Behind the Steel Curtain: FanPosts

Knowing when to pull the trigger

2009-11-06T22:30:30Z

The Patriots have just announced they have released veteran offensive lineman Kendall Simmons. Simmons, 30, was signed by the Patriots on Sept. 6, and was active for just one game, Sept. 18 against Tennessee. The 6-foot-3, 315-pound Simmons was selected in the second round of the 2002 draft by Pittsburgh, but was released by the Steelers in the offseason before he joined New England

This makes the Steelers' decision to dump Simmons look even better.

Yinz Luv... Jim Shearer

2009-11-06T18:33:55Z

For those of you who have checked out my blog in the past will know I'm a big fan of the low-budget, no-budget Yinz Luv Da Stillers web show. I'm also gaining a lot of respect for Jim Shearer, the creator of the show. So much so that I wanted to write a feature story on him for the Post-Gazette (I'm an intern at the PG right now). Unfortunately, the editors there didn't show interest (because, I think, they don't get the importance of the revolution going on online). So instead, I asked him to do a Q&A session with me regarding the world of sports shows and blogging on the web.

Jim is 34 yars old, grew up in Pittsburgh, attended Shaler Area High School, and now lives with his wife in New York City. His day job is with VH1 hosting Top 20 Video Countdown. He started Yinz Luv 'Da Guins during the 2008 playoffs and had so much fun doing it, he started Yinz Luv 'Da Stillers when their season kicked off later in the year. He has been working in television since 2001 when he started with MTV, and his dream is to come back to Pittsburgh if he had the opportunity to do a show here.

I got hooked on YLDS when I was in Iraq and couldn't catch all the games because of the time difference. So, onto the Q&A:

Q: Most journalistic reporters are not allowed to be "fans" of the team they cover. Your web show allows you the freedom to also be a fan. How would YLDS be different if you had to remain "objective"?

A: I don't think YLDS could exist if I had to remain objective. The easiest thing about doing YLDS every week is that there is always a good guy and a bad guy, a protagonist and an antagonist. The story curve is already written for me. The show takes a Pittsburgh fan's perspective, instead of an x's and o's approach, and as a Pittsburgh fan I can only be so objective to the opposing team.

Q: You’ve already done a two-part episode interview with Jack Ham for your show. What has that interview taught you about the direction of your show? Are there any other ambitions or projects you would like to take on?

A: I would love to interview more Steelers and people associated with the team (beat writers, training staff, ex-Steelers, dedicated fans, etc.), but living in New York makes that very difficult. If I could ever find my way back to Pittsburgh, you'd find more episodes like the one with Jack Ham--instead of me just sitting in my bedroom all the time. As for ambitions, my main is goal to to eventually find some type of media work in Pittsburgh; the reason I started the series in the first place.

Q: What motivated you to record and put together this weekly web-show in the first place?

A: Oops, looks like I already answered this question. After my contract ended with MTV I began looking for work in Pittsburgh. The consensus was I didn't have enough on-air sports experience (although I had interviewed a slew of athletes and worked on many a sports show while at MTV). I started the Yinz Luv series to create a make-shift sports reel and to gain the sports experience that I apparently lacked for the Pittsburgh market.

Q: You also have a career on actual television and experience with both VH1 and MTV. How is the production of YLDS different from your television work?

A: Instead of working with a team of many people, it's just me. Also, the equipment I use isn't nearly as expensive as the stuff we use on VH1. My eight years of professional production experience has helped me out a ton though. Conversely, Yinz Luv has helped me on the professional side of things. Since YLDS doesn't have a budget for a teleprompter (obviously), I'll memorize the script in my head, a technique that has helped me out on many a VH1 Top 20 shoot.

Q: If somebody approached you and said, we want to pay you and take YLDS to television, and they offered you a half-hour weekly show, what would you do to make the show fill that half hour?

