Getting Harder to Ignore the Allure of the Double-D Bandwagon
by Neal Coolong on Aug 22, 2010 10:45 AM EDT
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PrintA baseball coach of mine had a tradition the players of my class, as well as the players of the classes before me, came to look for at the start of each year.
If our starting pitcher threw a ball at any point in the first at-bat of the season, he'd freak out.
"Here we go again!" he'd growl to our pitching coach and anyone else within ear shot. "Another year we can't throw a G-D strike!"
It's easy to fall into that pattern. Funny, too.
Watching the Steelers preseason games, we typically fall into our tradition of labeling a back-up running back our low-or-undrafted Diamond in the FieldTurf. It wasn't long ago I remember raving about a young Willie Parker, and how he's our future starting tailback. Then, Gary Russell came along, I was convinced he was the same way. Now, it's Isaac "Redzone" Redman.
I don't see that tradition stopping any time soon. With the way the NFL has evolved, every team is going to select a good runner late in the draft, and that runner will compete for snaps right away.
One area the Steelers haven't had to worry about the phenomenon of Training Camp Darling is at quarterback.
I haven't channeled my inner-Coach Peck, and said, "Here we go again, another preseason in which the back-up outplays the starters."
It seems Dennis Dixon is starting his own tradition.
Dixon looked good. I mean, really good. Ron Burgundy good. And I don't mean good from the perspective of every broadcaster who falls all over himself with the chance to talk about a quarterback running the "Wildcat" offense. He threw excellent intermediate routes (the real sign of a great passer), they came off his hand nicely and stuck to the receiver.
He made good decisions, exploited defensive gaffes and even took his own busted play 22 yards round the right side for a first down.
Does Pittsburgh have a, dare I say it, quarterback controversy?
The last time we uttered such a phrase was when coach Bill Cowher had to announce to the media that Tommy Maddox is healthy, but Ben Roethlisberger will start the remainder of the 2004 season. So it's been a while.
I did not jump on the Double-D Bandwagon initially, mostly due to the phenomenon we've experienced at running back over the last few preseasons. He's playing against third-teamers. The running games for both teams usually become the focal point of the time the third-string QB is in there. We're used to seeing Chaz Batch, Brian St. Pierre and even had a stint with Omar Jacobs.
A step ahead of those players is not much of step in the NFL.
But still...that throw to rookie Manny Sanders early in the third quarter (for 24 yards) and the deer-like speed and grace he used to escape the missed handoff, managing to scamper inside the Giants 10...a beautiful throw and a great decision.
Final score: Dixon 14, Leftwich 7, Roethlisberger 3.
The first team offense had two series under Roethlisberger in which busted plays resulted in 2nd-and-17 situations. Granted, Justin Tuck was not chasing after him, but Dixon showed tremendous poise and better than everything else, he kept his eyes down the field.
It just seems like Dixon gives the Steelers less chance of 2nd-and-17 situations. Does that mean he gives them more of a chance to avoid a sub-.500 start to the season?
To Byron Leftwich's credit, the likely starter also showed some of those same traits, and hit WR Mike Wallace with a beautiful scoring strike in the second quarter. I'm not sure what he was doing on the QB sneak at the end of the first half, but he performed reasonably well overall.
Could Dixon had made that throw to Wallace in stride? Perhaps not, but I doubt the Statue of Liberwich will cause defenses to plan around his legs. Leftwich has the right arm of a Howitzer cannon, but the arming and firing time of one as well. He didn't look nearly as consistent on his out-route throws. Leftwich made the play of the game, and I'm sure it won't be the last time "Leftwich 40+ yards to Wallace" appears in the scorebook.
Just like the first preseason game, though, the story when the clock struck zero was Dixon. He's flashing tons of potential, and while it seems to be set in stone that Leftwich will start the first quarter of the season, the Double-D Bandwagon got at least one new member last night. And that was someone refusing to buy into the hype.
Here we go again...another season with another team with its fans crying quarterback controversy.
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Start Dixon
Well said. Dixon is outplaying Leftwich. If they don’t start him this season, he should leave next year and not look back.
Is it possible for the two of them to split time?
I think that might be a good way to resolve the situation. Leftwich hasn’t been bad, though he does have a pretty slow windup; So we could have Leftwich start, but have Dixon come in when we have a need for some QB mobility or absolutely have to avoid a sack, or something to that effect. If nothing else it will force our first 4 opponents to waste time they could be working on something else to plan for these 2 radically different QB’s: One with good arm strength and excellent speed, and another with a rocket arm with little mobility.
I agree with the idea of forcing the opponent to prepare for both, but it can be counter-intuitive…we have to spend an equal amount of time preparing our team to play with two QBs.
I think Tomlin realizes all of this, but made the decision to go with Leftwich after Dixon, by all accounts, did not have a very good spring. Sometimes you have to just make a decision and stick with it.
by Neal Coolong on Aug 22, 2010 11:30 AM EDT up reply actions
True, true…Well by all accounts it seems like unless Leftwich absolutely falls apart or Dixon completely dominates everybody(or both), Leftwich is going to be the starter. We’ll just have to see whether our O-line can hold long enough for Leftwich to get passes off. If they do, then we could easily start 3-1 or, possibly, 4-0. If not, we may need to sub Dixon in and tread water until Ben’s return.
