You want innovation? Let's brainstrom...
by PixburghArn on Dec 1, 2009 1:07 PM EST
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You want innovation I got innovation for you. Here are 2 ideas I have tell me what you think or add on your own. I may do a poll (which I hate) from some of the best. Let's discuss.
1. Since some are so ready to run the wildcat, I'm surprised nobody mentioned (at least I never saw anyone mention) Hines ward running a wildcat. If you are going to run one he would be the best choice. He was a QB in college along with runningback and receiver. You could put Sweed in there. If you don't throw to him at least you have another decent blocker. Run the wildcat with Rush-hard and or Willie/Memo behind him.
2. Run more of that (receiver) bunch formation, even the one with four receivers. You can run backside screens and even a flea flicker out of that. The flea flicker could be run out of a reverse or (quick)screen pass back (risky). Motion from that formation adds a load of options.
Now let the discussion begin. I have alluded to the fact that I think the Steelers are working on things in practice. They just haven't made it to the playing field. Some have in spots. New wrinkles and gadgets are like roaches. If you see one or two you have the population of a large asian city in your walls. Let the fun begin.
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I was wondering...
why the Steelers signed Palko when Batch went down. I would think that Hines has a very intimate knowledge of the playbook, and would be a fairly capable emergency option @ QB. So yes, I agree with your #1. Especially with Hines, Mendenhall and Dixon in the backfield.
On the #2, I think that could work great, for either short yardage (with the possiblity of breaking one YAC) or pump fake and wide open Wallace down the field.
Funny you mention Wallace
I still like the Wallace play on 2nd and uhhh about 4-6 in the Ratbird game. As a matter of fact when our drives reach about our own 40 to 50 yardline, I think a shot to Wallace should be considered every time. Do it out of different looks if you have to. Most teams will take a shot right after the 50 but with his speed, hit it up a little earlier.
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." - Winston Churchill
Absolutely agree..
And with Sepulveda’s leg, we can take the shot earlier than most, risking it killing a drive, without feeling terrible about losing much field position, methinks.
1) No. I hate the Wildcat and everything it stands for.
2) Yes. Seems like that used to be a Steelers staple and has disappeared lately. No flea flickers for me though. Seems like about 50% of the time they get stuffed for losses.
Wall of Shame
-"I’m glad we play Pitt twice, and not Tenn this year." - Brownie's Year
-"BB is ok (slightly overated)…but he is NO Kyle Orton! I’ll take Kyle over Ben any day" - Bronco_Fan_Tom
-PIT 24 KC 27
re:2)
we could just run it twice in a row if it doesn’t work the first time
"Now that I'm here, I don't want to just be here, I want to be here for a long time." Hines Ward, 1998 4th round draft pick.
by kick him in the head on Dec 1, 2009 1:44 PM EST up reply actions
Lol
Wall of Shame
-"I’m glad we play Pitt twice, and not Tenn this year." - Brownie's Year
-"BB is ok (slightly overated)…but he is NO Kyle Orton! I’ll take Kyle over Ben any day" - Bronco_Fan_Tom
-PIT 24 KC 27
by John Stephens on Dec 1, 2009 1:51 PM EST up reply actions
You're an Arians fan aren't you?
just kidding
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." - Winston Churchill
Arians would run fleaflickers and reverses all day if he was allowed.
Wall of Shame
-"I’m glad we play Pitt twice, and not Tenn this year." - Brownie's Year
-"BB is ok (slightly overated)…but he is NO Kyle Orton! I’ll take Kyle over Ben any day" - Bronco_Fan_Tom
-PIT 24 KC 27
by John Stephens on Dec 1, 2009 1:52 PM EST up reply actions
What if they worked?
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." - Winston Churchill
What if I pooped solid gold bars?
Wall of Shame
-"I’m glad we play Pitt twice, and not Tenn this year." - Brownie's Year
-"BB is ok (slightly overated)…but he is NO Kyle Orton! I’ll take Kyle over Ben any day" - Bronco_Fan_Tom
-PIT 24 KC 27
by John Stephens on Dec 1, 2009 2:08 PM EST up reply actions
I think it has a better chance of working than that happening
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." - Winston Churchill
Don't make me start eating gold jewelry
Wall of Shame
-"I’m glad we play Pitt twice, and not Tenn this year." - Brownie's Year
-"BB is ok (slightly overated)…but he is NO Kyle Orton! I’ll take Kyle over Ben any day" - Bronco_Fan_Tom
-PIT 24 KC 27
by John Stephens on Dec 1, 2009 2:10 PM EST up reply actions
If it turns to bars I'll be your agent
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." - Winston Churchill
As the inspector of the final product you deserve a heavy cut.
You sure Ike isn’t reacquainting himself with his fingers, he certainly doesn’t use them for catching. - Brian (DaBolts) on "Face Me Ike"
I'll send it to processing for cleaning first
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." - Winston Churchill
Thanks
That is what I am really looking for in an agent.