A: Oooh, that would be the dream. Believe it or not, content-wise it might be easier to do a 22-minute show (can't forget about those commercials) than a 10-minute YouTube show. There's a lot of stuff I end up cutting out for time constraints. With highlights, the gratuitous comedy skit, analysis, the occasional song parody, and interviews, I'd have no problem piecing together an awesome half-hour weekly show.

More Q&A with Jim Shearer here.

Look for Woodley to Emerge

2009-11-06T14:32:36Z

It's been a quiet season so far for Lamarr Woodley, who had a stellar year right up through the Super Bowl. He's eleventh on the team in tackles so far, and he only has two sacks (down a bit from last year's 17.5 pace).

But the next two weeks should be good ones for Lamarr. Second year Broncos tackle Tyler Polumbus is expected to make his first NFL start Monday night opposite Woodley. And the following week, in Pittsburgh, Flab-tacular rookie Andre Smith is expected to be in the right tackle rotation for Cincy. In fact, Smith's first NFL action, as a rookie, will be against the Ravens and Steelers. Uh oh..

Woodley will have every opportunity to dominate the next two weekends. I believe he'll be adding his name to the list of superstar linebackers in Pittsburgh over the next few years.

Biggest Concerns - Denver Broncos

2009-11-06T14:02:08Z

Just wanted to post something real quick.

Eddie Royal concerns me though. He will probably be matched up against William Gay, who has been very solid but I think a speedy guy like Royal can take advantage of Gay's lack of speed. I'm sure they will try to match Royal up against Gay and if he has help make sure Tyrone Carter, who also lacks great speed, is backing Gay up. Post-Gazette is reporting that Clark will sit out of this game - and thats for the best. I'd rather lose him for a game than for the season again and wouldn't want him to risk his life. If Royal gets a couple of big catches then I wouldn't be surprised. Also in the return game, Royal is dangerous. Good news for steelers fans though, Anthony Frazier - the steelers 2nd leading special teams tackler- will return this game. He sat out the last two games with a bruised thigh. The same two games where the steelers gave up a TD returns on kickoffs.

What helps the steelers out a lot is that Kyle Orton isn't a great deep ball thrower. Because of this ,denver is a 'play it safe' team that will let you beat yourself and not make mistakes. The dink and dunk method which offenses use against us will be in full play this monday. This method which you all know is full of short passes, slants, curls, short post, 10 or 5 yard outs, and screens. Because of the way our defense is schemed this is the most efficient way to move the ball down the field. The problem is it takes a lot of consistency and focus for everyone to stay on the same page. Usually the our defense is good enough to stop the offense at some point. Although we've been slacking on our 3rd Down defense, the Defense have stepped up these past four games.

We've (the steelers, not us) had two weeks to prepare for this game. Two weeks to get the perfect offense against denvers - mediocre defense. I say mediocre because well they have played against Cleveland, Oak, Cincy, SD. While the later two offenses are good now, cincy hadn't started clicking at week 1, and SD well no one can figure them out. The Pats were in a funk and Dallas had turnovers which is what Romo does so well. I dare say that is the best part of his game. Especially since this is the first time in his illustrious career that he has went three straight games with no turnovers. I think we have the offensive fire power to put up some decent stats and some points on this defense which is overrated imho. Baltimore's D showed us the perfect game plan to bottle up whatever offense denver had. I think we've have more than enough going in our favor for this game.

Although Denver is bruised right now from their lost against the Ratbirds, I'm not sure they have the moral to rally among themselves and perservere. Especially against an elite team coming their way. There is much to learn about teams so far this season and we will definately learn something monday night. For the steelers, we'll learn how they handled sucess, coming off a 4 game win streak, and the broncos we'll learn how they deal with losing for the first time under the new head coach. Either way you put it, my biggest concerns are trumped by my realism in that this should be another win for the black and gold if we don't turn the ball over. I say 21-10 steelers.

See "The Chief"

2009-11-06T13:05:54Z

"The Chief" is a one-man show about Art Rooney. If you also live in Pittsburgh, check out this last opportunity to see a live performance (for free), after the jump.