I wanna see
Dixon behind the first team front line. They stunk up the field again. This is a tired old 5 year story. And the playcalling relies too heavily on the fact that we have huge talent (still on the ‘lose BA’ bandwagon).
Right side
I thought they did fairly well 1s-on-1s. The left side seemed to have some problems. The Giants blitzed a corner, and Starks slid over to pick him up, but Kemoeatu didn’t slide to get Starks’ guy. I forget who it was, but he was free and clear to drop Mendenhall for a six-yard loss.
Stuff like that kills us…that was the point I was making with all the 2nd-and-17s. Dixon’s more adept at escaping those situations. Granted, a team can’t prepare to fail (starting Dixon because the line is so bad they need someone with speed to escape), and expect to succeed. It’s frustrating, though. Ben had some good drives starting early, but poor protection and some iffy playcalls cost them scoring opportunities.
by Neal Coolong on Aug 22, 2010 11:34 AM EDT up reply actions
That Int that BB had was mostly a rookie mistake by Wallace b/c if you see BB having trouble with
giants D then you try to get closer to BB instead of get open ahead of the DB, b/c for BB was easier to throw closer than otherwise, other than that I see BB quite well in rhythm. Good writing Coolong.
O sales tickets,...and let D rest a little, and D Win Championships.
by YeOldeMexFan on Aug 23, 2010 1:24 PM EDT up reply actions
Nice write-up Neal.
I’m mixed because Lefty clearly has the experience in his favor; but there is something about Dixon’s and being naive that’s awfully attractive, sort of like, “why can’t I do this?” Not sure that’s the best way to describe it, but that’s all I got this morning.
What I clearly believe is that our 1st team o-line doesn’t look as dominant (preseason domination????) as the second group. With Lefty being a little less mobile, that concerns me. With 3 of the first 4 games against teams with strong d-lines and/or good at getting at the QB, I think Dixon gives us the best chance at keeping out of 2nd or 3rd and long, and staying on his feet.
The stats in these games are relative to the competition being played against. All I’m thinking is that Dixon has the better shot at playing well with that line.
Good point
Roethlisberger is the king of “Why can’t I?” which is the reason he was the greatest rookie QB ever. He used that inexperience as a weapon.
I agree you can’t look at stats, which is why I didn’t mention those in the column, but you do have to look at situational success. Dixon made better throws overall than Leftwich did. He looked better guiding the team when the ball was snapped. Maybe that’s not enough to give him the starting job, but the Steelers’ brass better be prepared to answer these questions if Leftwich starts off anything less than 1-1 with a 90 passer rating.
by Neal Coolong on Aug 22, 2010 11:37 AM EDT up reply actions
Great points.
I guess the other idea of this that has me intrigued – and this is pretty shallow on my part, I admit – is that while Lefty seems to be more inclined to follow Arians directions, Dixon has already gotten in “trouble” for adlibbing. Dixon’s quick feet out of the pocket are a great tool and in my book anyone who gets the business from Arians has to be ok…..
People forget
Dixon was a Heisman candidate and the leader of a potential national championship game team before he blew out his knee on a freak play. Given time to develop, he could be one hell of a QB.
"It ain't over till it's over." - Yogi Berra
People Forget 2
People also forget that Leftwich was a Heisman candidate who helped bring the MAC to national attention, and could be “one hell of a QB” if not for a number of leg injuries (including the famous broken shins).
grain of salt
Not a knock on Dixon, but he's been playing with a group of GREAT second-teamers..
…guys like Pouncey, Legursky, Redman, and Sanders…..against the second and third stringers of other teams. The talent gap between the Steelers’ backups and those of other teams is huge, and he is taking advantage of that.
I think we all agree that we have to see how he can do with the first team against other first teamers.
That said, I was impressed at how he stayed in the pocket and showed patience last night.
I would kill everyone in this room for a drop of sweet beer.
- Homer J. Simpson
+1
Yeah, good point.
Hard to ignore that pass to Sanders though…both Roethlisberger and Leftwich missed that throw last night when they were under center.
by Neal Coolong on Aug 22, 2010 12:16 PM EDT up reply actions
Same Old Steelers
We are at the goal line and throw a weak fade and then run M Moore? Where was Redman, Tank, Vincent, et al. This is the Arians I hate and the head coach better change this stupid play calling. Tomlin is always talking about SITUATIONAL football. Goal to go is the ULTIMATE situation in football. It made me feel like last year wasn’t over yet.
Moore
Who had been stuffed in the A gap twice that series…after Leftwich had been stuffed in the A gap…gets the call to run into the A gap with no timeouts and no possibility of stopping the clock if he doesn’t score…
Preseason, everyone…preseason…
by Neal Coolong on Aug 22, 2010 12:20 PM EDT up reply actions
1st Team
I think DD needs to start the next game and be out there for 1 quarter plus. Then bring in Lefty with the 2nd team. Let BB get some reps in mop up at the end.
He looks very good though. I think he can do whatever Lefty can can do, and more with his legs….so if he rolls well with 1st team in the next game, then that’s all I would need to name him the starter while BB is out.
