State of the Pittsburgh Steelers: Looking Back but Mostly Forward
by Ivan Cole (RickVa) on Jan 16, 2012 2:22 AM EST
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PrintOkay, now that everyone is sober, what is it that we see? Or, to be more honest, what do I see now that I am over the disappointment and, embarrassment of a very difficult exit for the 2011 Steelers. What follows are some comments and questions about where the team is and where it might be going. Also, some reactions to what folks have been saying on this site for the last few days.
On the difficulty of achieving sustained excellence.
I don’t always agree with how they go about doing it, but one of the NFL’s strengths is how it has maintained widespread fan interest through a legitimate sense of parity. Of course the bad news is that it’s hard to get to the top and even harder to stay there. I point this out, am in fact repeating myself because of the commentaries that I have been reading that would suggest that the Steelers are more flawed than perhaps they actually are.
What teams should be highlighted as doing things the right way, or at the very least better than
Bottom line; of the remaining four teams in the playoffs who do you envy to the extent that you would trade our hand for theirs in regard to front office, coaching, coordinators or players? I find much to admire and respect with regards to
On the desire to discard and replace.
I freely admit to a certain bias about player personnel matters Maybe I’ve just gotten lazy over the years, or perhaps it is the fact that I have become very jaded about the college game and don’t play very close attention anymore. But I don’t get as excited and obsessive as some do over mock drafts and the like. Nor have I developed much in the way of confidence that others have that if we just got this free agent or another that things would be better and our problems solved. Part of my thinking comes from living in an area where the local NFL team (the Redskins) continues to reside in competitive hell for 20 years running based on just that kind of thinking. I do have a pretty good memory about a few things, and I don’t recall anyone saying that we should really move heaven and earth to get our hands on Antonio Brown or Isaac Redman. Or that James Farrior, Mewelde Moore or Ryan Clark would be useful free agent pick ups. I know that it’s a lot of fun for fans and media types to engage in this sort of speculation. And occasionally folks get it right. But I doubt that anyone would have said that Andre Carter would have a much greater impact with the Pats than Chad Ochocinco. Remember how many people in these parts were all hot and bothered over Nnamdi Asomugha? How’d that work out for the Eagles?
So we’re going to hear for the next few months how we need to get rid of everybody over 30 and replace them with just about anyone under 30. And that will solve our problems. To be sure for some players it’s time, either because their skills have deteriorated (or never developed) or because of cap issues and other business considerations. But have you checked out Michael Bean’s recent article on Hines Ward? The loyal denizens of Steeler Nation are falling all over themselves to push Ward out the door. To argue otherwise is to be dismissed as being sentimental and insufficiently business-like in our thinking.
What I believe is reflected in the thinking of many is the idea that all problems and all solutions are related to talent. In addition, injuries, particularly multiple injuries are increasingly viewed as an excuse and opportunity to replace. For older players it is automatically assumed that they are finished. And younger players? I’ve seen comments that would indicate that our relationship with Maurkice Pouncey might be reevaluated, presumably for being too fragile. Some want to move on relative to Mendenhall and Sanders. This is a basic human failing. We’re always thinking that there is a better relationship, job, whatever, just around the corner. But, frankly, this borders on the absurd. Let us hope that Steelers management is not as panicked and deluded as many of their fans.
Should we be reevaluating the coaching staff?
I have been pretty much an unabashed cheerleader for the coaching staff. Was I wrong? I guess it all boils down to how you view the situation overall. I’m sure many think that this team has seriously underachieved. I think they overachieved. A 12-4 record, the number 1 ranked defense with important roles being filled by the likes of William McLendon, Isaac Redman, Doug Legursky, Trai Essex, William Gay, Jason Woirlds, Ryan Mundy, Ramon Foster, Cortez Allen; a collection of rookies mid round draft choices, free agents, household names all. Must I remind the readers how much confidence these players inspired in these parts? However, flawed and limited as they supposedly were, they managed to almost get the number one seed in the playoffs. I think we can attribute some of that to coaching.
To be sure, they are not perfect. Tomlin still has some work to do as a game tactician. But this is the kind of thing that comes with experience. And when you think of it Tomlin’s success is all the more remarkable given his relative lack of experience. LeBeau may have been overconfident at times, Arians too predictable. But generally they got the job done and with less than a full toolbox for the most part.
The argument has also been made that Tomlin’s previous success is due to the fact that he was coaching Bill Cowher’s team. How far do you take that line of thought? Are the 49ers Harbaugh’s team or Singletary’s? When the Buccaneers won the championship was it Gruden’s team or Dungy’s? At what point can we say that the baton passes from one administration to another?
The team’s weak links, special teams and the defensive secondary were transformed into strengths. For the second time in two years the team had to be guided and maintain focus through a period of controversy. What more do you want?
How do we evaluate the players?
Was the offensive line simply terrible? Do we need to bring back Russ Grimm? Funny how many games you can win with a terrible offensive line. To be fair, given all the injuries and discontinuity how can any judgment be rendered on this group this season? And how can you make a negative assessment of Kugler? Crazy. It may not happen as quickly as some would like, but the team’s weaknesses have been shored up slowly but surely, on the fly and they have managed to remain competitive. I say keep
What about the receivers? Should we pay Wallace or let him go? As has been written on another site, at least part of the blame for Wallace’s relative lack of production in the second half lies with Ben; both his decision making and the accuracy of his long throws, which this year were not the best. The money crew of Wallace, Brown and Sanders should remain the foundation of the receiver corps for the rest of Ben’s career. The only reason that ties should be cut with either Hines or Jerrico should be money.
Mendenhall and the backs? It has become fashionable in some quarters to be down on Mendenhall. Hard feelings for that Super Bowl fumble? Who knows, but I’m not buying. The only issue I see with the backs is the problem of who do you cut loose. If Batch fulfills his promise and Dwyer continues positive progress then you have six guys who could play for this and a lot of other teams.
The problem that Arians, Ben and the offense has to address in the future is the issue of distribution. The running game deserves more carries, Heath is overlooked too often, and five receivers deserve touches. To use a boxing analogy, they have to become more adept at throwing combinations and when to break tendencies. They have the tools.
Ziggy Hood. Brett Keisel is an nine year veteran who has been playing his best ball over the last three years. Ziggy has just finished his third. It has been understood that defensive linemen in this system need time to develop. Hood has had no such luxury. For most of the playoff game he was the most experienced defensive lineman on the field. May I suggest that his best years are in front of him. This is probably truer for
Ryan Clark. When he played for the Redskins he complimented the late Sean Taylor in the same fashion that he partners with
Charlie Batch. If Ben has proven anything it’s that he is incredibly durable, and he has apparently stabilized his life. It’s too early to be preparing an heir. Charlie is good enough all things considered. And he’s a
If I’m the front office I would certainly on the lookout for a guard and an inside linebacker, as well as some additional defensive lineman. But expect them to go for the best players available given that with the possible exception of tight end, there is a desire for depth everywhere. This is not, nor should be a desperate team. Some veterans will go for business or health reasons, but this is true every year. They will get younger, but rebuilding is too strong a word. If there are coaching changes it won’t be because of competency issues based upon this season.