THE CHIEF, a one-man show about Pittsburgh Steelers owner Art Rooney, is being retired after several hit seasons of presentation at the Pittsburgh Public Theater.

A commemorative DVD, to be sold by the Pittsburgh Steelers at various venues, is being taped on November 12th at Shadyside Academy, and they are looking for audience members. Audiences will see a full production of the show and be provided with refreshments. Participants will be required to wear clothing appropriate for a night at the theater, be available to stay through the estimated 5 hours of taping, and will act as extras, filling various areas of the theater and recreating reaction shots.

There is no charge, but all audience members must be confirmed to attend. Spaces are limited, and will be filled on a first-come, first-serve basis.

To begin the confirmation process, please send an e-mail with name, phone number, and recent photograph to fourthrivercasting@yahoo.com as soon as possible. Details on time and location will be sent when registration is confirmed.

Hurry up offense

2009-11-05T15:51:27Z

Has anyone tracked the success of the hurry up offense (in scoring points) over the last 2-3 years? My memory tells me we score 80% of the time. I know a lot of us are "dorks" at breaking this down, and was curious if it had been done.

It is amazing how good Ben is in the hurry up, and it is stupid that we don't use it more. (and we can run out of it).

Just wondering.

Bengals - Turning point for a franchise

2009-11-05T14:57:33Z

The Cincinnati Bengals have two crucial weekends coming up. A franchise that has been in serious decline since Kemo von Oelhoffen rolled into Carson Palmer's leg is on the verge of laying the foundation for a strong playoff seed and redefining the disappointing Marvin Lewis Era.

The Bengals are currently 5-2, tied atop the division with Pittsburgh and one ahead of the Ravens. Just as importantly, they are 1-0 against both teams. They host the Ravens this weekend and travel to Pittsburgh next Sunday.

Two wins and they are 7-2, have a sweep of their rivals and have at Oakland, Cleveland and Detroit up next. With the schedule after that (at Minnesota, at San Diego, KC and at the NY Jets), they'd really have to screw up to blow the division, holding the tie-breakers as they would.

But lose both games, and they'd (with some luck in Denver) be two games behind the Steelers, wtih a season split, and (assuming the Ravens beat the woeful Browns next weekend) one game back of Baltimore, also with the season split.

The Bengals have not had such a critical point in a season since week 13 of 2005 when they beat the Steelers and essentially secured the division title.

Think about it: after Palmer got hurt in the wild card, the last vestige of hope for Bengals fans was three-plus quarters of desperately willing that backup QB Jon Kitna could beat the Steelers. He couldn't and Pittsburgh won the Super Bowl. After going 11-5 and winning the division, Cincy finished 8-8, 7-9 and 4-11-1, while Pittsburgh won yet another Super Bowl. The momentum of a franchise was stopped dead when Palmer went down.

I'm telling you, Bengals fans are keyed up for the next two games. They've waited for years to be important again. It's generally acknowledged that the only reason Marvin Lewis hadn't been fired was because Mike Brown is too cheap to pay him not to coach. Now, Lewis (who is a good guy) has Cincy lined up for a return to prominence. Huge two weekends for the Bengals. Hard for Steeler fans, who are accustomed to continual success, to fathom. But it's there.

Denver game: Rookie-palooza

2009-11-05T13:59:25Z

Now that Kirschke is out for the Denver game, it looks like the Steelers are down to their third-string defensive end, and it also means we're going to see a lot of two rookie defensive ends. Not that there's anything wrong with that.

Okay, Aaron Smith is out, and his backup Travis Kirschke is out. And that leaves Eason and Kiesel as the starters. But this is Denver which - as we all know - is ten miles above sea level and where there is no oxygen at all. So the Steelers plan to rotate their defensive linemen a lot to keep them fresh. Or at least to keep them from dying due to lack of oxygen.

Ziggy Hood will be the backup on one side, and our man Sunny "Sonny" Harris will be the backup on the other. I'm really intrigued by this. Ziggy's been fine so far, considering that most rookies spend their first year on the bench, studying Coach Dad's playbook.