I’m also considering his future. What’s going to happen when BB gets back and next year? Batch and Lefty still gonna be here? No. It’ll be BB, DD, then some other guy….
If DD has all this potential, what makes you think we can hold on to him? What makes you think Lefty will be gone? In a recent interview, he said he wanted to spend the rest of his career here. He’s only 28, so he could easily have a Batch-like tenure for the remainder of his career (4 – 7 years).
BB is never going to play during mop up time in the preseason, purely due to injury risks.
But in theory I agree with you … I would like to see DD with the first team, if only so we finally have something to (validly) compare to the other QBs.
grain of salt
When I said mop up, I just meant that BB might come into the game later after we got to see DD play against better defenses.
Actually, not sure that DD will stick around….so I could certainly see Lefty stick around if DD gets traded or something. I know that if I were Steeler management, and this guy were just rotting on the bench only to to be a #2 and never a #1 here, then they should trade him for something good at some point.
Final score: Dixon 14, Leftwich 7, Roethlisberger 3.
Dixon also played against the players who are going to get cut by the Giants. More should be held on how he does in practice against your defense than how he does against 3rd string players.
Tomlin should switch Byron and 34Double D’s in the next two games, let Dixon run with the twos. Not sure why Tomlin would not do that. If he really is not throwing him into the fire to bring him along slowly into the starter in week 1, then when are you going to let him see action against actual football players?
Tomlin doesn’t bounce around easily. The pecking order was set, and Dixon needs to beat up Leftwich before it gets moved around. I still don’t like Dixon starting, that running won’t work when a team game plans for it. It works for Roethlisberger only when he breaks tackles.
I like Dixon, but if he doesn’t start it won’t be for any other reason than they saw enough to say not yet.
by Phantaskippy on Aug 22, 2010 12:37 PM EDT up reply actions
Dixon 24 run (Reed kick) Pittsburgh 17, Ravens 14
by Neal Coolong on Aug 22, 2010 1:20 PM EDT up reply actions
I didn’t say he was great, you said running won’t work when teams plan for it. Baltimore did a good job forcing him to throw that game, but the one time Dixon got their attention off him, he ran untouched for a huge touchdown.
by Neal Coolong on Aug 22, 2010 2:20 PM EDT up reply actions
That game
Didn’t tell me much about Dixon.
We were running the ball more . Dixon only threw short passes.
Was a great game, and I really wish he didn’t throw that INT in OT.
Oh well.
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
But Dixon's battery mates on the field are going to be cut by the Steelers
Alls I’m saying is he did better with what he was given than the other two did. It’s a bit dramatic to list the scores by QB, but 1.) it’s a good line. 2.) It may not be all reflective, but it is accurate, and does provide a fair glimpse into what Dixon has been doing.
by Neal Coolong on Aug 22, 2010 1:24 PM EDT up reply actions
it’s a long way between an NFL first team defense and the bench warmers (if that) that dixon was playing against.
Your argument essentially implies that dixon is 8 times as good as BB … which is nonsense.
The scoring differential mostly reflects the fact that the opposing defense is a rag tag unit that isn’t accustomed to playing as a unit. As opposed to the mostly organized veterans who ben was playing against.
grain of salt
A Ravens fan lecturing the Steelers about offense? Is this bizarro world?
In week 4, we’re going to beat the Ravens with a backup QB, and hold your weaksauce offense to zero points … :D
grain of salt
since when did they get good at offense? when they hired Jim Zorn
A Ravens fan lecturing the Steelers about offense
Irony
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."
Arians/Tomlin a stubborn duo
A real problem is that our coaches are stubborn and too proud to change. Arians desire NOT to have a fullback and Tomlin’s affection for Leftwich are examples of this. Redman has earned a chance for two years now. Dixon has the talent and deserves a shot.
Our Second String was better than their Second String
When the first team trotted off of the field, they were down 7-3. And this was with the THIRD STRING QB for the Giants — who was missing some open men.
That, to me, is the scariest thing I saw.
There is no doubt, though, that our 2nd String is pretty damn good. I guess you could spin it with “Our team has depth” but that isn’t going to help much. It’s not like basketball or hockey where the depth of your bench can determine a championship.
Granted, in every season there are injuries and your second string has to step up… but counting on the fact that your second string is better than their second string is not reassuring.
I said all of that to say this: Dennis Dixon is the second string Quarterback of your Pittsburgh Steelers. Period. End of discussion.
B-Love is the starter for the first four games. He has played for us before, and the coaches are comfortable with him. They think he can get us to a 2-2 start, and that’s all they are looking for.
The problem with Double D is that he might get us to 1-3 before he really gets his stride, and by then it will be too late. If Ben were out for the full season, I think DD would get a fair shot. Because I think, ironically, he would do better in a full season.
But they aren’t looking for a guy to give them 16 games. Just four. And if he gets us to 2 and 2, I think the staff will pat themselves on the back and tell themselves “Job well done.”
DD has as much chance of taking the starting position from B-Love as Emmanuel Sanders has of taking the third receiver slot off of Randel El. Maybe it should happen… but it ain’t gonna happen.
