Did Charlie Batch Tip The Steelers' Hand In Regards To Their Starting Quarterback?
by Michael Bean on Jul 14, 2010 8:29 PM EDT
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PrintSo, I do a little bit of writing each week for SportsRadioInterviews.com, a website devoted to bringing fans transcriptions of the best interviews on the airwaves across the country each week. Yesterday I listened and transcribed a recent interview Charlie Batch did on a Tampa radio station. The reason we did so was because we were told by the producers that Batch had some interesting things to say about the possibility of a work stoppage in the NFL in 2011. Batch's take? There's a 100 percent chance that there won't be games played next year. Interesting. Actually, depressing rather.
But that's not why I'm mentioning the interview. (Though I'd like to comment on the possibility of a lockout sometime soon). Instead, I picked up on a couple of interesting thoughts from Batch about the quarterback situation in Pittsburgh for the first part of the season while Ben Roethlisberger is serving his suspension. Here's what Batch had to say after being asked how the competition was going, whether or not he felt he had any chance to see the field over Byron Leftwich and Dennis Dixon, and if there was even a slight chance of any of the three retaining the job when Big Ben returned - like say, if they went undefeated and tore it up.
"Well I mean right now you really don't know. One thing that they're trying to do..I mean, Dennis Dixon is a great talent and I think he showed that in the game that he played last year against Baltimore on Sunday. So I think at some point they're going to try to get him ready as much as possible because he is the future. Granted, I'm not going to be play for a number of more years down the line. Byron of course, he's starting to get up there in years as well.
So Dennis is the next up and coming, and I think the way that everything has gone, they want to give Dennis as many repetitions in training camp as possible, just to see what you have. Whether that was a one-game wonder, or if he's capable of carrying the load throughout the long haul of the season. And I think watching him as he really progressed over the last couple of years, he's really going to be a talent - whether that's with Pittsburgh or some other team, you will hear Dennis Dixon's name a lot more in the future."
Interesting. Firstly, I thought it was interesting that Batch didn't have much to say about Leftwich other than the fact that he getting up there in years. I doubt Leftwich looks at himself in that way. He's 30 years old, or slightly younger than Drew Brees. Secondly, I was enthused to see him have such effusive praise for Dennis Dixon. In a recent back and forth on Twitter with Emmanuel Sanders, the rookie wide receiver called Dixon a beast and that he threw an amazing ball. Now Batch has high praise for him.
I've said all spring that I think Dixon will be the guy under center when the lights go on for real on September 7th at Heinz Field., That's my story and I'm sticking to it after hearing the veteran Batch talk about how impressed he's been with Dixon's development.
Almost forgot, since there's been some discussion in recent days about the first three years of Coach Tomlin's tenure in Pittsburgh, here's what Batch had to say about Tomlin and watching him develop as a young head coach in the demanding NFL
"Oh it's been great. Coming in, of course looking back you had Coach Cowher that was here; everybody loved Coach Cowher. Anytime you go through a coaching change like that, we the players wanted in house. We wanted Russ Grimm, we wanted Ken Whisehunt to take over the job. But as the Rooneys went over those discussions, when they ultimately went with their decision to go for Coach Tomlin, from the players' side, we said if Mr. Rooney made this decision, we're going with it because they felt that Coach Tomlin was the best guy for the job regardless of race, color, it doesn't matter. They knew he was the best guy for the job and ultimately it paid off with him winning a Super Bowl in his second year. So when I saw him come into the room for the first meeting, the respect that he commanded as he walked into that room, being able to get his message across, that came instantly. And I think a lot of people understood that and respected him from day one as it related to him trying to take over this team.
And it's just one of those things from a Pittsburgh fan growing up here in Pittsburgh, being from Pittsburgh, I look at it and say we have the right the man for the job. And I don't say that because I work for the man; I say that as a I sit back three to five years from now, sitting back on the couch watching the Stillers play knowing that the right man is there and knowing that I had a chance to work for him and knowing that he was the right man for the job and able to get the job done."
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Thanks for the tidbits Blitz, good stuff.
I have to admit the while I loved to hear Charlie’s take, and I really want to see Dixon as the QB, my head is telling me Coach T plays it conservatively and Byron starts the season. I would not mind being wrong at all….
My heart voted Dixon
I hope it is right but if not then I will trust the coaches.
