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Reasons Abound To Get Excited About Steelers Vs. Ravens Week 13 Showdown on Sunday Night Football

It's only Wednesday, but are you as excited as I am for the Pittsburgh Steelers' Week 13 showdown with their hated divisional rival, the Baltimore Ravens? It's obvious why we'd be excited, but I'll spell out a few reasons why I'm counting down the hours until Sunday night's kickoff in Baltimore.

* The Stakes: Let's get the obvious out of the way. Both teams are 8-3, both are 2-1 in AFC North games, and both sport 6-2 AFC records. If Baltimore wins, they're in the driver's seat two games clear of Pittsburgh by virtue of winning both head-to-head matchups. If the Steelers win, Pittsburgh has the inside track towards at least the No. 2 seed in the AFC. Too many games to look too far ahead, but suffice it to say, the stakes are high with both teams at 8-3 and only five games remaining in the 2010 regular season.

 

* It's Baltimore: Of all 31 other teams in the NFL, Baltimore is at the very top of my 'Must Beat List'. Don't confuse that with my 'Teams I Hate List'. Indianpolis, Denver, Jacksonville, New England all rank high on that list. Baltimore doesn't really. I don't want them ever beating the Steelers, but if Baltimore is playing Peyton Manning and the Colts with a trip to the AFC Championship Game at stake, I'm rooting like hell for the Ravens. But two times a year (at least), I'm more emotionally invested in wanting to see the Steelers win than I am at any other point in the regular season. They Ravens hate the Steelers, and the Steelers hate the Ravens. It's always a blood bath, and both teams always bring their best, especially the past two years.

* Are We Very Good or Are We Great?:  First of all, let me just say that I have personally seen enough from the Steelers to believe that they can win it all and bring home Lombardi No. 7. Let me explain: the Steelers have three key ingredients for a potential postseason run, even if they're playing on the road and widely considered underdogs:

Star-divide

  1. A quarterback in Ben Roethlisberger that can deliver in the clutch, no matter the circumstances. We've seen it time and time again. Roethlisberger has several flawed tendencies that keep him from being consistently great on a weekly basis, but he really is a once-in-a-generation quarterback in terms of being able to make remarkable plays under pressure - the types of plays that you can't teach; the types of plays that teams with undeniable shortcomings need against quality competition come January.

  2. A defense that doesn't give an inch in the running game. It's not enough just to be good stopping the run - we learned that lesson again a few weeks ago when Tom Brady came to town. But in January, when the weather is even colder, it's even more of an advantage to make teams one dimensional. Sure, Brady may still be able to carve up the Steelers', but you better believe that QBs like Philip Rivers, Joe Flacco and Mark Sanchez will have a hard time doing much against the Steelers without the benefit of much of a running game.

  3. Veteran big-play guys like Hines Ward, Troy Polamalu, James Harrison, to name but a few. The Patriots for example, are undeniably impressive this yaer. But they're young, and most of the guys on their roster were not in the NFL (and in some instances even college) when the Patriots last won a Super Bowl. The Steelers' roster meanwhile is chalk full of guys with one ring, and a fair number with two. 

With that out of the way, let me be abundantly clear that I have abundant concerns about the state of the Steelers heading into the final five games of the season: The injuries to an offensive line that already had question marks surrounding it at the outset of the season, an offense that too frequently shoots itself in the foot with untimely penalties and sacks, a tendency to bog down in the red zone, and a pass defense that's susceptible against the top tier quarterbacks.  All contribute to making me weary about the Steelers' chances to beat Baltimore on the road most pressingly, then looking forward, to hold on for a playoff berth or do much once there. But like I said, if they can get there, anything can happen.

Despite the team's 'shortcomings' - I use that term in quotations because all teams have flaws, even the league's best each year - I think the Rooneys, Kevin Colbert, Mike Tomlin and the rest of the Steelers coaching staff have done a great job building this team to win now while also keeping the cupboard full with young talent for the future. Injuries are a reality in this league, and the Steelers still need to fill a few holes on the 53-man roster moving forward as certain guys get even older. But for the most part, the Steelers have done a tip-top job doing the impossible - playing to win now while not totally mortgaging or neglecting the future. Believe me, if this year's team doesn't suffer all the injuries it has, they win 14 or 15 games and thoroughly dominate many weeks. In 2011, they may just catch a few breaks injury wise. And if they do, they'll be even more potent, as lots and lots of young guys have gained valuable experience this season. It may seem like we're 'far away' from being dominant this year or next, but really, we're not. We're damn close, and there's no reason to think that things will get any worse than they are at this point. And our version of 'bad' is 8-3 and in the hunt for a divisional crown and first round bye.

That last paragraph can be validated this coming Sunday night by a strong showing against the Ravens -  a tough road win against our most hated, heated rival. Once more, a loss doesn't drain me of all hope for something special in the final weeks and December. But a win might make me reconsider just how much of a long-shot a seventh Lombardi Trophy might be this year.

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Great article Micheal

Your list is exacly the same as mine. I know we have the tools to beat the ratbirds, it all depends on if we can play a complete game. If we do then we win.