The coaches are going to go with what they know. They think they can get back to the Super Bowl this year. Surely they expect to contend for the division. They don’t want to break a bunch of new guys in and chalk the year up to a building year…
Maybe they should… but they won’t…
I think it's interesting that...
because the second string O-line so completely dominated the Giants, it made anything Dixon did irrelevant last night. Dixon could only further damage his chances to start last night, he had no way to earn a chance to start ahead of Lefty in game 3. If that is true, then these preseason games are pure crap. What’s the point of watching them if performance in them really doesn’t matter because “he was playing against 2nd or 3rd stringers”. I’m not saying that the decision should be based solely on exhibition football, but it’s pretty clear to me that Dixon is a better QB than he was last year, and Lefty is … well, Lefty.
The way I see it, Lefty, if he is better (and that is entirely debatable), he is by the skin of his teeth. This should have been an open competition between the two, and instead it’s been rigged for Leftwich from day 1.
" 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 Aug 22, 2010 9:56 PM EDT up reply actions
Maybe, just maybe
The coaches know a tiny bit more about football than you or I.
I think they would put Lefty in if he is the best option we have, just as they would for Dixon. I think Dixon is better than Lefty but I have faith in our coaches.
Xbox Live Gamertag - IMIeursault currently MW2 and Madden 11.
If Troy, Harrison and Woodley are on top of their game, that is good for 9 wins right there, regardless of what is going on with their offense. - Mr MaLoR 28/6/10
by Josh Roberts (ESGB) on Aug 22, 2010 10:26 PM EDT up reply actions
Coaches know more than me?
How dare you.
" 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 Aug 24, 2010 7:40 AM EDT up reply actions
rigged?
Not sure I would call it rigged… but Leftwich is the entrenched Starter. You need to really do something special to overcome that… As Ali put it: “You have to whoop the champ to beat him. Can’t win on a ref decision.”
As for preseason games meaning something, both Leftwich and Dixon outplayed Ben… should we demote him to 3rd string now?
Champ of what?
Mediocre QB play? Of getting cut by the Jags in favor of David Garrard? Longest,slowest release in NFL history? If on your resume as a QB it says that a previous employer thought David Garrard was a better QB than you, then you deserve no inside track to start. You must earn it fair and square.
" 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 Aug 24, 2010 7:38 AM EDT up reply actions
But Will Arians Let Dixon Be Dixon
Neal, I agree that Dixon should be giving the coaches second thoughts about starting Leftwich, although Leftwich showed he can play. I also think that given the pourous nature of the offensive line, having a guy who can scamper back there might be a need, not a want.
Tomlin has as much confirmed that they have a package of plays that they will use to insert Dixon.
But regardless of package situations or if he gets the starting job, will Arians let Dixon be Dixon?
Before the first preseason game he threw cold water on the idea of Dixon running, and he apparently was not happy with Dixon’s running during the first preseason game. I posted an extended article on the issue on the Fan Shots section a few days ago, which anyone can click here to read now.
But here I’ll cut to the chase and jump to the conclusion:
If you put Dixon on too tight of a leash, you take away what makes Dennis Dixon so dynamic.
I am all for giving Dixon a shot, but not if he is going to be over coached.
by Hombre de Acero on Aug 22, 2010 1:08 PM EDT reply actions
If you put Dixon on too tight of a leash, you take away what makes Dennis Dixon so dynamic.
Hate to tell you this, but “Dynamic” doesn’t work at QB in the NFL anymore. The league has moved away from scrambling QB and I expect to never see a Mike Vick or Dennis Dixon type QB ever drafted in the first round again. Today is all about the pocket. Scrambling around just screws the offense up.
Hate to break it to you, but you're wrong
You’re trying to compare Dixon in this offense to a Randall Cunningham-like scrambler. You’re certainly not breaking news by suggesting that style of QB is gone. But you don’t need a QB going for 1,000 yards to be effective as a scrambler. Do you think 30 yards a game and five touchdowns on the ground doesn’t have a HUGE effect on the success of your offense?
A busted play with an immobile pocket passer is a four yard loss. If four plays a game break down and the QB is able to gain yards on those plays, that’s potentially four drives a game that get extended. Who wouldn’t want that?
Aaron Rodgers is a great pocket passer, but how much more dimension does he add to an offense with the extra 300 yards and five TDs on the ground? While I’m not versed in every play the Packers ran last year, I’m willing to bet maybe five of the 77 carries he had were designed QB runs. 70 broken plays that he extends for an average of 4.5-to-5 yards a play is huge.
The problem comes when the QB is thinking run first, and doesn’t have his eyes down the field.
by Neal Coolong on Aug 22, 2010 2:31 PM EDT up reply actions
Again, I didn’t say he should start. I said mobile QBs can bring a lot to the offense.