How do I break it to the cat that since he has been declawed, the rabbit he sees in our backyard would kick his sorry butt?
by Cold_Old_Steelers_Fan on Jul 14, 2010 9:20 PM EDT reply actions
i voted on my heart too . . .
. . . logically, i THINK byron will/should start . . . based on the mere fact that i think that the steelers think they can be very competitive this year . . . but i’m out here on the west coast and i saw dixon shred just about everybody while at oregon . . . i still think that if he didn’t get hurt, he wins the heisman and oregon wins the national championship . . .
For the long run I want Dixon to start
He needs the experience. He has more up side than Lord Byron. But I think that if Tomlin feels that they can make a run at the playoffs, they will start Byron Leftwich.
by Steeler Nation VA on Jul 14, 2010 9:29 PM EDT reply actions
Makes me more confident
That Dixon will at least have a shot. I like him for now, but pre-season and camp are all about player evaluation.
Very concerned about the possibility of not having NFL in 2011. I have the feeling (just instinct) that the Steelers will have momentum going into 2011, and it’s one of the few years I’ll have the free time to give it the attention it deserves. Interesting to me that this won’t have the precedent of previous stoppages, which were generally labor strikes rather than owner lockouts (a distinction Batch makes in the interview).
Batch seems like a great guy, but I’d much rather see Dixon or Leftwich (who’s only 30, without much wear and tear lately) playing for my team.
by TheSpatulaMessiah on Jul 14, 2010 9:50 PM EDT reply actions
I'd like to see Dixon start
I do not like Leftwich, as a starter, at all. Time and time again over the course of his career, teams have shown that when they have the luxury of game planning for Leftwich, they can easily shut him down. He couldn’t hold on to the job in Tampa for Pete’s sake.
Come on Dixon. I just want you to know, we’re all counting on you!
There is no dark side of the moon really .. .. .. matter of fact it's all dark
I hope you're right...
because I’ve never been a fan of Cement Legs Leftwich.
But, unfortunately, I don’t think that the Stillers sought out his wince talents just to let HIM backup Double D Dixon.
I hope I’m wrong though, and that you’re right… because I’m a DD fan… and a Legless Leftwich non-believer.
by Arash Arabasadi on Jul 15, 2010 1:04 PM EDT up reply actions
Ya gotta love Charlie batch. The way he talks about being a fan and watching the team in a few years. What a great guy to have on the team.
by worldtrip on Jul 14, 2010 10:15 PM EDT reply actions 1 recs
yea i loved that too
took some liberty with the spelling of stillers – but thats exactly how he said it.
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 Jul 14, 2010 10:49 PM EDT up reply actions
+1
"I'm from Maryland, and no one can beat me!"
by John Stephens on Jul 15, 2010 8:30 AM EDT up reply actions
I want to see Dixon in there
but I voter Lefty because I think with his experience and arm strength he will edge out Dixon in camp. I just wonder what he will look like for a whole 1/4 of a season. Dixon may even get his chance week 2 or 3 (though I hope that doesn’t happen because that will mean our record will be crap when Ben gets back).
it never got weird enough for me
*oops, i voetED Lefty
it never got weird enough for me
by JerseyFresh on Jul 14, 2010 10:20 PM EDT up reply actions
I think it would likely happen in reverse
Dixon for a game or two. Experiment over if he fails. They know what they have with Leftwich, or, more accurately, what they don’t have.
There is no dark side of the moon really .. .. .. matter of fact it's all dark
by chewiesteeler on Jul 14, 2010 10:29 PM EDT up reply actions
voted Leftwich, I would like to see Dixon though.
I wasn’t pleased because we didn’t win - Mike Tomlin (after the 2009 week 2 loss to Chicago).
i think tomlin's extension could play into this
you always hear about coaches who are on the hotseat favoring experience over potential. most recently people have been saying john fox in carolina will give the job to matt moore over clausen because he needs wins now to keep his job. now that tomlin isnt in that position anymore, he might be more likely to give the job to dixon and see what he has
by steel.curtain.number2 on Jul 14, 2010 11:58 PM EDT reply actions
this
is a good angle
"I sweat at the sound of hearing the names of Harrison and Woodley."- Mr MaLoR
by kick him in the head on Jul 15, 2010 12:25 AM EDT up reply actions
yes
very obtuse
There is no dark side of the moon really .. .. .. matter of fact it's all dark
by chewiesteeler on Jul 15, 2010 12:40 AM EDT up reply actions
well isn't that an acute comment
"I'm from Maryland, and no one can beat me!"
by John Stephens on Jul 15, 2010 1:02 PM EDT up reply actions
I'm hoping Mike Tomlin does a 180 with his choice
Healing from my new tattoos
Franco made that play because he never quit on the play. He kept running, he kept hustling. Good things happen to people who hustle."