"It's a dog eat dog world and I'm wear'in milkbone underwear" - Norm

by Tx_STEELER on Dec 1, 2010 3:01 AM EST reply actions  

Huge but not deciding

The game wil certainly be big, even huge, if only because of the standings consequences. But it is by no means deciding. I am not sure the Steelers care too much which seed they get in the playoffs. They went all the way both with a first round bye (2008) and as a six seed (2005). Playoff games at home are nice, games away make you an underdog – a status which the Steelers will ebrace. In this sense this Ravens game will not be season-defining.

Besides, I am very confident that one of the teams (possibly both) will lose at least once going forward. AFC North divisional games are always unpredictable regardless of the records. Both Steelers and Ravens have the two Ohio teams on their plates, and they ain’t gonna go down quietly.

So while I definitely will have jitters when I wake up at 3.20 am on Monday morning to watch the game, I will know that a lot of meaningful football will be left to play after it.

Life's a journey, not a destination.

by kliuch on Dec 1, 2010 3:28 AM EST reply actions  

meh

I think it’s naive to say that the ‘Steelers don’t care about playoff positioning’. Of course they do. Sure they can win away from home, but teams play for divsion crowns, home field playoff games, and delivering as good as record as makes sense each and every year. (By ‘makes sense’ I mean teams sometimes have reason to shut it down in the final week or two when their big picture goals are wrapped up).

That said, as I mentioned in my post, I agree with you in a way. Not a season defining game at all in terms of their playoff chances. Still, you better believe the Steelers want this game real real REAL badly.

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 Dec 1, 2010 5:09 AM EST up reply actions  

Still, you better believe the Steelers want this game real real REAL badly.

You think I would get up at 3:30 a.m. on a Monday morning to watch the game if I DIDN’T believe the Steelers want this game real real badly? Or if I didn’t want them to win just as badly? :)

Life's a journey, not a destination.

by kliuch on Dec 1, 2010 6:59 AM EST up reply actions  

:)

It’s as tough a test this week for us fans as it is for the team. We have to temper expectations, hope to see something special, but realize that all is not lost if we lose. This is a weird year, and all we can hope for is to have a chance. We certainly have that this year heading into the final month, regardless of what happens against Baltimore.

Cant wait!

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 Dec 1, 2010 7:11 AM EST up reply actions  

This game...

Is absolutely season defining.

If the Steelers lose yet another big game it shows a lot. Most of all, if you can’t win big games you can’t go anywhere in the playoffs.

by biggcat on Dec 1, 2010 6:08 AM EST up reply actions  

I don't have too much "Steelers experience" to judge from,

but from the little experience that I do have, losing big games for the Steelers and getting the ones that really matter was key.

In 2005 we lost to Pats and Indy during the season, as well as dropped a home game to eventual AFCN champ Cincy and an away game at Baltimore. But we won other meaningful games against opponents that we had to beat, and went into the playoffs. In 2008, during another SB run, we lost a game for the No 1 seed at Tennessee, as well as “big” games vs. Giants and Indy at home. But again we won those that we had to and went all the way. Last year the Steelers won all the big games, but dropped the ones they should have won. That led us to 9-7 and a long offseason.

So that kind of defines the bottom line for me – I am much more concerned with getting a W against Cleveland, Cincy and Carolina to get a playoff spot, and wins over Jets and Ravens will be a bonus in the form of a higher seed.

That being said, the Ravens game certainly stands out – it is a rivalry game, period.

Life's a journey, not a destination.

by kliuch on Dec 1, 2010 7:07 AM EST up reply actions  

Correction!

“getting a W three W’s against Cleveland, Cincy and Carolina "

Life's a journey, not a destination.

by kliuch on Dec 1, 2010 7:08 AM EST up reply actions  

good point

I think the same was true in the 70s: we never lost to a bad team.

by 57_Varieties on Dec 1, 2010 1:02 PM EST up reply actions  

In the 70's

Bad teams just didn’t use enough steroids to make them good teams.

by TheShadow on Dec 1, 2010 5:04 PM EST up reply actions  

And

As far as them wanting this game real bad, I would have thought they wanted the Patsy game real bad too but didn’t even show up to play.

Hopefully they make a big statement this Sunday.

by biggcat on Dec 1, 2010 6:10 AM EST reply actions  

its not that they didnt show up

that’s ridiculous.

They just got smacked in the face out of the gates by a team that played PERFECTLY for the first half. Steelers rebounded from huge blow to make a game of it. Had absolutely nothing to do with ‘heart’ or ‘intensity’ or any other BS intangible that fans like to point to when things go wrong.

As poor as steelers played, Brady and the Pats also played lights f’n out. More a credit to them than an indictment of steelers.

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 Dec 1, 2010 6:33 AM EST up reply actions  

They didnt rebound until wayyy late

They showed up, and quickly checked out. Soon as the pats were up two scores we looked bored and like we wanted to go home. Not until late 4Q did we make anything interesting happen.

I’m giving full credit to the Pats, they scared the turtle into its shell. But we totally retreated like frenchmen

by Mechem on Dec 1, 2010 9:18 AM EST up reply actions  

BS intangibles

It seems that with superb athletes on both sides of the ball, ‘BS intangibles’ are often the difference between winning and losing. If it’s ‘intensity’ or ‘focus’ that leads to mental acuity and fewer mistakes, then that can be the difference.