But, as a BTSC member, I firmly believe - as we all do - that Sunny "Sonny" Harris is the Next Great Thing, and may lead us back to the Promised Land even before Isaac Redzone Redman. Monday night, we will see our two rookie defensive line draft picks bookending the Big Snack or Hokie. And with Denver likely concentrating on stopping Deebo and Woodley, we might get to see what the young pups can do.

Let's hope they play within themselves and avoid the rookie mistakes of enthusiasm. Traps and draws and reverses can kill rookies when their adrenaline is pumping. I just want to see Harris getting up and looking down over a fallen Orton....and I want to see that "after-the-sack glow" more than once.

With all the matchups everyone's talking about, I'm gonna be most interested to see how the two rooks handle themselves. We all know the 2009 draft was a good one. We may be on the verge of discovering whether it was a great one.

Good luck, rooks. I hope it's a night we long remember, and for all the right reasons.

HSS Quarterly Draft Report #2: Late edition

2009-11-05T02:00:52Z

So I'm gonna follow up on my 1st draft report, and switch the format up a bit. Please excuse my lateness, but it's been a busy few weeks.

Don't forget to look back and see how things have changed over the past 5 weeks in what I'm about to tell you. Please note that some of these profiles were done before week 9 of the college football season, and some after so there will be some variations in some stats that I will note for each player. Please note that all stat boxes are from espn.com

HSS Top 5 2010 Draft Priorities:

5. Free Safety Depth:

Watching Tyrone Carter fill in for an injured safety is a roller coaster ride. Sometimes the guy can play really well, and then there are other times when his age really shows. In addition to that, Ryan Clark's contract expires at the end of this season, but he should be the #1 priority to be resigned, and I'm confident he will get the $$$ he so rightfully deserves. Still, youth and depth is a need, and this is a decent class for free safeties.

Best Fits:

Morgan Burnett, JR, S, Georgia Tech:

Ht: 6'1" Wt: 210 DOB: January 13, 1989

via t1.gstatic.com

Defense Stats via espn.com
YEAR	TEAM	TACK	SOLO	AST	PD	SACK	FF	REC	INT	YDS	TD
2007	GT	57	37	20	0	1	0	0	3	0	0
2008	GT	93	62	31	0	0	1	0	7	95	1
2009*	GT	39	25	14	0	0	0	0	4	40	0

*Through 8 games

I like Burnett a lot. The guy's a ball hawk who shows promise in run support, but is inconsistent in the latter. Burnett has the tools and size to be a playmaker, and could fit the Steelers well as a future FS replacement. A great plus is that he can also move over and play SS if needed. Bringing him in could give us a young talent as a back up in case of injuries to Polamalu or Clark (god forbid). As of right now he projects to be a late first early second round pick, and based off of what Burnett has accomplished, I don't see too many fans having any problem.

NFL Comparison: Michael Griffin, S, Tennessee Titans

Reshad Jones, JR, FS, Georgia:

Ht: 6'2" Wt: 212 lbs DOB: February 25, 1986

via t1.gstatic.com

Defense Stats
YEAR	TEAM	TACK	SOLO	AST	PD	SACK	FF	REC	INT	YDS	TD
2007	UGA	57	40	17	0	0	0	0	2	53	0
2008	UGA	76	45	31	0	0	0	0	5	32	0
2009*	UGA	43	26	17	0	0	1	0	1	9	0

*Through 8 games

A big-hitting, smashmouth, occasionally "too rough" safety; sound familiar? Reshad Jones reminds me a lot of Ryan Clark, and even former Patriot and Charger Rodney Harrison. The guy consistently deals out punishment to receivers foolish enough to get in his path, a sure tackler in open space, and a disruptive force in the running game. What Jones lacks in the interception category, which really isn't that lacking, he makes up for in the blue-collar column. If he does declare expect him to be a late first, early second round pick.