That would be complementary to a bad season
"I'm from Maryland, and no one can beat me!"
by John Stephens on Jul 16, 2010 8:48 AM EDT up reply actions
a 180 with his choice of QB
instead of Rocket Man Lefty.. Pencil legs Dixon
Healing from my new tattoos
Franco made that play because he never quit on the play. He kept running, he kept hustling. Good things happen to people who hustle."
thinking about it more.
a small part of me has always believed that tomlin and the coaching staff knew that ben wouldnt be able to play in baltimore all week leading up to the game and that they wanted to give baltimore as little time to prepare for dixon as they could. could tomlin be doing this again for the falcons? by giving every indication that leftwich will start and then switching to dixon last minute this could be a belichick-type move to gain an advantage
by steel.curtain.number2 on Jul 15, 2010 1:07 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
I like your thinking
He has had some belichick ways about him. keep up the good thoughts.
Steelers football is 60 mins.
by tannofsteel84 on Jul 15, 2010 8:44 AM EDT up reply actions
why thank you.
i also see a lot of belichick in tomlin. correct me if im wrong but since tomlin took over there have been a lot more mysterious injury situations popping up. limas sweed, ben last year vs the ravens, and hines seems to have a perpetual hamstring injury but still shows up in games
by steel.curtain.number2 on Jul 15, 2010 2:42 PM EDT up reply actions
Ben had a legitimate concussion
not a nagging shoulder injury since 07
Healing from my new tattoos
Franco made that play because he never quit on the play. He kept running, he kept hustling. Good things happen to people who hustle."
exactly
tomlin and co. knew that ben wouldnt be able to play against baltimore from the start and still had him practice with the first team and say he’d be fine so that baltimore would have to gameplan for him rather than dixon… again this is a theory, but i wouldnt put it passed him
by steel.curtain.number2 on Jul 18, 2010 12:38 PM EDT up reply actions
+1
Chris Andersen could be in a porno with his 'stache. Too bad he still wouldn't know how to box out.
Honesty may be the best policy, but it's important to remember that apparently, by elimination, dishonesty is the second-best policy.
Quitter's Proud United Member #11
It's Dixon's Job To Lose
Byron Leftwich is a solid backup and a known commodity but he’s not the long term backup for Ben nor is he the long term starter if Ben’s life falls apart (again). Dennis Dixon has the potential to do both. The spring workouts were a chance for Leftwich to get reaclimated to the Steelers and they to him. If Dixon falters then Leftwich is the safe bet but the bottom line in my mind is that this job is Dixon’s to lose.
nice
Good logic. Hope you’re right. Good to see you around as well.
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 Jul 15, 2010 12:53 AM EDT up reply actions
Always a pleasure to contribute
And the good news is that a solid defense and a productive running game with either quarterback at the helm is enough to get us to 2-2 or even 3-1 which is all we can hope for until Ben gets back.
Wake-up call
Interesting point.
As soon as the Steelers drafted Dixon, although I certainly saw him as the backup of the future, in my gut I felt like maybe there was something going on with Ben that might not be exactly on the level. Now, as events have played out, it is seeming more and more that Ben Roethlisberger is not the type of person the Steelers want to be leading their team – talent or not. And as good as Ben is, he could be among the best in the league right now – right up there with Brees, Brady, and Peyton Manning – if he would just get his head into the game. For him, though, it appears that “good is good enough,” and that attitude just will not fly here in Steeler Nation.
His subsequent public urination – whether is was him or one of his “gang” – only makes it apparent that he STILL is not ready to grow up, and be the leader that a quarterback should be.
This may just be a wake-up call for Ben – particularly if Dixon IS the starter and does well during Ben’s six-game suspension. I can see the Steelers trading Ben and keeping Dixon as their starter.
And you know what? I would be completely comfortable with that.
This whole golf course piss thing...
Is really ridiculous, and I fail to see how he “still is not ready to grow up” as a result. Maybe some more insight to how you got that take on it would help me understand, but in my opinion, this was nothing, plain and simple.
That said, with the exception of the Ben getting traded thing (which I think is a very long shot, regardless of how Dixon plays), I agree with your assessment of the Dixon/ Roethlisberger situation.