Wall of Shame
-"I’m glad we play Pitt twice, and not Tenn this year." - Brownie's Year
-"BB is ok (slightly overated)…but he is NO Kyle Orton! I’ll take Kyle over Ben any day" - Bronco_Fan_Tom
-PIT 24 KC 27
by John Stephens on Dec 1, 2009 2:57 PM EST up reply actions
so you can get on your cellphone and say "Shw me the money!?"
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." - Winston Churchill
root for the brown and gold
"Now that I'm here, I don't want to just be here, I want to be here for a long time." Hines Ward, 1998 4th round draft pick.
by kick him in the head on Dec 2, 2009 12:12 PM EST up reply actions
You mean the gold in brown
Wall of Shame
-"I’m glad we play Pitt twice, and not Tenn this year." - Brownie's Year
-"BB is ok (slightly overated)…but he is NO Kyle Orton! I’ll take Kyle over Ben any day" - Bronco_Fan_Tom
-PIT 24 KC 27
by John Stephens on Dec 2, 2009 12:55 PM EST up reply actions
Wildcat
I’m not sure about taking a QB of Ben’s caliber off of the field, or at least out of the play. Miami created the wildcat out of necessity, I don’t think they had won a game up until they unleashed it. (please correct me if I’m wrong). The same goes for Cleveland. Their best option is the wildcat. To bring it out once in a while is ok, but I wouldn’t be turning to it several times a game or series such as Miami does.
I don't think it would be a staple
but would you hate it if it worked well? Nobody knows whether it will or not. I’m open to it if it gets us W’s.
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." - Winston Churchill
No doubt he plays are genius
I would love to see the defenses go into chaos when Hines lines up behind center, and Ben is split out wide. Just use it in moderation though. I wonder if the defense would know about Hines’ QB abilities? Interesting.
PixburghArn for OC!
Who’s with me!?
For ideas on statistical analyses, email me at wolfpacksteelersfan@gmail.com.
by WolfpackSteelersFan on Dec 1, 2009 1:57 PM EST reply actions
Not me!
Coordinator and head coach are rewarding but stressful. I can only imagine what it would be like at the NFL level!
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." - Winston Churchill
Oh, well!
Just brainstormin’ :)
For ideas on statistical analyses, email me at wolfpacksteelersfan@gmail.com.
by WolfpackSteelersFan on Dec 1, 2009 2:21 PM EST up reply actions
I thought about going the rest of the way up the ladder
after I retired from the AF, but I wanted to stay married and I had a pretty good job.
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." - Winston Churchill
Wow, if I watch Whisenhunt's offense on TV
I will get roaches in my walls?
"We just have to play better as a whole team." James Harrison
by LongTimeSteelersFan on Dec 1, 2009 2:26 PM EST reply actions
(Roaches sold separately)
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." - Winston Churchill
I still haven't figured out...
whether I get the roaches or not.
by Rebecca Rollett on Dec 3, 2009 9:15 PM EST up reply actions
Turn the lights out for a bout 10 minutes then turn them back on
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." - Winston Churchill
2 Quarterbacks on the field....
I’ll say it again two quarterbacks on the field at once. I’ve talked about it before. When you have one mobile QB just line up in the shotgun with (in our case) Dixon as the “HB” in the formation. You have two guys able to throw, both guys able to move, one better than the other of course (you can guess if you like), and have the dual threat pass/ run with both. I can’t see why this hasn’t at least been tried… Oh, that’s right, if you don’t fit into the box at a certain position, you’re garbage in the NFL’s eyes.
Imagine even further if you dare. A shotgun formation with a split backfield. Lined up as QB you’ve got Ben. To his right, you have Dixon, and to Ben’s left you have a mobile left handed QB. Now you have triple threats. Two guys who can run or pass as well as a higher percentage passer in Ben who isn’t a statue. There is about ten options on each play. The throwing option is easy on both “HB’s” they’re rolling out their natural throwing way most of the time anyway. If the D crashes the flats on one of the two, pass it over them to whomever is in that area, TE, WR whoever. If they don’t attack the ballcarrier, run it for five or so. There is only so much territory a defender can cover. Make him bite on one and go with the other. Leave the choice up to the “HB” making the pass (or run). Maybe it’s too simple to work? I’ve got more ideas for this formation, but I’ll save you some details (cliffhanger?).
We really should have been ahead of the curve on this. We had a team that had Hines (as stated a former college QB), and Randle El (I think he’s thrown a pass or two in his day). And we had Slash for Pete’s sake. How is it that no one thought of even trying this at one point? I said it then, I’ll say it now. Just try it.
I’m not saying run it as our whole offense, just another wrinkle in what we have.
'I’ve learned to become a flat-liner. There’s a lot out there that’ll make your heart jump if you allow it."
