Coming Out Of The Final Turn And Down The Stretch The Steelers "Unleash Hell"
by drinkyourmilkshake on Dec 4, 2009 9:08 AM EST
35 comments
Many thanks to RickVA for this piece on the last five weeks of the 2009 regular season. Rick provides a lot of reasons to be excited and to believe that the Steelers can make another run in the playoffs. [DYM]
The Steelers "Unleash Hell"
RickVa
Hard times for the Nation. Set up by the October bounce back and an impressive Monday Night steamrolling of the Broncos to roar out the Bye week and begin November, our guys then take the rest of the month off. Actually, I need to take that back. What has been so frustrating with this team is that they have shown just as much creativity to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory this year as they did doing the opposite last year. Five defeats. Three having to go to overtime in order to get the job done. The remaining two each having to go to the 60th minute. Everyone contributes it seems: the franchise QB who has calmly engineered game winning drives with less time and much more at stake loses his mind and plays mad bomber for a quick four and out to end a ball game. Our best cornerback plays a pass brilliantly, comes down on his fanny and drops the ball with no one around him. Fumbles, missed tackles, interceptions, ruinous penalties, bizarre play calling all occurring at times and in ways that professional wrestling would have a hard time trying to convincingly choreograph. And, of course, what analysis worth anything can fail to mention the kickoff returns.
The good news, at least for me, is that there has developed a certain rhythm to all this so that most of the fans that I have been hanging around see the disaster coming from a long way off. This last week being the most creative of all. Ben can't play against the Ravens. Charlie's wrist is broken. All we have left is a guy who (it seems) hasn't played seriously since Pop Warner. Oh, no. We're screwed! The entire football universe agrees on this. Even Hines loses his cool. So we psychologically innocuate ourselves. 'At least we'll see what Dennis can do,' was the most common refrain. Then Dixon scores late, plays pretty damn well if you ask me and puts us ahead with six minutes left to play. What did he have to do that for? In spite of ourselves hope rises...and then the Dagger (largely self administered).
Unfortunately, regardless of how the Steelers perform over the next month, the experience is likely to be hellish for many of our legions of fans. My late father used to have a bizarre definition of what he saw as a fair fight; "You have a gun or a knife while the other person doesn't have a damn thing." In other words, no drama. Get a strong early lead, don't let it drop beneath eleven as the sacks and other statistics pile up. We haven't had many games like that this year (perhaps Cleveland or Denver) and I wouldn't bet any significant money that we'll have many or any more. Can we make the playoffs? Can we prevail in the playoffs? Absolutely! One of the things that has made this year rather unique is that Pittsburgh has not appeared to be outmatched in any of it's games, even last week's match up starting our third string QB. On the other hand, be honest now, would anyone be shocked if we made the Raiders or Browns look like the 2008 Steelers? So, all that talk about feeling blessed, thankful and so forth that folks like myself, Maryrose, Blitz and others have been preaching is gonna be put to the test this December. A word of caution; its one thing to watch with morbid fascination how such a talented team can let victories slip through their fingers in the early fall, even November, is one thing. It will be quite another to watch a season slip away in a similar manner.
Take proper precautions this holiday season. Make sure that sharp objects and the breakables are locked away. Stock up on heart medicine, liquour, drugs, whatever helps you get through it all and enjoy the show. As for me, stubborn optimist that I am, I, like Tomlin, am a big Gladiator fan and I actually think that the guys will play to their potential at least once this year and will unleash some hell this month. Whether it can be sustained into a January run will be the big mystery. But if they could wouldn't that be glorious?
The League. Reports of Parity's demise have proven to be premature. Instead it has proven to be a season of streaks. Remember when the conversation about the strongest teams in football included the Ravens, Giants and Broncos? When we left the Titans (and Vince Young), the Jags and the Chargers for dead? The league, the networks and more than a few gullible fans will continue to promote the Cowboys as some sort of superpower as long as there remains one breath of playoff possibility in them. Shameful. I get the impression that most writers believe that other than some juggling for wild card spots that things are pretty much settled around the league. Can't say why, but the playoff landscape may likely be quite different at the end than it appears now.
Cincinnati. Surprised at the Bengal's run? So am I. So much so that I have evolved a rather far fetched theory that, nonetheless, explains the upheavel in the AFC North. I think Marvin Lewis has hooked up with some Louisiana Voo Doo woman. Sweeping us or the Ravens, okay. Sweeping both and the Browns? Suspicious. And what's going on with the Bearcats? Undefeated? A BCS candidate? Are you kidding me? Somebody check Marvin's pockets.