Don’t worry, though, whomever it is under center, Wallace will be torching your JV cornerbacks deep soon enough.
by Neal Coolong on Aug 22, 2010 2:58 PM EDT up reply actions
If Kordell Stewart got us to three AFCCG then Darkwing Duck should able to get us to a SB
Players who should be in the Hall of Fame: Pat TIllman, Dwight White, Donnie Shell, L.C. Greenwood, Ray Guy, Steve Tasker, Greg Llyod, Andy Russel, Cris Carter, Kevin Greene and Jerry Kramer
"Don't wory, I'm an untrained professional" WVPF
Canal Street Chronicles resident Steelers Fan
by WVPiratesfan on Aug 22, 2010 3:10 PM EDT up reply actions
It would be interesting
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 Aug 22, 2010 3:49 PM EDT up reply actions
That was a good cartoon
don’t be hating
Players who should be in the Hall of Fame: Pat TIllman, Dwight White, Donnie Shell, L.C. Greenwood, Ray Guy, Steve Tasker, Greg Llyod, Andy Russel, Cris Carter, Kevin Greene and Jerry Kramer
"Don't wory, I'm an untrained professional" WVPF
Canal Street Chronicles resident Steelers Fan
by WVPiratesfan on Aug 22, 2010 3:56 PM EDT up reply actions
…And Darkwing Duck
You sir are obviously a Communist.
by Phantaskippy on Aug 22, 2010 7:52 PM EDT up reply actions
He’s no Donald Duck. He’s no Daffy Duck. He’s not even Launchpad McQuack. At best, he’s a poor man’s Flintheart Glomgold.
by Neal Coolong on Aug 23, 2010 6:28 AM EDT up reply actions
Gizmo Duck!
As opposing quarterbacks crouched under center, Lambert pumped his legs up and down, thumping the turf like a war drum. He mouthed threats to opposing running backs that would make even the most hardened Catholic nun weep for humanity. He fulfilled those threats with coldblooded suplex tackles. He may or may not have chain-smoked at halftime, depending on who you ask.
For sixty minutes each Sunday, Jack Lambert was a demon.
My How Times Have Changed
It is ironic. A little over ten years ago the entrance of Donavan McNabb, Cabe McNown, Akiki Smith and Daunte Culpepper was supposed the herald in a new age of “mobile” quarterbacks.
Of course the new age never game.
I think that Neal basically has it right. You do not want a Randall Cunningham, because Cunningham relied too much on his feet. But Aaron Rodgers offers a good counter example. Steve Young was much the same way during his time in the NFL, especially ealier in his career.
by Hombre de Acero on Aug 22, 2010 8:27 PM EDT up reply actions
Excellent post!
Dixon needs more than a few snaps with our starters against the opposing team’s starters. IMO he is looking good thus far, but as already pointed out he’s only played against 2nd and 3rd stringers. That said, I will also stress that he was a leading heisman candidate. He also received academic honors. His injury is all that held him back…and why he fell to the Steelers in the 5th round of the draft. Colbert and Tomlin said they were not interested in a QB in that draft; however, they didn’t hesitate to pull the trigger when DD was still on the board. Dixon has talent, smarts, humility and desire. I don’t believe the fat lady has warmed up to sing just yet.
I still think
It will be Dixon’s job. I think honestly Tomlin is just pushing him, to see what he will get in the regular season.
I really trust the FO and they are using Lefty as a fire to get Dixon burning. And its working. He’s had two basically perfect performances now. Push him one more game, let him start the 4th one. Announce days before the opener Dixon’s the star. He feels warm and fuzzy for “taking and earning” the starting job, and he’s shown what he can do.
Or he fails to rise up to the challenge and we use Leftwich. but that doesnt seem to be happening.
Nope.
Dixon would be seeing some time with the 1st stringers if that were the case.
" 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 Aug 22, 2010 10:01 PM EDT up reply actions
Dixon Vs Leftwich
Good post Cool. I like the discussion topic. I have been a proponent of Cowher’s 2 headed 95 monster otherwise known as the Slash experiment. Start Leftwich because he is a veteran that won’t get rattled. Put Dixon in situations that he can exploit and continue to gain confidence. Keeps the defense off balance and gives them trouble prepping for the STeelers in the first month. If the experiment works out, you have a Slash weapon when Ben returns.
For me the decision is easy. The Leftwich throw to Wallace was all I needed to know about why Leftwich will start. On 3rd & 2 with 4:48 left and a chance to kill the clock Dixon misfired. That was all I needed to know about Dixon. 10 is a good young prospect with lot’s of upside. He looked good against Baltimore in heroic effort. But in crunch time his inexperience threw a crucial INT and the Steelers got an L. The Steelers Championship window is open and there is no reason to take chances against Falcons, Titans & Ravens.
When You Run The Ball Good Things Happen
Absolutely loved DD in his NY appearance.
I thought his roll out looked looked comfortable and he didn’t try to force it on the play….I liked the way he looked in the huddle when they pulled in close a couple times….Of course, that was just a “preseason” huddle. :) I think his throws weren’t as powerful or had the “zip” of BB’s, but I thought they looked good.
I also daw that Redman sustained a rib injury. I read after the game that he was able to come back in the game but only after they removed the rib. Reports were that the rib was used to create an actual female helper for Redman. Apparently she will be joining the training staff. I believe it was TMZ that reported it. Impressive.
I'll be hiking the Pacific Crest Trail from May, 2011 to Sept., 2011, to raise money for charity. Please visit: http://thf2.wordpress.com for more info. Thanks!