-Coach Tomlin
Ok
Your only true option is Hines unless you want your backup in there playing at a position where he’s going to get hit more than Ben. You can’t use your emergency QB because once he steps on the field 1 & 2 are done. You can give an active slot to your 3rd QB but you are going tohave to deactivate a skill player. You will have one less blocker in the backfield unless you want your 2nd QB throwing blocks on a lineman or linebacker. That will be one less running a pattern as well. You will have two throwing threats, but if I had that I prefer it be Ward because he used to the contact.
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." - Winston Churchill
Dang rules, they get in the way of all my fun...
What if we listed our third QB as a WR? We did it with Slash at some point didn’t we? I don’t remember. And who needs blocking anyway?
'I’ve learned to become a flat-liner. There’s a lot out there that’ll make your heart jump if you allow it."
-Coach Tomlin
by NYSteelersFan4 on Dec 1, 2009 2:52 PM EST up reply actions
who needs blocking anyway?
Ben’s brain?
Wall of Shame
-"I’m glad we play Pitt twice, and not Tenn this year." - Brownie's Year
-"BB is ok (slightly overated)…but he is NO Kyle Orton! I’ll take Kyle over Ben any day" - Bronco_Fan_Tom
-PIT 24 KC 27
by John Stephens on Dec 1, 2009 2:57 PM EST up reply actions
da truth
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." - Winston Churchill
Yeah, the last one was a joke.
'I’ve learned to become a flat-liner. There’s a lot out there that’ll make your heart jump if you allow it."
-Coach Tomlin
by NYSteelersFan4 on Dec 1, 2009 3:22 PM EST up reply actions
Ok good
Wasn’t sure if you were giving me the ole Hines Ward.
Wall of Shame
-"I’m glad we play Pitt twice, and not Tenn this year." - Brownie's Year
-"BB is ok (slightly overated)…but he is NO Kyle Orton! I’ll take Kyle over Ben any day" - Bronco_Fan_Tom
-PIT 24 KC 27
by John Stephens on Dec 1, 2009 3:28 PM EST up reply actions
why was he smiling?
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." - Winston Churchill
while not giving a poopie about his QB’s health
Wall of Shame
-"I’m glad we play Pitt twice, and not Tenn this year." - Brownie's Year
-"BB is ok (slightly overated)…but he is NO Kyle Orton! I’ll take Kyle over Ben any day" - Bronco_Fan_Tom
-PIT 24 KC 27
by John Stephens on Dec 1, 2009 3:37 PM EST up reply actions
Just a lil one...
'I’ve learned to become a flat-liner. There’s a lot out there that’ll make your heart jump if you allow it."
-Coach Tomlin
by NYSteelersFan4 on Dec 1, 2009 3:37 PM EST up reply actions
His Mickey Mouse ears have slipped to the side!
"We just have to play better as a whole team." James Harrison
by LongTimeSteelersFan on Dec 1, 2009 4:33 PM EST up reply actions
is he ok?
or standing on hot coals?
"Now that I'm here, I don't want to just be here, I want to be here for a long time." Hines Ward, 1998 4th round draft pick.
by kick him in the head on Dec 1, 2009 5:40 PM EST up reply actions
I think we went over this before, but what are the designations for being a QB?
Mewelde Moore threw a pass earlier this year, and clearly he wasn’t designated a QB. This ties into NYS’s above.
You sure Ike isn’t reacquainting himself with his fingers, he certainly doesn’t use them for catching. - Brian (DaBolts) on "Face Me Ike"
He wouldn’t need to be designated as a QB, but you would have to deactivate someone else to activate another player. So if we have 3 guys “behind” center, that is fine, they don’t all have to be listed at QB.
Wall of Shame
-"I’m glad we play Pitt twice, and not Tenn this year." - Brownie's Year
-"BB is ok (slightly overated)…but he is NO Kyle Orton! I’ll take Kyle over Ben any day" - Bronco_Fan_Tom
-PIT 24 KC 27
by John Stephens on Dec 1, 2009 2:59 PM EST up reply actions
That's what I was going to say
You can have anybody you want to QB but once the emergency QB comes in…1 &2 are done. The emergency QB is not an active roster spot until he comes in. I’m sure there’s some other little hinden gems in this rule but that’s it in a nutshell.
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." - Winston Churchill
What I don't get about the rule
That rule sort of seems dumb to me. If you bring in the “emergency” guy you should only have to deactivate one guy for the rest of the game. Like what if Ben gets injured and is out for the game, no bout. DD goes in and gets a minor injury but could possibly return later after icing it up. We activate Palko but DD can’t return. Seems dumb.
Wall of Shame
-"I’m glad we play Pitt twice, and not Tenn this year." - Brownie's Year
-"BB is ok (slightly overated)…but he is NO Kyle Orton! I’ll take Kyle over Ben any day" - Bronco_Fan_Tom
-PIT 24 KC 27
by John Stephens on Dec 1, 2009 3:12 PM EST up reply actions
I know that rule.