As you point out, though, sometimes the other guy makes a play.

by stylepoints on Dec 1, 2010 11:37 AM EST up reply actions  

+1

The team that wants this game the most will take it, and possibly in convincing fashion.

by Billy52 on Dec 1, 2010 8:41 PM EST up reply actions  

i think its te team that executes better

and shows something that the other team hasn’t seen before. Both teams ‘want’ it every time they play each other.

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 Dec 2, 2010 1:46 AM EST up reply actions  

Good execution and high motivation go hand in hand.

Usually, you don’t win games like this without a complete team effort. That’s what I mean by “wanting it more.” We can’t have a significant letdown in any phase of our game and still beat the Ravens.

by Billy52 on Dec 2, 2010 11:02 AM EST up reply actions  

Don't be insulting...

Some of the Steelers even said they weren’t up for the game.

You may not be the all knowing wise one you think you are.

by biggcat on Dec 1, 2010 7:46 AM EST reply actions  

Think about that

then think about how much pride players have, our team has, what do you expect them to say that they gave it their all and they just can’t beat brady? they believe they can beat brady, they believe they are the best. I’m pretty sure they was up for that game, it was Sunday night at home against the pats.

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 Dec 1, 2010 8:54 AM EST up reply actions  

link or source?

What players said they weren’t “up for the game”? Do you have documentation on this or are you just yelling at Bean cause he disagreed with you?

by Chicago Steeler on Dec 1, 2010 1:34 PM EST up reply actions  

I'm going to go with the second option

"SteelFever gets #93. Just like Ron Artest. Great game just keep an eye on him that he doesn't go into the stands after a fan."
- 5020 on my making the BTSC active (riot) squad
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OC0NCHq4v3I

by Steel Spike on Dec 1, 2010 1:35 PM EST up reply actions  

hehe

Wasn’t trying to be insulting, and I do of course agree that NFL games are decided by mental aspects of the game as much as physical talent. But I get really tired of hearing that teams and players weren’t ‘up’ for a game when they didn’t play well. There’s 16 games a year, they’re up for all of them, even if they’re more sharp and fresh physically some weeks. And to think they were lackadaisical going into a game with the Pats with first place on the line is just ridiculous in my opinion.

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 Dec 1, 2010 2:20 PM EST up reply actions  

Hehe

You must have watched a different game than I did.

Also, Tomlin vowed to be more prepared for the Raiders game after that melt down

There are some really opinionated people on here and if anyone hold a differing opinion it starts a cry and bitch fest that reminds me more of a gin game with a bunch of old bags.

by biggcat on Dec 2, 2010 7:38 AM EST up reply actions  

There are plenty of differing opinions on this site

and none of us are shy about defending our opinion, which is part of the point. But most of us manage to do so without making offensive remarks to or about the person(s) we disagree with in the process. Might I gently suggest that you try to do likewise?

"You learn more in failure than you do in success." - Mike Tomlin

by Rebecca Rollett on Dec 2, 2010 7:54 AM EST up reply actions  

I didn't fire the first shot.

I was called ridiculous and accused of yelling. ( which is plain absurd)

Whatever.

by biggcat on Dec 2, 2010 11:20 AM EST up reply actions  

you’re right – in this scenario. but don’t let it make you bitter

by klompus on Dec 2, 2010 11:38 AM EST up reply actions  

heres the deal bigcat

Different opinions most certainly welcomed. But the incessant complainers tend to not actually say much other than spew negativity. So there’s not really much opinions being thrown around to mull, just totally unquantifiable things like ‘no heart, no intensity, blah blah.’ It doesn’t add anything to the conversation. I’d love to hear comments and opinions on why the team got their ass whooped, but I really don’t have much patience for explanations that relate to ‘intensity’ ‘not playing Steelers football’ or other unmeasurable things that are a direct insult to how hard the team works. The team might be flawed and there might be some wrong personnel and coaching decisions, but seriously, any shortcomings have nothing to do with intensity or focus.

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 Dec 2, 2010 7:10 PM EST up reply actions  

And you know this

Because???

I’m not an incessant complainer. I also don’t give a rat’s ass if you have patience for my opinions or not.

This may not have occurred to you but, you don’t have to read it. I have not posted anything to try to please you. I also don’t need you to tell me the “deal”

You do realize this is the internet, right?

by biggcat on Dec 3, 2010 10:38 AM EST up reply actions  

Wow, you’re a dick

by worldtrip on Dec 3, 2010 12:41 PM EST up reply actions   1 recs

Hines Ward

Said it on a radio interview.

How do you get “yelling” out of reading text? You seem to be not very bright.

by biggcat on Dec 2, 2010 7:35 AM EST up reply actions  

I got yelling from:
You may not be the all knowing wise one you think you are.

Which is not yelling of course. Yelling cannot be done via text on a screen. However I can use the word ‘yelling’ as a metaphor which in this context means: “don’t be a jerk”.