Unfortunately, there is only one way that this season wasn’t going to be a crushing disappointment in the minds of many. Let’s put aside the ‘Standard is the Standard’ rhetoric and acknowledge that at the end of the day such expectations are unfair to all of us. If you can’t find some level of satisfaction and pride with this team then you may want to find another hobby, so to speak. Please read Rebecca Rollett’s January 11th post concerning the character and sacrifices that define this team’s season. They’ll be back, and they’ll represent as they normally do.
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Rebuild the O-line
That will allow the Steelers to: run the ball effectively, sell the play-action pass, allow the deep routes to develop, Ben takes fewer hits and stays healthy, scoring in the red zone goes from 3 to 7, melt the clock when ahead, and fewer 3-and-outs means the defense is fresher.
Get a replacement for Big Snack and start grooming. McLendon is too small.
Get a real kicker.
As an aside, I think Ziggy and Worilds are under-whelming. Timmons is good and Heyward is gonna be good. Mendy is adequate and with a good O-line will be better. Redman needs more touches but he doesn’t have the burst that Mendy has, but he has more power than Mendy. Say goodbye to MeMo, BMac, Aaron Smith, Chris Hoke, Potsie, Jonathan Scott, Batch, Dixon, Kemo, and maybe bring Hines back at a reduced salary.
I’m a relatively new poster here but I’ve been a Steelers fan since the days of Buddy Dial and Ernie Stautner. I think a dominant O-line fixes a multitude of ills.
Affirmed in part, Reversed in part….it all starts with the O-Line. You can have Tom Brady or Dan Marino under center, but if you can’t keep them on their feet, they’re useless. For this, I don’t blame the coaches at all (kugler has done an exemplary job with the bodies he’s given), I blame the front office for not adequately stocking out O-line with the depth we need for the past couple years….I like McClendon, but he is not the long term answer at NT. In my opinion, have Ziggy bulk up and play the nose, because finding a replacement for Snack will NOT be easy….on that note, I disagree with your asessment of Ziggy and Worrilds. I think Worrilds definitely has potential and as the year went on, he shed his blockers easier, and used more pass rush moves than just the usual “bull rush”….I have no problem with Spindenhall, but Redman all but proved that he is expendable. Sir Isaac finds his hole and pounds through it…period, gotta love a RB who plays like that…as for the free agents? So long to Moore, Mac, Smitty, Hoke, Farrior, Foote, C. Batch and Kemo. I think we should bring back Dixon as a #2 and draft a QB in round 5-6 and restructure Hines’s salary
Dixon
is hot garbage and should be thrown out as such.
People don't ever seem to realize that doing what's right is no guarantee against misfortune.
- William McFee
by stillergorillar on Jan 16, 2012 8:13 AM EST up reply actions
I absolutely agree with this post. In the new Arena National Football League you have to have a great offense and a good defense. Our D had the stats but those were really inflated by playing some teams with bad Os. We need to use our draft picks 1 and 2 on O linemen…period. Take the best guard on the board in the 1st and a tackle or guard with the 2nd. Use the remaining picks to get some young, fast D lineman, an inside backer, a tight end and a safety…then develop them. In the meantime, go young on the D…get rid of Farrior, Foote, Snack, Smith, Hoke, BMac, and yes, IKE ..re-sign Gay but move him to safety where he can play facing the QB…and provide CB level coverage skills. Keep Ryan Clark as a back-up. Go with Lewis and C. Allen or C, Brown at corner, with the other the NB. If the O can put up more points, having some younger, faster guys learn to play D and give up more points and yards will not be so bad.
This article must be about you
Almost none of what you say should happen is going to and imo, it shouldn’t happen. The article you just commented on was about people like you making ridiculous claims about what needs to be done. Clark was our best D player this year and the only one who can play with Troy and you want him to be a back-up behind Gay? That’s just idiotic, and cut Ike, our best corner we just signed to a 4 yr deal and our best one-on-one corner, that’s idiotic as well. And their is a salary cap, you can’t cut everybody and be able to replace them with better talent. Nothing in the last 4 years shows they will all of a sudden score pts unless something changes and as of now it will be status quo on offense so expect another underperforming offense next year that will leave us 5-11 with your roster changes, good job.There problem is scoring points, period. Number 1 D, that is the last thing I would start tinkering with. If we scored more pts there wouldn’t be as much pressure on the D to try to shut everybody out, you should be able to score with rules with any level of competent offensive players, we have the talent so to be 22nd in pts is ridiculous.
by SteelCity G on Jan 16, 2012 2:10 PM EST up reply actions 2 recs
Not so fast my friend...
Keep in mind that the “new Arena National Football League” just saw Green Bay and New Orleans get eliminated by very good defense. And it won’t surprise me at all if Baltimore does the same to Brady. I’ll take balance any day
" I think this is probably the best team ever assembled. They talk about the Vince Lombardi Era, but I think the Chuck Noll Era is even greater. " - Mel Blount
Agreed
anyone trying to contact me via my yahoo account should be aware it has been hacked
by Cold_Old_Steelers_Fan on Jan 16, 2012 8:35 PM EST up reply actions
not so fast....
both those D’s have EXTREMELY good 4 Dlineman fronts that actually can apply pressure EACH down on the QB… with 7 in coverage… our 3-4 base D does NOT offer that same pressure and to make things worse were 100 mill $ into linebackers who cant pass cover…. we have some glaring problems on defense…. verses those two teams mentioned …
by OR69faithfull on Jan 17, 2012 5:53 AM EST up reply actions
AGREED
They do indeed out front 3 havent generated pressure like they used in a LONG time… The 3-4 is meant to confuse QB’s but any type of west coast oriented passing game with decent talent at QB can beat that unless the front 7 actually get to the QB.
Hines Ward
Just to let you know, not all of Steeler Nation is trying to push Hines out the door, quite the opposite. I have a FB page, www.facebook.com/we.support.hines.ward, that is dedicated to supporting Hines and letting it be known to Coach Tomlin and the Steelers organization that we want Hines back in 2012. Also, if you look through the comments on Bean’s article, the majority seem to agree that Hines still has it and should be brought back. Hines never was the fastest, but he created a whole new position of wide receiver with the way he hits and blocks, whatever it takes to get the job done. From mid-season on, it was obvious that Young Money still has some growing to do, and who better to continue to mentor them? If Hines had been properly utilized, maybe we wouldn’t have left so many points in the red zone. I’m not talking sentamentality here, it’s reality. We have an incredible receiving corp but that also includes Hines and his experience, expertise and continued ability to get the job done. Whoever it is that decided to phase Hines out needs to take a second look and realize what an incredible player they still have right under their nose and wake up and use him as he should be. The way he’s being treated at this stage of his career is inexcusable. The Steelers always preach about family, and yet this is how they treat “family”, a man who has broken just about every Steelers’ record there is for his position, who has continued to be a leader both on the field and off, and who has had nothing but respect for the organization. He’s no charity case, he’s the man who has and can continue to be to go to guy to get the job done.