Ladies and Gentlemen, Welcome to Heaven. Now arriving, the Boss, George Steinbrenner, the Boss.
RIP Bob Sheppard 1910-2010 and RIP George Steinbrenner 1930-2010
by NYSteelersFan4 on Jul 15, 2010 12:30 PM EDT up reply actions
who doesnt pee on a gold course? seriously?
golf course thing is completely irrelevant and its just the media’s way of vilifying ben. i havent heard anything about this on espn which is comforting.. but this is just getting ridiculous
by steel.curtain.number2 on Jul 15, 2010 2:37 PM EDT up reply actions
I do
question: do you use your golf hand or bare hand? or both?
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." - Winston Churchill
It should have said *glove hand
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." - Winston Churchill
As far as I can tell,
guys never lose the desire to pee in the wild. It’s an inborn thing, like making little car noises or getting excited over trains. So I don’t fault Ben, even if it was him. The fact that he is working out and looks to be in the best shape he’s been for years is much more indicative to me of his current state of mind…
"You learn more in failure than you do in success." - Mike Tomlin
by Rebecca Rollett on Jul 15, 2010 5:12 PM EDT up reply actions
Good read as always Bean.
I voted for Dixon. But I know the Steelers will choose the QB that they think will give them the best chance to win. Which is the way it should be.
I hate to think about not having NFL foot ball in 2011. The older I get the bigger the chance is that this could be the last season I get to watch. But after checking Green bays financial report; I think the owners have a point. With that hard nosed union lawyer the players made their president. I think it will be a tough job getting a deal done.
The more I learn -The less I think I know! Just enjoy reading and sharing.
Hmmmm
That sounds a lot like what I have been saying. I need to talk to Charlie, he’s spreading family business. :)
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." - Winston Churchill
I was going to ask you guys
Why bryon was starting. The raven game last year dixon showed some real grit.
Dixon to Wallace championship (Fantasy football)
Bryon couldnt even win the tampa job. Id be pissed as a pitt fan if dixon wasnt starting
Really?! Really?!
I voted Lefty
But this makes me believe that Dixon actually has a shot, whereas before I thought he had none. Hopefully, at worst we give a few touches here and there to Dixon in real games to see what he can do.
Thanks for posting up what he said about Tomlin too. Those are some mighty comforting words about the new contract.
"I'm from Maryland, and no one can beat me!"
It wouldn't be a Blitz written QB post...
Without a shoutout to his boy Drew Brees.
I voted Dixon, and I hope I’m right. He’s the most talented player we have available, and he deserves the shot. Leftwich is tough competition though, we’ll see.
In regards to the labor situation, I know Charlie is our player rep, and his job is to report the situation back to our players, and I appreciate the insight he gives us fans. But… In a negotiating process, as important as it is to look at things realistically, you have to have an optimistic outlook because it’s a process you will need to work with others to get through. If you go into it thinking that there is no chance of a deal, well, chances are the deal will be harder to work out. He knows far more about the situation than I do, and I doubt he’s really in on the true negotiations, but still.
I just hope everything works out.
Ladies and Gentlemen, Welcome to Heaven. Now arriving, the Boss, George Steinbrenner, the Boss.
RIP Bob Sheppard 1910-2010 and RIP George Steinbrenner 1930-2010
by the same token
When negotiating you posture. The players want the public to believe this is all about the owners being greedy and taking football away from us. So as the deals are talked about slowly the players are going to play that up as much as possible.
by Chicago Steeler on Jul 15, 2010 11:05 AM EDT up reply actions
For sure...
But what you want to fall short of in posturing, is blaming. No one really wants to be blamed for something like this, and if you say that it is one side alone who is responsible for the situation, you really lose some of the negotiating power you have, as no one likes to be the scapegoat, and bitterness or resentment only divide the sides further. It’s a very fine line to walk, and public appeal is a big part of what is said. He has to be accountable to his players, but at the same time recognize the owners take on the situation and work to a healthy compromise of both. Union work is really much more difficult than many give it credit for being, as I assume you must know, or are familiar with at least.
The owners believe the players make a disproportionate salary ratio. In terms of total revenue, the NFLPA puts the ratio as 60% players to 40% NFL. The owners’ case is that isn’t a fair ratio, as they have costs to cover besides player salaries (stadium operations, front office operations, paying staff, etc.). Now, a strong note to that is that that is something negotiated and agreed to in past meetings, they weren’t surprised by that ratio, they should have expected it. But, what was the unexpected was the rising level of speculation based salary, i.e. rookie wages, and that has been a major part of this whole situation.