And as to the very bright part… Why are you attacking my intelligence based on that statement? What part of it was unintelligent? I was asking a question as to where your information was coming from and then suggesting that you act more civilly with Michael instead of making snide remarks about his wisdom. And by doing so now my “brightness” has come into question. What I infer from that is that you think that anyone who disagrees with you is unintelligent. And that my friend, is an unhealthy attitude. I may not agree with you, but that leaves me no where in my estimation of your intelligence.

by Chicago Steeler on Dec 2, 2010 1:10 PM EST up reply actions  

First of all

What the hell do you care?

As for the rest, it appears that you just argued my case for me.

by biggcat on Dec 2, 2010 2:57 PM EST up reply actions  

I don't like it when people call me dumb

That’s why I care. I would like to know how I argued your point for you. Seriously, can you tell me what is unintelligent about my statements?

by Chicago Steeler on Dec 2, 2010 4:57 PM EST up reply actions  

Hmmm...
can you tell me what is unintelligent about my statements?

Probably the fact that they are contrary to his. When an idiot is challenged by intelligence, they will usually call the other person dumb to try and cover up their own stupidity.

"SteelFever gets #93. Just like Ron Artest. Great game just keep an eye on him that he doesn't go into the stands after a fan."
- 5020 on my making the BTSC active (riot) squad
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OC0NCHq4v3I

by Steel Spike on Dec 2, 2010 5:14 PM EST up reply actions  

This started because I defended my opinions which were called ridiclous.

Here is some groundbreaking news….

It is DUMB to defend someone from me yelling at them You are DUMB for saying I yelled. Go back and re-read from the beginning.

I quit, you win.

Easy to talk big on the internet. Wanna have this talk in person?

by biggcat on Dec 3, 2010 10:41 AM EST up reply actions  

You defended your opinions the wrong way dude

You are aware that you can have a disagreement with someone without name calling, right?

Opinions are not fact. You have your opinion, and other people might not share it, and you have to respect that. Of course, you can try and sway someone to your point of view, but if you start calling them stupid, you can’t be surprised when they take offense and totally clam up.

I never said you yelled. Reading comprehension is your friend. You should make a conscious effort to stop being so antagonistic and rude, or you may be asked to leave. That’s friendly advice. Take it as such.

"SteelFever gets #93. Just like Ron Artest. Great game just keep an eye on him that he doesn't go into the stands after a fan."
- 5020 on my making the BTSC active (riot) squad
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OC0NCHq4v3I

by Steel Spike on Dec 3, 2010 1:43 PM EST up reply actions  

Face to face

I’m yer huckleberry

People don't ever seem to realize that doing what's right is no guarantee against misfortune.
- William McFee

by stillergorillar on Dec 3, 2010 10:08 PM EST up reply actions  

I have no fingernails left for this game after the Bills showdown

We are both weary of the same thing. Hopefully the defense will not be weary in the fourth, otherwise we can sneak this one out. The steelers have one thing going for them, putting the game on the line then taking it when you don’t expect it. If the opponents do not come out playing like the Pats then the Steelers find a way to win. Problem the Ravens showed us last time they are the same way. Dam, too bad Reed did not make that 3 pointer.
Lets hope we come out with only minor injuries, no fines and a W.

by ibygeorge on Dec 1, 2010 8:22 AM EST reply actions  

I hope

the offense doesn’t put the defense in precarious situations in the 4th. I’d like the Ravens to have one possession in the 4th quarter and us to have two time consuming drives even if they only get field goals out of them, but just move up the field, if they are taking away the deep ball then dink and dunk

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 Dec 1, 2010 8:56 AM EST up reply actions  

I was leery and wary, then I got weary

by Twell on Dec 1, 2010 6:51 PM EST up reply actions  

Also,

I hate the Purple Browns and they stank!

Let Baltiwhore bleed their true orange colors when we skin them alive

by Mechem on Dec 1, 2010 9:19 AM EST reply actions  

+86

can’t stand them.

...die trying
http://www.agentorangerecords.blogspot.com

by agentorange on Dec 1, 2010 5:33 PM EST up reply actions  

The difference between this game

and the Pats game is that our offensive line has had three games together, vs none against the Pats, in a short week. When you have to replace the left side of your O line, with no game experience in which to do it, you are going to be out of synch in a big way. That leaves your D on the field and struggling for lack of possession.

The Pats were pretty healthy; the Ravens are not. Their O line is hurting and their secondary problems are real. I expect Ben to have to keep his passes short and they;d better be sweet, or it’s gonna be a long game.

My heros have always been Steelers...

by wozzle on Dec 1, 2010 10:39 AM EST reply actions  

Steelers front office did a great job this offseason

For one thing, the team wouldn’t be in contention at this time if it wasn’t for the depth created by the team’s front office. To still be competitive and you are without your two starting OTs and as well as your two starting DE’s, and to play your first four games without your franchise QB, that is very impressive. What really gives me hope for the future is that this year’s draft class was very impressive, with many of the picks with the potential to develop into starters at positions of need. Pouncey, Worilds, Sylvester, Butler and the RB from Ga. Tech all have the potential to be starters down the road. One more great draft and offseason and I think another window of opportunity will be open to win a few more rings.

by datruth4life2.0 on Dec 1, 2010 11:19 AM EST reply actions  

Excellent point -

I think this year has the potential to go down as one of the all-time great draft classes

"You learn more in failure than you do in success." - Mike Tomlin

by Rebecca Rollett on Dec 1, 2010 11:33 AM EST up reply actions  

Quite possibly

Sanders and Brown look studly. Pouncey is a meast, this we know.