I’m wondering what happens if you have a QB, and two “running backs” next to him that can both throw the ball. Then, of course, you have two other “QBs”.
Likewise, was direct-snap Ronnie Brown going into the game designated as a QB?
You sure Ike isn’t reacquainting himself with his fingers, he certainly doesn’t use them for catching. - Brian (DaBolts) on "Face Me Ike"
I don't think he's listed as a QB
Where is “Boston…” he said he’s the rule book man. I just know the basis of the rule.
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." - Winston Churchill
I guess that’s what I’m looking for, and I think what NYS is wondering above.
If we have 4 QBs on the roster, the 3rd and 4th could play in his scenario, the second being reserved strictly as a backup. The “4th” of course we’d just call, say, a WR on the roster, where they would never play.
It would of course be debatable whether we would ever keep 4 QBs on the roster.
You sure Ike isn’t reacquainting himself with his fingers, he certainly doesn’t use them for catching. - Brian (DaBolts) on "Face Me Ike"
That may be a loophole
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." - Winston Churchill
This loophole must be closed in some way
or teams would not list any QBs
"We just have to play better as a whole team." James Harrison
by LongTimeSteelersFan on Dec 1, 2009 4:37 PM EST up reply actions
Not that wide open
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." - Winston Churchill
I would think, since the emergency QB doesn’t count against the active gameday roster, the NFL established the rule to keep teams from using the extra player unless it was absolutely necessary.
Exactly
I think I remember it being said you can have as many Qbs as you want and still have an emergency QB.
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." - Winston Churchill
It's not about what position a guy is listed at.
You only have a certain number of active players during a game, plus an extra slot for an emergency QB.
I just want Tebow as a Steeler...
There I said it.
But if we designate Tebow as a FB (you following me Brucey? Mr. “No Fullbacks in my offense” over there.) then there’s no problem with a Big Ben, Dixon, Tebow backfield right?
'I’ve learned to become a flat-liner. There’s a lot out there that’ll make your heart jump if you allow it."
-Coach Tomlin
by NYSteelersFan4 on Dec 1, 2009 3:26 PM EST up reply actions
I still don't like my backup on the field
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." - Winston Churchill
Well...
I can’t deny it’s risky. But there’s 3 (okay one potential) QB’s there, would you still be able to have an emergency extra on the sideline on top of that (assuming Tebow is listed as a FB)? I know it’s not the same, and in some cases its not even close, but does the risk of injury to a backup (keyword) out weigh the reward of a surprised defense trying to defend it? You can always just run the regular offense and hope Ben doesn’t get hurt should we find ourselves in a tight spot.
And come on Arn, you said innovation and brainstorm. Don’t get all conservative (the non-political definition) on me now! I’m thinking outside the box, don’t box me in man. And while I’m at it, don’t tase me bro.
'I’ve learned to become a flat-liner. There’s a lot out there that’ll make your heart jump if you allow it."
-Coach Tomlin
by NYSteelersFan4 on Dec 1, 2009 3:36 PM EST up reply actions
I know it justy scares me to think about having your started and backup on the field at the same time
If it’s a gadget I could probably live with that. :)
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." - Winston Churchill
You better...
Because I am Bruce Ariens and this was my plan all along. Bwahahahaha (dramatic pause) Bwahahaha….
'I’ve learned to become a flat-liner. There’s a lot out there that’ll make your heart jump if you allow it."
-Coach Tomlin
by NYSteelersFan4 on Dec 1, 2009 3:47 PM EST up reply actions
I believe you.
Just kidding…but you probably have one the the entries on the poll…I cringe at saying that.
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." - Winston Churchill
the word poll that is.
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." - Winston Churchill
We know you’re not Arians cause you want Tebow to be a fullback when he is so clearly a tight end. And why no Casey Hampton at TE? That’s the way to solve things.
by Chicago Steeler on Dec 1, 2009 4:04 PM EST up reply actions
I said there was more to the formation...
You may have figured out Ol’ Brucey’s best kept secret. Haha…
'I’ve learned to become a flat-liner. There’s a lot out there that’ll make your heart jump if you allow it."
-Coach Tomlin
by NYSteelersFan4 on Dec 1, 2009 4:24 PM EST up reply actions
Anything Hampton puts on makes a tight end
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." - Winston Churchill
I - Formation
Carey Davis or David Johnson as the lead blocker and run Mendy until his wheel’s fall off (another one of my favorite Mike T quotes “we’re gonna run Wille Parker ’til his wheels fall off!” what happened to that mentality?
I like the run to set up the pass, our OC & QB like the opposite, guess whose opinion matters. Even if we do continue to run basically the same plays, maybe we can execute a little better down the stretch and most importantly win the turnover battle.
The wheels fell off.