Pittsburgh. No comment on the whole Hines Ward issue. Much ado about nothing. But I do think there are some potential lessons and long term issues that can be discerned from the events of the past couple of days.
O-Line. This really is nothing short of miraculous. How many times was Dixon sacked on Sunday night? five months ago you could not have a conversation on BSTC or anywhere else on what ails the Steelers without the offensive line being front and center as a topic of discussion. In the national media comments are for the most part laudatory. Individuals such as Kemoautu, Starks and Colon are being described as being among the best around in their specialties. Not saying they're great. But they have been good enough to allow the Steelers to have one of the more productive offenses around. I'm interested in your thoughts about this turnaround and what accounts for it. In the meantime, kudos to a much maligned guy over the past few years; Coach Larry Zeirlein.
Ben. One thing that Sunday made more glaringly clear; the lion's share of the blame on the hits that Ben takes lies with Ben. I like Ben and he's a great player. Ben is also stubborn and is at risk of having a shortened career if he does not learn to take care of himself and, by extension, his team. The handwritting is on the wall. The league is going to have to take a more cautiously aggressive stance in relation to the treatment of concussions. Ben is in a pretty much unique position. People like comparing contact in the NFL with car accidents. Well, Ben has had a car accident already. And he hangs onto the ball too long. Is it too far fetched to imagine a doctor and other members of the Pittsburgh brain trust sitting Ben down and telling him that he will no longer be permitted to play? And that happening much sooner than later. A number of people need to help Ben get smart about this. In this sense I do believe that there is a constructive role that we as fans can play. One of those steps have already been taken when it was clear that fans were clearly against him playing against the Ravens if there was any danger that it could compound his problem. If it costs us a playoff berth or a title, then so be it. There are more important things in life for both players and fans.
Arians. Can I come back home? For the past several months I have favored a more tolerant posture toward Offensive Coordinator Bruce Arians. One play has driven me off of that particular bandwagon. Let me explain what I saw to you and if any of you can let me know if I am over reacting I would sincerely welcome the feedback.
Early in the Kansas City game Rashard Mendenhall runs the ball off right tackle on first down and gains between 7 and 8 yards. Let me explain in advance; it does not matter one bit to me whether Arians passes or runs in this circumstance. Either decision can be easily defended. What Arians did which made no sense to me is that he lined up for the next play in an empty backfield set. The defense would have to respect the presence of a runner in the backfield which would make a play action fake particularly effective...I could go on. I come to the conclusion that Arians at times through play selection, formation, etc. sabotages the running game. With how Mendenhall is performing he should be leaned on heavily in the coming weeks. My bet is it will only happen reluctantly if at all.
Mendenhall (Sweed). Mendenhall is on track to be a top tier back, assuming that they give him a chance to play. Part of the problem is trust an issue that Rahard contributed to with his careless handling of the ball. The ball handling has improved but trust takes longer to regain. Along this vein, what will it take for Sweed to gain trust? How many dropped passes would be deemed acceptable as opposed to being one more nail in his professional coffin?
Brett Keisel and Trai Essex. Two players that many if not most on BTSC seemed content to let go last spring. Keisel was initially retained after his first contract because they did not want to repeat the mistake they believed they made in letting Mark Vrabel go to Pats. Essex was the little used backup to Marvel Smith at left tackle. Fair to say that both players are having career years. Since Brett is Ben's best friend on the field and just signed an extension this spring, this is particularly good news. Essex has settled in nicely to the right guard position and is doing precisely what many had suggested they do with Willie Colon. Tip of the hat again to Coach 'Z' and to Defensive Line Coach John MItchell.
Linebacking Corps. Lawrence Timmons, particularly impressive on Sunday. Maybe because he's fully healthy for the first time this year. It also struck me as the best game for the full unit. Woodley appears to have found the form that served him so well last year. The key component of any 'unleash Hell' strategy.
Quarterback Corps. Waiting to see who will be the first to suggest that we should dump Ben in favor of Dennis. You know its gonna happen, probably already has. Next will be 'let's kick Charlie's old fragile behind under the bus'. But I will say, seriously, that it will be time shortly to begin preparing Charlie's exit strategy. Wouldn't it be nice if Batch could transition out as a player/coach? Wouldn't have to commence immediately.
