Pittsburgh Steelers (No. 5) vs. Denver Broncos (No. 4): AFC Wild Card Weekend Preview
by Michael Bean on Jan 3, 2012 6:13 PM EST
in Steelers Pregame Coverage
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PrintThis week is typically one of my favorites of the year. It's certainly one of the more hectic and exciting weeks. I usually will be returning back to where I live after a nice vacation with my folks in California. With the start of a new year, it's always an exciting time to think about the future and what the new year might hold. And oh yeah, it's the start of the NFL Playoffs. Wild Card Weekend in particular is great because there are four games spread evenly over the course of Saturday and Sunday. I love when the Steelers have the week off as one of the top two seeds, but that's not the case this year, as the Baltimore Ravens staved off the Steelers for the AFC North crown and the No. 2 seed that accompanied the division title. So it's off to Denver for the six-time champions. They'll face a Broncos team this coming Sunday afternoon in the fourth and final game of the weekend that has dropped its past three games, and looked pretty darn atrocious in the process. Dale Lolley agreed with me during last night's podcast -- there's next to no way Denver wins this game unless the Steelers play one hell of a sloppy, mistake-filled football game.
Hopefully that confidence rests only in our minds, and not in those of the players and coaches. Considering how many experienced veterans there are on the squad that want nothing more than a chance to win another Super Bowl as their careers wind down, I don't think that will be a problem.
To begin our preview coverage, here's the game schedule information, a sample of team stats for both squads, and the two teams' series history, which is quite extensive actually considering that they have never played in the same division.
SERIES HISTORY
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STEELERS |
BRONCOS |
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LEADER |
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13-7-1 |
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STREAKS |
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3 of past 4 |
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COACHES VS. OPP. |
Tomlin: 1-1 |
Fox: 0-3 |
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COACHES PLAYOFF RECORD |
5-2 |
5-3 |
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VS. COMMON OPP. |
Pit: 5-0 (Cin. 2-0; KC 1-0; NE 1-0; Ten. 1-0) Den: 2-3 (Cin. 1-0; KC 1-1; NE 0-1; Ten. 0-1) |
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PLAYOFF RECORD |
33-20 |
17-15 |
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LAST WEEK |
W 13-9 at Browns |
L 7-3 vs. Chiefs |
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LAST GAME |
11/9/09: Steelers 28 at Broncos 10. Pittsburgh QB Ben Roethlisberger passes for 233 yards & 3 TDs, including 2 to WR Hines Ward, as Steelers improve to 6-2. |
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LAST GAME AT SITE |
11/9/09 |
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LAST PLAYOFF |
1/22/06: Steelers 34 at Broncos 17 in AFC Championship Game. Roethlisberger throws 2 TD passes & Pittsburgh defense forces 4 turnovers (2 INTs, 2 FRs) as Steelers advance to Super Bowl XL. |
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BROADCAST |
CBS (2:30 PM MT): Jim Nantz, Phil Simms. Westwood One Radio: Kevin Harlan, Dan Fouts, Steve Tasker (Field reporter). SIRIUS: 88 (WW1), 92 (Pit.), 86 (Den.). XM: 88 (WW1), 225 (Pit.), 226 (Den.). |
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STAT LEADERS
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PASSING |
Roethlisberger: 324-513-4,077 (3C)-21-14-90.1 (3C) |
Tebow: 126-271-1,729-12-6-72.9 |
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RUSHING |
Redman: 110-479-4.4-3 |
McGahee: 249-1,199-4.8-4 |
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RECEIVING |
Wallace: 72-1,193-16.6-8 |
Decker: 44-612-13.9-8 |
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OFFENSE |
372.3 |
316.6 |
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TAKE/GIVE |
-13 |
-12 |
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DEFENSE |
271.8 (1L) |
357.8 |
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SACKS |
Harrison, Woodley: 9 |
Miller (R): 11.5 (T3C) |
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INTs |
3 tied: 2 |
Bailey, Goodman: 2 |
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PR |
A. Brown: 10.8 |
Royal: 16.2 |
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KR |
A. Brown: 27.3 (3C) |
Willis: 20.4 |
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PUNTING |
Kapinos: 45.0 |
Colquitt: 47.4 |
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KICKING |
Suisham: 105 (36/36 PAT; 23/31 FG) |
Prater: 87 (30/30 PAT; 19/25 FG) |
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Comments
Road game-itis ...
Dale Lolley agreed with me during last night’s podcast — there’s next to no way Denver wins this game unless the Steelers play one hell of a sloppy, mistake-filled football game.
Unfortunately, that pretty much sums up every Steelers road game this season.
well
Let’s rephrase: unlesss Steelers play the most sloppy mistake-filled football game of the past ten years. Even a performance like we had against Philly in 2008 might be good enough to beat this Broncos team.
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man you are really down on the Broncos
no fear of Tebow channeling a higher power eh? lol
I agree though Denver’s passing game is pretty much nonexistent. That wildcat/option crap ain’t gonna work against Pittsburgh
might be my browser but the spreadsheet is getting cut off.
I say we nuke it from orbit, its the only way to be sure.