'I’ve learned to become a flat-liner. There’s a lot out there that’ll make your heart jump if you allow it."
-Coach Tomlin
by NYSteelersFan4 on Dec 1, 2009 2:47 PM EST up reply actions
The "I" formation is pretty easy to defend
That’s why it’s not used much except in short yardage. If you flow to the fullback usually you’ll get the ball carrier.
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." - Winston Churchill
Not to defend the patriots because I hate them, but they sure looked good on the 3 lining up and pounding the ball in last night. I wish our O-line could accomplish that.
You sure Ike isn’t reacquainting himself with his fingers, he certainly doesn’t use them for catching. - Brian (DaBolts) on "Face Me Ike"
It helps that the Saints have problems against the run, but the Pats did do well
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." - Winston Churchill
It helps a lot, but when was the last time the steelers stuffed it down the throat of a shitty run defense on the 3rd yard line?
You sure Ike isn’t reacquainting himself with his fingers, he certainly doesn’t use them for catching. - Brian (DaBolts) on "Face Me Ike"
How far am I allowed to go back?
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." - Winston Churchill
MTE, Mike Tomlin Era.
You sure Ike isn’t reacquainting himself with his fingers, he certainly doesn’t use them for catching. - Brian (DaBolts) on "Face Me Ike"
No fair
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." - Winston Churchill
Our short yardage has been above the line of late
3rd and 1, 3rd and 2, Mendenhall is punishing people.
That was great to see!
For some reason we seem to lose that innovation when Ben is the QB. Perhaps that will change when hell is unleashed.
"We just have to play better as a whole team." James Harrison
by LongTimeSteelersFan on Dec 1, 2009 3:16 PM EST up reply actions
Not a wildcat fan
I was watching the Greenbirds play the Redskins on Sunday afternoon and they took McInconsistent off the field and put Dog Killer in at a time when the Birds had just gotten a little offensive momentum. The end result was, you guessed it, a momentum ending drive killer.
I don’t like the idea of taking the ball out of your best player’s hands or taking him completely off the field for any reason. We all know how easily offensive momentum comes to our Steelers, why make it any harder?
Having said that, I do like the occasional gadget/gimmick play. I just much prefer it with Ben under center. Splitting him wide or taking him out entirely only alerts the opponent that something is a foot.
The only managing Ben does is he manages to WIN games
fair enough my friend
I would still like to see Hines run that though. Even if it failed. That way I could say ok…so it didn’t work.
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." - Winston Churchill
How have you been?
I haven’t logged on in a while. Figured the sky would be falling and it is. Where did all the “level-headed” thinking go?
The only managing Ben does is he manages to WIN games
by chewiesteeler on Dec 1, 2009 3:02 PM EST up reply actions
I think the levelheaded don't want to come here because
they know the flamers are flaming. You know…the ones that only come and read until they are mad and treat this like their facebook?
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." - Winston Churchill
I almost offed my house guest Sunday night
He is a Steelers fan but all he kept saying was “Dixon sucks” even before the first snap of the game. As the game wore on he started coming around a bit. He’s tough to watch football with sometimes. I am an optimist laced with realism but this dude has his picture next to pessimism in the dictionary.
The only managing Ben does is he manages to WIN games
by chewiesteeler on Dec 1, 2009 3:09 PM EST up reply actions
I hate negative attitudes like that.
Nothing wrong with bitching about a playcall, but we could have it alot worse. The sun will still come up tomorrow win or lose.
I had a guy doing the same thing
He was negative Nancy until we pulled ahead and was all kissin up on Dixon…rrrrr you get what I’m sasying….then the INT he says…“I told you!” I just shook my head.
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." - Winston Churchill
It becomes very frustrating
when every play is “a penalty that wasn’t called” or “a penalty that shouldn’t have been called.” The guy is a great friend of mine but he is so badly infected with the South Philadelphia bandwagon syndrome that prevails around here.
Any of you fellow BTSC’ers happen to be in Commercial Real Estate Lending out in Pittsburgh or the surrounding ’burbs? I have to get the hell out of this place.
The only managing Ben does is he manages to WIN games
by chewiesteeler on Dec 1, 2009 3:22 PM EST up reply actions
I know what you mean
I was traveling to and from Pihlly one year and to hear the people calling in on sports radio, you would think they were awful. Problem is, that was the year they went to the Super Bowl.
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." - Winston Churchill
Had the same feeling at a game once...
Guy next to me was just ripping Tommy Maddox the whole freakin’ game. For 3+ hours, the dude was a broken record going on and on about how Maddox stunk and if the Steelers lost, it would be all Maddox’s fault, blah blah blah.
So what happened? Maddox threw a horrible pick in overtime to a Jaguar that was returned for a touchdown.
I remember that game...
I saw that exact interception in my head two weeks ago when Batch threw that wounded duck in OT. I was just waiting on somebody to jump it and take it to the house.