2 headed monsters
Back in 1984, in the CFL, the Winnipeg Blue Bombers won the Grey Cup behind the QB duo of Tommy Clements (name sound familiar?) and John Hufnagel. It was a combination that worked well for the team. When one struggled, the other was tossed in and usually would help change the pace of the game. Tommy Clements was the starter IIRC. Several CFL teams were doing this around that time.
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 Aug 22, 2010 4:42 PM EDT reply actions
Tommy Clements (name sound familiar?)
Yeah, my mom went to high school with him…not sure how well the CFL translates to the pros, but that’s just it; we don’t know. No coach now would have the guts to try something like that, cuz if it fails, he’s out of a job, and he’ll never get another one.
by Neal Coolong on Aug 22, 2010 6:49 PM EDT up reply actions
CFL = pros
just not NFL level. I wouldn’t mind making the annual salary of a CFL player. Sure it isn’t NFL pay but it is way better than stocking shelves or flipping burgers.
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 Aug 23, 2010 10:08 AM EDT up reply actions
+1
Yep, my bad, I meant the NFL. sorry, all fans of the illustrious CFL
by Neal Coolong on Aug 23, 2010 5:35 PM EDT up reply actions
np
it’s cool
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 Aug 24, 2010 1:26 AM EDT up reply actions
I'm not ready to jump on the Dixon Bandwagon but...
“Leftwich has the right arm of a Howitzer cannon, but the arming and firing time of one as well.”
….that right there is nothing short of a brilliant quote!
+1
" 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 Aug 22, 2010 10:03 PM EDT up reply actions
Dixon's confidence is rising because he is on the field
The only way we can see how good he will play is see him play when the first team. I will admit our second string was better than the Giants and the Lions, but that doesn’t matter during the regular season.
I think I know what we have with Lefty, a tough guy who can’t move with a rifle arm. He can throw the ball deep, but we can’t count on that every game – Wallace open deep. He will take a lot of sacks waiting for that to happen – 3 and out and not controlling the clock.
The defense will tire and we lose.
Dixon will give us just as many wins than Lefty, but the opportunity to win one or two more before BB gets back. Teams will have to play honest and not over play the run up the middle, with the risk of DD in the backfield. On passing downs, he won’t be a sitting duck but a mobile duck. DD has upside, Lefty will not get better.
I think we will be surprised by years end and that Lefty won’t even be in the mix, it will be BB, DD, and CB. Let Dixon start this week and the first four.
"I believe the game is designed to reward the ones who hit the hardest." Jack Lambert.
I have been reading BTSC for quite a while
I am not as wise as most of you even though have been a Steelers fan since the 70’s, but I would like to throw in a thought or two from time to time.
This is the first time I have ever been here so I just want to introduce myself, and let you all know that I think there are many great thoughts that come through this forum.
I am sold on Dixon starting, and I have a sneaking conviction that Tomlin is playing the game of making everyone think Lefty is going to start while secretly preparing Dixon to start. In spite of Lefty’s experience, I feel he is getting too old and slow to contend in this league where defenses are much quicker than even when he first started.
I have watched DD and I think he is quite mature for his age and experience, and many of the posts here seem to forget that he nearly defeated our strongest opponent last year with great play for the first game of his career where he started. Considering what he did in that game, it almost rivals what Ben did in his first game. He was only one interception away from taking down the Ravens.
Watching him in his first two pre-season games this year, I see a guy that is playing with great confidence and who has a very good arm, good field vision, and good decision making skills. His speed compared to Lefty’s is about the same as comparing a roller skate to an Amtrack. I love the adjustment he made against the Giants when he ran that sideline while giving directions to the person in front of him. He look as cool as a piece of ice in the antarctic.
I think, as someone else said in here that he should be given a shot with the first team in the next game so we can get a clear picture of how he works in that venue. If he does the same as he did against the Ravens I say we give him the start over Lefty.
Sorry to be so verbose, but I am a minister, and ministers tend to be a little wordy on occassion.
God bless you all.
by redeemed1 on Aug 22, 2010 8:59 PM EDT reply actions
You are no match for our Momma...
Welcome to BTSC from the UK
Xbox Live Gamertag - IMIeursault currently MW2 and Madden 11.
If Troy, Harrison and Woodley are on top of their game, that is good for 9 wins right there, regardless of what is going on with their offense. - Mr MaLoR 28/6/10
by Josh Roberts (ESGB) on Aug 22, 2010 9:05 PM EDT up reply actions
Thanks
Thanks for the welcome. I have read Momma’s posts, and I wouldn’t think of trying to match her. Her insights leave me in the dust.
I spent some time in the military in the Air Force in England. I loved the country and the green, green grass and visiting London -or as the military called London – “The big smoke.”
I even learned to speak some English – English while I was there, if you know what I mean.
Richard E. Shaffer aka C. R. Lord
by redeemed1 on Aug 22, 2010 9:29 PM EDT up reply actions
I know what you mean on the English - English thing
check out the poast that me, Fever and Steeler_ threadjacked, the one from a Giants fan, some good English- English on that one.
I don’t think anyone can rival Momma for verbosity (or long windedness, you choose) her posts have been getting shorter though.
Never heard that phrase before, “Big Smoke” can see where it comes from, although being a northerner I was raised on smoke, ale and pies with gravy.
Xbox Live Gamertag - IMIeursault currently MW2 and Madden 11.