Not missing much, it's just the Horsies stats ;)
I'll be hiking the Pacific Crest Trail from May, 2011 to Sept., 2011, to raise money for charity. For more info, please visit: http://thf2.wordpress.com
by Fifty-Eight on Jan 3, 2012 6:32 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
fixed now
not your browser. thanks for heads up.
Contact me at behindthesteelcurtain@gmail.com or michaelbean06@gmail.com with comments, suggestions, complaints, etc. Find BTSC on Twitter. Follow BTSC on Facebook for regularly updated content and commentary.
Not a lock
I’ve seen a lot of comments that say there’s no way the Broncos win this game. While I think the Steelers should win, I don’t think it’s as one-sided as many think. The Broncos ‘D’ is solid and will be going against an injury depleted offense. I don’t see the Steelers scoring a lot. So that keeps the game close and exposes the Tebow factor. He’s struggled badly in recent games, but it’s no accident he deserved the Tebow-mania mid-season. If Denver has the ball within 7 or 8 with a couple of minutes left I’ll start remembering David Garrard
" 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 3, 2012 6:49 PM EST via mobile reply actions 1 recs
is their D that solid???
I don’t think solid defenses get lit up for 40+ points in consecutive weeks. They’ve played well against shitty offenses, not been so great against good ones. They’re trending down and have zero offensive weapons to threaten this defense. Only way they win is with special teams and three or more turnovers from Steelers. Good luck with that Denver.
Contact me at behindthesteelcurtain@gmail.com or michaelbean06@gmail.com with comments, suggestions, complaints, etc. Find BTSC on Twitter. Follow BTSC on Facebook for regularly updated content and commentary.
No
The problem lies in how often their defense is on the field. I wish I could find the stats but I bet you that tells a lot. Defenses that are on the field for a majority of the game, no matter how good they are, will start to give and give. If anyone wants to check into it I’d love ya forever.
Micheal, funny how you’re heading back from California after seeing your folks and I’m heading back to California after seeing my folks. Fly back tomorrow night outta Boise. Got myself a new Steelers hoodie, new Steelers handmade throw blanket, and some Steelers PJ pants. I’m ready to get cozy and watch us beat some donkeys!! Go Stillers!
"Hey number 16! I'm coming to kill you and there ain't nothing he can do about it!" -James Harrison to Matt Cassel on his LT during the 08' beating of the Pats.
by SoCalSteelerFan on Jan 3, 2012 6:59 PM EST up reply actions
DOH!
Michael* I’m sorry for spelling your name wrong. That’s embarrassing.
"Hey number 16! I'm coming to kill you and there ain't nothing he can do about it!" -James Harrison to Matt Cassel on his LT during the 08' beating of the Pats.
by SoCalSteelerFan on Jan 3, 2012 7:07 PM EST up reply actions
heh
all good man. hope you had a nice time in Boise. Coincidentally, I ahve family there too.
Contact me at behindthesteelcurtain@gmail.com or michaelbean06@gmail.com with comments, suggestions, complaints, etc. Find BTSC on Twitter. Follow BTSC on Facebook for regularly updated content and commentary.
It's beautiful
Can’t believe how warm it has been. I pictured it all dreary and brown. I mean it’s still quite brown but the sun has been out here the entire 2 weeks I’ve been here. I’ll tell ya this place loves their Boise St Broncos. The whole town is blue and orange. I feel like they need an NFL team to latch onto. Idaho deserves one more than SD. Hope ya had a Merry Christmas and thanks for everything you contribute to this awesome blog!
"Hey number 16! I'm coming to kill you and there ain't nothing he can do about it!" -James Harrison to Matt Cassel on his LT during the 08' beating of the Pats.
by SoCalSteelerFan on Jan 3, 2012 7:15 PM EST up reply actions
You want unseasonably warm
It was above 0 C today and yesterday here in Winnipeg (city formerly known as Winterpeg). -20 C is a lot closer to normal temp. For those who are not used to Celsius, -20 C is about 0 F and 0 C is 32 F. The current temperatures would be appropriate for March..
anyone trying to contact me via my yahoo account should be aware it has been hacked
by Cold_Old_Steelers_Fan on Jan 4, 2012 5:48 PM EST up reply actions
Hasn't been lately
But the fact they kept games close mid-season for Tebow’s dramatics tells me they have the ability to do so. I do trust Dad to screw with Tebow’s inexperience though
" 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 3, 2012 7:29 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
Actually
Since Tebow has been the starter, we have won the TOP 32-28.
Our defense has played pretty tough besides Det/G.B. In the N.E. game, we had 3 turnovers in our territory including a muffed punt which were converted scores on short fields, and two offensive turnovers in the Buffalo game were returned for T.D. along with a Kick Return so the points for those games are a bit misleading.
Special Teams save for Buffalo and one return by Devin Hester (not for a TD) have been spectacular.
Special teams, and turnovers...
…is what I think this game will come down to. Our kicker, Suishim, is suspect at best beyond the 35, our best gunner(s) on ST are out. If Denver can force TOs, or make us rely on field goals to score points, we’re in big trouble.
I think our Defense will do its job, but if it doesn’t score points itself, could be a long day.
United we Stand, melded like Steel
To Roger Goodell, We'll never Yield.
It’s Denver, Sushi’s range goes up to 38 there
This is the problem with the Flacco hate, people don’t really know who he is as a person. - Mr. Malor. Crazy Raven fan/possible stalker.