NFL Comparison: Ryan Clark, FS, Pittsburgh Steelers

Myron Lewis, SR, FS/CB, Vanderbilt:

Ht: 6'2" Wt: 205 lbs DOB: November 24, 1987

via t3.gstatic.com

Defense Stats
YEAR	TEAM	TACK	SOLO	AST	PD	SACK	FF	REC	INT	YDS	TD
2006	VAN	4	4	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0
2007	VAN	48	33	15	0	0	2	0	1	24	0
2008	VAN	76	51	25	0	5	1	0	5	-3	0
2009*	VAN	36	22	14	0	0	0	0	3	50	0

*Through 9 games

Lewis is a ballhawk, plain and simple, but he does flash some ability to tackle as well. The stats above show he can be an effective blitzer when called upon to do so, and what they don't show is Lewis' 7 tackles for loss in 2008, a clear indication that he can make his presence known in the backfield. The biggest question with Lewis is that he's a tweener between CB and FS, and at this point, there's no clear answer as to what he'll play in the NFL. He has the size to play safety, but teams will want to see more of his ability to stop the run before they make a final judgement. Either way, he could lend a big hand at depth in the secondary, and could eventually develop into a starter. Expect his draft stock to be somewhere in the 2nd round.

NFL Comparison: Jarius Byrd, DB, Buffalo Bills

4. Strong Side Inside Linebacker/James Farrior's Future Replacement:

Not an immediate need, as Farrior has been playing exceptionally well of late. Fox provides a solid backup but there is need for youth and additional depth in case injuries get well out of hand. As they always do, the front office wizards will find some talented stud in one of the rounds.

Best fits:

Brandon Spikes, SR, ILB/MLB, Florida:

Ht: 6'3" Wt: 258 lbs DOB: September 3, 1987

via t1.gstatic.com

Defense Stats
YEAR	TEAM	TACK	SOLO	AST	PD	SACK	FF	REC	INT	YDS	TD
2006	FLA	15	9	6	0	0	0	0	0	0	0
2007	FLA	131	81	50	0	1	1	0	0	0	0
2008	FLA	87	48	39	0	2	0	0	4	93	2
2009**	FLA	32	14	18	0	3	0	0	0	0	0

**Through 7 games, has only played in 5 due to injury.

What more can I say about Spikes. The guy's a locker room leader, a shut down defender, and a perfect mold of a Steeler's Linebacker. Prototype size, an aggressive, blue-collar attitude, and an explosive play-making ability, headline Spikes' best attributes. If drafted, Spikes would be worked into the LB rotation slowly as Timmons and Woodley were but would ultimately take over for Farrior in the long term. Bottom line, I see him as a future playmaker wherever he ends up going.

>Update 11/2/09< So it looks like Spikes lost his temper this past week end and tried to "gauge out" one of Georgia's player's eyes. After speaking with his coach he claimed responsibility and will miss the first half oh his next game. This doesn't help his chances of ending up in Pittsburgh, as the Rooneys and co generally frown on that kind of behavior.

NFL Comparison: Poor-man's version of Ray Lewis, MLB, Baltimore Ravens

Rolando McClain, JR, ILB, Alabama:

Ht: 6'4" Wt: 258 DOB: July 14, 1988

via t1.gstatic.com

Defense Stats
YEAR	TEAM	TACK	SOLO	AST	PD	SACK	FF	REC	INT	YDS	TD
2007	ALA	74	36	38	0	1	0	0	2	40	0
2008	ALA	91	45	46	0	3	0	0	1	12	0
2009*	ALA	58	34	24	0	2	1	0	2	21	0

*Through 8 games

A big, hulking, linebacker who is probably even more athletic than Brandon Spikes, and plays the 3-4 defense in Bama, giving him a rare bonus over most rookies. Like Spikes, he'd be the eventual replacement for Farrior, and like Spikes, McClain brings a smashmouth, in-your-face approach to the game. There are minor questions to McClain's character, as he was involved in an on-campus fight last year at an Alabama fraternity house. It is said that some frat allegedly ran his mouth in the racial category and McClain than proceeded to punch the man in the face. What occurred afterward is a little sketchy, but the bottom line remains that there were no charges filed, and nothing has come of it to this point. Could be a good deal in the late first if he declares, but he'll likely be snapped up in the top 20 picks.

