like they were against Houston on offense and against Philadelphia on defense in the second half, it's as good as anyone in this year's league.  And because there is not a dominant team in the league this year it's anyone's game (not only is there no truly dominant team as Dallas proved yesterday, even the better teams have serious flaws).

But before resigning ourselves to any one particular fate, or said differently and more directly...before concluding definitively that our offensive line will be our demise this year, we still have the chance, starting tonight, to be a good offensive line for the rest of the year. What will it take for that to happen, you ask, as you try to clean up the beverage you just spewed from your mouth and nose all over your keyboard and TPS reports after reading such an absurd statement? Well, it'd have to take a shakeup of the lineup, in my humble opinion, but since we all know that that's not happening before the BYE week in two weeks (at the earliest), we can only hope that Coach Z and his boys, as well as Big Ben, all worked their asses off in the film room trying to figure out what in the sam hell happened. 

It was astutely pointed out this past week that the quarterback has a large role in calling out blocking assignments based on what he sees at the line of scrimmage. If you've seen Peyton Manning and the Colts play, you've seen all the spastic things he does at the line of scrimmage. The hand gestures. The audibles. The fake audibles. 85% of it may be to perpetuate his own legend for endorsement purposes, but the other 15%, the critcal part, is either figuring out what the defense has in store for him, OR, getting the defense to second guess itself later in the game.

Anyway, it's on Big Ben too, and I don't think we've emphasized that enough. I know there is nobody better than Ben Roethlisberger at standing by his teamates, particularly his linemen. That's very important, but it's more important they're spending as much time as possible together trying new things to communicate more effectively during the games. If we're not going to change the lineups, we better be trying to substantially alter our communication and practice technique during the week.

And of course, Bruce Arians can help in this regard, as we've discussed. As good, loyal Steelers fans, we give the man tabula rasa to get the job done.  Who knows how many more duds we'll lay before Arians is truly on the hot-seat, but it's safe to say he's not there yet. And since he's not there, we can hope for nothing but better, more consistent play-calling. We've had some clunkers in the past 21 games since he took over, but we've had some gems too. We know what the team can do against the Texans, Browns, Rams, of the league. It's time to start stringing together some solid offensive performances together against more quality defenses.  

But above all else, there must never be such embarassing performances like the one we saw last Sunday. No one is perfect but the extremes (at least the extremely bad) have to go. Even if you don't have the juicy, plump lemons to make delicious lemonade, you 've got good enough fruit to make something that doesn't taste like a mixture of toilet water, Lake Erie and prune juice. 

As the Dali Lama Willie Colon once famously said:

"If we do not make changes, we are going to have problems," right tackle Willie Colon said. "If we do not get on the same page, these things are going to continue to happen."  

Wrap your head around that one.

I dare ya.

************

Forget all that though. I can handle falling short later in the year, if need be. We're playing the fuc*&ng Ravens tonight with first place at stake.. We better come to play and look like Super Bowl Champions, even if just for tonight.

 

This is our open thread for the game but jump on in to the mix with thoughts about the game, season, TPS reports, whether or not you've seen the movie Celtic Pride and if you think we could pull of a similar stunt with some of our own players along the line. Whatever the subject, let it be known here. Let's have some fun watching the Steelers reclaim first place in their throwbacks!

Go Steelers!

Poll
Prediction?
Steelers by 0-10
224 votes
Steelers by 11-20
128 votes
Steelers by 29+
12 votes
Ravens by 0-10
44 votes
Ravens by 11-20
10 votes
Ravens by 20+
8 votes

426 votes | Poll has closed

0 recs  |  Comment 340 comments |

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didnt know this fact

Didnt realize that Ravens coach John Harbaugh was with Philadelphia before. Just read a quote that he talks to Jim Johnson and Andy Reid every week. Great!

by Blitzburgh on Sep 29, 2008 11:09 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

John Harbaugh

He was Special Teams coach w/ the Eagles before coming to Baltimore.

Rexx

by Rexx on Sep 29, 2008 4:51 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Sack Blame Should Be Spread Around, Jaws says

Guys,

Datruth usually watches the Edge Match-up each week with Ron Jaworski and Merrill Hoge on ESPN, and Jaws said something I thought was pretty interesting from our game with the Eagles this past week. He said after going over extensive game film, he blamed 3 of the 9 sacks on the OL, another 3 on Roethlisberger for holding on to the ball too long and missing his hot receivers and another 3 sacks on the running backs/WRs for not getting open in one on one coverage.

In other words, there was plenty of blame to spread around. Now, there are no excuses. They know what is coming. They have had all week to try and correct these flaws.

However, a combination of Bruce Arians, Larry Z and our OL doesn’t generate a lot of confidence in DaTruth at the moment. DaTruth is interested to see the roster moves the team makes before the game as well as how Rashard Mendenhall and Garry Russell handle the big bad Ravens. Willie Parker is never effective vs. the Ravens, so let’s see what some of the kids can do. Here’s to hoping that NT Scott Paxson is activated for the game as well. I think a key to our good defensive play so far has been keeping the DL fresh.