If the owners main contention is that the ratio as a whole is unfair, that’s a weak position to take, as they agreed to it already. But if they believe they’re putting more than a fair share of salary out there on a gamble, and thus deserve more of that ratio, they may have a point, to a certain degree. Without knowing more details, it is difficult to get a read on what the main point is as far as ownership goes, have you heard their gripe Chi?
Ladies and Gentlemen, Welcome to Heaven. Now arriving, the Boss, George Steinbrenner, the Boss.
RIP Bob Sheppard 1910-2010 and RIP George Steinbrenner 1930-2010
by NYSteelersFan4 on Jul 15, 2010 11:54 AM EDT up reply actions
Report
Check into an article on Green bay’s recent earnings statement. National Football post has one. Green Bays profit has dropped 4 years in a row. Down to 2% profit for 2009.
The more I learn -The less I think I know! Just enjoy reading and sharing.
by steeler junky on Jul 15, 2010 3:18 PM EDT up reply actions
lol re: Brees
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 Jul 15, 2010 6:31 PM EDT up reply actions
Write your congressmen that are up in 2012.
Tell them you won’t vote for anyone who allows an NFL stoppage. Heck write the ones that aren’t up for re-election and tell them too. The only group that has power over the NFL owners is congress. They can screw the whole league if they want, they need to hold that over their head and make them work it out before the 2011 season.
I'd rather Congress just stay out of it...
They have more important things to deal with.
Ladies and Gentlemen, Welcome to Heaven. Now arriving, the Boss, George Steinbrenner, the Boss.
RIP Bob Sheppard 1910-2010 and RIP George Steinbrenner 1930-2010
by NYSteelersFan4 on Jul 15, 2010 9:26 AM EDT up reply actions
Actually, I would much prefer congress to be worrying about the NFL -
but then I tend to think that the less congress does, the less we get screwed…
"You learn more in failure than you do in success." - Mike Tomlin
by Rebecca Rollett on Jul 15, 2010 11:03 AM EDT up reply actions
+1
"In Hoc Signo Vinces!" (With this as your standard, you shall have victory!) -Constantine I
by Webslasher81 on Jul 15, 2010 11:48 AM EDT up reply actions
I love Lefty but voted Dixon.....
Lefty is a warrior, and he’s clubhouse gold, and he’s done everything the Steelers have ever asked him to do…..and done it with class.
BUT Tomlin probably sees this QB crisis the way the Chinese view the word crisis. The Chinese character for crisis is danger plus opportunity.
The Danger is no Big Ben for the first four games.
The opportunity is to see if Dixon can play up to his potential and be a star in the NFL. We all know Dixon has fabulous speed, a strong arm, and seems to be a solid citizen. What we don’t know if whether those attributes and the others he possesses will make him an elite NFL quarterback.
If Dixon plays fully up to his potential, Tomlin will have two great quarterbacks on his roster. And either one will be able to bring in a King’s ransom on the trade market next year.
The four game suspension gives Tomlin the opportunity to find out what Dixon is made of.
Without the suspension, he could only guess. And, as SC#2 pointed out above, Tomlin is in long-range mode right now, with the new contract. The windshield now looks farther down the road. The opportunity is a golden one. Let’s all hope it pans out!
I would kill everyone in this room for a drop of sweet beer.
- Homer J. Simpson
Good Job MB
Great information you have enlightened us with. Personally I see MT going with teh vet (BL) for 4 games. I know the game I have tickets for (Ravens week 4) will be HUGE. Steelers will be 2-1.
Regarding work stoppage in 2011 I have been saying and blogging for quite sometime that I see the 2011 season being canceled. Hate to write that but it is what I think. A shrinking revenue pie and growing appetite for money don’t mix well.
When You Run The Ball Good Things Happen
Really? People think it's more likely that Dixon wins?
I mean, I understand if you WANT him to win, but there’s little evidence he will win. One Batch quote doesn’t outweigh all the signs from OTAs and common sense that Leftwich should start.
There’s no way I pick an unproven player with a funny delivery, limited arm strength, who lost his only game and who has questions about his ability to understand the playbook over a steady if unflashy veteran to start games for a team one year removed from winning the super bowl.