'I’ve learned to become a flat-liner. There’s a lot out there that’ll make your heart jump if you allow it."
-Coach Tomlin
by NYSteelersFan4 on Dec 2, 2009 1:30 PM EST up reply actions
I was there too
Didn’t that loss lead to some numnuts fan to give death threats? That was the first time I ever experienced a loss at Heinz Field. It was like the Bataan Death March walking out of there.
The only managing Ben does is he manages to WIN games
by chewiesteeler on Dec 2, 2009 2:22 PM EST up reply actions
+1
I agree. I like gadget plays like I like pecan pie…a little at a time. Too much and my belly starts to ache.
"Whaddya' mean all the beer is gone..?
Has Hines ever thrown the ball as a Steeler?
I don’t recall Hines ever having attempted a pass as a Steeler. I probably don’t remember too well back to his early years, but I definitely can’t recall him throwing one in the past four or five years. It has always intrigued me that he was a quarterback in college, yet we never use him to throw like we use to with Randle El all the time.
He was an emergency QB one game
I can’t remember which one, but I remember he was being interviewed pre-game about it. He never got to play QB in that game though.
2 Passes Apparently.
One in 98 and one in 2001. Completed the 98 pass for 17 yards.
Wall of Shame
-"I’m glad we play Pitt twice, and not Tenn this year." - Brownie's Year
-"BB is ok (slightly overated)…but he is NO Kyle Orton! I’ll take Kyle over Ben any day" - Bronco_Fan_Tom
-PIT 24 KC 27
by John Stephens on Dec 1, 2009 3:17 PM EST up reply actions
Here's something innovative...
Lets go get a legit fullback, instead of a TE drafted in the seventh round or a converted halfback. I’m not saying you have to use a fullback every time you run the ball, I’m just that even if you only use him some of the time you might as well have a good one
Bruce Arians for Notre Dame head coach!! Kill two birds with one stone
I love the signature... priceless
But that seventh round TE is a pretty solid blocker, and pretty much built like the legit FB you speak of. He could actually turn into a FB at some point, seventh round is for that kind of guy.
'I’ve learned to become a flat-liner. There’s a lot out there that’ll make your heart jump if you allow it."
-Coach Tomlin
by NYSteelersFan4 on Dec 1, 2009 3:50 PM EST up reply actions
If you mean use a fullback like a fullback I agree
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." - Winston Churchill
I'm saying we don't have a fullback
even though we run plays where someone lines up at fullback
Bruce Arians for Notre Dame head coach!! Kill two birds with one stone
by syracusepittfan on Dec 1, 2009 4:02 PM EST up reply actions
I think we do, but we don't use him like one "much"
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." - Winston Churchill
Me too
I was also happy to see Carey Davis (yes, I admit it) make that tackle on a kickoff return.
Innovative BA. How about the hand off to Carey Davis on 3rd and let’s say 9, the Ravens get out of his way thinking he is a blocker, Davis converts getting 14 yards. BA calling a play to a …blockingback is pretty innovative.
"We just have to play better as a whole team." James Harrison
by LongTimeSteelersFan on Dec 1, 2009 7:16 PM EST up reply actions
As is running down the game clock before half, no one saw that one coming!
You sure Ike isn’t reacquainting himself with his fingers, he certainly doesn’t use them for catching. - Brian (DaBolts) on "Face Me Ike"
Gives you the same feeling as stepping in a dog deposit.
"We just have to play better as a whole team." James Harrison
by LongTimeSteelersFan on Dec 2, 2009 1:19 PM EST up reply actions
Wildcat is a gimmick
The teams that use the wildcat the most often struggle to score with their base offense and generally don’t have the personnel on offense to do so either. We have the personnel and are capable of scoring a lot.
It’s a cop out. There’s nothing wrong with running it once or twice a game, but when it becomes a staple of your offense that might mean that you suck. Just tell me out all the teams that use it heavily, how many of them are in the top 12 in scoring?
"We have the personnel and are capable of scoring a lot."
While I agree with the fact we have the personnel, where’s the results? High 20’s is pretty good, but it’s not a lot in today’s NFL. We’ve only broken 30 once this year.
'I’ve learned to become a flat-liner. There’s a lot out there that’ll make your heart jump if you allow it."
-Coach Tomlin
by NYSteelersFan4 on Dec 1, 2009 3:57 PM EST up reply actions
We shouldn’t need to break 30 to win, well, at least I would hope so. Our defense should and does hold teams under 20 points, as long as ST is not spotting points.
Wall of Shame
-"I’m glad we play Pitt twice, and not Tenn this year." - Brownie's Year
-"BB is ok (slightly overated)…but he is NO Kyle Orton! I’ll take Kyle over Ben any day" - Bronco_Fan_Tom
-PIT 24 KC 27
by John Stephens on Dec 1, 2009 4:06 PM EST up reply actions
No doubt...