The way I read Ivan’s post was, if you believe other than Hines should go, the “push him out” crowd will accuse you of sentimentality and not thinking what is best for the team. There’s a large percentage of Steeler Nation that agrees with the idea that Hines value isn’t measured by number of catches or yards during the 2011 season.
HERE WE GO STEELERS!
"Our Father, who art in Pittsburgh, Football be thy game. Thy Kingdom come, thy will be done, at Heinz Field as it is in Heaven. Give us this day, a stellar D and forgive us our bogus fines, as we (sorta) forgive Goodell who trespasses against us. And lead us not into defeat, but deliver us a Victory. For thine is The Steelers, the power and glory of climbing the STAIRWAY TO 7."
I agree that Hines still has it.
He’s lost a step, no doubt, but his craftiness and sure hands are still an asset to this offense. I also think he’s still our best receiver when the O-line breaks down and Ben has to take off, which is very often. His ability to break off of his route and find the soft spots in coverage where Ben can find him is yet unmatched by Wallace or Brown and until it is I’ll continue to believe that there is a place on this team for Hines Ward.
Different use for Ward?
HInes could still be a valuable asset if possibly used in a different way. Since he’s “lost a step”, why have him going so far down field? More quick and short outs (forget those wide receiver screens with him), more decoy patterns across the middle with more attention throwing to Miller and certainly more sideline passes to Hines, especially late in games when the team is trying to get down field. It would help a woefully bad clock management lately and save timeouts. (I’m not sure the coaching staff remembers that out of bounds stops the clock.)
And why not try to add Johnson with Miller and Ward clearing out quick and short with Wallace, Brown and Sanders running different depth routes. Now it’s man on man instead of zone and more choices for Ben (Just like New England). Who does the defense cover?
The Steeler offense is still Noll bound in that they are a pulling team. That takes time and necessitates a very good line and effective back. With the Bus that was no problem. But it doesn’t always work as well with Mendy. More quick short Kenny Andersen passes mixed with straight up blocking (once we have a healthy line) will set up a lot of 12 to 15 yard completions and probably more deeper ones.
No need to heave the ball 50 yards down field trying to be a hero. And like Ivan says, spread the wealth!
One thing Ben needs though. His passes lately have not been decent spirals and if you think wind affects kicking it has a similar effect on long passes. Wobbling ducks are easier to pick. The timing can change by fractions of seconds and cause enough disruption for the receivers. Tight spirals aren’t as affected by wind. Not only that, but they’re easier to catch.
Just a couple of thoughts.
I agree that it doesn’t need to be blown up. We need a healthy and better O-Line. I also wish we’d use the TE more in the passing game as a safety net, less empty backfield passes, give Redman more carries, and implement a FB. I don’t see Arians doing all those things, though.
~Tommy~
Healthy O line
would allow them to pass to TE more (if Ben will check down)
People don't ever seem to realize that doing what's right is no guarantee against misfortune.
- William McFee
by stillergorillar on Jan 16, 2012 8:15 AM EST up reply actions
The problem is can we get better players to fill the positions of the players we're trying to jettison?
I think Farrior and Foote are pretty much done. I thought the same last year. Yet, is Stevenson Sylvester ready to step into that role yet? Is there a Free Agent or Draft Pick that can learn our system and contribute at the level of Farrior by next season? I don’t have the answer to those questions and I would be reluctant to get rid of either of those players until I did have the answers. Guys like MeMo, BMac and Aaron Smith are easy cuts, we have demonstrably better players at their positions at this time. Chris Hoke is a solid back-up/spot starter and he’s cheap, so I’d have no problems with him coming back. Hines Ward (depending on how much he’s willing to rework his contract) could be the same way, though I’d try to lock up Cotchery for 2-3 years as well for insurance purposes, just in case Hines loses another step. I don’t believe in Dixon, really at all, so I’d be perfectly fine with us keeping either some combination of Batch/Leftwich or Batch/late round pick or late round pick/Leftwich to back up Ben for next season. One thing I’m a little worried about, that isn’t being discussed enough in my opinion is the CB position. We all saw this as an area of weakness last year and were pleasantly surprised by its performance this year. Ike Taylor and William Gay had career years, and Keenan Lewis finally started filling some of the potential we’ve seen from him over the last several seasons. My worry is this, was last season’s DB play a result of natural progression (players getting better), or was it a flash-in-the-pan type season where several players all had seasons that none of them will be able to match again? I love Carnell Lake, always have, but how much of the improvement we’ve seen in the DB position can we attribute to him? It’s not like we lack coaches who understand the CB position as both Coaches LeBeau and Tomlin came into the NFL coaching that position. So I do worry that the #1 passing defense from last season might fall back a little bit next season, still, it’s not nearly the worry that the Offensive Line is. It is really hard to play guard for the Pittsburgh Steelers with what we ask our guards to do. The last guy who could do it well for us ended up being named All-Pro like nine times. That being said, “The Standard is the Standard” and none of our guards have met anything close to the standard in recent years. We need new ones, pronto, and whether that means using several high round draft picks on them or, egad, opening the wallet to get one through free agency, it matters not. We need them badly. Ben needs them badly. The run game needs them badly. It’s a position that is holding us back, preventing the offense from reaching its potential and forcing Ben to have to be a Superman in order for us to move the ball consistently down the field. I don’t think the front office can fix the o-line as well as replace Hampton and Farrior/Foote in one offseason, so I’m very interested in seeing what they choose to prioritize, what positions they choose in the draft, who they resign, and who they acquire through Free Agency. The Steelers are currently trying to do the toughest thing there is to do in professional sports. That is, they’re trying to rebuild their roster and stay competitive at the same time. And so far, they’ve been doing a remarkable job at it, a damn remarkable job. The job isn’t finished yet though, and it won’t be this season either. It will happen though and I truly believe we’ll win another one or perhaps even two more before Ben retires.
Great comment
Very sensible questions that only can be answered with time.
by Ivan Cole (RickVa) on Jan 16, 2012 8:21 AM EST up reply actions
agreed
People don't ever seem to realize that doing what's right is no guarantee against misfortune.
- William McFee
by stillergorillar on Jan 16, 2012 8:25 AM EST up reply actions
Overlooked about our poor Oline
is Ben could help them a lot by delivering short quick throws and using a believable run fake act. That he doesn’t I blame a good deal on the coaching.
"We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit."
--Aristotle
by steelerstyle on Jan 16, 2012 9:25 PM EST up reply actions
You're right, Ben could help them a lot by throwing more quick throws.
and becoming more of a timing based quarterback, but by the same token, he’s never going to be as good of a timing based quarterback as Brady, Brees, or Rivers. He just won’t. We Steeler fans are going to have to accept that. What he does do better than any QB in the league is play backyard ball. He’s always going to be more Brett Favre than Peyton Manning. That’s just who he is. And it’s the Steeler organization’s job to find him teammates that will allow him to be as productive as possible. The offensive line, as currently constructed, does not allow Ben to be as productive as possible. It does not allow us to play Steeler football and run the ball when we need to. It commits too many drive killing penalties. Honestly, what good can you say about this o-line? The best you can say is that it’s not all their fault, that Ben and the coaching staff share some of the blame. Okay fine, the O-line, Ben, and Bruce Arians share the blame, so how do we fix it? Well, we’re not getting rid of Ben anytime soon and though I’d be happy to be rid of Arians, any new OC we bring in is still going to have to deal with the problem that we have a QB who takes a lot of time and an O-line that doesn’t give their QB a lot of time. The most logical, sensible, pragmatic solution to the entire problem is to improve the Offensive line, starting with the Guards.