NFL Comparison: DeMeco Ryans, MLB, Houston Texans.

Joe Pawelek, SR, MLB, Baylor:

Ht: 6'2" Wt: 240 lbs DOB: December 8, 1986

via t1.gstatic.com

Defense Stats
YEAR	TEAM	TACK	SOLO	AST	PD	SACK	FF	REC	INT	YDS	TD
2006	BAY	80	38	42	0	2	0	0	1	0	0
2006	TTU	5	0	5	0	0	0	0	0	0	0
2007	BAY	101	41	60	0	2	4	0	1	17	0
2008	BAY	128	55	73	0	0	1	0	6	56	0
2009*	BAY	75	30	45	0	2	0	0	1	0	0

*Through 8 games

Joe Pawelek seems like the type of guy Dick LeBeau would love to have on the defense. What I find especially impressive is Pawelek's knack for picking passes off. Literally, Pawelek has more picks than some elite DB's. Fluke or not, looking beyond his pass coverage, it becomes apparent that Pawelek just gets to the ball carrier again and again, and again. His hard nose for the game and his natural instincts could be a deal in the second or third round, but don't be surprised if he goes higher if he turns in a big combine and pro day.

NFL Comparison: Larry Foote, LB, Detroit Lions

3. Speedy Running Back/Any Running Back:

So call me pessimistic but I'm not sold on Rashard Mendenhall yet. Guy's had some great plays and moments, but he's also pulled some brutal "D'OH" plays. Case and point this past week against the Vikings, where he seemed to think the 5 yard line was the goal line. Factor in a sometimes shaky, Mendenhall, and the likely departure of veteran, former-shell-of-himself Willie Parker, leads me to believe another RB could be in the mix in 2010. None of this means that I or the Steelers would be giving up on Mendenhall, but pairing him with another young running back and MeMo could do wonders for our ground game.

Best fits:

Jahvid Best, JR, RB, Cal:

Ht: 5'10" Wt: 195 lbs DOB: January 30, 1989

via t0.gstatic.com

Rushing Stats
YEAR	TEAM	ATT	YDS	AVG	LNG	TD	FD	FUM	LOST
2007	CAL	29	221	7.6	64	2	0	0	0
2008	CAL	194	1580	8.1	86	15	0	0	0
2009*	CAL	114	775	6.8	93	11	0	0	0

*Through 7 games

Looking at Best's numbers, it seems that Casey Hampton appearing as a model in a magazine would have a better chance at happening...oh wait. Even with Best's inhuman numbers, there are a few concerns to his game. First and foremost, can he be an every-down back in the NFL? Looking at his 195 lb frame the obvious answer is no, and for Best, this is what will drop him out of the top 15 picks next year. His elite agility, home run hitting speed, and general play-making ability will easily keep him in the first round if he chooses to declare for the 2010 draft. A combination of Best and Mendenhall complete with a Roethlisberger/Ward/Holmes/Wallace/ Miller, 5-headed monster, and we may be a top 5 offense throughout the entire year.

NFL Comparison: Chris Johnson, Tennessee Titans

Charles Scott, SR, RB, LSU:

Ht: 6'1" Wt: 234 lbs DOB: August 8, 1988

via t1.gstatic.com

Rushing Stats via espn.com
YEAR	TEAM	ATT	YDS	AVG	LNG	TD	FD	FUM	LOST
2006	LSU	46	277	6.0	38	5	0	0	0
2007	LSU	45	324	7.2	55	5	0	0	0
2008	LSU	217	1174	5.4	56	18	0	0	0
2009*	LSU	85	347	4.1	33	2	0	0	0

*Through 7 games

Charles Scott may be the most fundamentally sound running back in the upcoming class, as he does the little things, or as Coach Tomlin would put it "the details", right. He holds the ball well, he gets low in traffic and runs with great power and strength. The few weaknesses in his game are his probable 4.6 40 time, and injury history. Scott could be a steal in the 3rd or middle rounds, but I can see him as high as a 2nd rounder if he picks up his production this year.