Worilds looks good but of course can never be given any actual playing time. I’m looking forward to him replacing Woodley.

Jury’s out on Butler and Dwyer and co.. But if Sanders and Brown eventually become our 2/3 WR’s and Worilds Starts at OLB, with Pouncey anchoring the line for a decade, we had a hell of a draft

by Mechem on Dec 1, 2010 12:09 PM EST up reply actions  

Unbelievable draft

The new O-line coach is doing wonders with what is given him.
Hopefully we get some more O-line help in the future drafts before BB is too old and beatup to scramble.

by ibygeorge on Dec 1, 2010 4:41 PM EST up reply actions  

A. Brown & E. Sanders' speed is very much needed in this game

The Steelers are going to need some big plays in the passing game this week. They won’t let Mike Wallace beat them over the top so Sanders will have some one on one matchups that he will have to win. I’d also like to see A. Brown, if he’s active, on several smoke screens, slants and reverses. This is one of those guns where as a coach, you just got to shoot your gun. Whoever you think is healthy and can help you win this game, you gotta put them out there.

by datruth4life2.0 on Dec 1, 2010 12:11 PM EST reply actions  

Whoever you think is healthy and can help you win this game, you gotta put them out there.

And then, as MT would have it, you give them both a bone : )

"You learn more in failure than you do in success." - Mike Tomlin

by Rebecca Rollett on Dec 1, 2010 12:17 PM EST up reply actions  

If they double Wallace

I look for Hines to have a big day.

by qwikdoc on Dec 1, 2010 2:19 PM EST up reply actions  

Momma, you got to expose the rookies to the bright lights now

So that they can understand what it means to play in big-time Steelers games and also so that any mistakes that might be made can be made now instead of later in the playoffs when it’s win or go home. I do think the stage isn’t too big for any of our young players, with the exception of Keenan Lewis. He looks like a deer in the headlights whenever he is on the field at corner. I think he is a safety at best and doesn’t feel comfortable turning and running with NFL caliber wide receivers.

by datruth4life2.0 on Dec 1, 2010 12:22 PM EST reply actions  

If you thought I was disagreeing with you, I'm sorry -

I’m thrilled that both rookies will be in the game on Sunday. MT’s expression just cracks me up is all. I think that both Sanders and Brown have shown that they are ready for at least certain types of plays, and they will never mature if they don’t get game experience. It’s a pity about Lewis – I don’t know what happened to him, and it makes me wonder a bit why they kept him instead of Joe Burnett, who is at least better-looking. (Sorry, that was shallow : ) I’m really hoping that Dwyer and Butler are deemed worthy of ‘getting a hat’ (to use another Tomlinism) in maybe the Carolina game.

"You learn more in failure than you do in success." - Mike Tomlin

by Rebecca Rollett on Dec 1, 2010 2:14 PM EST up reply actions  

Ravens vs. Steelers is gonna be WAR!

I cannot wait for this game, i think the steelers are extremely capable of beating the ratbirds! I agree with datruth we need to play both rooks for this game. All weapons must be in our arsenal for this game! Just gives me chills thinkin about it!

by Spinthenhaul34 on Dec 1, 2010 1:05 PM EST via mobile reply actions  

I'm Nervous

And possibly have dwindling faith based on the last few games. I think the ravens smell blood, and see a weak pass defense for dink and dunk and a battered o line.

They’ll have to dig really deep on this one, and I wonder if they have it in ’em.

by IronJake on Dec 1, 2010 3:24 PM EST reply actions  

I think

Their injuries are on the defensive line, mostly. Somebody check that.

Also, the last time they played a game of any consequence was the controversial Holmes catch on the goal line. Otherwise, they lose.

by IronJake on Dec 1, 2010 3:45 PM EST up reply actions  

Aren’t you always rather pessimistic though? Aren’t you in a constant state of nervous when it comes to the Steelers?

by worldtrip on Dec 1, 2010 4:33 PM EST up reply actions  

I am really trying

Honestly. I’m trying not to laugh to much or anything but I had three sarcastic responses to you, some of which consisted of “aren’t you always trying to validate yourself,” and “aren’t you in a constant state of idiocy,” but I settled on this one :

it’s the fucking internet dude. Take “nervous” and the other statements as a superficial commentary on the steelers. A steelers blog. It’s football, not social welfare, national security, or global warming. I know the difference. I have other more important things to worry about than “football” – like curing cancer, solving hunger and starvation along side of stopping war and destruction while promoting peace and love.

by IronJake on Dec 1, 2010 5:32 PM EST up reply actions  

Now, Jake,

worldtrip is just trying to promote peace and love for the Steelers LOL

I’m guessing that few if any of us are absolutely convinced that the Steelers will win on Sunday. And as a result, we look to BTSC to reassure us that they at least have a good chance of winning. Realists (or pessimists, depending on who is doing the labeling) such as yourself make it hard for us to maintain the illusion. Look at it from a Peter Singer standpoint – we go for that which, taken altogether, most greatly increases the stock of human happiness.