Great comment
Well thought out and basically the exact opposite of most who want to cut everybody and think we can replace 15 starters or even should in one off-season. Your points on offense are more a result of play calling and/or BA not being able to keep Ben in check. Even when we could run the ball, we don’t, even when our QB is on one leg and there is 40 mph winds we still throw 40 times. This is a philosophy, not because of the talent we already have or don’t have. BA is old and set in his ways so anyone who expects any changes on offense next year whether spots are upgraded or not will be mistaken. He called the same kind of plays with Kelly Holcomb as his QB, players have no bearing on his play calling. And I might be mistaken but I think Lewis was one of the last cuts this year so I’m not sure if you meant someone else or think they should bring him back or I might just be wrong about that but he was impressive this pre-season in my opinion.
I agree 100% with your thoughts on Bruce Arians
and really have nothing more I can add to them. Well said.
Keenan Lewis did make the club this year and played better than I think most of us expected him to this season. I believe you are thinking of either Crezdon Butler or Joe Burnett who were cut in the preseason, Butler being one of the final cuts.
Too Bad BA is here to stay
It seems that everyone but Tomlin and Rooney realize how bad he is. When a team has Big Ben, Mike Wallace, Antonio Brown and Emmanuel Sanders there is no reason they shouldn’t be putting up 30 points a game. Once, just once, in BA’s tenure have I seen that kind of gameplan put in use, this year against the Pats.
Replace Emmanuel Sanders with Rashard Mendenhall, Heath Miller, and Cotchery. The offense should force feed catches to these players. Keep the defense honest with your TE, RB, and 4th WR. Then let Antonio Brown and Wallace make the money. This should be one of the most multifaceted offenses in football
Nice post Ivan
I think many fans have decided that the SB is the only fitting end to a season and while I freely admit it is the ultimate goal, I must temper my expectations with a grounded appreciation for just how difficult that goal is to achieve. I also must remind myself that very few teams have ever achieved getting to the SB in back to back years and, in fact, the Steelers have tended to not even reach the playoffs the year after they attended a SB.
This team obviously has some issues, but they can and very likely will be fixed. Different issues will very likely rear their head next season, it is inevitable. However, this team and its ownership has been very adept at finding the answers and staying competitive.
People don't ever seem to realize that doing what's right is no guarantee against misfortune.
- William McFee
by stillergorillar on Jan 16, 2012 8:34 AM EST reply actions
Thanks
With their loss last night the Packers have joined the long list of teams that have failed to make it back to the SB the year after winning it. Only one team in the final four was in that group last year (Ravens). And they are a teamed patterned after the Steelers.
by Ivan Cole (RickVa) on Jan 16, 2012 8:42 AM EST up reply actions
Great perspective.
Stay thirsty my friends.
by SteelerMessican on Jan 16, 2012 8:43 AM EST reply actions
Thank you for this article....
Having a chance to calm down a little, this article makes a ton of sense. Too many people are still expecting the Steelers to win every game, every Super Bowl, every year. We are disappointed, and want to clean house when we lose in the playoffs or lose in the Super Bowl. Mr.Cole reminds me of a level-headed friend that you can discuss problems with and he gives you points to ponder. First, think of how many teams that have not been to the playoffs in a long time. And we want to replace everybody from Tomlin to the waterboy, when we lose in the playoffs. Tomlin has had early success, not because he took over for ‘the chin’, but because he is a good coach. As much as I really don’t care for BA’s style, but who can argue with the overall success of the Steelers. Sure I would like to see more of the running that was the Steelers bread and butter, but the NFL rules have evolved to force more passing. Just like when the ‘Mel Blount rule’ went into effect and Terry Bradshaw took advantage of it and had more passing yards his last couple of years than in previous years. The rules have evolved for big offensive plays. Lebeau is a defensive genius, and how can the success of the defense be dissed. And I would really attribute the improvement of the secondary to Carnell Lake. He was a Steeler and knows the system and what it means to be a Steeler. I am anxious to see what he is able to get from the players this coming season. I would love to see Hines come back and be utilized at his strengths, and help mentor the young money crew. I was born and raised in the Pittsburgh area and now live in Alabama. I don’t get to see a lot of the Steeler games and local news. I was afraid that the general feeling was actually beginning to turn against Tomlin, Lebeau, BA, and that there may be a call for house cleaning. While some changes will be made through free agency, retirements, and cap cuts, I think we actually have the best coaching in place.
Great comment to a great article,
with one caveat – I definitely think the waterboy needs to go. I think he was holding us back big time this year. With a younger, spryer waterboy we might have been looking at a 14-2 season and a number 1 seed ; )
"If you're not getting better, I don't care what business you're in, you're a dead man. I try to look critically at the mistakes that I make and try to learn from them, like our team does." - Mike Tomlin
by Rebecca Rollett on Jan 16, 2012 11:25 AM EST up reply actions
I vote for this guy...
" I think this is probably the best team ever assembled. They talk about the Vince Lombardi Era, but I think the Chuck Noll Era is even greater. " - Mel Blount
stupid image link fail....
" I think this is probably the best team ever assembled. They talk about the Vince Lombardi Era, but I think the Chuck Noll Era is even greater. " - Mel Blount
HInes Ward and Bruce Arians...
… and frankly, all the players, should be evaluated on exactly the same basis:
1) How well did you perform in 2011?
2) How do your 2011 stats measure up against expectations, against the competition?
3) What were your strengths? What extra did you bring to the field?
4) What were your weaknesses? How did you fall short?
5) What can you do differently in 2012 to improve; what will you do differently to improve?
It is up to the FO and Coach Tomlin to determine, on the basis of how these two gentlemen answer questions such as these, whether either will be back in 2012. BA should not be allowed to escape the same scrutiny on his performance this year, any more than Hines will be allowed to skate by.
And if either of them “skates by”, then that will say more about Tomlin, Colbert, and Rooney, than anything else; if either is returned for the 2012 season, there will be serious attention paid to their performance; any dropped ball, any poor play call, will instantly be seized upon as evidence that the criteria used this off season was anything but objective. If the Standard is the Standard, then make it so, and measure everyone against it.
I suspect Hines will find this acceptable; he acts in training camp as if he has to earn his helmet, year after year; Arians I’m sure won’t be as accepting of such scrutiny, but he should be. The biggest evaluation that will result from such scrutiny is whether Tomlin and the FO walk the walk, or are just talking.
United we Stand, melded like Steel
To Roger Goodell, We'll never Yield.