NFL Comparison: Michael Turner, Atlanta Falcons

Toby Gerhart, SR, RB, Stanford:

Ht: 6'1" Wt: 235 DOB: March 28, 1987

via t1.gstatic.com

Rushing Stats
YEAR	TEAM	ATT	YDS	AVG	LNG	TD	FD	FUM	LOST
2006	STAN	106	375	3.5	38	0	0	0	0
2007	STAN	12	140	11.7	48	1	0	0	0
2008	STAN	210	1136	5.4	46	15	0	0	0
2009*	STAN	195	994	5.1	60	13	0	0	0

*Through 8 games

What? A white running back?? Yup, and he's no slouch either. Gerhart is a blue collar bulldozer, who is purely a power back, and makes a living off of running over people. Last year Gerhart ran for at least 100 yards in 8 of the 12 games last year highlighted by his 101 yards and a TD performance against the USC Trojans vaunted defense. This years things are shaping up to be even better, as he's already closing in on his last year's rushing yards and TD total with plenty of football left to play. Like Charles Scott, Gerhart is a guy who could be a good deal in the second round and a steal in the third.

NFL Comparison: Brandon Jacobs, RB, New York Giants

2. Nosetackle/Defensive Line Youth:

Starting off this year,Terrence Cody was my favorite prospect for the 2010 draft, and he's still high on my list. The guy is a mountain in the middle of any line, and can blow up both single and double teams to demolish a running game, and even flashes some decent pass rushing moves. However there are some high risks to his game; morbid obesity, an inconsistent motor, and durability concerns make him a very risky product to invest in. Still, taking this into consideration, he's not unlike our own stud nose tackle Casey Hampton who shares some, not all of the same problems. There is another player who is quickly shooting up my own personal list as well as multiple NFL teams' draft boards as well.

Best fits:

Cameron Heyward, JR, DL, Ohio State:

Ht: 6'6" Wt: 290 lbs DOB: May 6, 1989

via t3.gstatic.com

Defense Stats via espn.com
YEAR	TEAM	TACK	SOLO	AST	PD	SACK	FF	REC	INT	YDS	TD
2007	OSU	32	20	12	0	2	0	0	0	0	0
2008	OSU	36	13	23	0	3	0	0	0	0	0
2009	OSU	24	11	13	0	3	0	0	0	0	0

* 7 games played

The man stands at 6'6", weighing in at 290 pounds, and unlike Cody, there are no questions as to how good of a motor Heyward has. He's a big man and uses his size to overwhelm and push offensive linemen all over the field. In 7 games this year, Heyward has already racked up 3 sacks, matching his last year's total. To me, Heyward's a very similar player to Aaron Smith, who, as we know so well, is good at everything a 3-4 DE is asked to do. Previously, Heyward's draft stock for 2010 looked like a late 2nd round, early 3rd round pick. If his level of play continues, and he remains healthy, he could leave the Buckeyes in his junior year and be a late first early second round pick that would make a lot of sense for the Steelers to pursue. Keep your fingers crossed that we get him for a bargain in the second or third round.

NFL Comparison: Aaron Smith, Pittsburgh Steelers

Terrence Cody, SR, NT, Alabama:

Ht: 6'5" Wt: 354 lbs DOB: June 28, 1987-via facebook so don't take that w/o a grain of salt.

via profile.ak.fbcdn.net

Defense Stats
YEAR	TEAM	TACK	SOLO	AST	PD	SACK	FF	REC	INT	YDS	TD
2008	ALA	23	7	16	0	0	1	0	0	0	0
2009*	ALA	17	10	7	0	0	0	0	0	0	0