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Take proper precautions this holiday season. Make sure that sharp objects and the breakables are locked away. Stock up on heart medicine, liquour, drugs, whatever helps you get through it all and enjoy the show.
Ain’t that the damn truth. Probably the best line/suggestion I have seen posted on BTSC as a result of the losing streak.
MarkMike Vrabel
Waiting to see who will be the first to suggest that we should dump Ben in favor of Dennis
Florio.
Great write-up. It has inspired a bit more optimism in myself. I have dropped any expectations of last year and given up on the term “we are the defending champions”, but just lead to great disappointment. This is a far different team from last year with its own talents, problems, injuries, etc. Win or lose, I’ll be swinging my yellow towel high and with feverish pride.
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 Johnny_S on Dec 4, 2009 9:37 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
Great Post Rick!
- WOW. To be a fan of Cincinnati football this year. Too bad I hate Cincinnati football. Go Steelers! Go Panthers!
- OK with the line play as of late. The Steelers have started to run the ball, and they gave Dix time. I agree a little with your assessment that Ben’s sacks are his fault but I also believe the O line stepped up their play on Sunday to protect their little brother Dix and Arians called 38 run plays further protecting the QB. Always liked Starks and will never forgive Z&A for letting him languish on the bench for 2 years. Hartwig is a player. So is Kemo. Don’t credit Z for helping Essex. He has been a solid player since his second year. Do credit Z for helping Colon become a serviceable RT.
- on BA; Welcome home Rick!
- Mendenhall was given a 2nd chance because of injuries to FWP and he being healthy (unlike last year) With Wallace firmly entrenched as the #3 it will take an injury to get Sweed on the field. That is how it should be based on his past performance or lack thereof.
- I think if the Steelers pull it together and play to potential they can beat anyone left on their schedule. Question is will they? Also playoff road games at Cincinnati or SD then at NE and Indy don’t set the Steelers up with an easy road after going 5-0 to end the season. Still, the ride is always worth the price of admission. Buckle up. Here We Go!
When You Run The Ball Good Things Happen
by 5020 on Dec 4, 2009 9:42 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
Things that would make me consider this season in a positive light.
1. Keep the Ravens out of the playoffs.
2. Fight back and make the playoffs.
3. Knock off the Bengals.
4. Beat the Patriots in the playoffs.
5. What the heck, why not just win it all.
I honestly think #3 would be the hardest, I think the Bengals are the best team in the AFC when they play good. We can be that team, but they have lived up to that ability way more than we have.
If we go down, I want to go down with Tomlin as our coach. Just knowing he’s in charge of practice from here on out makes me happy, I doubt it has been a fun week.
I won’t ever say bench Ben, but with concussions it is dang nice to have a decent 2nd option in the wings.
Sweed needs 1 big catch. One. We lived with Nate and Plex, just catch a big one Sweed and we’ll be willing to give you a second chance.
I hope we run the ball down Oaklands throat and the defense just crushes them, get some momentum for Troy’s return.
by Phantaskippy on Dec 4, 2009 9:44 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
I hope we run the ball down Oaklands throat
Hi, Bruce Arians here, just a question for you. Why would I run the ball when I can throw it? Come on dude, running is for losers. 3rd and short and you want to run? Screw that, I am throwing it deep to Wallace, have you seen how fast he is?
On a serious note, #2 is our biggest priority, and #1 comes as a by product of that. Go Steelers!
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 Johnny_S on Dec 4, 2009 9:50 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Well you know
60 minutes can take the top off the defense.
I agree – #2 is #1.
Erik
by ekl on Dec 4, 2009 5:25 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I put them in order of least to most successful, if we don’t make the Playoffs it will sit a bit easier if we beat the Ravens and keep them out as well.
I put the Patriots higher than the Bengals because I want to see us throw that monkey off our back.
by Phantaskippy on Dec 4, 2009 9:04 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Re: Arians, welcome home
I’m in agreement with your reasoning on BA. The inconsistency in our offense comes down to play selection. Ben’s completion percentage, the overall play of the OL, Hines and Santonio mostly playing at a consistent high level, Mendy’s emergence as a solid RB, Wallace’s ability to stretch the field and make clutch catches, all that should add up to a dominating offense. Or, in your Dad’s terms, “a fair fight” with us holding the gun. In fact, only in the second Cinci game did an opponent bring a winning defensive strategy and strong defensive play into a game against us. Even this past week, the vaunted Ravens defense couldn’t dominate our third string QB.