Mostly agree
Very good post. I agree with the overall theme— that there is no need to blow things up, and we can all be pretty happy with the season. However, I think there is a difference between expecting the Steelers to “win every game”, and expecting them to play well against a mediocre team in the playoffs. If the Steelers had won the wild-card game, I fully expected them to be blown out by the Patriots. So, I don’t expect them to win every game or be in every Super Bowl. But, they made Tebow look like a world-beater, which is totally unacceptable. The offense was hard to watch until the 4th quarter. We fans should have seen this post-season disaster coming when Baltimore drove down the field and scored on a 20+ yard pass play to win the second game. There is no need to blow things up, but the Steelers have consistently been plagued by the following: either not starting or not finishing games (i.e., not playing at a high level for 4 quarters), a hot-and-cold pass rush, a secondary that gives up big plays (my biggest gripe), and a terribly inconsistent offense. The offensive problems probably do start with the O-line. To be honest, I’m not sure what we should do defensively. Many good suggestions were posted already. But, I think the thing that should be examined most thoroughly is the lack of a “full game” performance. What are the reasons? How can this be effectively addressed? There is no other team I’d trade positions with, but I have to admire the way the Giants seem to really bring it in the post-season. They have the 4-quarter intensity in most cases that is needed to win in the post season. It would be great to see that out of the Steelers.
And I agree completely with PaVaSteeler’s post. Well put.
a secondary that gives up big plays (my biggest gripe),
the Steelers allowed the fewest plays of 20+ yards in the league this year….
"Leave the gun. Bring the Canolis."
Block quote fail....
"Leave the gun. Bring the Canolis."
Good point...
However, at critical moments it was big plays that killed the Steelers against Denver, and a big play that killed the Steelers against the Ravens. The Ravens’ play ended up costing the division title, and the Denver game cost a playoff win. Big games are the time to tighten things up. In the 2009 SB, a big play almost cost the championship (Warner to Fitzgerald). In that same playoff year, San Diego burned the secondary on a big play for the first TD of the game. Fortunately, that one didn’t matter. I was thinking about more in critical moments— not the season overall. Which is why I don’t see a reason to blow things up. But, some adjustments are necessary. It speaks even more to the apparent lack of 4-quarter focus that they allowed the fewest plays of 20+ yards all year, but ended up letting Tebow average 30 yards/completion in the playoffs.
The other teams get paid too
They are professionals on the other sideline as well and while I hate big plays, it’s hard to argue with giving up the fewest. Though some were untimely, it’s the NFL, it’s gonna happen. I’m more concerned with repeated mistakes like clock management and a terribly underperforming offense, that is the norm with this offense not a fluke, every year they do not perform up to their talent level and it shouldn’t be expected to change next year. Changing the OC can have the biggest impact on the TEAM, not just the offense. BA is almost done anyhow why prolong the shenanigans on offense another season of his unimaginative play calling, my wife called out 50% of the plays they ran against Denver and that is a much different game being played defensively if we are up 14-0 instead of 6-0.
Level-headed thinking - Rec'd
Fly by night, away from here
Change my life again
Fly by night, goodbye my dear
My ship isn't coming and I just can't pretend
RUSH
by Flying Polamalus on Jan 16, 2012 9:59 AM EST reply actions
Great post
I was just thinking the same thing. It is hard to win in the NFL. The Steelers have done as much winning as any team in the last 6 years and yet you have arrogant Steeler fans who feel coaches should be fired because the team didn’t make the Super Bowl this season. Like it is a birthright to win a championship. I remember the 80’s and 90’s well and the Steelers didn’t win one title during that period. If you listened to Giant fans on WFAN, they all wanted Coughlin fired earlier in the year even though the guy had already won a Super Bowl
I have great appreciation for what the team accomplished this year. Too bad more Steeler fans don’t feel the same way.
O-line and Ben
Absolutely we should be looking at beefing up our O-line.
Sure some of our troubles are due to injuries, but how many injuries must be sustained before we can officially say a player is injury prone. Injuries must be part of the equation when evaluating these veteran linemen.
I am tired of reading that improving our O-line will help keep Ben healthy. Ben gets injured on plays that he doesn’t get rid of the ball soon enough, by either throwing it away, or using his check-down receivers. His ankle was injured after his line gave him about 7 seconds of protection. Ben’s injuries are on him, and his style of play. If he could make a minor adjustment, he would improve as a QB and stay healthier.
by ballparkfranks on Jan 16, 2012 10:55 AM EST reply actions
Even more than someone who can protect Ben, this team needs at road grader to run behind...
…..so they can hand the ball to Mendy or Redman on third and two with some confidence.
Just the threat of being able to run the ball on third and short will lower the premium on Mr. Roethlisberger’s term life policy.
The assumption, of course, is that aforementioned road grader is at least decent in pass protection, but the key is to find someone who can control the line of scrimmage and push the defensive linemen back….someone who can pull and knock people on their ass.
Of course, it is true that Roethlisberger holds the ball way too long, and, as ballparkfranks points out, the guys who injured him in the Browns game took the long way to the QB, coming by way of Zelionople and St Clairsville, before meeting at the quarterback. There is no way you can blame the OL when a quarterback gets that much time and still ends up getting clobbered.
I would kill everyone in this room for a drop of sweet beer.
- Homer J. Simpson
Even more than someone who can protect Ben, this team needs at road grader to run behind…
I agree in theory, and I know that you, Homer, aren’t falling prey to thinking that this one thing is going to fix all of our problems. But many might.
We were pretty embarrassed during the Bengals game, I think it was, where we had 4 tries at 4th and 1 and couldn’t get into the end zone, but yesterday the Ravens, with a true fullback and a running back that many on this board would love to have, couldn’t make it into the end zone after running Ray Rice on 2nd and 4, 3rd and 2, and 4th and 1.
There is no way you can blame the OL when a quarterback gets that much time and still ends up getting clobbered.
For me the most telling stat is how seldom Charlie Batch is sacked when he’s under center. Like never, in the Rams game. I do believe that some upgrading of the O line is in order, but it won’t do one bit of good if Ben can’t be convinced to modify the way he plays, for his own good. He’s going to be sacked fifty or sixty or a hundred times a season as he gets older and more beat up and less able to shed tackles or escape pursuers, and I sincerely hope that Tomlin and company are sitting down with him and having a heart-to-heart talk about same.
"If you're not getting better, I don't care what business you're in, you're a dead man. I try to look critically at the mistakes that I make and try to learn from them, like our team does." - Mike Tomlin
by Rebecca Rollett on Jan 16, 2012 11:40 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
I would love to see a true full back in our game; not necessarily just to pound the ball or lead block. A good hands bull back can be very valuable for dump off; in selling a run on misdirection; or simply in pass protection where we can actually feel safe in getting Miller off the line and into the passing game more. It certainly won’t fix all of our problems but I like the options it would bring.
As for Ben and modifying they way he plays; I won’t hold my breath. He wants to throw the ball and he wants to throw it deep. If Tomlin can reel him in and get him to understand that you have 3 downs to pick up 10 yards, I’ll be praising Tomlin for the rest of his career as our head coach. I’d like Ben to be around to actually have a chance at winning the 5 SBs he wants so much, but, as you pointed out, he’s going to get sacked a lot more times over the next few seasons if he doesn’t start playing smart.