Having 6 DL available to rotate in and out is very important when you are going to playing your base 3-4 defense most of the game during the next 2 games. We should be able to get Kiesel, Hampton & Parker back after the bye week, but we’re going to need strong play on the DL until that happens. If the Steelers can’t stop the Ravens & Jacksonville from running the ball, they won’t win the next 2 games.

Thoughts?

by datruth4life on Sep 29, 2008 12:39 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

nice Truth

Thank you for some nuts and bolts. I was just ranting about nothing in particular.

BUt yes, I totally agree about Paxson. For two weeks, we need to keep legs fresh on the DLine. Hoke and Kirschke and even Eason can be ok for small stretches, but that’s all.

I too am very anxious to see if we’re able to have any more success runnig with Mendenhall (and Russell?) than with FWP.

by Blitzburgh on Sep 29, 2008 12:45 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

truth

good points about Russell and Paxson, but we would have to cut 2 guys off of our roster for them to play tonight? Who would we cut? Woods? The kid from Duke? 3rd TE?

by schnifin on Sep 29, 2008 1:22 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

You couldn’t resist the office space reference, and for that sir, I salute you.

by steelguy99 on Sep 29, 2008 1:00 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

obliged :)

hey, it’s monday morning after all.

by Blitzburgh on Sep 29, 2008 1:14 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

not so fast

Baltimore’s front 7 on D is not as fast as Philthy’s, should be a better matchup for the Steelers o-line. At home, they’ll have a much improved game.

Of course, there’s only one way for them to go, and that’s up.

Less opportunity for Arians not to make adjustments…. : (

by herewegosteelers on Sep 29, 2008 1:16 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

interesting

Havent seen much of Ravens this year but I think I agree its teams like the Giants and others with really versatile and freakish athletes in the front 4 that give us fits.

by Blitzburgh on Sep 29, 2008 1:22 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Defensive Speed

Perhaps our front four are not as fast as Philly’s, but our LB’s are as quick or quicker, and with Ray Lewis, positioning is a big difference maker, and no one prepares any better than Ray Ray.

Rexx

by Rexx on Sep 29, 2008 4:53 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

7

Great post Blitz. Great work all week too. I am very excited/nervous about tonight. I too saw the Jaws breakdown and agree. Blame for everyone.

In the end, the most poignant point made by Blitz is “it’s on Big Ben too.” Regardless of Z’s line or Arians play calls Ben has the ability to change the call at the line or get rid of the ball asap. I am hoping that the failures in Philly step up tonight and redeem. But in case they don’t “it’s all on Big Ben” to bail us out, get us a W and stay healthy. I hope 34 has a monster game in him tonight. We need one. So does 7.

Steelers 3 BrownRavens 2

When You Run The Ball Good Things Happen

by 5020 on Sep 29, 2008 1:38 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

thanks Fifty

Can’t wait for the game. I of course would prefer we roll like we did last year against them, and put the game away by halftime. But part of me wants to see a compeititve close game where we have to fight and claw for everything and ADJUST throughout the game to retain an upperhand.

by Blitzburgh on Sep 29, 2008 1:48 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

one thing i noticed in philly

Ben doesn’t have time to change calls or adjustments if they are lining up with less than 5 seconds on the play clock. This seems to happen all the time, I don’t understand why it takes so long to get plays in.

by schnifin on Sep 29, 2008 2:03 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

AMEN!!!!

This is another aspect in which Arians is raping his QB in the ass. Ben can barely get the damn ball off, let alone read the defense, make adjustments, call protections, and change the snap count. If Arians takes 25 seconds to make up his mind, why don’t we just go the mythical no-huddle offense and vary the tempo? It would slow down the pass rushers as an added bonus.

charity standing orders

by BadMaafala on Sep 29, 2008 2:11 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

yea

Good point indeed schnifin. It also lets the D tee off when they obviously can time their blitzes perfectly. Obvious, I know, but you’d think it’d be obvious to them too.

by Blitzburgh on Sep 29, 2008 2:13 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

True, you almost wonder if they were letting Ben have a second or two breather to catch his breath before the next onslaught. Probably just Arian though.