Just remarking on the quote. We shouldn’t need to score 30+, but based on our record, it wouldn’t hurt if we actually did.
'I’ve learned to become a flat-liner. There’s a lot out there that’ll make your heart jump if you allow it."
-Coach Tomlin
by NYSteelersFan4 on Dec 1, 2009 4:27 PM EST up reply actions
Yes it would because Arians is the problem. :)
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." - Winston Churchill
It would also hurt because people would have to say Arians is doing a good job.
Wall of Shame
-"I’m glad we play Pitt twice, and not Tenn this year." - Brownie's Year
-"BB is ok (slightly overated)…but he is NO Kyle Orton! I’ll take Kyle over Ben any day" - Bronco_Fan_Tom
-PIT 24 KC 27
by John Stephens on Dec 1, 2009 4:29 PM EST up reply actions
That's what I meant.
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." - Winston Churchill
Valid point...
We are capable of scoring more, but at the same time, we were supposedly capable of going undefeated, according to some. The bottom line is we’re not scoring a lot, or at least enough to win consistently. And we’re not undefeated either. Maybe we can win the Capable Super Bowl (joking).
The most predominent wildcat team, Miami, has scored 30+ 4 times this year. With an inconsistent “regular” offense. If we added the wildcat as a wrinkle in our scheme I doubt it would increase our scoring by a large margin, but just might help us get a few more points here and there. Keep in mind 50% of our losses have been by one score or less this year, and an extra touchdown or field goal on a staulled drive could have made a big difference. The most difficult thing with adding the wildcat is finding the right times in games to use it, which would probably pose a problem for our OC.
'I’ve learned to become a flat-liner. There’s a lot out there that’ll make your heart jump if you allow it."
-Coach Tomlin
by NYSteelersFan4 on Dec 2, 2009 11:44 AM EST up reply actions
But why does Miami run the wildcat?
Because their offensive personnel isn’t very good. Do they have a Hines Ward, Santonio Holmes, or Heath Miller? No. Do they have a franchise QB? Not since Dan Marino.
They run it so well because of David Lee, the QB coach that came from Arkansas. Lee ran the wildcat to perfection there when he had Darren McFadden and Felix Jones, and is still running it pretty well now. It’s basically kinda like the veer, just a lot of misdirection that confuses the defense.
And who knows if we’d run the wildcat successfully? Our base offense, with better playcalling, is good enough to score a lot of points.
by StoneColdSteel on Dec 2, 2009 12:21 PM EST up reply actions
Points are points, reagrdless...
But yes, our roster is better than theirs, in my (and your) opinion.
The only real problem is as you stated. Could we run it successfully (and bring it in at the right time). That’s the one thing I keep thinking. They have the coaching to make t work, we have… Ariens.
Our offense, with better playcalling, is good enough to score more points then they do. The problem is, they don’t score those points, and the playcalling doesn’t look to be changing anytime soon. (And, running the wildcat instead of another play is a change in playcalling which may be better, neither of us really know)
'I’ve learned to become a flat-liner. There’s a lot out there that’ll make your heart jump if you allow it."
-Coach Tomlin
by NYSteelersFan4 on Dec 2, 2009 12:58 PM EST up reply actions
Where it would hurt you is
If your offense is capable and you change your personnel too often then you can’t establish anything. You have to stick with something for an extended amount of time to establish it. If you go wildcat to base to wildcat, you aren’t allowing yourself to get a core established. Trick/gadgets are ok for spice, but not too much.
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." - Winston Churchill
I think the entire offensive scheme is seriously flawed.
And getting cute with the playbook probably won’t help. But I still want a new OC next season.
What's your suggestion?
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." - Winston Churchill
For example,
If we need 6 yds for a first down, run a play that’s designed to pick up the yardage and get a first down. Stop going for broke all the time from mid-field. I think we might have the dumbest play selection on critical downs of any team in the league.
The good thing is defenses never plan for that. They are always too busy defending the deep stuff and basically leave the underneath routes and running lanes clear.
You sure Ike isn’t reacquainting himself with his fingers, he certainly doesn’t use them for catching. - Brian (DaBolts) on "Face Me Ike"
that was mean
but great
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." - Winston Churchill
What about the scheme?
I brought up some stats to show why Bruce Arians should be fired.
Game 1:
QB, 23/36, 237 yards, 0 TDs, 2 INTs
Running game, 23 for 106 yards, 1 fumble. (basically)
17 points scored.
All of this against the 16th ranked defense.
Game 2:
QB, 12/26, 145 yards, 2 TD (1 running), 1 INT
Running game, 38 for 153 yards
17 points scored.
All of this against the 10th ranked defense.
Oh WAIT, I totally screwed up. The first game was Tom Brady and Patriots and the second game was our 3rd string quarterback.
Fire BRUCE ARIANS! WOOO!!