Terrific post
I especially agree with your point about the rising bar with a team that is consistently at the top of the league. No longer is it a thrill to have a winning record, finishing at the top of the division, or even making the playoffs.
It’s a tough crowd to please when the only way a team is judged as successful is not only making it to the Super Bowl, but winning it.
Keep the faith!
Wow with that we should have won the superebowl
All sarcasm aside, the real problem were injuries. The bigger issu in my mind was the lack of innivation and plan B- particularly with the game against Denvere. Very uninspired play calling. BA needs to be accountable as does BB.
We will see what this team looks like at th eschematic of the teams play callling on both sides of the ball. Just dont drink too much kool aid- I love my steelers but I dont walk around with eyes wide shut.
Impose your will.
GUARD
WONDER in retrospect, should they have kept Craig Urbik, who starts at Buffalo now
Awesome work Ivan. Finally some words of reason
draftdatabase.wordpress.com
Follow @steelersrule124
by seton hall and steelers on Jan 16, 2012 11:39 AM EST reply actions
I find most the article slanted
seems to accent all the positives of every situation without fair evaluation of the problems..
without going thru counterpoint, or personnel talent and injury.. I’ll reply with the following:
My view on achievement of sustained excellence requires putting together game plan, personnel, and base formation on both sides of the ball that CANT be out game planned.. In essence giving and edge to our base philosophy on both sides of the ball.. On a whole we are slow to change, and also, that “standard is the standard” to easily game planned against… case in point NE, that it took a few yrs to many to offer a different look and have desired result.. Im as big a loyalist as any but without the edge of offering different stategy for each opponent, we allow their game plan to trump our base formations.. I’ll be the first to give KC his praise, he has yr in and yr out gotten more from the draft in late round drafting order then 90% of his peers, but dont necessarily feel our OF and DF cooridators have adjusted philosophy per current change in the game, and in part that is the head coach’s responsibility… Im not suggesting I know better, but there has been rapid change in the game in recent years weve not kept up with….
Good post, as usual.
Good level headed thinking. You have addressed many of the issues that have been on my mind since the loss to the Broncos. There is no legitimate need to totally dismantle the team and start again. The Steelers have issues, but so does every NFL team. Stability in the coaching staff and front office help the younger players understand what the expectations are and the presence of experienced veterans reinforces those expectations. I believe the Steelers will do what they always do; they will evaluate the bodies they have available, identify strengths and weaknesses, and draft the best player available, not overreaching for o-line help, or help in other areas if they feel they can get as much talent in later rounds. Free agents? I don’t anticipate any bug splashes in that regard. Why not? Because the Steelers just do not work that way. With that said, there are some areas that need addressed, and I hope the Steelers FO and coaching staff take a close look at them. To begin with, I agree that there are issues with the o line. A good stern talking to is not going to fix the lack of talent at the guard positions. Legs and Foster are good hard workers, but we need that AND talent. Guys like that do not grow on trees, I get that, so if Kevin Colbert gets it too… which I am sure he does.. he knows he has to do what needs done to find that guy. Which brings me to the next area that needs addressed, and that is offensive game planning, and Ben staying upright. I am not suggesting they demand Ben change is style of play, in as much as suggesting they utilize the speed and quickness of the young receivers with shorter routes and passes. I know, I know, that is beating a deceased equine, hardly an original idea etc….I argue that the tendency to live by the big play is as much the fault of MT as BA and BB. An overall adjustment in philosophy is warranted, in my opinion, based on the poor offensive output in the last 4 games and playoffs. To extrapolate the theory or idea further…. the output was down because Ben was injured and his mobility and accuracy suffered, thereby necessitating a change in offensive philosophy. To elaborate further I will just add that I believe it is time for Charlie Batch to retire and the Steelers to find a good quality backup that will be around for awhile. I like Lefty, but he can’t stay healthy, and DD is not the answer. Free agent vet or draft? I think both approaches have merit, but the most logical approach would be to draft a young guy and let him learn behind Lefty for a year or two, then evaluate whether or not he can assume the role of BB’s back up.
"I've been trying to justify you, in the end i will just defy you" Dream Theater
by OhioYinzer on Jan 16, 2012 11:58 AM EST via mobile reply actions
There is so much to consider.
When evaluating a football team.
I think this very insightful post but it’s biased. We all are.
I’m a harsh critic when we don’t win but it’s how I deal. Rebecca deals bywaxing poetic on character. Shall we go there with the QB then?
I will start and end with Ben. He goes we go.
He goes bust. We go bust.
When I say Ben I’m also including the10 other men he leads on the field. I think this season was ultimately lost because the QB and his offensive squad lost.
He’s the main reason we turned the corner post Neil O’Donnell, Kordell and Tommy Gun.
I know we love the run and D. I know it. Trust me I do. It will always be a core value.
However, the team and the league for the most part is built around the QB. We have a good one. A great one? We shall see.
He got us two even and I include Seattle because we don’t get there without him.
He had the ball against GB and failed. He had the ball in regulation against Denver and failed.
I also think that the marriage of Ben and BA is a bad one that needs a divorce or some serious therapy. The offense lacks consistency and discipline.
Talent is there but it seriously underperformed. Could it be the problem is right under our nose…or center.
I say where Ben goes we go. The league is built hat way now with all the rule changes. If your QB
Till ya consider
Alex Smith and Joe Flacco are in the Championship games respectively
by OR69faithfull on Jan 16, 2012 12:05 PM EST up reply actions
Understood.
I think we can always point out the exception.
Trent Dilfer won a SB.
Let’s see where the Niners and Ravens end up.
by delisixburgh on Jan 16, 2012 12:09 PM EST up reply actions
not so much the QB
I refer to as much as 3 of the 4 best defenses advancing for a shot at going to the show
by OR69faithfull on Jan 16, 2012 12:11 PM EST up reply actions
hmmm
Rebecca deals bywaxing poetic on character. Shall we go there with the QB then?
We should wax Ben?
j/k
anyone trying to contact me via my yahoo account should be aware it has been hacked
by Cold_Old_Steelers_Fan on Jan 16, 2012 8:48 PM EST up reply actions
True
Although the Niner D wasn’t terribly impressive.
Alex Smith was the. It’s important Niner in that game.
lol
yes…… he played his best game as a pro this weekend…no question…. I suppose on could sit on either side of the fence on the niners D performance….but… they did beat the best offensive team in the NFL
They sure did but I would have been more impressed
If they did that in New Orleans.
Saints on the road were not the same. Didn’t they lose to Carolna? Not sure
by delisixburgh on Jan 16, 2012 12:26 PM EST up reply actions
I dont know how you equate it
Niners and NO both had equal amount of road games… Look at week one NO at GB.. didn’t look like that NO had any problem on the road….just came up short….
by OR69faithfull on Jan 16, 2012 12:31 PM EST up reply actions
Yes, it was strange...
NO had 5 turnovers and still was ahead with 2 minutes left against the #2 seed in the conference on the road. To play that sloppily and still be there at the end speaks a lot about that team. Says a lot about how they handle playing on the road. Credit SF also for making the offensive plays when it most mattered.