I can't agree with this
unless you really think he is not too bright
questions about his ability to understand the playbook
The problem with the BALT game had more to do with limited/no time taking snaps with the first team, not an inability to understand the playbook…unless there is some other indication that he can’t get it…this is his third year after all, I couldn’t comprehend why he would be in the conversation still if the coaches knew he is having trouble understanding the playbook. I mean he is not a rookie.
I'm not talking about the Baltimore game.
Wexell among others has reported that there are questions on the coaching staff about his ability to understand the playbook and to make his in-game reads effectively.
by syrsteelerfan on Jul 15, 2010 1:31 PM EDT up reply actions
wait a second
He’s also notoriously the most studious guy on the team. Always has the playbook or a book in his hands.
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 Jul 15, 2010 6:33 PM EDT up reply actions
Haven't read that
Have read that the coaching staff has been concerned about him, and that there are doubts about his ability to grasp the playbook. Willing to change my mind based on solid reporting.
(And I doubt he’s the most studious guy on the team… not a shot against him, but simply because there are some real players on this team.)
by syrsteelerfan on Jul 15, 2010 6:35 PM EDT up reply actions
If you look at Dixons past
at Oregon you would have to admit one of Dixons strengths is the read. At Oregon the entire offense was predicated on accurate reads by the QB, and Dennis was the best I have seen. I dont know anything about the playbook, but to say he cant make reads is ridiculous.
I never saw Wexell say that
I think there were questions about his reads, but that isn’t uncommon for a guy who has seen under 50 pass attempts in his career.
"I'm from Maryland, and no one can beat me!"
by John Stephens on Jul 16, 2010 8:49 AM EDT up reply actions
Also
a funny delivery, limited arm strength, who lost his only game.
Lefty has a prefect delviery
really? Limited arm stength?
All of the good -to-great QBs win their first start?
you said that well
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." - Winston Churchill
My point is why all the hype?
It’s Isaac Redman all over again. The guy has shown nothing.
Lefty has a slow delivery with a long wind-up. It gives CB’s a chance to jump the route, but he can still make all the throws. I’m not pretending he’s God’s gift to the quarterback position. I think he’s more steady and has proven far more than Dixon.
Dixon throws from his ear. It’s an awkward delivery. Watch the Ravens game and you can see he doesn’t have that much on the ball, and at least 2 of his long passes were almost intercepted or tipped when they should have made it there cleanly. He doesn’t have the arm strength you see in a prototypical NFL starting QB, or at least hasn’t shown it.
No, even great QBs can lose a lot early. My point is I don’t understand all the love for the guy. I’m rooting for him as much as anybody, but he hasn’t shown a damn thing in the one game or, as reported, much in practice. I just don’t get why people want to anoint him.
by syrsteelerfan on Jul 15, 2010 1:39 PM EDT up reply actions
In a way i do not see how you can say he did not show anything
in the BALT game. We almost came out of there with a W. The game went into OT and yes, he did throw the int that cost us the game, but it was a rookie mistake. I thought he showed a lot in that game. Especially knowing they would come after him with all kinds of stuff.
Things can always be worse....
I attribute the near W more to the game plan and the line
I thought it might have been the offensive line’s best game, and the concern about practice reps for Dixon forced the coaching staff to rein themselves in and start trying to run. If I recall, we ran more effectively against Baltimore than we had in recent years.
Dixon was 12 for 26 for 145? 1 TD and 1 INT? I’m not counting him out — that’s a fair performance against a great D. But it’s not exceptional. And even if you give him credit for doing it his first game, it does not merit irrational exuberance over his prospects. That’s what we’re seeing from too many fans.
by syrsteelerfan on Jul 15, 2010 3:00 PM EDT up reply actions
I agree we need to exercise restraint 1 game does not an all-pro make
unless you are Isaac Redman…JK
Things can always be worse....
The game plan limited him
The issue is Dixon is that they want to make him a pocket passer, which he wasn’t in college. His best assets are passing on the edge and running. If you noticed his two touchdown producing plays occurred when Dixon rolled out or ran. The game plan for the most part kept him in the pocket which is a weakness to his game like most mobile QBs. The L wasn’t his fault really, the defense lost that game, It is unacceptable to lose that game the way they lost it in a 4th down conversion and eventually led to over time. That game should have never gone there and I don’t blame a QB in his first game, in a hostile environment, in overtime, to miss a zone blitz and throw it to the DE that is dropping back in coverage. Peyton Manning misses those sometimes. One of the hardest things for a QB to learn is to take the sack, that is what Dixon should have done there. Yes his reads are off, there were several times where he missed a wide open WR but usually what offsets that is his ability to run and create, that took that away from him that night because they didn’t want him to get hurt; you most of the bad and little of the good in Dixon’s game that night and they still almost came out with the W. That says a lot.