It smells like seven layers....that beaver eats Taco Bell.
According to Dr. Spaceman...
…maybe make it 40.
United we Stand, melded like Steel
To Roger Goodell, We'll never Yield.
The thin air makes you kick further. It doesn’t make you any more accurate. Swish’s problem is not the power of his kicks, it’s that he doesn’t understand how to put it through the uprights.
"It’s easy to lie with statistics, but it’s easier to lie without them." -Fred Mosteller
Follow me on Twitter
by John Stephens on Jan 4, 2012 8:25 AM EST up reply actions
Which is exactly why I kept his range relative to his ability. That was kind of my point.
Obviously..I’m not good with the sarcasm/tongue in cheek/ “cleverness”
This is the problem with the Flacco hate, people don’t really know who he is as a person. - Mr. Malor. Crazy Raven fan/possible stalker.
It smells like seven layers....that beaver eats Taco Bell.
I agree that those are potential problems
But Tebow acquired his current reputation for two reasons:
1) A massive media hype campaign, and
2) Teams playing the Broncos in November didn’t score enough points against a good defense, and let the Broncos hang around too long, and then lost in the 4th quarter in part because they fell victim to the erroneous belief that Tebow was anything other than a below-average QB.
I don’t see Pittsburgh doing that, and this defense, while well-ranked, hasn’t had a super-dominant performance in awhile; I suspect this Sunday, they will do that. Hit on all cylinders, hit EVERYTHING in a Denver uni, and play takeaway from Tim. It won’t be a high-scoring game, but I see Denver having to settle primarily for field goals.
"Football combines the two worst things about America: It is violence punctuated by committee meetings" -George Will
by lottwasgangsta on Jan 4, 2012 3:02 AM EST up reply actions
That's foolish
Sorry, but I’d rather respect Tebow and win than blow him off as incapable and go home for good. To suggest that teams lost to Tebow because they OVERestimated him is ridiculous. And the “media hype” that I tuned in to was declaring him awful most of the time, even when he won. You make absolutely no sense whatsoever.
You’re also forgetting that how fans feel is irrelevant. It’s how the team plays. I could say he’s going to go 1-14 for 3 yards and 8 interceptions…wouldn’t change a thing.
However, the media members you saw that said he was awful, that’s what’s known as the “other side” They came on a little later than the media hype campaign (by about 4 years)
This is the problem with the Flacco hate, people don’t really know who he is as a person. - Mr. Malor. Crazy Raven fan/possible stalker.
It smells like seven layers....that beaver eats Taco Bell.
Not the case dude
I’m not in any way suggesting my feelings have anything to do with it. I’m responding to the moronic comment that teams lost to him by overestimating him. That’s stupid. The teams that prepared more did better. And “the other side” is just as blind and ignorant as the people who sung or still sing his praises regardless of his peformance. I’ve witnessed no one as truly objective.
Well, I can’t say it’s a moronic comment. I mean…look what’s happened since he’s been figured out. People did overestimate him. They played scared…it cost them. The Pats, Chiefs, and Bills didn’t do that. They figured him out. They “estimated” him properly. The Jets overestimated him, they pretended he could throw…he ran a long run in to win the game. At first, teams weren’t able to prepare, because they didn’t know what they were up against. Now they do…things have changed…(Rick Mirer esque..if you will)
The same principle holds for Brady. He gets away with a lot, because teams give him too much respect (not always, but it happens a lot)
As far as you not witnessing an objective person on Tebow…I’m sorry.
The reality is, he’s been hyped as the second coming since his first year starting at Florida. Some reject that, some embrace it and try to ride it out… Both sides are identical, but there aren’t that many on this blog I could say fit in to either category. However, that’s just my opinion.
This is the problem with the Flacco hate, people don’t really know who he is as a person. - Mr. Malor. Crazy Raven fan/possible stalker.
It smells like seven layers....that beaver eats Taco Bell.
by FrankWyt on Jan 4, 2012 7:41 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Get some nuts ready for your black squirrell...
…we’ve got to protect whatever mojo we have left, since the Steelers are the NFL’s version of the Walking Dead.
United we Stand, melded like Steel
To Roger Goodell, We'll never Yield.
lol…
Not sure if it’s the same one, because there are tons of squirrel’s around here (not as many black as there are grey and brown) but…about half hour before kickoff Sunday, the same thing happened. Came up to my window (right behind my monitor), poked his head around..stared at me…looked at each corner of the window, then took off..
This is the problem with the Flacco hate, people don’t really know who he is as a person. - Mr. Malor. Crazy Raven fan/possible stalker.
It smells like seven layers....that beaver eats Taco Bell.
Kill the brown squirrell (its from Cleveland)...
…ignore the grey one (if it can’t pick a team color, its too wishy washy to merit attention)…
…feed and honor the black one, for in its way, its showing Steeler Nation colors.
United we Stand, melded like Steel
To Roger Goodell, We'll never Yield.
lol…brown or grey have never came up to the window. It’s always black… So I haven’t had to deal with them.
All I was trying to say was…while I’m not sure it’s the same one..it’s way more likely that it is…because there are a lot less black ones around here.
Trust me…when it comes to brown..my instinct is to flush…but if it’s an animal, and I want to be humane…I just ignore it..