GB D was 31st in the league? Or 32.
Equate what? I’m saying NO was better at home.
Like a lot better.
by delisixburgh on Jan 16, 2012 12:42 PM EST up reply actions
but
EVERY team is better at home…so only summary I can make is SF played in a weaker ? division… thus had rights to home field… my insight to NO’s first game of the season simply suggests they had NO problem playing on the road that day and nearly took it to the packers…
of course would be advantage for NO to host the playoff game…only be a guess if the results would of been different… off to do chores… vios con dios
by OR69faithfull on Jan 16, 2012 2:16 PM EST up reply actions
When you're holding two pair, you don't throw in your hand.....
I would kill everyone in this room for a drop of sweet beer.
- Homer J. Simpson
Ike & Hines
I don’t believe we should get rid of Ike. He had a great year where he covered the other teams’ best receivers like a cheap suit. He had one bad game in Denver, but I think the defensive scheme was to load the box and leave him 1-on-1 too often. Not having Ryan Clark certainly hurt the pass D.
I want Hines back, but at a reduced rate. He’ll be the fifth receiver, at best, if all of the young money guys are healthy and Cotchery is re-signed.
Ultimately I’d like to see Hines in the FO or on the development staff; he’s my all-time favorite Steeler.
Great post and I agree with most everything you said
I do think as a fanbase we are a bit jaded by our success. It is hard not to expect the best, because our boys almost always seem to deliver. Thanks for the post, I like how you, Homer and Momma keep us grounded. ;-)
"My mentality is singular in that I want to be world champs each and every year, so that's what we work toward. I have a tough time acknowledging levels of success short of that. That's just how I'm wired." - Mike Tomlin
I would say more than a bit jaded...
I’d go with: very spoiled … almost up there with the Kardashians !
" I think this is probably the best team ever assembled. They talk about the Vince Lombardi Era, but I think the Chuck Noll Era is even greater. " - Mel Blount
by michaelbro8 on Jan 16, 2012 10:59 PM EST up reply actions
^ Hahahahaha, funny stuff!
"My mentality is singular in that I want to be world champs each and every year, so that's what we work toward. I have a tough time acknowledging levels of success short of that. That's just how I'm wired." - Mike Tomlin
by MDSTEELERSFAN on Jan 17, 2012 9:24 AM EST up reply actions
Smarter
I don’t care what anyone thinks, Bruce Arians is garbage. 17 games this year and can you tell me inside the five yrd line how many PA passes we attempted? Somebody check for me to see if I’m correct but I don’t believe its more than one. But that silly bubble screen was called so many times from the same formation(ask Terrell Suggs) that it cost us. If everyone at the sportsbar is calling the play what do you think the D is doing. If we don’t change anything we have to change him. No reason why we shouldn’t average at least 28 ppg. We struggle to get 20. We definately need a new kicker, SS is not the answer. We need DB’s who can not only cover but can run. Of the 11 FA we have we could keep Dixon. Some say he’s fragile other say he’s not a NFL QB, but when he plays you dumb down the playbook. If the standard is the standard don’t change what you’re doing because BB isn’t playing. Then you can actually see if the kid can play or not. If you don’t have confidence in him why do you waste the pick. Batch and Leftwich we can part ways with. You could possibly hold onto JC if he doesn’t want to break the bank and we let HW go. MP and MG need help on the OL. Go get us some Badgers out the Big 10, they put out lineman period. We have a good team but with a few changes here and there we would have a great team. We’ve got to get ready for BB’s demise. With the punishment he brings on hisself we’ve got to look to the future, that injury in Cleveland could have been career ending. I happy to be apart of Steeler Nation and for us to get better we got to get smarter.
by steelerfromtheco on Jan 16, 2012 3:09 PM EST reply actions
OMFG>>>>OMG>>>LOL>>>sister mary catherine-JESUS !!
WATS WITH ALL THE INITIALS….UR CONFUSING THE FUCK OUTTA ME..I GOT NO IDEA WHO THE HELL THIS ARTICLE IS ABOOT………..HELP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
In Communist China and Russia, you have 1 choice of "Kool Aid": RED
In America, you have 2 choices of "Kool Aid": RED (republican), AND BLUE (democrat)
The difference is, in China and Russia THEY KNOW IT’S KOOL AID.
Stop with the F bombs
Formerly known as Steeler_
BTSC's token Kiwi fan. That means I'm a New Zealander. Yes, that small country next to Australia....no we are not part of Australia
by Michael Hewitt on Jan 17, 2012 7:08 PM EST up reply actions
Its called being a Moderator biggcat
I uphold the terms and conditions of this site, which everyone agreed to when joining Michael Beans blog.
Formerly known as Steeler_
BTSC's token Kiwi fan. That means I'm a New Zealander. Yes, that small country next to Australia....no we are not part of Australia
by Michael Hewitt on Jan 18, 2012 3:39 PM EST up reply actions
OOoooh
I didn’t realize you were the most important person on theinternet.
Moderator… do you get a plastic badge with that?
by biggcat on Jan 18, 2012 4:08 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
SB
We would have won SB last year if GB played like they did yesterday
It wouldn't have happened that way...
The Giants D-line being in their prime is what created enough pressure to make GB play that way. Our D-line being in a transition period between the old and the new was the biggest issue in the Denver loss. We lost the SB due to turnovers, but if our D-line had been Big Snack / Smith / Keisel in their prime, we would have won the SB despite the turnovers.
+25 Ivan
Ryan Clark’s hits and tackles were sorely missed in that loss in Denver.
I also think that as Steeler fans we don’t realize that Ben is a streaky player. He throws ints in the first half and TD’s in the second half. I find myself wondering why my team can’t be like NE or Balt when they beat down a lesser team.
I think it’s because Ben’s style of play keeps it close. The more the offense tilts toward passing, the more variation we will see. In the 70’s I used to watch Franco’s stats pretty closely he would average 3.8 yards per carry. 3 × 3.8 > 10 yards. We could do it over and over. In the Denver game Redman averaged 7.1 ypc and we lost! I am not advocating “steeler football” just trying to show that our offensive system now is not based on consistency like it used to be, but, on Ben’s amazing ability to be a Warrior.
he's especially streaky when his ankle gets snapped in half
" I think this is probably the best team ever assembled. They talk about the Vince Lombardi Era, but I think the Chuck Noll Era is even greater. " - Mel Blount
by michaelbro8 on Jan 16, 2012 11:01 PM EST up reply actions
Ike
He may be our best cover corner but if you look back at all the games combined there were a large amount of passes dropped by opposing receivers. If half the catches were made that the opposition dropped his stats would have been horrific. He is our best but very lucky this past season.
fact ? or guess ?