A QB’s best friend is a running game, cliche but true. GO MENDY!!!!

by herewegosteelers on Sep 29, 2008 3:39 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Whatever happend

to all this no-huddle offense talk. We heard about them going (besides in the last two minutes before half or end of game) no-huddle before last year and then again this off-season. Yet we haven’t seen it.
Anyone else see the Bears go no – huddle last night in the middle of the first half (at least I think it was) and the RB screens they ran…….. aarrrggghhh sorry that horse is dead I will stop beating it.
I would like to see them come out no-huddle just to throw the Ravens something to adjust to, be the aggressors in this one. I can’t believe it is only 4:20 – this game can’t get here fast enough.

by 703Steeler on Sep 29, 2008 4:20 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Cuts? Baker and Bruce Davis

Schnifin,

I would cut Dallas Baker and Bruce Davis. I would dress Limas as the 4th WR, and he wouldn’t see the field unless another WR is injured since Heath Miller is the 4th WR on this team. Also, I doubt anyone would pick up Baker, so he could go on the practice squad until the injuries heal. There is a chance that the team could lose Bruce Davis, but in reality, 2 rookie LB free agents (P. Bailey & D. Woods) are ahead of him because they are much better special teams players. It’s not good when you are a 3rd round pick and 2 players off the street at your position dress before you do. Tony Hills is also a consideration. If either Hills or Davis is cut, then there is a chance either or both could make it to the practice squad.

It’s just that with our current injuries, I don’t think this team can let players who aren’t going to see any action this year take up a roster spot when the coaching staff aren’t ready to play them and this team is hurting in certain areas.

Thoughts?

by datruth4life on Sep 29, 2008 1:58 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

fair point

I agree we could use the extra guys, but at the same time I’m not sure you want to expose a 3rd or 4th rounder just so you have an extra backup for one or two games. Baker makes sense, I’m not sold on cutting Davis or Hills though. I think the second cut would have to go to either Woods or Bailey. Can’t see either of those guys getting picked up.

I think getting Russell up is more important b/c he really should be the #2 guy behind Mendenhall (in case of injury or excessive fumbling). Moore should stay as the 3rd down guy and Davis should not touch the ball more than once or twice.

by schnifin on Sep 29, 2008 2:09 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

davis

Did he not fare well in his assignments on special teams in preseason? I totally agree about letting Baker go. Not much value at all in keeping him. But depending on what he have in store for J Harrison, Davis might be a guy we’re interested in keeping around. I can’t see any possible scenario where Baker sees the field in the next two years, so, as you said, thats a burned roster spot we can’t afford to lose.

by Blitzburgh on Sep 29, 2008 2:09 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Great summary for the past stinking week!

Anxious about tonight and hoping the guys have got a good show in store for us!

I know we’re not going to win every game, but the way we lost was the rub last week.

Hopefully homefield, a hated rival, and contest for 1st place will bring out the agression this week. That, and hang on to that ball Delicious!

GO STEELERS!

by SCSteeler on Sep 29, 2008 2:11 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Colon has been hanging around Tomlin too much..

He has caught the “rambling, incomprehensible, circuiteous, cliche ridden, longest distance between two moot points” style of speech.

by robert ethan on Sep 29, 2008 2:23 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Colon is practicing for the presidency, give him a break.

by steelguy99 on Sep 29, 2008 2:25 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Actually Colon seems a lot more concise and original

..in his speech than Barack Obama who IS running for the Presidency. Tomlin probably ends up third on that list.

by robert ethan on Sep 29, 2008 2:33 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

robert ethan...

how’s it going.

charity standing orders

by BadMaafala on Sep 29, 2008 4:23 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

always refreshing

Nice to know certain things don’t change. Like RE’s hatred of Tomlin and his coach speak. And then he throws a jab at politics. ah well… no place to debate it here.

by Chicago Steeler on Sep 29, 2008 6:34 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Great job, Blitz

You guys do a great job with your posts. While I might not agree with everything here, I realize that I’m a Ravens fans and am praying for an end to your 13 game winning streak on MNF and no repeat of last year’s debacle. Your fans have insightful comments as well, and I hope we have a great game, with no injuries and the best team wins (of course as long as it’s my Ravens!). Good luck (uh,..not really).

Rexx

by Rexx on Sep 29, 2008 4:57 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

yes

No injuries, either side of the ball. Unless Bart Scott gets some sort of freak rash that makes him cry on TV. Id be ok with that.

I’ll stop by Baltimore Beatdown during the geam Rexx for some fun. You’re of course welcome here as well. Cheers.

by Blitzburgh on Sep 29, 2008 5:11 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

FIELD LOGO?

Just checked out some pregame coverage on ESPN.com and it looks like there’s a logo in the middle of the field tonight. Verryy Surprising, right?

by The IC Lion on Sep 29, 2008 5:09 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

even my cats excited

Shes running around in circles, chasing her tail, pretending to be J Harrison body slamming an unsuspecting Ravens player.

by Blitzburgh on Sep 29, 2008 5:14 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