This is the problem with the Flacco hate, people don’t really know who he is as a person. - Mr. Malor. Crazy Raven fan/possible stalker.
It smells like seven layers....that beaver eats Taco Bell.
Ok, read "kill" as...
…ignore with the same pity you show DBN posters; remember, they too are rabid.
United we Stand, melded like Steel
To Roger Goodell, We'll never Yield.
we only have grey here in NC
take that anyway you wish
I love the Steelers.
by tannofsteel84 on Jan 4, 2012 10:34 AM EST up reply actions
actually in Brevard, NC
they have the rare white squirrels. They can’t jump, of course.
"I respect everyone on the football field. But some people I don't like. And some people I dislike even more." - James Harrison
by steely mcballs on Jan 4, 2012 5:25 PM EST up reply actions
Very true
It’s amazing how often people, whether commentators or players, talk like it would be preferable to just retire before playing the Patriots rather than face the humiliation of trying to stand before Brady’s god-like radiance.
People need to re-watch the clip of Brady falling on his butt trying to get away from a Dolphins pass rush, throwing a pass from said position, and getting intercepted. Then they should remind themselves that Brady is a good QB who is lucky to play in a terrific system, and that he gets dirty when you drive him into the turf just like everyone else (although you will get fined for it, in his case).
The Steelers MO
If there’s anyone that’s guilty of letting teams hang around it’s the Steelers. The 27-0 win over STL was a definite rarity. Hopefully, the playoff intensity will inspire a little bit more of a killer instinct this week.
I don't know about this game.
I just have visions of all the crappy QBs that have looked decent playing the Steelers recently. I don’t know.
"It was an attrition football game and you know we like that."
Franco Harris:
"If I had to choose today between the moral integrity and character of Joe Paterno and the politicians and commentators criticizing him, I would pick Joe Paterno, hands down, no contest every time."
Trust our D big homie
They can win this game for us even if the Offense slips, which I bet you they won’t.
"Hey number 16! I'm coming to kill you and there ain't nothing he can do about it!" -James Harrison to Matt Cassel on his LT during the 08' beating of the Pats.
by SoCalSteelerFan on Jan 3, 2012 7:06 PM EST up reply actions
Yeah normally I do.
When Harrison and Woodley were both starting I was always confident.
"It was an attrition football game and you know we like that."
Franco Harris:
"If I had to choose today between the moral integrity and character of Joe Paterno and the politicians and commentators criticizing him, I would pick Joe Paterno, hands down, no contest every time."
Then you should feel confident since they’re both starting.
"Hey number 16! I'm coming to kill you and there ain't nothing he can do about it!" -James Harrison to Matt Cassel on his LT during the 08' beating of the Pats.
by SoCalSteelerFan on Jan 3, 2012 10:41 PM EST via Android app up reply actions
Indeed
Let’s hope Woodley is healthy, explosive, and ready to resume the playoff dominance he displayed during the ‘08-’09 campaign.
I’m nervous about Sunday, but would not be shocked to see the defense rise up, deliver an absolute beatdown on Denver, and expose Tebow for being primarily hype.
"Football combines the two worst things about America: It is violence punctuated by committee meetings" -George Will
by lottwasgangsta on Jan 4, 2012 3:05 AM EST up reply actions
I wouldn't mind
Resting Woodley another week. We shouldn’t need him against Denver, and he won’t be at 100% anyway. We will need him at or near 100% against Baltimore and New England, though.
unfortunately
Woodley probably won’t be at or near 100% until next season. That’s just how it is with a hammie.
"I respect everyone on the football field. But some people I don't like. And some people I dislike even more." - James Harrison
by steely mcballs on Jan 4, 2012 5:26 PM EST up reply actions
How does one define 'decent'?
Seneca Wallace 42.4
Kellen Clemens 49.1
Alex Smith 86.4
Colt McCoy 46.0
Andy Dalton 77.6
Tyler Palko 40.9
Andy Dalton 61.8
Those are the last 7 QBs we’ve played and their passer ratings when they played us…what’s the definition of “decent.”
Now don’t get me wrong, I get as nervous as anybody come playoff time. I can’t even watch games in public – gotta be home, with just family, and you know the rest of the superstitions.
But this defense is stout – despite the lack of turnovers, to still lead the league in points allowed and yardage is a feat in and of itself. (On that train of thought, how come a 3-and-out isn’t considered a turnover?)
I’m actually more worried about the offense. But even then, Denver was 20th in yards allowed, 24th in scoring, 22nd in rushing yards allowed and 18th in passing.
I just wish the game would hurry up and get here…
"I believe the game is designed to reward the ones who hit the hardest. If you can't take it, you shouldn't play." Jack Lambert.
"Now that I'm here, I don't want to just be here, I want to be here for a long time." Hines Ward, 1998 4th round draft pick.
"Chuck Noll is building one hell of a football team up in Pittsburgh. I look for the Steelers to be the team of the future. Just remember I said that."
- - - Immortal Packers coach Vince Lombardi in 1970, two years before the Steelers even made the playoffs under Noll
by HtownSteelerFan on Jan 3, 2012 10:13 PM EST up reply actions 2 recs
Good post
Pittsburgh Steelers fan - nuff said.