But in all seriousness, you’re perfectly correct, and probably a great many of us should spend more time helping out at the food pantry or homeless shelter and less time on this blog. But, easier said than done : )

"You learn more in failure than you do in success." - Mike Tomlin

by Rebecca Rollett on Dec 1, 2010 5:57 PM EST up reply actions  

Nicely played, sir

"You learn more in failure than you do in success." - Mike Tomlin

by Rebecca Rollett on Dec 1, 2010 7:57 PM EST up reply actions  

Peter Singer?

Isn’t that the guy that thinks we should abort all babies that might have down’s syndrome or such, so that the rest of us can have better lives?

He makes a lot of good arguments and such, but I don’t think he was seriously suggesting we do that.

by SteelersVT on Dec 1, 2010 8:06 PM EST up reply actions  

Yea, that's the guy,

And I would seldom use him in an argument I cared much about. I’m not really into the whole end justifies the means thing. But I thought he was good enough for a minor dispute on a sports blog…

"You learn more in failure than you do in success." - Mike Tomlin

by Rebecca Rollett on Dec 2, 2010 6:42 AM EST up reply actions  

Believe it or not I wasn’t asking that in any kind of negative or sarcastic way. There are people who are always worried about the team, and take a rather pessimistic viewpoint. I pegged you as one of them. For you to be “worried” about the state of the team seems pretty consistent for you.

by worldtrip on Dec 1, 2010 6:43 PM EST up reply actions  

they

have some injuries on the offensive line

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 Dec 1, 2010 4:39 PM EST up reply actions  

Their O line is kinda beat up,

but not as badly as ours.

My heros have always been Steelers...

by wozzle on Dec 1, 2010 4:40 PM EST up reply actions  

No matter what, they'll be in MUCH better shape than they were a year ago at this time.

If you asked any fan of any team before the season if they’d take 8-3 with five games left with a chance to win the division and a two-game lead in the wild card race, I’m sure most would say yes.

And remember, we have one ingredient that Baltimore doesn’t have: A two-time Super Bowl winning quarterback.

by Anthony Defeo on Dec 1, 2010 3:36 PM EST reply actions  

Maybe it's just me

But I think he’s hesitant, and hasn’t pulled plays out of his ass like two years ago. It could be because some of those catches were dropped this year, or a shitty o line, but he doesn’t seem to have that spark. Or maybe it’s because Holmes isn’t here. dunno, based on nothing really other than a feeling.

by IronJake on Dec 1, 2010 3:48 PM EST up reply actions  

you mean

not like the 18 are scramble when he was surely sacked but got out of it and ran for a first down with a defender chasing him?

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 Dec 1, 2010 4:41 PM EST up reply actions  

yeah those kinda plays

We haven’t seen those at all this year.

by Chicago Steeler on Dec 1, 2010 4:54 PM EST up reply actions  

Oh come on

I’m not talking about running. Perfectly placed passes to the right receiver in the position to do some real damage.

You know what I mean. But yeah, that run was nice. He shook off some tackles and made a play. Great effort on a bum foot.

by IronJake on Dec 1, 2010 5:45 PM EST up reply actions  

good perspective piece, bean

but i disagree with you on a personal issue: i hate the ratbirds more than any other team, by far. i hate the bengals and browns next. then the cheatriots and some others, but the ravens are in a class of their own when it comes to my hatred for them. i wan them to lose every game, every scrimmage, every draft pick, every everything. just can’t stand them. it’s unfortunately a sign of respect for them and the threat they pose to the steelers, but even being aware of that doesn’t lessen my disdain. i.loathe.the.ratbirds.

...die trying
http://www.agentorangerecords.blogspot.com

by agentorange on Dec 1, 2010 5:37 PM EST reply actions  

With the truck he used to move the team from Cleveland

"SteelFever gets #93. Just like Ron Artest. Great game just keep an eye on him that he doesn't go into the stands after a fan."
- 5020 on my making the BTSC active (riot) squad
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OC0NCHq4v3I

by Steel Spike on Dec 1, 2010 10:43 PM EST up reply actions  

Good one : )

"You learn more in failure than you do in success." - Mike Tomlin

by Rebecca Rollett on Dec 2, 2010 6:43 AM EST up reply actions  

Why thank you, momma :)

"SteelFever gets #93. Just like Ron Artest. Great game just keep an eye on him that he doesn't go into the stands after a fan."
- 5020 on my making the BTSC active (riot) squad
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OC0NCHq4v3I

by Steel Spike on Dec 2, 2010 1:40 PM EST up reply actions  

no, but it wouldn't make it any worse

if he did. just can’t stand them. it has more to do with ray lewis than art modell, although the whole organization, in my opinion, is hideous. blech.