A lesson From The Hated Patriots

Froget the run. We all remember sitting on the edge of our seats last year and actually rooting FOR the Crows when they almost beat the Hated Patriots. Did the Patriots insist on establishing a run game? No, they (with a better line than ours) realized that to beat a hyped up Crows defense (as they will be tonight), had to throw, throw and throw some more. The quick stuff. What is the strength of our offense? I would have to say our receiving weapons. Anyone? I think we have the talent in place to use the tight ends and Hines to dink and dunk our way down the field. This will be the true test of our coachng staff. Do they stick with a coaching philosophy (Establish the run), or do they adjust and gameplan for one of the best defenses (STILL!) around?
I’m wondering about conditioning. If both teams consistantly go three and out, does anyone get tired?
One thing is for sure, with two anemic offenses like these, turnovers will be key!
If nothing is fixed on our offense ([uh-fens or, for 7–9, aw-fens, of-ens]; 4. something that offends or displeases.), here are the numbers:
9 – Number of times Big Ben is sacked. As recorded two years ago against the Crows.
5 – Number of times Big Ben still praises his line.
36 – Number of punts. (Also number of punt return yards)
4 – Times the average Steelers fan will actually cry during the game (May be more for Women).
12 – Times Hines Ward pops up after making a catch and getting crushed with a smile on his face.
9 – Number of defensive players names for the Steelers that Joey Flacco (Flaco means skinny in Spanish) will have perminantly memorized.
632 – Number of beers thrown to the ground in Heinz stadium by fans at some point (All will be replaced – Some replacements will add to the overall number).
52 – Number of Steelers “Not gettin’ any” after the game.
Good day and Good luck to the Steelers!
P.S. It’s all in good fun. Can someone give me the numbers for the Crows?

by WyoFan on Sep 29, 2008 5:22 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

ill take a stab

125 = number of passing yards for Senor Skinny tonight against our defense

3 = number of Flacco turnovers

234 = number of times ROn Jaworski reminds us that he studied film of both teams all week.

12 = number of references to the Ravens SB win and how Flacco could get them there if he ‘manages’ the game like Dilfer did.

2 = number of flagrant penalties the Ravens will pick up in an attempt to gain a cheap upper hand.

0 = offensive TDs for BAL tonight.

by Blitzburgh on Sep 29, 2008 5:35 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

noone

on our defense will get tired with lots of 3 & outs. Philly was all 3 & outs and I was amazed how fresh our defense looked at the end.

by TheMostViolentTeam on Sep 29, 2008 7:58 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Forgot about

how many times Tony K will talk about Farve during our game even though he has nothing to do with it. my guess 17.

by SteelBuckeye on Sep 29, 2008 6:28 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

+1

Totally right. At least one quarter devoted to it, particularly if we’re in an ugly slug fest.

by Blitzburgh on Sep 29, 2008 6:43 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

1 hour, 15 minutes. Heading to the bar shortly…

by steelguy99 on Sep 29, 2008 7:14 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

anytime Ben

rolls out of the pocket or hits a quick slant with alot of velocity. “OMG I LOVE BRETT FAVRE er, I mean, Big Ben” – Kornheiser.

by TheMostViolentTeam on Sep 29, 2008 7:57 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

kevin greene

Just watched an entertaining interview with him on the pregame show. That guy should be a coach. Not sure if hed be interested but that guys got energy. I’m sure he can motivate and teach.

by Blitzburgh on Sep 29, 2008 8:02 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

interesting thought

He showed up at our training camp to talk to our rookies, and not the Rams or Carolina….

by SteelBuckeye on Sep 29, 2008 8:06 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Tomlin

I already liked him, but I really enjoyed that clip of him on espn. Hearing him talk on the sideline, I haven’t seen that side of him that was a plus.

by SteelBuckeye on Sep 29, 2008 8:03 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

radio

anyone know how to get the local radio on the net? The Goggle links didn’t work. Me thinks this is another NFL marketing/pay angle

by BabushkaPower on Sep 29, 2008 8:03 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

try

http://channelsurfing.net/

BUt go in Firefox. There’s a video and audio option. Both are working.

by Blitzburgh on Sep 29, 2008 8:05 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

What up

fellas long time no see…… you guys fired the F uped?

* till next time wave those towels proud

by LiveinDCbutsteelerfanbyheart on Sep 29, 2008 8:29 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

most def

Here we go! Let’s ge tthis party started.

by Blitzburgh on Sep 29, 2008 8:30 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Check list

Beer- check, cigs-check, game on mute-check, Tunch calling the game on the radio—check, and sausages- check. GO Steelers!!!

by SteelBuckeye on Sep 29, 2008 8:30 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

nice

I like ure check list. I might have F’ed up a bit and forgotten to go to the grocery before the game. I’m hunnnnngry.

by Blitzburgh on Sep 29, 2008 8:31 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

blitz, how you been

Sorry havent been around lately, but I am coaching a high school football team this year mad busy

* till next time wave those towels proud

by LiveinDCbutsteelerfanbyheart on Sep 29, 2008 8:31 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

been great man

Enjoyin Seattle. Good for you for coaching. That’s a lot of fun. Did it last year. Had a blast.