If Troy, Harrison and Woodley are on top of their game, that is good for 9 wins right there, regardless of what is going on with their offense. - Mr MaLoR 28/6/10
by Josh Roberts (ESGB) on Aug 22, 2010 9:48 PM EDT up reply actions
We aren’t afraid of verbosity here at BTSC. Welcome aboard!
“Fiddlesticks! My name’s Fred. I’m a man, just like anyone else!”
“You’re not a man, you’re a bishop, for God’s sake!”
“There is no God…”
sorry…had to channel my inner-Caddyshack
by Neal Coolong on Aug 23, 2010 6:31 AM EDT up reply actions
Hey Fred, a man like everyone else
I’m not a bishop and never would or could be. LOL!
I am definitely a man with a wonderful wife, seven children, a granddaughter, and two grandchildren on the way – on in September and the other in November.
As far as there being no God, that is not even up for debate. I know him personally. since this is a sports chat not a Christian chat I’ll leave it at that. Visit my personal site and email me if you have any desire to approach that subject.
Rick Shaffer aka C. R. Lord
by redeemed1 on Aug 23, 2010 9:57 AM EDT up reply actions
It was a joke
The line is from a movie. Sounds like you’ve got one incredibly large family though! Congratulations on the grandchildren!
by Neal Coolong on Aug 23, 2010 5:37 PM EDT up reply actions
welcome to BTSC
you are right about Dixon. He faced the strongest opponent at their house. Some people tend to forget the importance of that game.
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."
Thanks PCISteeler
I agree with your agreement with me. LOL!
Rick Shaffer aka C. R. Lord
by redeemed1 on Aug 23, 2010 10:00 AM EDT up reply actions
And a lot of people forgot abuot that struggle between Hines and BB b/c He just said "was not" in
in form just too late in that week, that maybe cost Us All that late elimination, that was really the reason for Hines animosity, BB just stole reps from DD. And Int at this level is just about the timming that you gain though repetition with first team teammates. And Welcome redeemed1.
O sales tickets,...and let D rest a little, and D Win Championships.
by YeOldeMexFan on Aug 23, 2010 2:35 PM EDT up reply actions
Welcome to the site!
I bet a fun thing would be to go way back in time to where there was going to be an eclipse and tell the cave men, "If I have come to destroy you, may the sun be blotted out from the sky." Just then the eclipse would start, and they'd probably try to kill you or something, but then you could explain about the rotation of the moon and all, and everyone would get a good laugh.
by NYSteelersFan4 on Aug 23, 2010 11:03 AM EDT up reply actions
Not to worry; this will work itself out
Leftwich is likely to start against the Falcons on September 9, but anything can happen. Not sure I understand all the comments, though, about Lefty being a “statue.” He can get out of trouble alright and he’s not afraid to hang in the pocket and take a hit. If you watch any film of Leftwich, you can’t truly say that he’s immobile.
What we do know about Leftwich is that he has had a history of injuries. So if he’s our starter, there’s a good chance that DD will get some playing time and maybe even start if Lefty gets nicked. Anyway, the question of who fills in for BB for the first four games isn’t as critical as some people seem to think. With either Lefty or DD taking the snaps, the Steelers will have a reasonable chance to post at least a .500 record by the time BB returns. After that, both of these guys will probably be holding clipboards for the rest of the year. So in the final analysis, it really doesn’t matter which backup QB we think is better, because these guys are only stepping in until BB returns. No QB controversy there.
I was reminded of this by my comment up there about ale, discovered a brilliant one on Saturday night
So good, all I could taste was hops…
Xbox Live Gamertag - IMIeursault currently MW2 and Madden 11.
If Troy, Harrison and Woodley are on top of their game, that is good for 9 wins right there, regardless of what is going on with their offense. - Mr MaLoR 28/6/10
by Josh Roberts (ESGB) on Aug 22, 2010 9:51 PM EDT reply actions
mmm english beer
I’m coming to england in 2 weeks, I can’t wait for some good english ale.
by Chicago Steeler on Aug 22, 2010 11:01 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
where abouts are you heading?
Xbox Live Gamertag - IMIeursault currently MW2 and Madden 11.
If Troy, Harrison and Woodley are on top of their game, that is good for 9 wins right there, regardless of what is going on with their offense. - Mr MaLoR 28/6/10
by Josh Roberts (ESGB) on Aug 22, 2010 11:05 PM EDT up reply actions
couple places
I’ve got a friend in Liverpool I’m staying with for a couple of days, then it’s off to Bath for a night and then a couple nights in London.
by Chicago Steeler on Aug 23, 2010 9:59 AM EDT up reply actions
you'll be near me when you're in Liverpool, I live 40 minutes up the road.
I also might be going to uni in bath by 2011…
Xbox Live Gamertag - IMIeursault currently MW2 and Madden 11.
If Troy, Harrison and Woodley are on top of their game, that is good for 9 wins right there, regardless of what is going on with their offense. - Mr MaLoR 28/6/10
by Josh Roberts (ESGB) on Aug 23, 2010 2:11 PM EDT up reply actions
What pisses me off
Dennis Dixon seems like a Mike Tomlin type guy.