I think BA’s play selection and formation choices not only “sabotage the running game,” they also sabotage the consistent passing game by forfeiting the element of surprise. If we can consistently get 3-4 yards running the ball on first down (with the occasional play action pass thrown in), the offense is in the driver’s seat. Second and 6 with Mendy in the backfield and the defense doesn’t have a clue whether we’re going to run or pass.
One other thought that has nothing to do with BA, because it’s all on the execution side: together, our two QBs have left at least a half dozen long Mike Wallace touchdowns on the field. Ben always underthrows passes to Wallace, and DD led a wide-open MW out of bounds instead of to the middle of the field.
by MelBlunt on Dec 4, 2009 9:45 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
Couldn't agree more on your last point
Really had the same problem the last couple of years with Nate as well. And an underthrown ball is an indication in my mind of holding the ball too long.
by RickVa on Dec 4, 2009 2:03 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
When paper collides with reality.
BA looks like an idiot to us but he still presumes his genius.
ON PAPER SBMVP Hines & Santonio with speedster Wallace and sure handed HEEAAATTTTHHHHH cannot be covered by any secondary in the NFL!
For whatever reason reality has been much different. Just think of the stress fractures showing up on opposing Defenses with a balanced formation that could both run and pass well on every play.
by steelerstyle on Dec 4, 2009 9:46 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
So true...
what is amazing is that as fans we can see that, but the “professionals” either don’t see it, or choose to ignore it. We shoudl be playing to our strengths, not an OC’s desire. if we wouidl finally do that, the defense plays a full 60, and STs cover, i believe we coudl beat anyone in the league
by swmt40 on Dec 4, 2009 12:35 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
When paper collides with reality. Part II
BA looks like an idiot to us but still presumes his genius.
On paper the highest reward lowest risk QB is the Cerebral pocket passer a la Brees, Peyton, Brady, or to look back Montana.
For whatever reason reality has been much different. Only Florio doubts BB, but there is no doubt BB isn’t the classic QB. BB game has always been much more instinctual: re the broken play miracles that built his reputation.
Therefor like Elway before him BB needs to throw 30 times or less in a typical game with a handful of designed rollouts also a few quick slants(like with a quick count). Lastly with the idea that good things happen when you have 2’nd & short purposely throw to Heath a few times on first downs.
by steelerstyle on Dec 4, 2009 2:10 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Maybe we can
get Chan Gailey back or get Charlie Weiss?
Erik
by ekl on Dec 4, 2009 5:27 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
In the final stretch
I agree that the Steelers are going to be able to make a run for the Playoffs. My reason?, In one word, BALANCE. One of the things that I have noticed about the playing this season has been the demise of the “superstar” and more of a focus on the team working together. I, 100% believe that Troy Polamalu is a beast, however, the Steel Curtain has continued to stop the running game of quite a few good offensive lines without him. Dixon did not do a great job but I believe that his success was based on the offensive line working with him. Could it have been better? Of course, but smiling Ward still was out there working it to the bone with or without Ben. My point is, we may not have a Brees, Manning, or Brady-But Put the team together as a whole and they more than pick up the slack. If you are looking for a superstar, you will not find one- unless you consider the entire team.
by lena67 on Dec 4, 2009 9:49 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
No tomorrow for the Steelers
If they don’t snap out of their current funk starting on Sunday and play Steeler football, this season easily might turn into a disaster. My sense is that the team has too much pride to go from champions to pretenders in one year. I think they’ll step up at crunch time and finally start to kick butt.
by Billy52 on Dec 4, 2009 10:47 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
it will mean nothing unless we win a super bowl, thats our goal and i don’t think we can do that without ben and polamalu. we should be able to beat the raiders, but without polamalu, anybody can beat us
by Bleed-Black&Gold on Dec 4, 2009 8:39 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
It wouldn't be so bad
if I wasn’t certain that the Steelers are one of the top 5 best teams in the NFL. But they aren’t playing like it. Its so hard to watch a good team fail. If I was a Lions fan, losing wouldn’t bother me as much, I know that we were at least playing to our potential. I agree that BA sabotages the running game. His personel move, formations, abandoning the running game at times, then running it too much where it is predictable. We you play against guys like Ray Lewis who can call out your play just by seeing the formation at least make it hard for them. Make them think. I swear we win in spite of this man, he is lucky he has an collective talent or he’d be fired if he was offensive coordinator for the browns. I say we fire him and higher Charlie Wies or something.
Steelers football is 60 mins.
by tannofsteel84 on Dec 4, 2009 11:44 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
Not unsure Steelers can "Unleash Hell" ...
with our current secondary and no Troy P. Let’s be realistic, who is afraid of throwing the ball deep against Gay or Ike? Neither will make a play on the ball and are more likely to be out of position to make a play than in position.
Like Tomlin said, the CBs better not blink and also pick up their play in the process.
by datruth4life on Dec 4, 2009 12:08 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
If I were an opposing team...
…I’d be passing deep a LOT. What’s the worst that could happen, aside from an incomplete pass? Our corners couldn’t catch the ball if their lives (or their jobs) depended on it! Different ballgame when Troy comes back, of course. No picks from the CB’s after 11 games is just absolutely pathetic.
by SteelerFanInPatsieLand on Dec 4, 2009 2:52 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
The good thing about throwing deep on the steelers is they have absolutely zero pass rush. QBs drop back without any fear of sacks or forced fumbles. I suggest you submit your plan to all opposing teams, I’d love to see it in action.
You sure Ike isn’t reacquainting himself with his fingers, he certainly doesn’t use them for catching. - Brian (DaBolts) on "Face Me Ike"
by steelguy99 on Dec 4, 2009 4:34 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
That is what I was saying..
BB MUST change! Yes, he extends plays, but at what expense? We want him around for awhile, why not short dumpoffs to the backs? Mendy is a good receiver…when I suggested this, I had my head handed to me about the sacks BB takes..BTW, we win, lose or draw this year, 2 things for certain…INVEST MORE INTO THE RUNNING GAME!! Dont make BB throw the ball 35-40 times per game..we can use FWP money to get a good free agent with experience for the 2 headed monster..AND, try to get Berry in the draft like we did troy…and a NT..
by nycsteelerfan on Dec 4, 2009 1:18 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
I'm concened about there lack of playmakers in the secondary
I’m not sure this team can cut it unless Troy is 100%, and I’m not sure that’s going to happen this year.
I also increasingly find myself concerned with BB. As great as he can be, I’m not sure this guy is doing enough in the offseason to prepare himself. The dude looks fat to me, and thats of concern. I think that his playoff success has gone to his head a bit.
While Hines might have been wrong to call out his QB before the Raven game last week, I think he hit upon a nerve. Does BB sell out for this team like some of the guys who make this engine run? It’s worth a question, because clearly Hines questions it. For me, the real story invoved Ben’s commitment to being great. Some of those guys on that team question it privately, I guarantee it. Sure he takes the hits, and sacks, and he’s tough on the field. The great QBs do it off the field as well, and I’m just not sure Ben is as commited in that way.
Mind you, I in know way question the decision to keep Ben out of the Ravens game. The team made the right decision, but through it maybe we see all is not harmonious with our fearless field general.
13 years and no playoff wins for the Dallas Cowboys... SWEET!
by idiscgolftexas on Dec 4, 2009 2:19 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
I think that...
the improved play of the O-Line is due mainly to the fact that they have been playing together as a unit for awhile now. Continuity is the name of the game there;much more important than sheer physical ability . Though they have that,too,to a large degree.
Charlie Batch seems a great guy,and would be a welcome addition to the Steeler organization in another capacity when his playing career is over. That said,it’s time for his playing career to be over. He simply lacks the durablity to play in the NFL anymore.
by havildar on Dec 4, 2009 2:26 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Scary thing...
The Steelers and Bengals have become like George and Elaine in the “Opposite” episode of Seinfeld. They get in to close games, but run effectively, grind it out, play tough D and find a way to prevail. The Steelers have games in the balance and drop interceptions, give up sacks and can’t cover anybody. Bizarre indeed.
by pghnorthside on Dec 4, 2009 3:09 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Oops. By “They”, I mean the Bengals.
by pghnorthside on Dec 4, 2009 3:09 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
it has been kind of bizarro world this year
which sucks since the Steelers were awesome last year.
I haven’t given up, and never gave up in any game, but after the nonsense of losing Ben in OT to the chiefs of all teams and then getting beat by the ravens for a must win game (in OT just to twist the knife)…
This team has found so many ways to lose this year. Even the garbage teams have only given up a few kick returns. WTF? Special teams is just embarrassing. And having 92 out there certainly doesn’t make me feel any better. It’s worse! The guy was the DMVP last year and he needs to be on special teams?
It’s only reasonable to modify your expectations for this season, which SUCKS.
"It was an attrition football game and you know we like that."
by showtime on Dec 4, 2009 6:18 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
your safety coverage on the deep ball to cyaton was pretty funny. it was like he let clayton catch it and then jumped up with his back to the qb and said boo! it just looked so wrong and funny.
how did you like the ravens game planning around the 30 on our side. we do that crap ever game. we cross midfield and our pants come off. if rice can’t run it in from the 40 we’re screwed.
by raven on Dec 4, 2009 3:19 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
no, the TD to Mason was worse
I know you’re talking about Clark, but that was the worst play I’ve seen Ike make in a long time. First Mason TD against the Steelers. At least in that SB fade route TD they replay a lot Ike made a great play IMO but Larry Johnson was just a superhuman that day.
"It was an attrition football game and you know we like that."
by showtime on Dec 4, 2009 6:21 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Re: Arians Welcome Home
Based on what I have seen this year and read from most of you, I have to attribute the offensive struggles largely to the poor game plans put together by Arians. drinkyourmilkshake makes a good point about the Kansas City game.
Ben is a great athlete as part of a team, not a Peyton Manning or Tom Brady type. He needs a game plan that enables him to maximize the team around him; use short screens to Mendenhall as well as bubble screens to his wide receivers to disrupt blitzes. Throwing for 300+ yards is great, but not when you lose. While the number of rushes vs passes looks balanced, I would suggest that it is not, because its all about sustaining the momentum as I think drinkyourmilshake was suggesting. When the run is working they abandon it to pass; when the pass is working they don’t mix in the run. No consistency, broken momentum. With all the weapons they’ve got, its frustrating.
by Thundercraft29 on Dec 4, 2009 4:17 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Special teams
The recent resigning of Anthony Madison made me think of something Mike Tomlin said when he got the job in 07. He considered himself a coach who prioritized special teams. The thing is, aside from using two draft picks on a punter and trading for a has been returner, we really haven’t seen it. He didn’t get a top end coach, keeps cutting good special teams players and as far as his supposed “all hands on deck” approach, I believe we misunderstood him : what he really said was all hands on dick
by Steelfrog on Dec 4, 2009 5:43 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
I have absolutely what the end of this means.
by BluegrassSteeler on Dec 4, 2009 10:38 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
considering last year
When our ST coverage was fantastic, how can anyone legitimately say that Tomlin has not been working on it? Why would we need to hire a “top-teir” special teams coach if things were going well? Maybe if Tomlin had done some wild strange voodoo future looking, he may have thought about hiring a new ST coach or done something different. But I think he was expecting more of a leap forward in KO and punt returns rather than a butchering of coverage for the year. I think Tomlin is doing just fine at dealing with a serious midseason problem.
"Money isn't the world, anyway. Ain't no price tag on winning. Winning and making history is something you can't buy. Me? I'm a guy who loves history. When I'm 60 or 70, I don't want to be remembered for the money I made. I want to be in the history books." -- Lamarr Woodley
by PrimantisStillersNAt on Dec 5, 2009 12:13 PM EST via mobile up reply actions 0 recs
I dunno 'bout fantastic....
….but certainly very good and we were definitely not concerned about it.
by Marvin, The Paranoid Android on Dec 5, 2009 12:20 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
That wasn't my point
Of course MT has been working on it. I just think he’s just like any NFL coach and will pay lip service to special teams but will be reluctant to put starters in or keep specialists on the roster such as Madison. I’m glad he fixed that and went back to the well. And by the way you always want the best coach for your team. This isn’t Pop Warner. Plus, I don’t get your point about
things going wellbecause it was his first year and had to hire a new coach, so there was nothing to base that upon. Tomlin is a great coach, but I just don’t see the evidence with special teams, just typical coachtalk…
by Steelfrog on Dec 5, 2009 3:48 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
this is a team that plays well under pressure.
but apparently there hasnt been enough pressure this season. even late in games, it seems like once we got a lead we just assumed our defense would come through for us. now, with our backs literally against the wall barely in the playoff picture, we better show what we’re really about. no more missed tackles, unnecessary penalties, and no more leads given up late in games. the time is now my friends
by steel.curtain.number2 on Dec 5, 2009 1:16 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
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