Busy’s a good thing! Glad you have some time to watch this game though. Hopefully it’s all we are hoping for.

by Blitzburgh on Sep 29, 2008 8:32 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

agreed

Wasnt too happy all week… I want to have a good week. I think everyone does. lol

* till next time wave those towels proud

by LiveinDCbutsteelerfanbyheart on Sep 29, 2008 8:33 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Jaws is great

What a dork. Gotta love his true love for the game.

by Blitzburgh on Sep 29, 2008 8:34 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

oh boy

Here we go! Ray Lewis! Lol. "anytime someone touches the football they get knocked out’

by Blitzburgh on Sep 29, 2008 8:35 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

oh god ray lewis

lol hard to believe he is still going strong for how long hes been in the league

* till next time wave those towels proud

by LiveinDCbutsteelerfanbyheart on Sep 29, 2008 8:35 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

jeez

Kornheiser’s bored with the offenses in this game already

by Blitzburgh on Sep 29, 2008 8:36 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

I honestly

would like to have mike and mike do the monday night football

* till next time wave those towels proud

by LiveinDCbutsteelerfanbyheart on Sep 29, 2008 8:37 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

agreed

show ponys for 88 and 82…errr

by SteelBuckeye on Sep 29, 2008 8:39 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

I am ready to see Hines lay some Ravens out…

The Ralphie Report - University of Colorado Athletics

by Jon Woods on Sep 29, 2008 8:38 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

opening song

For as silly as it is, part of me is glad they havent replaced it with something ‘hip ’ and young and totally out of place for football (like Pink’s stupid shit song on SNF).

by Blitzburgh on Sep 29, 2008 8:39 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

fumble lets go right now

* till next time wave those towels proud

by LiveinDCbutsteelerfanbyheart on Sep 29, 2008 8:40 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

what a hit

* till next time wave those towels proud

by LiveinDCbutsteelerfanbyheart on Sep 29, 2008 8:41 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Nice Hit!

Love that kind of start

The Ralphie Report - University of Colorado Athletics

by Jon Woods on Sep 29, 2008 8:41 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

ewww

Harbaugh ‘wreaks of football’ Smelly.

by Blitzburgh on Sep 29, 2008 8:43 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

yikes

Stretchers on the field. Lets hope this is just overly precautionary.

by Blitzburgh on Sep 29, 2008 8:44 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Listening to the Game on NFL.com...

Craig Wolfley from the sidelines said the back judge told everyone he just got knocked out cold, but has been moving around and talking. So I’m guessing he just got cold-cocked.

by Hines Ward on Sep 29, 2008 8:49 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Nowhere to go!

The Ralphie Report - University of Colorado Athletics

by Jon Woods on Sep 29, 2008 8:50 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Gotta have your head on a swivel…Pretty good start for the D!

by Steeler Ric on Sep 29, 2008 8:50 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

good start woot woot

* till next time wave those towels proud

by LiveinDCbutsteelerfanbyheart on Sep 29, 2008 8:51 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

hate to say it

but hurt our player and face our D…bad idea

by SteelBuckeye on Sep 29, 2008 8:51 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Starting corners

Is Townsend starting tonight? If so, who’s out, Ike or McFadden?

by Steeler Ric on Sep 29, 2008 8:52 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Hines

OK…glad he’s back…did anyone see hines with the de-cleater?

by Steeler Ric on Sep 29, 2008 8:55 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

nate!!!!

* till next time wave those towels proud

by LiveinDCbutsteelerfanbyheart on Sep 29, 2008 8:58 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Huge hole!

The Ralphie Report - University of Colorado Athletics

by Jon Woods on Sep 29, 2008 8:59 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

YES FUCKING SIR

LETS GO. LIke hitting the hole hard like that

by Blitzburgh on Sep 29, 2008 8:59 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

see him

holding that ball :)

by SteelBuckeye on Sep 29, 2008 8:59 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

da hell man

* till next time wave those towels proud

by LiveinDCbutsteelerfanbyheart on Sep 29, 2008 9:01 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

may i say automatic

* till next time wave those towels proud

by LiveinDCbutsteelerfanbyheart on Sep 29, 2008 9:02 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

He is sick at Hines

The Ralphie Report - University of Colorado Athletics

by Jon Woods on Sep 29, 2008 9:02 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

I mean Heinz

The Ralphie Report - University of Colorado Athletics

by Jon Woods on Sep 29, 2008 9:03 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

so

Some good things there. We gave up two sacks which is troubling but there was som promise in the running game.

by Blitzburgh on Sep 29, 2008 9:03 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

reed

Anyone else notice his kicks from 45+ look like theyd be good from 55+

by Blitzburgh on Sep 29, 2008 9:03 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

nice!

Thats the way to make the most of your opportunities!

by Blitzburgh on Sep 29, 2008 9:05 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

off topic, but who all is going to the skins, steelers monday night game?