What is a Tomlin guy? Mwelde Moore. Works hard. Smart guy who knows he still needs to study hard. Brings as many tools with him to the field as possible. Wants to improve every practice.
What really disturbs me is that I think some of Dixon’s treatment is a Jeff Hostetler type play by the coaches. They want him to not succeed because they’re hoping they can keep his potential down enough to get him to his second contract.
Dixon’s treatment is the kind of thing the players union fought for years to end.
No one thinks Byron Leftwich scares other teams more than Dennis Dixon. Does anyone honestly think Ray Lewis is worried about Byron?
I like Lefty. And it won’t be the end of the world if he starts.
But it begs the question: what does a guy have to do to play his way into a starting role on this squad? Cross his fingers and hope the guy in front of him uses Twitter as much as he smokes weed?
Fans are drawn to Dixon because he’s a Pittsburgh kinda guy. He busts ass every play. He works to get better. He’s a model athlete and a stand-up guy.
Oh, and he improves our chances of winning.
So you think the coaches want to risk losing now, just to keep a backup QB around for the future
just in case our future HOF QB goes down in the future?
Xbox Live Gamertag - IMIeursault currently MW2 and Madden 11.
If Troy, Harrison and Woodley are on top of their game, that is good for 9 wins right there, regardless of what is going on with their offense. - Mr MaLoR 28/6/10
by Josh Roberts (ESGB) on Aug 22, 2010 10:24 PM EDT up reply actions
I agree with much of what you said, but I don’t subscribe to the propaganda theory of the team benching him so he’ll be worth less money. There are two facts in play here. 1.) They aren’t going to pay two starting QBs starter’s money. 2.) Dixon has two more years of restricted free agency. So regardless of what he does this year, the team is ultimately in control what he gets paid, and he likely wouldn’t sign a long-term deal in Pittsburgh anyway. All him playing now would do is up his market value. Assuming a lockout does not occur next year, Dixon will likely get a first-round tender, which means the team would guarantee him $3 million, or they’d get a first round pick as compensation.
They found Dixon in the fifth round. Pretty sure they can find another Dennis Dixon somewhere in the draft. If another team thinks he’s worth a first rounder (not likely), then he leaves. If not, they’ve got a solid back-up to a QB who rarely plays 16 games a year (whether by injury or indecency).
The team knows that, so why bother trying to get all fancy and ensure he doesn’t play so they can keep him for cheap? When Dixon reaches unrestricted free agency, he’ll leave anyway. This isn’t Jim Sorgi Career Backup we’re talking about here.
Turning a fifth round project into a five-season back-up with a few spot starts for about $5 million total into a first-round pick is pretty damn good business.
by Neal Coolong on Aug 23, 2010 6:39 AM EDT up reply actions
Why do you think they will find another DD. He’s on our team for one reason only, injury, if ot for that he would be somewhere else lightin’ it up. Believe me sir when I say you jus don’t find kids with his type of talent in the round we got him. For all intents n purposes he should be a Raider since they’ve been at the bottom of the heap for so long. He’s a blessing in disguise n he’s on our team. 67.7 cmp%, 20 TD four INT’s, 161.19 RAT, you just don’t find kids with this talent from big schools where the Steelers draft.
by steelerfromtheco on Aug 23, 2010 2:12 PM EDT up reply actions
DD bandwagon
I’ve read almost all the post talking about DD and I’d like to share my view. DD should start because with him at QB our offence can score from anywhere at anytime. His mobility is unmatched by anything we have in camp, his confidence is growing, n he’s in his third yr. Granted BB is our QB, but he’s one rape case away from being on another team. Regardless of what happens, DD is our future. We should do everything possible to keep him. Besides I’m tired of watching BB underthrow MW. BB does not have a big arm, but at crunch time I’ll take him over Manning n Brady anyday. People think I’m crazy when I say other than New Orleans n Brees, no other QB can beat us. Not even worried about the cheaters in NE. 15-1, first round bye, n Superbowl #7, see yaw in Dallas.
by steelerfromtheco on Aug 23, 2010 2:00 PM EDT reply actions
"...he’s one rape case away from being on another team."
I’m not sure if there’s a statement that better reflects the sheer ridiculousness of the NFL…I’m laughing and crying at the same time, because it’s true.
“We mean it, Ben! You rape one more person, and we’re gonna trade you!”
by Neal Coolong on Aug 23, 2010 5:39 PM EDT up reply actions
Also
Double D Bandwagon
am I the only one who found this hilarious?
Xbox Live Gamertag - IMIeursault currently MW2 and Madden 11.
If Troy, Harrison and Woodley are on top of their game, that is good for 9 wins right there, regardless of what is going on with their offense. - Mr MaLoR 28/6/10
by Josh Roberts (ESGB) on Aug 23, 2010 2:12 PM EDT reply actions
Bewbs are never hilarious
As opposing quarterbacks crouched under center, Lambert pumped his legs up and down, thumping the turf like a war drum. He mouthed threats to opposing running backs that would make even the most hardened Catholic nun weep for humanity. He fulfilled those threats with coldblooded suplex tackles. He may or may not have chain-smoked at halftime, depending on who you ask.
For sixty minutes each Sunday, Jack Lambert was a demon.
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