...die trying
http://www.agentorangerecords.blogspot.com

by agentorange on Dec 2, 2010 1:18 PM EST up reply actions  

Honestly

OK guys. I am a 20 yr old college student and a sexy girl. But I do know my football, as my Dad has been an outstanding high school coach for the past 15 years and taught me a lot. My comment is about the Steeler organization as a whole. First, Mr. Colbert isn’t that great. Sure…he has had some good picks over the past 6 or 7 years but usually only with first thru third round picks. His track record after the third round is pathetic. So the Steelers lack real team depth. Thus you have William Gay, Ryan Mundy, Will Allen, Anthony Madison, and Keenan Lewis in the secondary. Are you kidding me. This group is sad to say the least. For every good play Mr. Gay makes he has 4 bad ones. And Mr. McFadden is not much better as the starter. So while the Steelers have some “true” stars—-they have no quality depth. Second, how could the organization let Mr. Holmes go to the NY Jets for a fifth round pick? The pick alone is insulting but giving him to a very good team in the same conference is STUPID. Yea Yea Yea…he smokes pot and this is the final year of his contract. But he is an excellent receiver and could have been so vital to the Steelers this year.. More so, he really clicked well with Ben and the Steelers sure do miss that. So in reality they gave away Holmes and replaced him with Randle El. Are you kidding me! Holmes has won three of the last four games the Jets have played. They now have a “true” play maker to go with a nice run game and a pretty stout defense. The Steelers will keep paying for this stupid mistake for years to come. Third, the Super Bowl you say. Are you kidding me. Perhaps the writer of this thread wasn’t watching the same game as me when the Patriots just humbled the Steelers. It was over even before it started . With no secondary depth and a QB like Mr. Brady, well, the score could have been 49-14 if they had wanted it to be. If the other NFL teams would finally learn to just throw 40-50 passes against the Steelers and make them quick passes—-the Steelers would have NO answer for that. NONE ZIPPO
But most teams fall into that stupid trap that you need balance and try to run the ball. When will they learn? I am from Baltimore and let me tell you about this coming Sunday night. The Ravens will absolutely destroy the Steelers. I don’t know…maybe 34-13 or even worse. Why? Because they have finally learned. Throw the ball down field and then use the drop offs to Mr. Ray for big plays. Throw a few draw plays in there and you have the makings of pretty decisive victory. Defensively the Ravens will put sooooooo much pressure on Ben that I wouldn’t be surprised to see him leave the game due to injury. Expect the blitz Steelers because you will see 30-40 of them. Now if the Steelers had any kind of a coaching staff they would know how to counter what the Ravens will do. But with Mr. Arians calling the plays what can you expect. The Steelers need to run the NO huddle offense for at least half of the game. And don’t wait until you are behind by two or three TD’s. Do it right out of the gate. Confuse the Ravens. Keep them guessing. But NO, they will try to establish the run and then be forced to pass when the Ravens know it. For the Ravens it will be like taking candy from a baby. So please do what you always do Steelers because I want to see the Ravens run up the score. Finally, the Steelers will NOT even make the playoffs. Look for the Bengals to beat them. And the Jets and Browns as well. That makes them 9-7 and that won’t get it done. The wild card teams will come from the AFC East and West. Yes, the Jets, Patriots, Ravens, Colts, Chiefs, and Chargers will be the 6 playoff teams in the AFC. And the Chargers will finally get to the SB under Mr. Rivers…this year’s NFL MVP. You heard it here first. So please, if the Steelers are SB material then I am still a VIRGIN. And I lost that 5 years ago HAHA
GO RAVENS…BEAT THE PISS OUT OF THE STEELERS.

by Amanda Carson on Dec 1, 2010 9:27 PM EST reply actions  

I am a 20 yr old college student and a sexy girl.

Pics or it isn’t true

by worldtrip on Dec 1, 2010 9:41 PM EST up reply actions  

i knew

no one would get past that sentence lol

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 Dec 2, 2010 2:12 AM EST up reply actions  

Squirrel!!

"You learn more in failure than you do in success." - Mike Tomlin

by Rebecca Rollett on Dec 2, 2010 6:46 AM EST up reply actions  

I read ya post

You are very misguided. First of all Holmes wasn’t getting along with Tomlin, that played a big part to why he was traded. The next time he gets caught with pot he will be suspended for a year. If they didn’t feel he could stop then you might as well get rid of him because its only a matter of time before you won’t have him anyways.

Also we replaced Holmes with Wallace who is better than holmes was in his second year. He is about to have a better year than holmes ever had. Holmes is good and the Jets benefit from it there is no denying that. But we wouldn’t have won any more games than we already have with Holmes on this team. Looking at the Ravens, Saints, and Pats game, you mean to tell me holmes would have made a difference? Of all maybe the saints. Plus Sanders and Brown are developing nicely and will emerge as big contributors to the offense. Sanders is a future starter in the making. Brown is raw and will probably only be the 3rd WR in the long run. But I’ll take those two just fine thank you.