I am

by frankrmineo on Sep 29, 2008 9:05 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

WE must meet up

* till next time wave those towels proud

by LiveinDCbutsteelerfanbyheart on Sep 29, 2008 9:06 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

ME

* till next time wave those towels proud

by LiveinDCbutsteelerfanbyheart on Sep 29, 2008 9:05 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

nice;
my fiance got me tickets for a wedding present

by frankrmineo on Sep 29, 2008 9:06 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

nice

sounds like you have a keeper in your lady :)

by Blitzburgh on Sep 29, 2008 9:07 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

man does he got an arm

* till next time wave those towels proud

by LiveinDCbutsteelerfanbyheart on Sep 29, 2008 9:07 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

holy hell i almost lost my lunch

by frankrmineo on Sep 29, 2008 9:07 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

what what mr monday night

* till next time wave those towels proud

by LiveinDCbutsteelerfanbyheart on Sep 29, 2008 9:08 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

He just got smoked!

The Ralphie Report - University of Colorado Athletics

by Jon Woods on Sep 29, 2008 9:08 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

HELL YA

SILVERBACK

by frankrmineo on Sep 29, 2008 9:08 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

YESSIR

Go get em James! Saw that one coming. Bigtime.

by Blitzburgh on Sep 29, 2008 9:09 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

That’s one mean man. I love it.

by Hines Ward on Sep 29, 2008 9:09 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

in black

* till next time wave those towels proud

by LiveinDCbutsteelerfanbyheart on Sep 29, 2008 9:09 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Interesting...

Two punts, two times Santonio has been the returner.

by Hines Ward on Sep 29, 2008 9:09 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

holmes

I think he looks pretty good. Seems more decisive than Moore.

WTF is up with these bullyiing ads?

by Blitzburgh on Sep 29, 2008 9:11 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Deebo

Is a bad mudafuka. Glad hes on our team

by Blitzburgh on Sep 29, 2008 9:10 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

great kick

coverage so far. someone needs to teach that kid how to take a knee

by steelerark on Sep 29, 2008 9:10 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

what the hell

* till next time wave those towels proud

by LiveinDCbutsteelerfanbyheart on Sep 29, 2008 9:11 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

what the hell just happened?

by frankrmineo on Sep 29, 2008 9:12 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

what the fuck

* till next time wave those towels proud

by LiveinDCbutsteelerfanbyheart on Sep 29, 2008 9:12 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

sorry for lang

* till next time wave those towels proud

by LiveinDCbutsteelerfanbyheart on Sep 29, 2008 9:12 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

perhaps he is trying to help the ravens cover the spread…that is all i can think of

by frankrmineo on Sep 29, 2008 9:12 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

I heard Kordell wants to come back to the league…maybe he would be good at avoiding all those unblocked pass rushers

by frankrmineo on Sep 29, 2008 9:13 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

that man decided he could block silverback so he would sit on him instead

by frankrmineo on Sep 29, 2008 9:15 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

good throw there

Btw I like Harrison on Heap any day of the week.

by Blitzburgh on Sep 29, 2008 9:16 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

i need derek mason to not score 11 fantasy points to win my matchup this week

by frankrmineo on Sep 29, 2008 9:16 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

no sweat

He wont get much.

by Blitzburgh on Sep 29, 2008 9:17 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Ooh...

Troy’s out to continue his streak tonight.

by Hines Ward on Sep 29, 2008 9:17 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Anyone know what the deal is?

Why is Monday Night Football obsessed with the Who all of a sudden?

The Ralphie Report - University of Colorado Athletics

by Jon Woods on Sep 29, 2008 9:18 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

I love em.

It’s just weird that they are playing em so much.

The Ralphie Report - University of Colorado Athletics

by Jon Woods on Sep 29, 2008 9:19 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

probably because the who’s record label payed them money

by frankrmineo on Sep 29, 2008 9:19 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Jaws

Is having an orgasm watching a young QB mature.

by Blitzburgh on Sep 29, 2008 9:19 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

that must be where tony kornhisier gets his hair get for all three hairs he has left

by frankrmineo on Sep 29, 2008 9:20 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

late with that throw

Missed opportunity there.

by Blitzburgh on Sep 29, 2008 9:20 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

great play by timmons

by frankrmineo on Sep 29, 2008 9:21 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

you can learn hands over time

you can’t learn pure speed, and more than that closing speed. Timmons has that… i can’t wait to see this guy as he matures, he’s still young.

by syrsteelerfan on Sep 29, 2008 9:23 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

We Got Lucky There...

That was a touchdown. Harbaugh should’ve challenged.

by Hines Ward on Sep 29, 2008 9:23 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

it sure was

great catch by the wr

by houksyndrome on Sep 29, 2008 9:25 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

mendenhall has looked good through 1 quarter

by frankrmineo on Sep 29, 2008 9:25 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

he has

it’s nice to see us run a little bit against them. I feel like we haven’t done that in a long time against the ravens

by houksyndrome on Sep 29, 2008 9:25 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Mendy...

looking good on that blitz pickup against Ray Lewis

by Steeler Ric on Sep 29, 2008 9:28 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

It's On...