Steelers football is 60 mins.
by tannofsteel84 on Jul 19, 2010 11:49 AM EDT up reply actions
Fair enough
people are jazzed about the potential. I think most are optimistic that the Steelers went two for two recently as far as getting quality QBs in the draft after having a long stretch without a franchise QB.
But I see your point, and and its something to watch in training camp/preseason.
I'm going with Charlie...
At least until he inevitably gets hurt. To me he is still a steady backup who is best equipped to steer the team through four games. Now, were it 16 games, I would be inclined to get behind Dixon since he does appear to bring a large helping of upside to the table.
"Never mistake motion for action." - Ernest Hemingway
I'm going with Dixon
we didn’t draft a guy who was in the Heisman running a couple of years back for nothing. Granted Batch and Lefty have the experience, but they are also very prone to injury. DD is still young, and has fluidity about him, he can scramble and make great plays while being mentored by both Lefty and Batch. I guarantee if either Batch or Lefty get injured in BB’s suspended games DD will get the nod to start, we can groom him into becoming a great backup for the future or even a potential starter for us (barring BB’s future antics if he has any.) Batch and Lefty won’t be around for long, it’s time we look towards the future…
"In Hoc Signo Vinces (With this as your standard, you shall have victory!!!") -Constantine I
Here here!
I’ll second this motion! DD gets the job!
I voted for DD, but hope it is the best one for the job
There are advantages to any of the backups we have. CB and BL have the experience, DD has the most athletic ability and upside. Training camp will show who wants/deserves it most. We have seen what CB and BL have to offer, so why not evaluate DD and see what we have as far as the future goes. If he stinks it up, then put the veteran in there. I know some may think that could ruin his confidence for the remainder of the season or his career, but staying on the bench could also. Give him a shot, see what he has. BA needs to run plays to his strength to help him, and our offense out. Hopefully, he will.
Things can always be worse....
Byron will be there on opening day.
Why even sign Leftwich if you don’t intend to start him? We already have Batch as an experienced backup (if we wanted to start Dixon). Dixon is a great-looking kid for sure and I agree with Batch that he looks like a future NFL starter. But you have to go with experience when the games start to count.
maybe because
batch might retire?
Steelers football is 60 mins.
by tannofsteel84 on Jul 19, 2010 11:50 AM EDT up reply actions
I hope it's Dixon.
I’ve made peace with the fact that 2010 may not be a playoff season. Dixon is our man of the future. Starter perhaps, or fantastic backup if been can clean up his act. Having your first start on the road against the ravens is a daunting task. He displayed excellent poise in that game. Let’s get him his reps. Go Steelers!!
Braves Win! Braves Win!
I Voted Double D
The more talent out of all the QB. Batch is way too fragile. Byron is immoble. Dixon can run out of trouble. We can make the playoffs with Dixon under center. Not so much Batch and less with Byron. Byron could crumble under pressure.
What is there to do if there is no football in 2011?
Healing from my new tattoos
Franco made that play because he never quit on the play. He kept running, he kept hustling. Good things happen to people who hustle."
I love Double D
"I'm from Maryland, and no one can beat me!"
by John Stephens on Jul 16, 2010 8:50 AM EDT up reply actions
So Do I Johnny..so do I
I love my wife
Healing from my new tattoos
Franco made that play because he never quit on the play. He kept running, he kept hustling. Good things happen to people who hustle."
You're a lucky man
"I'm from Maryland, and no one can beat me!"
by John Stephens on Jul 16, 2010 9:01 AM EDT up reply actions
He won't be in 20 years or so...
My wife isn’t even on the scale. 32 a is the smallest they make, and it’s too big for her…but, they are going to stay where they are forever.
"Hey baby, want some Adam West penis?"
- Adam West
I like natural
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." - Winston Churchill
I meant she won't have the old woman saggage...
They are absolutely perfect and yummy, and….I should stop now…
"Hey baby, want some Adam West penis?"