As for depth, no team has depth at every postion, you have to sacrifice where you will have a lot of depth, the steelers depth is fine, of course the secodary is the weak link but in 2008 this group lead the league in pass defense. The just have to start playing at a high level again, they have the talent because its been proven. Teams already throw more on the Steelers than any other team so I don’t know why you think they don’t. The pass defense isn’t as bad as you think it is, when you break down yards per pass play they only give up 6.6 yards which isn’t bad. Its just that teams spend so much time passing that 6.6 yards adds up when its 30 times a game. Our defense is based on making teams dink and dunk all the way down the field because most offenses make a mistake before they get down the field. But when we get in the redzone we usually don’t give up a lot of touchdowns. This is why we’re 3rd in scoring defense.

Also didn’t peyton hillis run over the ravens for 100 yards? So it can be done. If you knew anything you know that the Steelers need to run to help keep the blitzing down. You know that running ball helps with that too. They will use the no huddle offense when they need it and not a minute sooner. Thats just how they roll, its worked so far. Ben is like 5-1 against the ravens or something crazy like that, I think he knows what he is doing. Expect a close game. No one is blowing the other out this year. Also no way the bengals and the browns beat the steelers, just not gonna happen.

You do know you can be a born again virgin right? lol

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 Dec 2, 2010 2:29 AM EST up reply actions  

7-2 against the Ravens, I believe

"You learn more in failure than you do in success." - Mike Tomlin

by Rebecca Rollett on Dec 2, 2010 6:48 AM EST up reply actions  

Young lady, if you were my daughter

I would wash your mouth out with soap…

"You learn more in failure than you do in success." - Mike Tomlin

by Rebecca Rollett on Dec 2, 2010 6:47 AM EST up reply actions  

Michael Bean?

You know very little about football. Even this sexy sweet girl knows more than you. Get a life or something.

by Amanda Carson on Dec 1, 2010 9:31 PM EST reply actions  

Wow

you sound like a raiders fan

People don't ever seem to realize that doing what's right is no guarantee against misfortune.
- William McFee

by stillergorillar on Dec 1, 2010 10:41 PM EST up reply actions  

now

thats a convincing argument if I have ever saw one

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 Dec 2, 2010 2:13 AM EST up reply actions  

Why

Are we feeding the troll?

"You learn more in failure than you do in success." - Mike Tomlin

by Rebecca Rollett on Dec 2, 2010 6:50 AM EST up reply actions  

So it

grows fat and lazy and can’t use the word sexy when describing itself. The fact that it keeps saying sweet and then throws insults, however, shows a very big lack of self awarness. I will stop throwing scraps this instant.

People don't ever seem to realize that doing what's right is no guarantee against misfortune.
- William McFee

by stillergorillar on Dec 2, 2010 10:35 AM EST up reply actions  

And the funny part

is that “Amanda Carson” is probably some middle aged balding dude with a beer belly and excessive nose hair. It’s the internet, after all. I’m actually a 12 year old boy : )

"You learn more in failure than you do in success." - Mike Tomlin

by Rebecca Rollett on Dec 2, 2010 10:57 AM EST up reply actions  

Funny

I was just going to say “she” probably looks like me. A 37 year old, with a receding hair line and 30 lbs of tire around the middle. I do however trim my nose hairs, thank you very much.

People don't ever seem to realize that doing what's right is no guarantee against misfortune.
- William McFee

by stillergorillar on Dec 2, 2010 11:04 AM EST up reply actions  

I am vastly relieved to hear

that despite the slow economy the purveyors of nose hair clippers are still doing well : )

"You learn more in failure than you do in success." - Mike Tomlin

by Rebecca Rollett on Dec 2, 2010 11:31 AM EST up reply actions  

Hedge trimmers

It’s big-assed nose hair.

by biggcat on Dec 2, 2010 11:44 AM EST up reply actions  

Wow - I'm truly impressed! Electric or gas?

"You learn more in failure than you do in success." - Mike Tomlin

by Rebecca Rollett on Dec 2, 2010 11:59 AM EST up reply actions  

Dang

I had you pegged as a 13 year-old. Shows what I know.

"They eat fish and are majestic" - Great Sergios Ghost

by Varmint on Dec 2, 2010 12:45 PM EST up reply actions  

Get up or get out

The Ravens have a lot of holes this year too, but always seem to get way up for the mighty Steelers. Our boys better strap on and prepare for war, but this is a game the Steelers should win.

Fewer holding penalties after the play is 5 yards downfield would help. I’m not normally one to blame the officials, but the rip job against the Steelers over the past 2 weeks has been the worst work by the zebras I can remember going back 30+ years … although I do have a short memory, LOL.

by Watty4ever on Dec 2, 2010 5:44 PM EST reply actions  

Why “should” the Steelers win?

by worldtrip on Dec 2, 2010 6:09 PM EST up reply actions  

We are the Steelers, that’s what we do.

Xbox Live Gamertag - IMIeursault currently MW2 and Madden 11.

Official BTSC representative in the Xbox Live Online Franshise 2010.

http://www.youtube.com/user/infamousxBouncers sub to it for commentary's of the games in the online franchise aswell as other Madden and Call of Duty gameplay.

by Josh Roberts (ESGB) on Dec 3, 2010 1:01 AM EST up reply actions  

I was looking for something more quantifiable.

by worldtrip on Dec 3, 2010 12:42 PM EST up reply actions  


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