He just nailed Silverback. Not a good idea.

by Hines Ward on Sep 29, 2008 9:29 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

wow

thats great team defense. EVERYONE where they were supposed to be/

by Blitzburgh on Sep 29, 2008 9:32 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

gotta get off the field

but that was a great pass, just outta reach

by Jett on Sep 29, 2008 9:33 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Ha Ha

We have Troy and you don’t.

by Hines Ward on Sep 29, 2008 9:34 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Ouch...

That wasn’t pretty.

The Ralphie Report - University of Colorado Athletics

by Jon Woods on Sep 29, 2008 9:36 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

their punter is a beast

by frankrmineo on Sep 29, 2008 9:36 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

i wanted zbikowski in the draft

good special teamer. Though i have to say Tomlin seems to be doing okay with undrafted rookie FA LB’s and CB’s who are just good athletes.

by syrsteelerfan on Sep 29, 2008 9:37 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

sadly

Holmes remembers punt retuning like college..different world

by SteelBuckeye on Sep 29, 2008 9:37 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

that was sick

the ravens defense is playing nasty

by Jett on Sep 29, 2008 9:40 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

grrrr

Still our plays are taking a long time to develop. These slow developing drag and crossing patterns arent going to cut it. How about some hot routes where guys just run 3-6 yards and sit down somewhere in open scpae.

by Blitzburgh on Sep 29, 2008 9:40 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

no he's not

we have had this bunch formation fetish, but those plays just don’t work against the blitz

by houksyndrome on Sep 29, 2008 9:42 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

They're winning the field position battle now

That’s huge in this game

The Ralphie Report - University of Colorado Athletics

by Jon Woods on Sep 29, 2008 9:40 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

turnover

We’ll get a turnover one of these series (hopefully) and change the field position and flow of the game.

by Blitzburgh on Sep 29, 2008 9:41 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

??

what type of playcalling is that?? 2 runs up the middle… didnt even look like we had the wr running any decoy.. hines went to the middle to block… so what ya think the defense was at?? wtf?? arians has to go… this is just sick

by lostinbrownscountry on Sep 29, 2008 9:41 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

playcalling sucks

almost looks like they are playing NOT to turn it over?? scheming to NOT let the o-line look bad?? how about some screens?? hot routes??

by lostinbrownscountry on Sep 29, 2008 9:43 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

no holes

we dont have them because our playcalling is too bland… they see what were not doing so can sit down on the run

by lostinbrownscountry on Sep 29, 2008 9:44 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

hmm

Looks like we were going to get after Flacco there. I wonder who called the timeout?

by Blitzburgh on Sep 29, 2008 9:46 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

???

i love my steelers… but this first half combined with last week against the eagles is realy bringing me down…. maybe our first 2 wins was a fluke???

by lostinbrownscountry on Sep 29, 2008 9:46 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

i dont get that

Why give the coach a chance to set something up and talk to his rookie QB

by Blitzburgh on Sep 29, 2008 9:48 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

No

need to panic…we will be okay!

by Steeler Ric on Sep 29, 2008 9:48 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

we need to blitz on 3rd down

flacco needs to be hit and flustered and its not happening

by Jett on Sep 29, 2008 9:48 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Our d

has to be on the field way too long thus far!

by Steeler Ric on Sep 29, 2008 9:49 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

agreed

our offense hasnt kept the ball for crap… hurts the d

by lostinbrownscountry on Sep 29, 2008 9:49 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

just me or

Have we had absolutely ZERO rhythm this whole game. That initial injury to Frazier on the kickoff was not a good thing for the tone of the game.

by Blitzburgh on Sep 29, 2008 9:51 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

tomlin

i like tomlin… a lot… but i sure miss that cowher scowl right now… hed be in the grill of some people for sure… spit all a flyin….

by lostinbrownscountry on Sep 29, 2008 9:52 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

I think

the pick was the momentum changer for us!

by Steeler Ric on Sep 29, 2008 9:52 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

yea

We had just gootten on the field too. Defense needed a rest there.

by Blitzburgh on Sep 29, 2008 9:53 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

pts

Need pts before halftime, then we get the ball to start the 2nd. Really need at least a few first downs here.

by Blitzburgh on Sep 29, 2008 9:55 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

wow

this is getting embarassing.

by Blitzburgh on Sep 29, 2008 9:56 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Marvel

Looks pretty bad tonight.

by Hines Ward on Sep 29, 2008 9:57 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

What Exactly...