- Adam West
she wont
you can always get them lifted
Healing from my new tattoos
Franco made that play because he never quit on the play. He kept running, he kept hustling. Good things happen to people who hustle."
My wife's jubblies will stay lifted
With no $ spent.
"Hey baby, want some Adam West penis?"
- Adam West
by Steel Spike on Jul 16, 2010 11:23 PM EDT up reply actions
so do I
Healing from my new tattoos
Franco made that play because he never quit on the play. He kept running, he kept hustling. Good things happen to people who hustle."
nope I'm pretty sure i'll still be lucky
Healing from my new tattoos
Franco made that play because he never quit on the play. He kept running, he kept hustling. Good things happen to people who hustle."
It's all about personal preference
Myself, I like A-cups, and girls that aren’t “hot”. I mean hot by Hollywoods/Cosmos standards.
I just have a different definition of hot. “Hot” chicks with big jahoobies tend to be shallow, selfish, tend to be shitty people in general. Mainly because they have had guys drooling over them, and paying for everything all their lives.
Sorry if it sounds like I’m ranting here. I just like my females to have a bit of character to them, and don’t define themselves by their cup size.
P.S. I’m sure you are a very lucky man, wasn’t meaning to denigrate her or you in any way. :)
End rant.
"Hey baby, want some Adam West penis?"
- Adam West
by Steel Spike on Jul 16, 2010 11:22 PM EDT up reply actions
Yeah I'm lucky..haha
and I hate those standards too
Healing from my new tattoos
Franco made that play because he never quit on the play. He kept running, he kept hustling. Good things happen to people who hustle."
Just
get the best of both worlds lol the chick that didnt get pretty until college and has all the character of an ugly chick cause she didn’t get no play in high school lol, hope my wife don’t stumble accross this
Steelers football is 60 mins.
by tannofsteel84 on Jul 19, 2010 11:52 AM EDT up reply actions
Coach Batch
I’m looking forward to Charlie Batch becoming the official Quarterback Coach of the Steelers.
by Yinzer in the South on Jul 16, 2010 10:44 PM EDT reply actions
Dennis Dixon
He’s earned his opportunity, he has TC to prove he’s the guy. I like what DD brings to the table, his feet are just as dangerous as his arm. Byron is not the answer, and simply an insurance should DD not work out. Batch is history, finally!
Dixon
There have been more than a few Steelers fans who have been saying since the Ben situation, that it only made sense to see what Dixon could do.
Dixon was a steal in the draft because of his sr year ACL injury. He had been considered for the Heisman prior to his injury. Everyone saw he had raw skills displayed vs Baltimore because everyone talked about his Baltimore game – his poise, his speed, how he got rid of the ball, and so forth. The strange thing was the Steelers resigned Batch & traded for Leftowich. To me it means that either Batch or Leftwich will not be around when Ben returns because: short term Batch has been ok but injury prone and Leftowich is adequate. Those are not ingredients that normally win superbowls. They may get you to the playoffs, but given the current Steeler corp, that would not be a realistic expectation if the rest of the team plays like they did last season. And if Ben goes back to behaving like he’s in junior high then who do the Steelers have at QB? Answer was ONLY Dixon. Nobody expected the Steelers to draft a QB & they did not – meaning Steelers do have confidence in Dixon. So if the answer is Dixon then it only makes sense that Steelers need to give him pre-season games.
I don’t think Batch tipped anything. He just stated the obvious.
by SouthBaySteelers on Jul 20, 2010 2:25 AM EDT reply actions
Cmon Steeler Fans
Did you guys watch the Raven game last year? Dixon yes is an unbelievable athlete and very gifted at running and throws a great ball. However they ran 8 plays in that game, my son’s pee-wee team runs more plays. If they start Dixon the team will be 0-4, Byron is a pro QB, he gives us the best chance to win while Ben is serving his suspension.
by The Mighty Quin on Jul 21, 2010 10:59 AM EDT reply actions
Voted Dixon
He is as ready as he will ever be to see if he is a starter. Unless they know from camp the kid is a bust Proving his ability either shows he can take over for Ben or dramatically increases his trade value. With the possibility of no season in 2011 this may be the only time to get him on the field as a starter to do that. Putting Lefty on only gives us whatever record his play gives us. If Lefty goes 4-2 we are 4-2 If DD goes 4-2 we will get a lot more for him than the draft pick we used to get him.
The Cinderella Syndrome
We always want the new guy to start; and once he screws up, then we want the next new guy to start.
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