You sure Ike isn’t reacquainting himself with his fingers, he certainly doesn’t use them for catching. - Brian (DaBolts) on "Face Me Ike"
I still think BA’s scheme may be pretty good for our current players. I’m not always sold on his situational football, but the scheme seems able to put up good numbers against solid defenses. I’m still prepping myself for one more year of BA.
by Chicago Steeler on Dec 1, 2009 5:33 PM EST up reply actions
"situational football"
which situation: 1st, 2nd, 3rd, or 4th down?
"Now that I'm here, I don't want to just be here, I want to be here for a long time." Hines Ward, 1998 4th round draft pick.
by kick him in the head on Dec 1, 2009 5:55 PM EST up reply actions
here's another one
QB: 20-40, 174yds, 0td, 1int
Running game: 18 for 80 yards (4.4 ypc), 0td,
12 points scored
Stat of the game: 4 red zone trips, 0td
This was, of course, the cincy game. You cannot expect to win when you only put up twelve points.That being said, the offense wasn’t the only problem, but come on… 0td in four trips. Thats just awful, and you can’t beat anyone like that.
Bruce Arians for Notre Dame head coach!! Kill two birds with one stone
by syracusepittfan on Dec 1, 2009 7:37 PM EST up reply actions
Cincinnati did.
Zing!
You sure Ike isn’t reacquainting himself with his fingers, he certainly doesn’t use them for catching. - Brian (DaBolts) on "Face Me Ike"
touché
well done sir
Bruce Arians for Notre Dame head coach!! Kill two birds with one stone
by syracusepittfan on Dec 1, 2009 8:47 PM EST up reply actions
Playcalling is flawed
I actually like the way the plays are drawn up. I really hate the play calling though.
Bruce Arians for Notre Dame head coach!! Kill two birds with one stone
by syracusepittfan on Dec 1, 2009 7:17 PM EST up reply actions
like the post concept, rec'd
I’d like to see us set up defenses with power running like last Sunday, and then pass out of the I formation with play action. It would be fun to see Moore as the fullback, Mendenhall as the tailback, and then have them run to opposite sides of the field, and pass to whoever’s more open. Or run them to the same side and throw the screen if no-one’s open downfield. Basically I just want to not be able to successfully predict what play they’re going to run 75% of the time like now…
Thanks bro
looks like it’s not going to save it on the frontpage for over a day though. Hopefully I’ll get more input before I put the poll out. Then again the veterans know how to find posts that leave the frontpage.
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." - Winston Churchill
also would like to see logan back out in the hypocycloid
seems like he ought to be able to get a first down about every time with Heath, Hines and Tone blocking. Do it a few times, and then throw the bomb to Wallace.
by acrollet on Dec 1, 2009 10:57 PM EST reply actions 1 recs
WTF
happened to the ole hypocycloid anyway!! Don’t recall the last time I saw that one. It is rather remarkable how BA seems to mothball things that have been found to work. I am not a BA hater though. It seems to me that it is almost just as often a lack of excecution as it is a lack of creative play calling.
The only managing Ben does is he manages to WIN games
by chewiesteeler on Dec 2, 2009 12:36 PM EST up reply actions
Lets go old school and run the Single-WIng
and while were at it we should bring in Paul Johnson to be our OC
"From time to time gunfighters get shot."-Mike Tomlin the third greatest Steelers coach
That's the wildcat
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." - Winston Churchill
Yes, but were going to run it at all time
"From time to time gunfighters get shot."-Mike Tomlin the third greatest Steelers coach
Simple: Do what we know works. I want a bubble screen or a quick slant to Holmes (or Wallace) until the defense shows they can consistently shut it down.
"Diamond and One" Formation
I don’t know what else to call it, but in the San Diego game we trotted out a formation with four receivers split left in a diamond formation and one receiver split wide right.
I have never, ever seen this formation before and the Charger defense was utterly confused by it.
Why we haven’t seen this formation again I have no idea.
by Steelers in XLIV on Dec 3, 2009 10:51 AM EST reply actions
Hypocycloid - See my poll
Diamond and one is basketbal….but I bet you knew that.
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." - Winston Churchill
add an "l" to basketbal
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." - Winston Churchill
Anthony Madison on the end around.
You sure Ike isn’t reacquainting himself with his fingers, he certainly doesn’t use them for catching. - Brian (DaBolts) on "Face Me Ike"
Already got Casey Hampton for that
he can block though
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." - Winston Churchill
How can we fit Redman in? Is it legal for Hampton piggy back him and then launch him through defenders?
You sure Ike isn’t reacquainting himself with his fingers, he certainly doesn’t use them for catching. - Brian (DaBolts) on "Face Me Ike"
As long as he's not the emergency QB
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." - Winston Churchill
He should be good to fly, he left his baggage.
"We just have to play better as a whole team." James Harrison
by LongTimeSteelersFan on Dec 3, 2009 12:33 PM EST up reply actions
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