Miami Hurricanes fan - nuff said.
Georgetown Hoyas fan - nuff said.
Cleveland Cavaliers fan - um yeah, about that...
by StoneColdSteel on Jan 3, 2012 11:50 PM EST up reply actions
yeah I guess looks are deceiving
I couldn’t come up with any examples. Maybe that’s why.
"It was an attrition football game and you know we like that."
Franco Harris:
"If I had to choose today between the moral integrity and character of Joe Paterno and the politicians and commentators criticizing him, I would pick Joe Paterno, hands down, no contest every time."
Injuries will play a part
Keenan Lewis, Cortez Allen and Ryan Clark being out or hobbled make us a completely different secondary than the one that is best in the league. I’m not nervous about this game, but it won’t be as slam dunk as it should or could be. Tebow was/is not just hype. If Seneca Wallace can run for 40+ yards on a single play-and we knew he would/could do it- Tebow will take that same play and score.
right…just like one guy caught a ball against his helmet with a great defensive player trying to pry it away on the way to the ground, it obviously means it is going to happen again and again…right?
This is the problem with the Flacco hate, people don’t really know who he is as a person. - Mr. Malor. Crazy Raven fan/possible stalker.
It smells like seven layers....that beaver eats Taco Bell.
Not the same thing
A quarterback gaining big yardage in an open field doesn’t have the same variables as catching a ball in gusty winds. The catch is amazing effort, the run is a defensive error. Mobile quarterbacks have ganed first downs often against us this season. I’m making the point that without our best tackler, a qb as strong as Tebow is going to break more tackles and make longer plays than most of who we’ve played. If we make the same errors with backups in that we made with starters…the results will be even more difficult to overcome.
I disagree. They are the same thing. Anomalies that happened by chance ( I was referring to Tyree’s catch in the SB by the way). That run happened on a 3rd and short play in a game where the other team showed no interest in running with the QB…that happens. Tebow can run, he’s not fast like Seneca…he also can’t throw like Seneca…it’s easy to zero in on Tebows lone ability. While Clark has the most tackles, I wouldn’t necessarily call him the best tackler. He’s awesome…but our best tackler was forced to play a position that didn’t afford him his usual amount of tackles.
“strong” people get torpedoed by Troy anyway…
This is the problem with the Flacco hate, people don’t really know who he is as a person. - Mr. Malor. Crazy Raven fan/possible stalker.
It smells like seven layers....that beaver eats Taco Bell.
You may be right
I agree with most of what you say, and I believe it should play out with the Steelers isolating him. But I believe Tebow is a better running qb than Wallace, if for no other reason than he’s more practiced at doing so. My point is that if they make an error like they did the other day, it will do them more harm than a field goal. There’s also the offensive line and the receivers in Denver that, I believe, are better than Clevelands. Pound for pound, I believe the same effort turned in in Cleveland will be a loss in Denver…and the new slate of injuries plays into the potential danger.
I can see that, he may break off a big one once. I just highly doubt that it would happen when they are going in to the game knowing he can’t do much besides run. Like I said, with Wallace, they knew he could run, but the whole game, he wasn’t showing an interest in running. It caught em off guard on a third and short…it happens.
As far as who’s a better runner between the two…. one is a backup filling in, one is a backup who gets to start…Yes, Tebow is more practiced…but Wallace has been a running QB since Iowa State.
As far as Denvers O line…They just lost their best man, and have another that is beat up.
Receivers…hard to argue…both of the team’s receivers suck (though, on paper, Cleveland’s should be better)
I personally think there is little difference between Denver and Cleveland as teams. (other than division they play in, and the fact that one of those two has a fan base full of pathetic, miserable, a-holes)
But..I agree, they will have to play better in the playoffs, but judging the future by the Cleveland game, to me, isn’t right
This is the problem with the Flacco hate, people don’t really know who he is as a person. - Mr. Malor. Crazy Raven fan/possible stalker.
It smells like seven layers....that beaver eats Taco Bell.
I think of it this way
At the beginning of the year we thought that we were stuck with BMac as the starter and a hope that Lewis would step up. We have seen BMac plummet to the very bottom of the depth chart not due to any difference in his play, but young guys playing better.
Also, there is an article by football outsiders that indicates that Tebow has actually been one of the most inefficient quarterbacks in the league running the ball. Perhaps that is due to the volume of carries he has as well as the fumbles, but they also showed that Cam Newton had a similar volume but fared much better. It is an interesting article that has gotten Bronco fans riled up.
Possibly true
Except that Tebow is more of a power runner and less of a home run threat. Also consider, that if we picked off Wallace once, we should pick off Tebow thrice.
I think we win but not a blow out
more like a 16-10 type game. As in most games, close to the end
That was a serious head-scratcher
" 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 3, 2012 7:25 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
seattle
has one of NFL’s best home field advantages. Denver? Historically a good HF advantage, but this year just 3-5. I dunno, I hate to sound overconfident (not that it matters), but I just see no way Denver wins this game unless Pittsburgh lays a GIANT egg.
Contact me at behindthesteelcurtain@gmail.com or michaelbean06@gmail.com with comments, suggestions, complaints, etc. Find BTSC on Twitter. Follow BTSC on Facebook for regularly updated content and commentary.
Speaking of forecasts
Are you now willing to concede that you were mistaken about the 49ers? Cause I agree with you entirely about the Broncos, but I seem to recall you insisting, prior to Dec. 19th, that the Niners were not for real.
Thoughts on them now?
Go Steelers.
"Football combines the two worst things about America: It is violence punctuated by committee meetings" -George Will
by lottwasgangsta on Jan 4, 2012 3:15 AM EST up reply actions
Are you serious??
Okay- injure Alex Smith’s leg br dropping and then twisting 300 lbs on it…have him fly across the country and play us on Monday night…delay the game- at two separate times…I’d say SF doesn’t score at all and we score a whole lot more than 20 points. Give me a break. They will be shredded by NO or GB…Even the Giants will beat them.
Not to get between you two...
…but….SF does have a good defense, made even better by an awesome punter.
Their lack of ability to score however, will be their downfall. I don’t see any playoff team going against them scoring over 27, which will still be enough to beat them; I don’t see them scoring that much against anybody.
United we Stand, melded like Steel
To Roger Goodell, We'll never Yield.
Perhaps
But, I think we have a chance to surprise some people, especially in the divisional round at home.
Andy Lee is a phenomenal punter; he pinned the Rams at the 8 on a 55 yard punt on Sunday, then had it called back. On the re-kick, he pinned them at the three.
The other reason I give the Niners a chance is, as you mentioned, their defense is stout. We have also been good with the turnovers, and if we can play takeaway with GB/NO, run the ball, and eat the clock, we can perhaps score enough points to win when the buzzer goes off.
If we were playing the Saints in NO, I’d cover my eyes. As it’s in San Fran, I’m optimistic.
"Football combines the two worst things about America: It is violence punctuated by committee meetings" -George Will
by lottwasgangsta on Jan 4, 2012 5:19 PM EST up reply actions
as much as I want to give you shit for using a punter as a reason the 9ers can go somewhere….I can’t…His contribution is ridiculous.
This is the problem with the Flacco hate, people don’t really know who he is as a person. - Mr. Malor. Crazy Raven fan/possible stalker.
It smells like seven layers....that beaver eats Taco Bell.
If feels weird to be talking about our punter
But yeah, he’s that ridiculously good. 49ers have had the NFL’s best starting field position, and team’s playing us have had THE worst starting field position all season.
Looked at realistically, there are probably 2-3 close games that we won that, without Lee, we probably would have lost.
"Football combines the two worst things about America: It is violence punctuated by committee meetings" -George Will
by lottwasgangsta on Jan 4, 2012 5:44 PM EST up reply actions
Vinny…lott is a good guy, he’s only referring to the fact that Michael Bean had the 9ers ranked like 10 or lower in the power rankings the week before the game.
All he’s saying is they deserve some respect.
He’s not comparing the two teams. He’s a “Steeler-in-law”
This is the problem with the Flacco hate, people don’t really know who he is as a person. - Mr. Malor. Crazy Raven fan/possible stalker.
It smells like seven layers....that beaver eats Taco Bell.
lottwasgansta is a "Steeler-in-law"...I like that.
…he’s a good guy, honest in his allegiances, knowledgable in football, good poaster. His only draw back is his bi-polarism as it pertains to picking a football team, but hey, every family has one.
United we Stand, melded like Steel
To Roger Goodell, We'll never Yield.
Hey, I gotta admit…If I had a wife/serious girlfriend that loved a team..I’d probably be the same way. Obviously, there are some exceptions to that….you can probably imagine what they are.
This is the problem with the Flacco hate, people don’t really know who he is as a person. - Mr. Malor. Crazy Raven fan/possible stalker.
It smells like seven layers....that beaver eats Taco Bell.
All right...
I get it. Sorry. Sorry, lott. I guess I’m still burned about the SF game. It seemed everything literally imaginable that could go against the Steelers, did..and now we hobble in to the playoffs and any win beyond this week would be miraculous…ugh. Again, my apologies.
And Vinny, I def agree
It WAS the perfect storm of a bad situation. Don’t worry, I am still rooting for the Steelers all the way through the AFC, and REALLY hoping they crush the Denver Tebows.
I was, as mentioned above, just trying to give Bean a bit of a hard time for his previous rankings.
"Football combines the two worst things about America: It is violence punctuated by committee meetings" -George Will
by lottwasgangsta on Jan 4, 2012 12:43 PM EST up reply actions
And apology of course accepted;
not necessary, but appreciated.
"Football combines the two worst things about America: It is violence punctuated by committee meetings" -George Will
by lottwasgangsta on Jan 4, 2012 5:20 PM EST up reply actions
Having just gone through the holidays
Yup, every family has at LEAST one.
"Football combines the two worst things about America: It is violence punctuated by committee meetings" -George Will
by lottwasgangsta on Jan 4, 2012 12:44 PM EST up reply actions
Best phrase ever!
Nicely done.
"Football combines the two worst things about America: It is violence punctuated by committee meetings" -George Will
by lottwasgangsta on Jan 4, 2012 12:42 PM EST up reply actions
David vs Goliath
It didn’t end well for Goliath despite his apparent superiority.
What nobody has mentioned this week? The Broncos defense only allowed 7 points against the Chiefs and shut them out for over three quarters.
And Pittsburgh in its last 3 games that Rothlisberger has played has only scored 30 points on offense, averaging 10 points and two of those games were played against the pathetic Browns.
Ben’s passer rating in those 3 games: 76.4
Then to boot Mendenhall and Clark are both out.
Think again.
ha
What nobody has mentioned this week? The Broncos defense only allowed 7 points against the Chiefs and shut them out for over three quarters.
Is that supposed to be an accomplishment? Chiefs went like 3 plus games without scoring a touchdown this year. Just an awful offensive football team. If that’s your evidence for being scared, I’d say relax, thats not much.
Contact me at behindthesteelcurtain@gmail.com or michaelbean06@gmail.com with comments, suggestions, complaints, etc. Find BTSC on Twitter. Follow BTSC on Facebook for regularly updated content and commentary.
& Happy B-Day
let’s hope it’s a good omen for this Sunday
" 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
:)
thanks!
Contact me at behindthesteelcurtain@gmail.com or michaelbean06@gmail.com with comments, suggestions, complaints, etc. Find BTSC on Twitter. Follow BTSC on Facebook for regularly updated content and commentary.
I can't see this being remotely close
I like that Woodley and Legursky are back and I’m glad that we have our whole stable of receivers ready to go. . .I don’t know what is greater, the points the chiefs had scored against the Broncos this weekend or the number of qb’s the chiefs have started this season??
I agree it won't be a cakewalk
but i just don’t think Tebow and Co. have it in them to win it. I expect a close one
If you believe
that teams like the Pats, saints, and packers make TP the most vanilla by spreading him out. . .then this game is a complete 180 degrees from that. . .I’m looking for TP to have the game of his life. . .this could be a game where he walks with his back to the line of scrimmage before the snap only to turn and stop Tebow for a 3 yard loss on a crazy blitz! I don’t think this game will be remotely close!
The games against Indy, KC and cleveland disagree
I think the steelers win it, but their play on the road this year has me convinced it will be a close game.
Good point
An inexperienced, inaccurate QB like Tebow is tailor made for Troy to make a big play off of. Unfortunately, he’s also tailor made to give Troy a concussion. I’ll be hoping Troy’s biggest hits come against McGahee (probably the happiest guy in the world that Ryan Clark won’t be playing!).
If the Steelers had that legendary run defense
that they’ve had in years past, especially 2010, Denver would have no shot at all. Last year’s run defense was one of the all time great defenses against the run. The only way Steelers lose is if the Broncos establish a run game and push the Steelers around on offense, and their pass rush with Dumervil and Miller terrorizes Ben on defense. I think those two things should be the primary concerns for the Steelers heading into Denver.
I think the Steelers should just load the box and keep the human missile that is Troy Polamalu lurking close to the line on D, where he truly is a dominant force against the run. And keep an extra TE or two in the backfield to protect Ben. And they should have no problem with Denver IMO. If I was Tomlin I might even think about having Polamalu spy Tebow and make it his responsibility to keep Tebow from gaining yards on the ground. I would love to see Tebow try and take off, only to have Troy rocket boost into him and lay him out 5 yards behind the LOS.
Worried About Denver's Pass Rush
The only way Denver is competitive in this game is if their defense comes up big … and I think that is very possible. I don’t know how we’re going to contain Miller … he reminds me of Tamba Hali.
grain of salt
definitely good point
One good way for them to hang tough is for Dumervil and/or Miller to have big games. A strip sack or two, a la what happened in Indy, could make things interesting. that’s about only matchup advantage they have.
Contact me at behindthesteelcurtain@gmail.com or michaelbean06@gmail.com with comments, suggestions, complaints, etc. Find BTSC on Twitter. Follow BTSC on Facebook for regularly updated content and commentary.
My thoughts exactly. Dumervil and Miller are my biggest concerns in the game. Excellent point about the game in Indy where they were able to provide pressure throughout the game. If Denver has any chance it will be because of those two guys. Hopefully Starks will have a big game and protect Ben.
Proud fan of Pittsburgh's professional sports teams and the Pirates too.
by Black&GoldTrain on Jan 3, 2012 11:31 PM EST up reply actions
I completely agree. My biggest concerns heading into the game are containing Dumervil and Miller. They are outstanding pass rushers and with Ben’s bum ankle it’s going to be huge to keep them away from generating any pass rush. Good point about the Indy game because that’s how Indy was able to stay in the game. Starks needs to have a big game.
Proud fan of Pittsburgh's professional sports teams and the Pirates too.
by Black&GoldTrain on Jan 3, 2012 11:36 PM EST up reply actions
Dumervil has hurt us before
I’m not too worried about Miller, though. He’s been almost a non-factor since he was injured against SD. Whether it’s the huge cast, or the drop-off a lot of rookies experience at the end of their first long NFL season, he shouldn’t be too big a problem.
Mostly the offense just needs to execute and avoid dumb mistakes. I don’t see the Denver pass rush being able to be that disruptive unless the passing game is already out of sync.
Denver sports talk radio
They are treating Tim Tebow as public enemy #1. Imagine if the Broncos had not made the playoffs.
I don’t think even Ben was treated so shabbily as Tebow is now because of his “personal indiscretions.”
Steeler fans have nothing to fear from Tebow. He is now the most hated man in Colorado.
You dont know what you're talking about
After his second accusation the city of Pittsburgh was split right down the middle concerning Ben’s future. People were going on radio shows talking about how bad he treated the locals and that he was a bad person.
Hows about everyone stop talking about this dude like he is the second coming of Michael Vick?
Pittsburgh Steelers fan - nuff said.
Miami Hurricanes fan - nuff said.
Georgetown Hoyas fan - nuff said.
Cleveland Cavaliers fan - um yeah, about that...
by StoneColdSteel on Jan 3, 2012 8:53 PM EST up reply actions
This is gonna be a tough game
No Mendy, no Clark, maybe no Woodley, plus two more defensive backs injured on Sunday, and Big Ben is still gimpy. Plus, Denver has a kicking game. I think the Steelers will win but it will be as close as the Cleveland game
Tar and feather time
There is talk now of replacing Tebow with Brady Quinn.
Boy Steeler fans, are you now quaking in your boots?
You should destroy the Broncos 99-0. Everybody in Denver is so negative. Are the Broncos attempting to throw the game? Perhaps they will forfeit before the game is played.
The Broncos are absolutely the worst team in the NFL.
At least if you listen to the Broncos fans on talk radio you would think that.
Um, sorry
Ut when does talk radio actually have an impact on the score?
by johannessmythe on Jan 3, 2012 9:42 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
Kyle Orton is solid
And I don’t get replacing him with Tebow.
However, if there is one thing EVERYONE in both Denver and elsewhere should be able to agree upon, it’s that Brady Quinn is REALLY lousy.
Tebow is large, and physical, and plays the game hard. I do not, however, see him being able to run over, through, or around most of Pittsburgh’s front 7. Except Farrior. That guy is slow.
"Football combines the two worst things about America: It is violence punctuated by committee meetings" -George Will
by lottwasgangsta on Jan 4, 2012 3:11 AM EST up reply actions
Funny
That NE hasn’t beaten a team with a winning record(thanks podcast!). I hope BB has a monster game. If ever here was a time to get back to form this is the game and time. Then I hope we Goto Krafts house of sundries and bury the Pats and take that awful D to the Woodhead. I mean Woodshed.
"My baby...my mechanical masterpiece. So nearly complete. So nearly perfect. If I only had a living brain."--Evil Scientist, Looney Toones, circa 1952
"Well you're better than any player I ever had. And you're the best God damn hitter I ever saw. Suit up."--Pop Fisher, THE NATURAL
by SaratogaSteelerFan on Jan 3, 2012 10:08 PM EST via mobile reply actions
Reason
NY Jets: 8-8 (twice)
Broncos: 8-8
Chargers 8-8
Raiders: 8-8
Cowboys 8-8
Eagles 8-8
I would be willing to bet in the history of the Patriots that they never again win 7 games over opponents who all finished at 8-8. It’s an anomaly.
NE
I think the problem with that logic that NE did not beat any winning teams is that at least one of the losses for each of those opponents is due to the NE game. If you take that out, NE beat 6 teams with a winning record against other opponents.
very true
good point
I love the Steelers.
by tannofsteel84 on Jan 4, 2012 2:02 PM EST up reply actions
No rematch this time.
Too bad Clark won’t be able to get reacqauinted with McGahee like he did in the AFC Championship game.
Proud fan of Pittsburgh's professional sports teams and the Pirates too.
by Black&GoldTrain on Jan 3, 2012 11:39 PM EST reply actions
pumped
just got a ticket, gonna be at the game rockin the black and gold big time :) If any other BTSC types are gonna be there, let me know, maybe we could do a meetup before-hand…
"You know how football is - if your mother's on the other team and you're coming out to play football, you're gonna hit momma" --L.C. Greenwood
Make sure the Terrible Towel is waved proudly, and often...
…and shout out HERE WE GO STEELERS, HERE WE GO for me. Wish I could be there.
United we Stand, melded like Steel
To Roger Goodell, We'll never Yield.
you got it :)
"You know how football is - if your mother's on the other team and you're coming out to play football, you're gonna hit momma" --L.C. Greenwood
I'm so proud of you honey : )
Wave that towel for me. I hope that about 40,000 of your friends will be joining you. But I’ll bet there won’t be a lot of seats for sale.
"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 4, 2012 9:26 AM EST up reply actions
actually there are a ton available on stubhub
"You know how football is - if your mother's on the other team and you're coming out to play football, you're gonna hit momma" --L.C. Greenwood
that dance...
looks much better in photos
We've got heads on sticks...
by Kid-A on Jan 4, 2012 6:59 AM EST via mobile up reply actions
I'm glad people like Michael and Dale Lolley are pretty confident about this Sunday.
I am, too, and hey, if they can’t beat Denver, they’re certainly not a Super Bowl team
Two keys for the Steelers
1) For the D: Do not lose containment on Tebow and make him pay when he runs.
2) For the O: Give Ben a game plan that doesn’t leave him open to sacks. Some of our most costly turnovers this season have occurred when Ben was hit in the backfield.
Agreed on both points.
Proud fan of Pittsburgh's professional sports teams and the Pirates too.
by Black&GoldTrain on Jan 5, 2012 12:40 AM EST up reply actions
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