" I think this is probably the best team ever assembled. They talk about the Vince Lombardi Era, but I think the Chuck Noll Era is even greater. " - Mel Blount
by michaelbro8 on Jan 16, 2012 11:02 PM EST up reply actions
Coaching BS
The downfall to our year began in the 49er game. Ben was bruised and abused beyond belief when the game was basically over in the 4th quarter. They turned the dogs loose every play and battered him over and over. Why was he not taken out of the game? He wanted to stay in supposedly. BS. Tomlin is the head coach. He needed to put his foot down and get him the heck out of the game. As far as I am concerned Ben never recovered after that beat down. He gets a week off then gets mauled by the Clowns. Once again why was he out there?? This was a constant problem with other players also. Woodley and Pouncey in particular. Why rush these players back on the field when they were obviously not 100%?? BS
explosions
Agree with almost everything;anyone who can look at this unemotionally recognizes that we were killed by the same thing that got us in 1976; injuries. Period. Our o-line actually played fairly well considering the amount of injuries.We lost a top tier runner when Mendy went down. Sanders wasnt healthy all year.And regardless of who we draft or pickup, Ben is what he is; he holds on to the ball to the point that at least 1/3 of his sacks have to be credited to him. Part of the package but thats what he is. I would like to see us go back to a little more balance but we do have one of the most athletic and speediest recieving corps in the league. From my pov we need to draft either the best corner or safety or o-lineman at our spot. We have some age issues that need to be addressed but I dont see Foote, Farrior, Snack or hine leaving if given a chance to make another run. Our FO is the best in the league and I feel great about us bein right there next year. And I also think you will see the Gmen and Ratbirds in the SB. All the pretty passes and stats are fun to look at, but defense still wins championships.
Absolutely right
On a 53 man roster, we went into that Denver game with 22 hurt or on IR and lost 3 starters 5min into the game. Contrition was the name of the game this go round.
"My mentality is singular in that I want to be world champs each and every year, so that's what we work toward. I have a tough time acknowledging levels of success short of that. That's just how I'm wired." - Mike Tomlin
by MDSTEELERSFAN on Jan 17, 2012 9:27 AM EST up reply actions
Definitely agree.
The injuries killed us. I would still love to have a high pick used for a guard, but I don’t just want to pick a guard. I know Colbert and company will either move up if they see someone they want or sit at 24 and get a very good player again. That being said, our line did the best it could with a patch work group.
I hope you are right about the Gmen and Ratbirds. I don’t want to root for Ray Ray, but I WILL NOT root for Marcia and the Hoody. I am still amazed that they won as many games as they did with that defense. Hopefully the Ravens can exploit it while keeping control of the Patriot O.
hhhheaaattttthhhhh!
"You have to under promise and over deliver." Mike Tomlin
The injuries started before the season began
Leftwich – gone
Colon – gone
Baron Batch – gone
Then the season starts.
Smitty – IR
Hoke – IR
Sepulveda – IR
Woodley and Harrison – both miss a lot of time
E. Sanders – misses time for his mom, knee and foot injury
Ben, Kemo and Pouncey – shouldn’t play the last 3-4 games
Hood – groin injury
Mewelde Moore – out with a knee
Curtis Brown – IR
Mendy – ACL – gone
No Clark in Denver. At Denver they lose Keisel and Hampton early. Legursky plays plays with one arm. Starks blows out his ACL.
I mean come on…1/2 a QB, only three most inexperienced DL left, second string RB with no depth behind him, both starting OTs out, a LG with arthritic knees, a backup C with one arm…and a brain dead OC. 12-4 is pretty amazing.
C'Mon Man !
" I think this is probably the best team ever assembled. They talk about the Vince Lombardi Era, but I think the Chuck Noll Era is even greater. " - Mel Blount
as I watched this vid , it made me thinks of the Steelers season
never give up !
" I think this is probably the best team ever assembled. They talk about the Vince Lombardi Era, but I think the Chuck Noll Era is even greater. " - Mel Blount
by michaelbro8 on Jan 16, 2012 11:44 PM EST up reply actions
Steelers generally have sufficient talent.
Except for adding a couple of OL guys to those we’ve got, the issue with the Steelers has nothing to do with any lack of talent. Inadequate utilization of talent is the real problem. Today’s pro game is all about offense and we failed to generate enough points on the scoreboard this season. Ben is an elite QB but his numbers are considerably less than elite. At some point, you’ve got to conclude that a better offensive scheme is needed to improve the offense’s production. I reached this point about five years ago but, unfortunately, BA is still here.
Been lurking here for a while, finally had to join...
…just to give an amen to this post. The Steelers consistently perform at a high level in a league where, as you so rightly point out, the rules are constantly shaped and re-shaped specifically to prevent continued dominance by any one team. They’ve done that by being patient, and loyal, and emphasizing continuity and chemistry over the free-agent of the moment. It’s easy to roll some heads when things aren’t going well and to chase high-profile free-agents as the solution to any problem. That’s exactly the way the hated Dallas Cowboys run their organization, and you see how that’s been working out for them (I’m old enough of a Steeler fan to hate the Cowboys even more fervently than I hate the Ravens).
I think a lot of Steeler fans felt like this was a lackluster year. The Ravens punched us in the face early and beat us at our own game twice, we were flat for the really important games, and injuries dragged us down at just the point in the season when we needed to be peaking. Yet even in an “off year”, we were one win away from a number one playoff seed, and might have easily advanced past the wildcard round if the ball would have bounced our way a couple of more times in Denver. Try to imagine for a moment what it must be like to be, say, a Browns fan. Brrr.
As much as it pains me to see the constant struggles with the O-line, and as much as I wish BA could develop more creative and tactically effective schemes, I wouldn’t trade our hand or our Nation for any of the other elite teams.
by Chris on Jan 17, 2012 1:04 PM EST reply actions 1 recs
Welcome Chris
Now that you’ve dipped your toe in the water hope to see more of you around the site. Thanks for the comment.
by Ivan Cole (RickVa) on Jan 17, 2012 4:28 PM EST up reply actions
+7 with one exception...
…
Try to imagine for a moment what it must be like to be, say, a Browns fan. Brrr.
The proper word to describe being a Browns fan is
Derp!
United we Stand, melded like Steel
To Roger Goodell, We'll never Yield.
Another awesome post, Ivan!
I haven’t been able to comment since the Mile High Debacle, because like many others, my emotions were running faster than my brain. Also, there was just too much good stuff on here (BTSC) and I couldn’t read it all fast enough! As MDSTEELERFAN said:
I like how you, Homer and Momma keep us grounded.
That said, Steeler fans are spoiled, at least the younger ones. I’ve said before that I’m old enough to remember the pain of the late 50’s and 60’s and I still find it remarkable that since then the Steelers have been able to maintain a standard of excellence that is the envy of fans of other teams everywhere. Thanks for reminding me (and us) of that!
"We have met the enemy and he is us" - Pogo (1970)
You're welcome Andy
Memories of the 50’s and 60’s does give you a different perspective doesn’t it? I remember being grateful if they just put up a good fight in a losing effort. Now if they don’t deep enough in the playoffs we want to fire everybody and blow our own brains out. ; )
by Ivan Cole (RickVa) on Jan 19, 2012 11:14 AM EST up reply actions
"Perspective"...
I think it is the whole key in this. And WRT putting up a good fight, I still have a picture of Tittle (YA), kneeling in the end zone with that dazed look on his face. Wish we could do that to Brady some day.
"We have met the enemy and he is us" - Pogo (1970)
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