Can Sweed do? He doesn’t know the offense real well, and it’s not like he’s going to be the one calling the plays. And Hills is a project. We don’t need Ben taking more shots than he already is.

by Hines Ward on Sep 29, 2008 10:00 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

It felt like he had plenty of time last week too

at least on a couple of the sacks

The Ralphie Report - University of Colorado Athletics

by Jon Woods on Sep 29, 2008 9:59 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

you are right

our plays suck, it’s not just the playcalling, but the plays themselves

by houksyndrome on Sep 29, 2008 10:00 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

im wating btw guys

For one of you to make the joke that maybe thats the break we needed with simmons getting injured. Lol.

by Blitzburgh on Sep 29, 2008 10:00 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

sucks

playcalling and execution… ben looks gun shy… i think it was in 06 that we had the same problem and when he doesnt feel comfortable he really looks bad…

by lostinbrownscountry on Sep 29, 2008 10:01 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

great

punter suckin too… and against us its now 2 weeks in a row the OTHER punter has been boomin…

by lostinbrownscountry on Sep 29, 2008 10:02 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

dear ravens:

merry christmas, here’s some nice field position for you

by acrollet on Sep 29, 2008 10:02 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

so...

is our 7million $ man going to get some play time?

by acrollet on Sep 29, 2008 10:03 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

If we

get out of the first half with a 3 point deficit,,,We can come back in the second half, pound the rock and get back in this.

by Steeler Ric on Sep 29, 2008 10:04 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

we could also replace simmons with berger after that punt

by frankrmineo on Sep 29, 2008 10:05 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

mr tomlin...

…needs to start taking some heat. he took over a playoff caliber team and has had them on a steady decline. losing to this raven team is embarrassing.

by leroy jenkins on Sep 29, 2008 10:07 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Fellas we are only down 3 points…

by Steeler Ric on Sep 29, 2008 10:07 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

arians

he sucked when he was with cleveland.. how does tomlin hire him and then STICK with him after his incompetance last year…

by lostinbrownscountry on Sep 29, 2008 10:08 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

might as well

be 3000 points when your offense is this anemic

by SE7ENS on Sep 29, 2008 10:08 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

3 points

yeah… but just like last week against philly… did you have ANY confidence we were in the game at all??

i mean i would be fine if i thought we were showing ANYTHING out there… but were not…

by lostinbrownscountry on Sep 29, 2008 10:09 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

bullshit tomlin needs heat…he took over a .500 .team…and has one a division titile and his 2-1 down by 3 points

by frankrmineo on Sep 29, 2008 10:09 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

My god

Well McGahee is done, but wtf is this, we may be three points down, but this is pathetic. The line is ruining not only this season, but Roethlisberger’s career. Injury, and gun shyness is gonna hurt him. We need a trade.

To the tune of the classic children's song "This Old Man" (the part with nick nack patty whack)

Big Snack, Silverback, take the Dawg Pound's Bone, the Black and Gold sent the Brownies crying home.

by HighSchoolSteeler on Sep 29, 2008 10:09 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

15.5

with my bookie… YIKES!!!!

by lostinbrownscountry on Sep 29, 2008 10:10 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Steelers O-Line...

Should take notes from the Ravens’ O-Line on pass protection.

by Hines Ward on Sep 29, 2008 10:10 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Arians should be fired after this week.

And do you think these announcers might be man crushing on Flacco? They haven’t talked about anything but Flacco.

To the tune of the classic children's song "This Old Man" (the part with nick nack patty whack)

Big Snack, Silverback, take the Dawg Pound's Bone, the Black and Gold sent the Brownies crying home.

by HighSchoolSteeler on Sep 29, 2008 10:11 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

arians should be fired

And theyre slobbing his knob because compared to what Ben’s been able to do, Flaccos been great. What can they possibly say about Roeth?

by Blitzburgh on Sep 29, 2008 10:12 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

That wasn't pretty

The Ralphie Report - University of Colorado Athletics

by Jon Woods on Sep 29, 2008 10:11 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

good explanation

on why he was uncovered

by vherub on Sep 29, 2008 10:12 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

The only brightsides

are the d has been solid but not great and Mendenhall has walked the walk.

To the tune of the classic children's song "This Old Man" (the part with nick nack patty whack)

Big Snack, Silverback, take the Dawg Pound's Bone, the Black and Gold sent the Brownies crying home.

by HighSchoolSteeler on Sep 29, 2008 10:12 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

But Mendy has not gotten the ball

To the tune of the classic children's song "This Old Man" (the part with nick nack patty whack)

Big Snack, Silverback, take the Dawg Pound's Bone, the Black and Gold sent the Brownies crying home.

by HighSchoolSteeler on Sep 29, 2008 10:12 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

all i'm saying is...

…i just want to see him out coach another coach in this league at some point. i’ve yet to see it

by leroy jenkins on Sep 29, 2008 10:13 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

yep

To the tune of the classic children's song "This Old Man" (the part with nick nack patty whack)

Big Snack, Silverback, take the Dawg Pound's Bone, the Black and Gold sent the Brownies crying home.

by HighSchoolSteeler on Sep 29, 2008 10:14 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs