Report: Torn Triceps Likely to End Smith's Season
by Neal Coolong on Oct 24, 2010 7:24 PM EDT
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Steelers DE Aaron Smith will likely be out for the remainder of the season after suffering a torn triceps muscle in the third quarter of Pittsburgh's 23-22 win at Miami Sunday.
It's will be the third time in the last four years Smith will have missed significant time due to injuries. Smith missed 11 games last season after he tore his rotator cuff in the team's fifth game. In 2007, he missed the better part of the year after tearing his right biceps muscle.
Pittsburgh's defense was dramatically worse in 2009 as it was in 2008, when Smith earned a trip to the Pro Bowl. In 2007, they lost three of their final five games, including a home playoff loss to Jacksonville.
The Steelers sit at the top of the AFC North with a 5-1 record, but without their best defensive lineman, fending off the charging Ravens will be especially tough.
Steelers defensive captain, LB James Farrior, called Smith's injury "devastating and heartbreaking" to the team, and there aren't many players in the league carrying more respect with him into the locker room than Smith.
The return of Brett Keisel will leave Smith's position likely filled by Ziggy Hood or Nick Eason. Who the Steelers may look to bring in for Smith's roster spot if he's placed on Injured Reserve is a matter of some conjecture.
NT/DE Steve McLendon was pulled from the practice squad to the active roster, replacing QB Dennis Dixon, earlier this season. He was then released and re-signed to the practice squad when QB Ben Roethlisberger returned to suspension. It seems as if he'd be the most likely to be placed on the active roster.
However, it wouldn't be surprising if PIttsburgh kicked Sonny Harris's tires again. He replaced Smith last year, and is currently on the Bills practice squad.
DE Travis Kirschke, a member of both of Pittsburgh's recent Super Bowl championship teams, is currently a free agent, and will definitely garner some interest from the team due to his familiarity with the defense.
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So it must be his Tendon that is torn
ok, where do we go from here. Sonny Harris, McClendon, Krischke or do we call up Charles Grant
Players who should be in the Hall of Fame: Pat TIllman, Dwight White, Donnie Shell, L.C. Greenwood, Ray Guy, Steve Tasker, Jack Butler, Greg Llyod, Andy Russel, Cris Carter, Kevin Greene and Jerry Kramer
"Its too bad that NHL is taken because the National Football League has become the National Hypocrite League" Mark Schlereth
Canal Street Chronicles resident Steelers Fan
Probably close to where the muscle "attaches" to the tendon.
That’s usually where they tear.
Mother of God.
Say it like James Earl Jones.
I'm choppin' broccoli.
by DwightWhite's Missing Tooth on Oct 24, 2010 7:33 PM EDT reply actions
Have you been banned yet
Players who should be in the Hall of Fame: Pat TIllman, Dwight White, Donnie Shell, L.C. Greenwood, Ray Guy, Steve Tasker, Jack Butler, Greg Llyod, Andy Russel, Cris Carter, Kevin Greene and Jerry Kramer
"Its too bad that NHL is taken because the National Football League has become the National Hypocrite League" Mark Schlereth
Canal Street Chronicles resident Steelers Fan
by WVPiratesfan on Oct 24, 2010 7:35 PM EDT up reply actions
yep. banned
That’s a shame.
I'm choppin' broccoli.
by DwightWhite's Missing Tooth on Oct 24, 2010 7:59 PM EDT up reply actions
I may need you to take over so I don't get banned before I want to
Players who should be in the Hall of Fame: Pat TIllman, Dwight White, Donnie Shell, L.C. Greenwood, Ray Guy, Steve Tasker, Jack Butler, Greg Llyod, Andy Russel, Cris Carter, Kevin Greene and Jerry Kramer
"Its too bad that NHL is taken because the National Football League has become the National Hypocrite League" Mark Schlereth
Canal Street Chronicles resident Steelers Fan
by WVPiratesfan on Oct 24, 2010 7:47 PM EDT up reply actions
I got banned
I guess facts aren’t welcome over there
Players who should be in the Hall of Fame: Pat TIllman, Dwight White, Donnie Shell, L.C. Greenwood, Ray Guy, Steve Tasker, Jack Butler, Greg Llyod, Andy Russel, Cris Carter, Kevin Greene and Jerry Kramer
"Its too bad that NHL is taken because the National Football League has become the National Hypocrite League" Mark Schlereth
Canal Street Chronicles resident Steelers Fan
by WVPiratesfan on Oct 24, 2010 7:53 PM EDT up reply actions
I wonder what the final straw was.
I'm choppin' broccoli.
by DwightWhite's Missing Tooth on Oct 24, 2010 8:00 PM EDT up reply actions
I said their Corners couldn't stop Roddy White
when our No. 2 corner could
Players who should be in the Hall of Fame: Pat TIllman, Dwight White, Donnie Shell, L.C. Greenwood, Ray Guy, Steve Tasker, Jack Butler, Greg Llyod, Andy Russel, Cris Carter, Kevin Greene and Jerry Kramer
"Its too bad that NHL is taken because the National Football League has become the National Hypocrite League" Mark Schlereth
Canal Street Chronicles resident Steelers Fan
by WVPiratesfan on Oct 24, 2010 8:02 PM EDT up reply actions
I thought our comments were civil
The truth hurts I guess.
I'm choppin' broccoli.
by DwightWhite's Missing Tooth on Oct 24, 2010 8:06 PM EDT up reply actions
If I'm understanding correctly
ya’ll are talking about the browns, in which I’m not surprised which is why I don’t ever go over to the dog pound…
Steelers football is 60 mins. The final 15 have been re-constructed with re-enforced steel and ready to withstand punishment and deal out some itself. HERE WE GO STEELERS HERE WE GO.
by tannofsteel84 on Oct 24, 2010 10:24 PM EDT up reply actions
Nope
Cincy, I actually had a banter with them over the “Head-hunting” by Deebo. Somehow I didn’t get banned
Players who should be in the Hall of Fame: Pat TIllman, Dwight White, Donnie Shell, L.C. Greenwood, Ray Guy, Steve Tasker, Jack Butler, Greg Llyod, Andy Russel, Cris Carter, Kevin Greene and Jerry Kramer
"Its too bad that NHL is taken because the National Football League has become the National Hypocrite League" Mark Schlereth
Canal Street Chronicles resident Steelers Fan
by WVPiratesfan on Oct 24, 2010 11:11 PM EDT up reply actions
consider yourself
lucky
Steelers football is 60 mins. The final 15 have been re-constructed with re-enforced steel and ready to withstand punishment and deal out some itself. HERE WE GO STEELERS HERE WE GO.
by tannofsteel84 on Oct 25, 2010 10:45 AM EDT up reply actions
mother f!
this is crazy…
"In Hoc Signo Vinces!" (With this as your standard, you shall have victory!) -Constantine I
by Webslasher81 on Oct 24, 2010 10:43 PM EDT up reply actions
Ziggy's time to shine
It’s the NFL, and in the NFL you’re only as good as your depth. Time to watch Ziggy come alive.
definitely a nice opportunity for him
Freel free to email me anytime at behindthesteelcurtain@gmail.com with questions, suggestions, complaints, etc, or to just say what's up. -Michael Bean (Blitz)
by Michael Bean on Oct 24, 2010 8:18 PM EDT up reply actions
Agreed.
Ziggy had to get his chance to shine at some point soon, and while I’m sad Smith is hurt, the standard of expectation will not change (authoritative voice). It’d be incredibly sweet to find out that even if he’s not Smith’s equal he can still toe the line (with room to improve).
this is why
we drafted him, now its time for him to make that pick worth it…
Steelers football is 60 mins. The final 15 have been re-constructed with re-enforced steel and ready to withstand punishment and deal out some itself. HERE WE GO STEELERS HERE WE GO.
by tannofsteel84 on Oct 24, 2010 10:25 PM EDT up reply actions
Oh no!!!
Man. Torn Biceip, torn rotator cuff, and now this? I feel for Smith. I hope his injuries don’t hinder him too much in his post NFL days.
But for the Steelers right now this is terrible terrible TERRIBLE! I think the D can step up only so much in his place. The O is reeeeaaallllyyy going to have to do much better. They need have some big leads so the reliance on the D line isn’t as great as it’s been.
Steeler Resilence
You seem to forget that the Steelers have always become stronger through adversity and perform beyond the expectations of the so-called “experts.” This season is no different! This team is tough and will show their resilence as always. We are not, and have never been, a one player team. Aaron Smith will be missed to be sure because he is the best at his position in the league in spite of the press ignoring him. However, you will see that our defense will not diminish much with him gone.
Rick Shaffer aka C. R. Lord
by redeemed1 on Oct 25, 2010 12:54 PM EDT up reply actions
Right.
We sure were resilient in 06, 07, and 09.
It’s easy to be resilient when you lose Kendall Simmons. Not quite as easy (or likely) when you lose the best 3-4 DE ever.
We'll be fine
Ziggy Hood should come in and keep it from being too bad of a loss
Steelers football is 60 mins. The final 15 have been re-constructed with re-enforced steel and ready to withstand punishment and deal out some itself. HERE WE GO STEELERS HERE WE GO.
by tannofsteel84 on Oct 25, 2010 1:47 PM EDT up reply actions
The team will be fine. The defense will suffer.
Not horribly, but there will be a drop in level of play. Expecting Hood, Eason, or anyone else to come in and have the same impact as 91 just isn’t realistic.
It’s the offense’s turn to carry the mail anyhow. It wouldn’t hurt if Troy would come back from the vacation he’s been on the last four games either. I’m guessing he’s dinged up somehow and they’re just not talking about it. I’ve never seen him this quiet for this long when he was healthy.
this isn't the end of the world...
"In Hoc Signo Vinces!" (With this as your standard, you shall have victory!) -Constantine I
by Webslasher81 on Oct 26, 2010 1:59 PM EDT up reply actions
I think we should sign Travis Kirschke
he is pretty good and knows the system.
by steeler_in_maryland on Oct 24, 2010 7:44 PM EDT reply actions
He is pretty good in limited action
Any time he sees the field too much he’s exposed as the marginal player that he has been for his entire career.
by Steamin' Beamin' on Oct 24, 2010 11:48 PM EDT up reply actions
Say it ain't so!!!
D:
Chris Andersen could be in a porno with his 'stache. Too bad he still wouldn't know how to box out.
BTSC's little enforcer!
"God created a light, fluffy, white cake, named it "Angel Food Cake", and said, "It is good." Satan then created chocolate cake and named it "Devil's Food." -Tamera Mitchell-
BIG BLOW to the defense
Losing him is the WORST thing that could happen to the D. Even worse than losing Polamolu. He is to the current steelers what Mean Joe meant to the 70s bunch. Devastating my friends. Our hope lies with Big Ben.
Stay thirsty my friends.
by SteelerMessican on Oct 24, 2010 8:00 PM EDT reply actions
Our hope lies with Big Ben.
We tried that last year. He had a career year and we still missed the Playoffs.
Chris Andersen could be in a porno with his 'stache. Too bad he still wouldn't know how to box out.
BTSC's little enforcer!
"God created a light, fluffy, white cake, named it "Angel Food Cake", and said, "It is good." Satan then created chocolate cake and named it "Devil's Food." -Tamera Mitchell-
But that was the old jerk off Big Ben
Now he’s mature, focused, and will not be denied. I hope.
Stay thirsty my friends.
by SteelerMessican on Oct 24, 2010 9:39 PM EDT up reply actions
Time to look at adding a young DL to the roster & practice squad ...
There is no one that they can get to replace Aaron Smith. I definitely think he is done after this injury. I would expect them to activate NT/DT S. McClendon and then resign Sunny Harris or Doug Worthington to the practice squad. Time to see if one of these young lineman can be a possible starter in the future. Tough, Tough blow. DAMN!
by datruth4life2.0 on Oct 24, 2010 8:06 PM EDT reply actions
I love to hear Smith talk.
Sounds like he’s from Compton.
I'm choppin' broccoli.
by DwightWhite's Missing Tooth on Oct 24, 2010 8:09 PM EDT reply actions
I say we bring Kirschke back and let him split some time with Ziggy for the time being. If Ziggy proves himself and that he can handle the job full time, then we can do that too.
As long as Polamalu’s on the field for us we’re still in good shape, but we certainly can’t expect our run defense to be as insanely dominant as it has been without one of the best D-lineman and one of the most underrated players in the league.
No choice. He's gotta bring it next week.
I'm choppin' broccoli.
by DwightWhite's Missing Tooth on Oct 24, 2010 8:16 PM EDT up reply actions
expectations do not change
"Courage, my friends; 'tis not too late to build a better world."
Tommy Douglas
"Man can now fly in the air like a bird, swim under the ocean like a fish, he can burrow into the ground like a mole. Now if only he could walk the earth like a man, this would be paradise."
Tommy Douglas
"I don't mind being a symbol but I don't want to become a monument. There are monuments all over the Parliament Buildings and I've seen what the pigeons do to them."
Tommy Douglas
"Canada is like an old cow. The West feeds it. Ontario and Quebec milk it. And you can well imagine what it's doing in the Maritimes."
Tommy Douglas
by Cold_Old_Steelers_Fan on Oct 24, 2010 8:16 PM EDT up reply actions
I kind of agree, but we did draft him to eventually replace our aging D-line, so he needs to step up eventually. That’s why I think bringing back Kirschke will be a good move, because it gives us someone else who knows our defense very well, while also allowing Ziggy some time to get used to a fuller role.
This is a bitter blow
to Smith and the team. The big question is, besides how to best patch the huge hole in the defence, will he be able to come back? He will have extra time to heal if there is no football next year.
"Courage, my friends; 'tis not too late to build a better world."
Tommy Douglas
"Man can now fly in the air like a bird, swim under the ocean like a fish, he can burrow into the ground like a mole. Now if only he could walk the earth like a man, this would be paradise."
Tommy Douglas
"I don't mind being a symbol but I don't want to become a monument. There are monuments all over the Parliament Buildings and I've seen what the pigeons do to them."
Tommy Douglas
"Canada is like an old cow. The West feeds it. Ontario and Quebec milk it. And you can well imagine what it's doing in the Maritimes."
Tommy Douglas
by Cold_Old_Steelers_Fan on Oct 24, 2010 8:16 PM EDT reply actions
I think he is done career wise
it is the same arm as last year and in 2007. he has to think about how his future will be without hurting himself
by steeler_in_maryland on Oct 24, 2010 8:25 PM EDT up reply actions
I agree.
I think we have just witnessed that last game that Aaron Smith will ever play as a Steeler, and probably his last game, period.
Hats off to the best DE in the game.
doubt that
he’ll be back next year or in the playoffs…
Steelers football is 60 mins. The final 15 have been re-constructed with re-enforced steel and ready to withstand punishment and deal out some itself. HERE WE GO STEELERS HERE WE GO.
by tannofsteel84 on Oct 25, 2010 10:47 AM EDT up reply actions
I'm basing this off of there not being football next year.
Since that’s basically where we’re at right now. If they do get a CBA done then I think he’ll be back though, agreed.
I doubt he’ll be able to come back for the playoffs unless it’s not really torn. I’ve seen guys in my gym tear tris and not be able to bench “normal” weights again for months.
true
I hadn’t thought about that. i don’t want to think about it unless I’m forced to.
Steelers football is 60 mins. The final 15 have been re-constructed with re-enforced steel and ready to withstand punishment and deal out some itself. HERE WE GO STEELERS HERE WE GO.
by tannofsteel84 on Oct 25, 2010 1:47 PM EDT up reply actions
Yeah, sorry.
I know that’s probably not something I should be looking ahead to either, for sanity’s sake.
If we don't resign Woodley
We might
"Courage, my friends; 'tis not too late to build a better world."
Tommy Douglas
"Man can now fly in the air like a bird, swim under the ocean like a fish, he can burrow into the ground like a mole. Now if only he could walk the earth like a man, this would be paradise."
Tommy Douglas
"I don't mind being a symbol but I don't want to become a monument. There are monuments all over the Parliament Buildings and I've seen what the pigeons do to them."
Tommy Douglas
"Canada is like an old cow. The West feeds it. Ontario and Quebec milk it. And you can well imagine what it's doing in the Maritimes."
Tommy Douglas
by Cold_Old_Steelers_Fan on Oct 24, 2010 9:02 PM EDT up reply actions
What?
Jason Worilds was in the fins backfield harassing the quarterback often. We have the backup already in camp and we should re-sign Woodley as well. There is not a better Linebacking corp in the NFL than the one we have.
Rick Shaffer aka C. R. Lord
by redeemed1 on Oct 25, 2010 12:57 PM EDT up reply actions
although
I noticed he only had one move, using his speed to the outside, he is going to have to develop a bull rush if he wants to be a dynamic blitzer in this league. I think he can do it though, the guy does seem like he has some talent
Steelers football is 60 mins. The final 15 have been re-constructed with re-enforced steel and ready to withstand punishment and deal out some itself. HERE WE GO STEELERS HERE WE GO.
by tannofsteel84 on Oct 25, 2010 1:48 PM EDT up reply actions
I like Worilds
but who will be his backup? This team uses a lot of LBs.
Having said that I think any LB we take will be in the later rounds and I doubt we take more than 1 unless there are some injuries I do not want to contemplate.
"Courage, my friends; 'tis not too late to build a better world."
Tommy Douglas
"Man can now fly in the air like a bird, swim under the ocean like a fish, he can burrow into the ground like a mole. Now if only he could walk the earth like a man, this would be paradise."
Tommy Douglas
"I don't mind being a symbol but I don't want to become a monument. There are monuments all over the Parliament Buildings and I've seen what the pigeons do to them."
Tommy Douglas
"Canada is like an old cow. The West feeds it. Ontario and Quebec milk it. And you can well imagine what it's doing in the Maritimes."
Tommy Douglas
by Cold_Old_Steelers_Fan on Oct 25, 2010 2:22 PM EDT up reply actions
what does this have to do
with anything… with woodley going out, it was absolutely brilliant that they got more linebackers in the draft this year….
Steelers football is 60 mins. The final 15 have been re-constructed with re-enforced steel and ready to withstand punishment and deal out some itself. HERE WE GO STEELERS HERE WE GO.
by tannofsteel84 on Oct 24, 2010 10:28 PM EDT up reply actions
We will have to think about his future permanent replacement
Do we have anyone that can replace him? If not, we need to find someone.
I love being the most-hated guy here. I love beating them while [their fans] are flicking me off. --Hines Ward
exactly
Steelers football is 60 mins. The final 15 have been re-constructed with re-enforced steel and ready to withstand punishment and deal out some itself. HERE WE GO STEELERS HERE WE GO.
by tannofsteel84 on Oct 24, 2010 10:28 PM EDT up reply actions
This is what happens...
When you ignore an obvious position of need for years. There should be no whining about this, Smith has been injury prone, and all three DL starters are past 30, and have been for a couple of years.
It’s been an awesome career for Aaron Smith, one of the true Steeler greats. If people really recognized all he did in our 3-4 defense, he’d likely be a HOFer. In the end he will just be a great football player who was largely underappreciated outside of Pittsburgh.
" Just go and lay your hand on a Pittsburgh Steeler fan, and then I think you'll finally understand"
" In America" Charlie Daniels Band
We do have hood and others tomlin drafted hood
after smith went down in 2007 and there was no real back-up for him
by steeler_in_maryland on Oct 24, 2010 8:32 PM EDT up reply actions
huh
When you ignore an obvious position of need for years.
So you mean we haven’t drafted any defensive linemen in the last 5 years?
Steelers football is 60 mins. The final 15 have been re-constructed with re-enforced steel and ready to withstand punishment and deal out some itself. HERE WE GO STEELERS HERE WE GO.
by tannofsteel84 on Oct 24, 2010 10:29 PM EDT up reply actions
We have drafted Ziggy Hood...
who apparently isn’t good enough to start yet. Yes we have drafted other guys, but 5th round project types. You can’t count on getting anything from those type accept maybe some depth.
When you constantly look for diamonds in the rough as your source for replenishing a position of need, at some point you are going to get caught with your pants down (no smartass remark needed). Brett Keisel is past 30 and hurt. Big Snack is old and has a history of injury problems. Aaron Smith is now likely out the year, and maybe he’s done for good. Past 30 guys get injured more often, and we haven’t assembled enough depth behind.
" Just go and lay your hand on a Pittsburgh Steeler fan, and then I think you'll finally understand"
" In America" Charlie Daniels Band
by idiscgolftexas on Oct 24, 2010 11:51 PM EDT up reply actions
Yes we have drafted other guys, but 5th round project types. You can’t count on getting anything from those type accept maybe some depth.
You realize Aaron Smith was a 4th round draft pick and Brett Keisel was a 7th rounder? Your statement is simply false. Von Oelhoffen was a 6th rounder. Actually, the last time the Steelers had a 1-3 round DE start more than 4 games in a season was in 1996, Brenston Buckner.
Also, saying Ziggy Hood is not good enough to start is not a knock on him. He has had the incredibly difficult task of having to beat out an all-world DE in Smith and a perennial pro-bowl snub in Brett Keisel. There is no evidence that has proven he cannot start in the NFL, he just has not gotten the opportunity.
"I'm from Maryland, and no one can beat me!"
by John Stephens on Oct 25, 2010 8:27 AM EDT up reply actions
Brett Keisel is no Pro Bowler
I know this is a Steelers board, but let’s not get carried away here.
No?
He has been a key part of a defense line that is constantly a top 3 unit against the run. He may not command as many double teams as some DEs, but he definitely plays 2 gaps very well. I’d like to hear your argument why he is not and please do not say “low sack numbers”.
"I'm from Maryland, and no one can beat me!"
by John Stephens on Oct 25, 2010 9:25 AM EDT up reply actions
Thats not his job
his job isn’t get sacks… aaron smith has low sack numbers also….
Steelers football is 60 mins. The final 15 have been re-constructed with re-enforced steel and ready to withstand punishment and deal out some itself. HERE WE GO STEELERS HERE WE GO.
by tannofsteel84 on Oct 25, 2010 10:48 AM EDT up reply actions
yeah, mike tomlin has noticed smiths low sack totals too. why do you think he was taken out of the game yesterday? poor play from d end position
Oe he was overheated
Or he was in need of a breather. Or the formation calls for someone else.
I'm getting tired of saying this: Dick LeBeau’s system is so complex very few rookies can make an impact.
by Steel in FL on Oct 25, 2010 11:05 AM EDT up reply actions
haha
I hope you were making a funny…. sometimes I can’t tell (just to be clear, Smith is suppose to have low sack numbers, but he is still great at what he is suppose to do)
Steelers football is 60 mins. The final 15 have been re-constructed with re-enforced steel and ready to withstand punishment and deal out some itself. HERE WE GO STEELERS HERE WE GO.
by tannofsteel84 on Oct 25, 2010 11:13 AM EDT up reply actions
Keisel is a good player but he's not a Pro Bowl caliber player
I love Keisel for his unselfish play and his spare to starter career path, but let’s not get carried away. He’s the third best player on a three man line and the seventh best player in the front seven (and some would even argue that Foote is better so Keisel drops to 8th, but I’ll give him the nod here). He’s a very dependable starter but there’s nothing ‘special’ about his game. He’s the kind of ‘worker bee’ starter that every championship caliber team needs but he’s not a Pro Bowl player by any means.
by Steamin' Beamin' on Oct 26, 2010 9:22 AM EDT up reply actions
So your argument is that Keisel is not good because on our team he ranks below a world class DE, a world class NT, the best duo of OLBs in the league, and a ILB who is making a case to be the best in the game. Therefore, he is not good? Not too add, Larry Foote has not been that good this year. At times he has been a liability. Additionally, I’d put Keisel over Farrior at this point, because Farrior’s loss of speed has definitely hurt his ability to get outside on speedy backs.
Last year when A. Smith was out our run defense remained in the top 3 in the league, certainly that was not because of Hampton alone or carousel of DEs on the other side of the line or the problems we had at ILB. It had a lot to do with the way the level of play that Brett Keisel produces. He was a beast last year.
"I'm from Maryland, and no one can beat me!"
by John Stephens on Oct 26, 2010 9:48 AM EDT up reply actions
Did I say he wasn't good? Absolutely not.
I said that he wasn’t Pro Bowl caliber. How many defensive ends go to the Pro Bowl every year? Five, six, maybe seven? Is he the seventh best DE in the AFC? No, he’s not. He’s not even in the top ten. That doesn’t mean he’s not a good player though, he’s just not special.
And the reason I was ranking him among our defensive line and our front seven was to make a point that he’s surrounded by players who are better than he is. So opposing offensive coordinators spend very little time, if any, gameplanning against shutting down Keisel. Again that doesn’t mean he’s not a good player, he’s just not special.
by Steamin' Beamin' on Oct 26, 2010 1:37 PM EDT up reply actions
It is mostly 4-3 DEs that go to the Pro-Bowl because they are able to pass rush and get “sexy” stats like sacks. Keisel (and Aaron to an extent) get snubbed even if they play unbelievably well, because of the scheme. When our DEs play well, you should not see them at all. You should see our LBs making plays. Other DEs in the league are not quite like that. That in no way means that Keisel is not on their level. And IMO I think it is a lot more difficult to man two-gaps and occasional double teams in our defense than it is to be a pass-rushing DE. A lot more. That is why I think Keisel remains a top DE in the league, whether fans who look at numbers and vote can see that or not.
"I'm from Maryland, and no one can beat me!"
by John Stephens on Oct 26, 2010 3:21 PM EDT up reply actions
Perfect example: Aaron Smith has been to the PB once.
"I'm from Maryland, and no one can beat me!"
by John Stephens on Oct 26, 2010 3:22 PM EDT up reply actions
On top of that, Keisel is our most schematically flexible linemen.
He is able to stop the run, and command a double team, just like the other two.
But he also stands up, and changes line assignments through changing his spot on the field. He drops back more often than any other linemen, and is easily the most athletic starter we have on the line.
Very under-rated Keisel is. Almost as under-rated as every TV analyst would lead you to believe A. Smith is, even though they all say how good Smith is every game.
I have not yet begun to procrastinate.
by NYSteelersFan4 on Oct 26, 2010 4:12 PM EDT up reply actions
I understand the difference/bias between 3-4 and 4-3 DE's
My point is that even if you isolate just 3-4 DE’s in the AFC, I don’t think he’s a top 3 or 4 guy. Here are the guys I’d take over him without question, in no particular order:
1. Aaron Smith
2. Shaun Ellis (NYJ)
3. Haloti Ngata (BAL)
4. Kendall Langford (MIA)
When you consider other 4-3 DE’s like Mario Williams and Dwight Freeney, who are better at their position than Keisel is at his (acknowledging that they play different DE positions), it’s not a insult to say that Keisel is a good player but not a pro bowl player.
by Steamin' Beamin' on Oct 26, 2010 4:35 PM EDT up reply actions
I think for you to say there is nothing special about his game is not giving him the credit he deserves. He is a very good player.
There is a difference between a good player and Pro Bowl player right?
by Steamin' Beamin' on Oct 26, 2010 5:22 PM EDT up reply actions
ok well then maybe that's the end to the argument
I think to be labeled a Pro Bowl player, you have to be better than “a good player.” I would like to think there is something special about their game or at least be top five at their position. Sorry if you have a different view of that label.
by Steamin' Beamin' on Oct 26, 2010 5:33 PM EDT up reply actions
We are just going to have to disagree then. You think Keisel is “nothing special” and I think he is one of the better DEs in the league.
"I'm from Maryland, and no one can beat me!"
by John Stephens on Oct 27, 2010 7:13 AM EDT up reply actions
I'ma disagree here too
You get guys where you can get them. We have a 1st rounder who can step in for Smith. I wouldn’t call that ignoring a position. You have to spread out your first rounders, else you have a lot of talent in one area and if one of those guys bust its even a bigger problem because then you don’t have any other talent in other areas of your team to make up for it. We have questioned a lot about the Steelers drafting, but one thing I’ve learned over the last decade is that this FO knows what its doing. The proof is in the pudding. I don’t need to go over how we don’t make splashes in FA and that we depend so heavily on our drafts to keep the team winning. The Steelers have a winning formula and I think its ignorant to question it. We have Hoke, Eason and Hood to replace Smith. Keisel will be back next week from everything I’ve heard.
No teams is going to be extremely deep anywhere. When starters start getting hurt there will be drop off in most cases. This isn’t college where you can stock pile talent 3 deep at every position.
Steelers football is 60 mins. The final 15 have been re-constructed with re-enforced steel and ready to withstand punishment and deal out some itself. HERE WE GO STEELERS HERE WE GO.
by tannofsteel84 on Oct 25, 2010 10:55 AM EDT up reply actions
Yessir, and everybody just have to recognize that if this D goes from 1º to lets say 5º in this league
in rush D, then thats the specific Weight of Aaron Smith and His importance for this D, almost every year One of the Top rush D in the business, so in this case We as anybody has a BIG argument for a HoF player, IMHO.
So We may had been loosing some time not making noise for His case as a HoFer career, as We normally do for Troy, Woodley and lots of other players. As lots of Us had said before, most underrated player in the league.
O sales tickets,...and let D rest a little, and D Win Championships.
by YeOldeMexFan on Oct 26, 2010 3:02 AM EDT up reply actions
poop
we are in real trouble here.. ive thought we have a real chance to get to the SB.. barring injuries… this is the first major test for us.. everyone has to step up now.. keisel, hood, eason, whoever we bring in.. smith has been so critical to our success.. i think troy is the only guy we couldn’t afford to lose more.. damn..
by smashmouthsteel on Oct 24, 2010 8:40 PM EDT reply actions
Have they made it official yet that he is out for the season?
"I'm from Maryland, and no one can beat me!"
Would Larry Foote take Smith's place?
Chris Andersen could be in a porno with his 'stache. Too bad he still wouldn't know how to box out.
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Can't we have Redman play DE????
Stay thirsty my friends.
by SteelerMessican on Oct 24, 2010 9:40 PM EDT reply actions
I wonder
how Al Woods has been on the PS, he has a better skill set than Mclendon so might be a better option?
I think a call to Kirschke might be for the best, or possibly some random FA with some experience.
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by Josh Roberts (ESGB) on Oct 24, 2010 10:05 PM EDT reply actions
Yeah
I wonder where Kirschke is now, that isn’t a bad idea.
"I'm from Maryland, and no one can beat me!"
by John Stephens on Oct 25, 2010 8:28 AM EDT up reply actions
Travis Kirschke retired
Supposedly working as a High School football coach
I still believe in you Big Ben. Its not how a man falls, it is how he gets back up again. Bring it home
by Michael Hewitt on Oct 25, 2010 11:30 PM EDT up reply actions
I think we can outbid them
"I'm from Maryland, and no one can beat me!"
by John Stephens on Oct 26, 2010 8:56 AM EDT up reply actions
But is he in shape? I think coaches would rather take a forward step with Ziggy/Eason/Hoke/McClendon
I still believe in you Big Ben. Its not how a man falls, it is how he gets back up again. Bring it home
by Michael Hewitt on Oct 26, 2010 5:04 PM EDT up reply actions
I’m just kidding anyway, just thought it was an interesting idea
"I'm from Maryland, and no one can beat me!"
by John Stephens on Oct 27, 2010 7:13 AM EDT up reply actions
Here is an interesting idea
I don’t know if its been mentioned in this thread, how about Woodley as a DE? We can have Worilds step in his spot. Woodley played DE, albeit on a 43 defense.
"Franco made that play because he never quit on the play. He kept running, he kept hustling. Good things happen to people who hustle."
interesting
thats quite the idea. he was a beast at de when he was at michigan.. i know the responsibility is different in the 3-4.. but worilds did look good today.. plus we have gibson, stevenson at lb as well
by smashmouthsteel on Oct 24, 2010 10:27 PM EDT up reply actions
also
I use Woodley as a DE in the dime package in Madden, and it works. So if it works in Madden then without a shadow of a doubt it would work in real life, guaranteed………………right?
yes because Madden is the real deal
"Franco made that play because he never quit on the play. He kept running, he kept hustling. Good things happen to people who hustle."
Uhhhhhhhhhh...
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As for CJ, he’s going to get his. That’s what he does. You can’t hold him under 100 yards, so forget that.
-August West
CJ's Stat Line, 9/19/10: 16 carries, 34 yards, 1 fumble
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by LV Steelers Fan on Oct 25, 2010 1:23 AM EDT up reply actions
I know
Glory is fleeting, but obscurity is forever
-Napoleon Bonaparte
As for CJ, he’s going to get his. That’s what he does. You can’t hold him under 100 yards, so forget that.
-August West
CJ's Stat Line, 9/19/10: 16 carries, 34 yards, 1 fumble
Cornell University Class of 2014
by LV Steelers Fan on Oct 25, 2010 5:32 PM EDT up reply actions
goooooooo....goooooooo!
"In Hoc Signo Vinces!" (With this as your standard, you shall have victory!) -Constantine I
by Webslasher81 on Oct 26, 2010 1:58 PM EDT up reply actions
I actually thought the same thing, still get a PS player or FA. But try some packages with woodly as DE and Worilds/Gibson behind him. This would give us the ability to stand him up right before the snap.
Also Woodly is 20 or so pounds lighter than Keisel, but I have the feeling he’s every bit as strong. I’d like to see what would happen but Woodly is way to good at LB to think about making a permanant swicth.
it never got weird enough for me
by JerseyFresh on Oct 24, 2010 10:34 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Yeah, let's scrap the whole system because of one injury.
I realize it’s an important injury, but c’mon man.
how about Troy then
line him up as a DE. just kidding
"Franco made that play because he never quit on the play. He kept running, he kept hustling. Good things happen to people who hustle."
yep he was
"Franco made that play because he never quit on the play. He kept running, he kept hustling. Good things happen to people who hustle."
Terrible news
as Smith is one of my favorites and is a shut-down lineman. I’ll be interested in the MRI results tomorrow. Hopefully his recovery will be swift and complete.
When the tailgate drops, the BS stops. Shut up and play!
this just in: i checked on si.com he is out for the rest of the season.
Mother F!
"In Hoc Signo Vinces!" (With this as your standard, you shall have victory!) -Constantine I
by Webslasher81 on Oct 24, 2010 10:46 PM EDT up reply actions
hey a cameo
"Franco made that play because he never quit on the play. He kept running, he kept hustling. Good things happen to people who hustle."
INDEED PCI!
waddup playa!!!
"In Hoc Signo Vinces!" (With this as your standard, you shall have victory!) -Constantine I
by Webslasher81 on Oct 26, 2010 1:55 PM EDT up reply actions
SI is not official
Right now it just “looks like the season”. MRI is not until today I believe
"I'm from Maryland, and no one can beat me!"
by John Stephens on Oct 25, 2010 8:37 AM EDT up reply actions
very true...i just got a text...
from Steelers.com, Ringo it said that his left bicep will be repaired and will most likely be out for the season, but the steelers aren’t going to put him on the IR, in hopes that he will make a speedy recovery…
"In Hoc Signo Vinces!" (With this as your standard, you shall have victory!) -Constantine I
by Webslasher81 on Oct 26, 2010 1:55 PM EDT up reply actions
Smith's future
I think it’s time to admit that Smith shouldn’t be a full time player anymore and I wouldn’t be terribly shocked if he called in quits much sooner than we expect. You can’t continue to have major injuries year after year without some effect on your psyche.
As for the immediate future, it’s time to take the training wheels off of Ziggy and see if he sinks or swims. I know that we’re notorious for bringing young players along very slowly but it’s time for him to show whether or not he’s a 3-4 DE.
by Steamin' Beamin' on Oct 24, 2010 11:53 PM EDT reply actions
OMG
the guy has 3 injuries his whole career and people wanna put the fork in him. the guy is getting older so there will be some injuries. Smith positives still out weigh his negatives at this point in his career. The thought that he shouldn’t have been a full time player after last year is absurd. they guy means a lot to this defense and we are a better team the more he is on the field.
Steelers football is 60 mins. The final 15 have been re-constructed with re-enforced steel and ready to withstand punishment and deal out some itself. HERE WE GO STEELERS HERE WE GO.
by tannofsteel84 on Oct 25, 2010 11:00 AM EDT up reply actions
saying he has had 3 injuries during his entire career is kind of skewing reality a bit, don’t you think? he has had 3 injuries during his entire career, true, but they have all come bunched recently, with 08 being his lone healthy year, IIRC
Yeah he's had 3 season ending injuries in 4 seasons.
He may not come abck from this
I'm getting tired of saying this: Dick LeBeau’s system is so complex very few rookies can make an impact.
by Steel in FL on Oct 25, 2010 11:07 AM EDT up reply actions
Yea
but I also believe that saying that he is done might be skewing this also. He still has his MRI today, who knows what could happen. Also there is still a place for Smith on this team even if the Steelers draft all defensive linemen in the next draft, he is just that good.
Steelers football is 60 mins. The final 15 have been re-constructed with re-enforced steel and ready to withstand punishment and deal out some itself. HERE WE GO STEELERS HERE WE GO.
by tannofsteel84 on Oct 25, 2010 11:14 AM EDT up reply actions
oh yeah, i wouldn’t extrapolate to his career being over, but his effectiveness may start declining from here on out, just because of his inability to stay on the field for a long time
very well
could be we’ll see
Steelers football is 60 mins. The final 15 have been re-constructed with re-enforced steel and ready to withstand punishment and deal out some itself. HERE WE GO STEELERS HERE WE GO.
by tannofsteel84 on Oct 25, 2010 1:49 PM EDT up reply actions
He's 34 year old guy who will have now missed 26 games over the past four years
How long do you think he’s going to keep playing? He’s suffering major injuries and he plays a position that requires absorbing punishment. He has one year left on his current contract and if he comes back for next season, I’d be surprised if doesn’t retire after that.
by Steamin' Beamin' on Oct 26, 2010 9:29 AM EDT up reply actions
I thought the comment was too nutty to respond to. Smith may very well be injury prone now, but his ability to man a double team and still control two gaps is unheralded quite often by most fans. His ability to do that far outweighs two unfortunate injuries IMO. Not too add, they are not really injuries that have occurred from being older. They were just circumstances of bad luck IMO.
"I'm from Maryland, and no one can beat me!"
by John Stephens on Oct 25, 2010 11:51 AM EDT up reply actions
Well you know me
I’ll respond to anything ;)
Steelers football is 60 mins. The final 15 have been re-constructed with re-enforced steel and ready to withstand punishment and deal out some itself. HERE WE GO STEELERS HERE WE GO.
by tannofsteel84 on Oct 25, 2010 1:49 PM EDT up reply actions
D'oh!
tann…lol!
"In Hoc Signo Vinces!" (With this as your standard, you shall have victory!) -Constantine I
by Webslasher81 on Oct 26, 2010 1:56 PM EDT up reply actions
Could be from age.
All of your tissues lose elasticity with age, making them easier to tear. I just think he plays harder than his body is able to withstand at this point in his career, and I mean that as the highest compliment possible.
I wasn't saying he'd retire b/c he's lost the ability to command double teams
I’m saying that the guy has spent more time on the trainers table than the field the past couple of seasons and that wears on the mind of guy in his mid-30’s. He’s 34 right now and will turn 35 in February of next year, how long do you think he’s going to continue to play?
by Steamin' Beamin' on Oct 26, 2010 9:31 AM EDT up reply actions
You really think a competitive athlete like Aaron Smith is going to hang it up after an injury like that? He doesn’t have to be an every down guy in the future. He has at least 2 seasons left in the tank IMO.
"I'm from Maryland, and no one can beat me!"
by John Stephens on Oct 26, 2010 9:50 AM EDT up reply actions
So he plays out the final year of his deal and then signs a one year deal?
I have a hard time seeing that but whatever.
And is he really an ‘every down’ player right now? I don’t chart defensive substitution packages by any means but is he really out there in obvious passing downs?
by Steamin' Beamin' on Oct 26, 2010 1:40 PM EDT up reply actions
Yes, Aaron Smith is an every down player. He is that good. I’m beginning to think you don’t even believe Aaron Smith is that good.
"I'm from Maryland, and no one can beat me!"
by John Stephens on Oct 26, 2010 3:24 PM EDT up reply actions
Oh geez
I’m saying that in our ‘11 angry men defense’ there is only one down lineman and I know that guy is sometimes Brett Keisel. In those instances, Smith is on the sidelines. What I am saying is that I don’t chart defensive personnel enough to know if that’s 3 plays a game or 15.
by Steamin' Beamin' on Oct 26, 2010 4:38 PM EDT up reply actions
Perspective
Brett Keisel has taken 210 snaps this year (42 per game)
Aaron Smith has taken 284 (47.3 per game)
"I'm from Maryland, and no one can beat me!"
by John Stephens on Oct 27, 2010 7:17 AM EDT up reply actions
Don't Panic
Our DC has been integrating the backups in with the regulars and letting them gain much needed experience. One of these backups will step up to the plate. We are very deep at LB and potential starting DE’s. We will be just fine. It’s crunch time for these backups and they will answer the call.
What about doug worthington?
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this
if we dont sign him, and activate someone from the PS, we should at least replace that guy with him. loved how he looked in the preseason
We also have Steve McClendon, IIRC
Glory is fleeting, but obscurity is forever
-Napoleon Bonaparte
As for CJ, he’s going to get his. That’s what he does. You can’t hold him under 100 yards, so forget that.
-August West
CJ's Stat Line, 9/19/10: 16 carries, 34 yards, 1 fumble
Cornell University Class of 2014
by LV Steelers Fan on Oct 25, 2010 1:07 PM EDT up reply actions
i really wanted him on my team...i hope he gets the chance to play
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I bleed Scarlet and Grey...A Buckeye for Life
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Would like for us to pick him up again....
Does anyone know what the big drawback that management has with his play?
You don't replace an A. Smith.
But considering the recurring nature of his injuries and the amount of time he’s been lost to the team, we have to look to the post-Smith era and plan accordingly. Ziggy is a #1 pick and it’s time for him to sink or swim.
Steelers have drafted Ziggy, Sunny & D. Worthington the past two years ...
knowing that the D-line reign of Keisel, Smith, Hokie & Big Snack would soon be coming to an end. Time to get Sunny or D. Worthington (or both) back on the practice squad and get Ziggy and McClendon ready to carry this thing fwd. I’m not a proponent of resigning Travis Kirschke at this point. I’d rather give those 4 young guys along with Al Woods a chance to see if they can maintain the standard and be key cogs going fwd.
by datruth4life2.0 on Oct 25, 2010 10:00 PM EDT up reply actions
Is Worthington even with the team anymore
did we sign Al Woods to the PS
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by WVPiratesfan on Oct 26, 2010 12:31 AM EDT up reply actions
Harris is with the Bills
"I'm from Maryland, and no one can beat me!"
by John Stephens on Oct 26, 2010 8:57 AM EDT up reply actions
I just hope this wasnt the last time we see Aaron Smith in B & G
If so…hell of a ride. I think the fire still burns though, and if he is out for the season, he will try his hardest to return next year. If not, perhaps he can return for the playoffs (yes i said playoffs)
I think we will use Hoke/Hood/Eason rotation, likely activate McLendon too.
I still believe in you Big Ben. Its not how a man falls, it is how he gets back up again. Bring it home
by Michael Hewitt on Oct 25, 2010 11:34 PM EDT reply actions
This is a big hit to our run defense...
And our defense as a whole.
I hope (and think) we are more prepared for it now than we were in years past, but still, that remains to be seen, and you don’t replace an A. Smith ever. Time for some young guys to step it up.
I have not yet begun to procrastinate.
Strange
That makes three (relatively) uncommon, serious upper arm injuries. At this point, I wonder if this is a matter of technique or just bad luck? His presence, once again, will be sorely missed.
A. Woods & McClendon on practice squad; Harris & D. Worthington are available
Sunny Harris was released off the Bills practice squad this past week. I saw where the Texans released DT Frank Odam yesterday. Just know that he is a young big body, NT-type, from Texas. Man, losing Aaron Smith sucks.
by datruth4life2.0 on Oct 26, 2010 12:16 PM EDT reply actions
I like McClendon, or what I've seen so far.
I’m just concerned about the weight, he’s around 280 or so? I like the 6’4" part of it, but is 280 enough to stop the run?
Worthington looked great in preseason, but same with him – isn’t the weight a little low for our DE slots?
Can Woods play at all? 4th rounder that didn’t stick…anyone know his deal?
Frank Okam...
I assume that’s a typo, but just wanted to get it out there.
He’d be an interesting grab, although if I remember correctly, he’s a little taller, as compaerd to Casey at least.
Still, I liked him in college, and I am surprised he hasnt done much, especially on a line paired with Mario down there.
I’m also a little surprised Worthington is still available too.
I have not yet begun to procrastinate.
by NYSteelersFan4 on Oct 26, 2010 12:58 PM EDT up reply actions
is houston 3-4 or 4-3?
could Okam just been a poor fit for their defence?
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by Cold_Old_Steelers_Fan on Oct 28, 2010 4:34 PM EDT up reply actions
+1
F!!!
"In Hoc Signo Vinces!" (With this as your standard, you shall have victory!) -Constantine I
by Webslasher81 on Oct 26, 2010 1:57 PM EDT up reply actions
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