*Through 8 games

Ahhh, the interesting case of Terrence "Mount" Cody. An incredibly high-risk, high-reward style prospect, there are equally numerous negatives to the positives of the Big man's game. Cody is a meatball, simply put, but his presence on the Bama D-Line has been very similar to that of Casey Hampton's on our own. Alabama plays the 3-4 defense, which more often than not requires double, if not triple teaming of Cody, who can excel at holding his own against such strategies, when at times, beating them. He uses his massive frame well, so much so that it is said that he can dunk on an NBA regulation basketball hoop. But as everyone knows basketball is basketball, and football is football. For all the power and strength Cody possesses, he lack's stamina, and in some areas, general consistency. At this point in his career Cody is strictly a 2-down player, meaning that in passing situations or general 3rd downs, Cody isn't on the field. Again this is not unlike our own Nose tackle, but the major difference being, Hampton is 32 and Cody is 22. Something wrong with this picture? It's hard to ask a man over 350 pounds to give his all 60 minutes a game, but that's what Cody will have to do to succeed at the NF:L level.

NFL Comparison: Shaun Rogers, DT, Cleveland Browns

Vince Oghobaase, SR, DL, Duke:

Ht: 6'5" Wt: 305 lbs DOB: January 24, 1987

via t0.gstatic.com

Defense Stats
YEAR	TEAM	TACK	SOLO	AST	PD	SACK	FF	REC	INT	YDS	TD
2006	DUKE	26	9	17	0	1	0	0	0	0	0
2007	DUKE	49	20	29	0	4	0	0	0	0	0
2008	DUKE	51	20	31	0	6	0	0	0		0
2009**	DUKE	23	11	12	0	1	0	0	0	0	0

**Through 8 games. Sat out 4 due to Injury

A big, strong, defensive lineman, who has similar tools to reigning first round pick, Ziggy Hood. Projecting as a 3-4 defensive end, or a 4-3 defensive tackle, Oghobaase flashes potential as an impact defender for both schemes. His biggest test will be how well he can control his height, or in other words, how he can play with leverage. If Oghobaase can back up his good numbers with equally solid combine numbers, he could be a high second round pick. If he underwhelms he could slip into the late second or even third round, where he could be a bargain.

NFL Comparison: Ziggy Hood, DL, Pittsburgh Steelers

1. Offensive Line:

So what could you name as the surprise of the Steeler's 2009 season thus far? The Steelers being a passing team, the fast start of rookie Mike Wallace, or how bout the offensive line playing some pretty damn solid football. Don't get me wrong this unit is nowhere near the elite, O-lines in the NFL, but they are light years better than they were a season ago. Maybe it's the new offensive scheme, maybe it's the new offensive weapons, and maybe it''s just the whole "experience leads to better play" theory coming to fruition, but they are looking more and more like they are on the same page. That being said, it'd be foolish to say this line doesn't need some kind of anchor, which they're lacking at this point. Bear with me on some of the comparisons as it's a little harder to come up with a similar player when there's no real stats to back it up.

Ciron Black, SR, OT, LSU:

Ht: 6'5" Wt: 325 lbs DOB: October 29th, 1986

via t2.gstatic.com

At the NFL level, Black will most definitely play either RT or RG, both of which are potential needs for the team next year. Both of the current starters' (Willie Colon and Trai Essex) contracts are up at the end of this season, and with such a impending slew of new contracts in this offseason, there may not be enough money left in the bank for both players. Black's biggest asset to any team is his immense strength and powerhouse run blocking. In addition to being an anchor for LSU's offensive line, he has shown leadership both on and off the field, which is a major plus for Kevin Colbert and co. when they're searching for young star.

NFL Comparison: I'm gonna take Walter Football's word for it and say Vernon Carey, OT, Miami Dolphins

Charles Brown, SR, OT, USC:

Ht: 6'6" Wt: 285 lbs DOB: April 10, 1987

via t0.gstatic.com

Brown is probably the best man along the USC offensive line, and really has a knack for keeping his QB upright. With his tall yet, slimmer frame, Brown can move quickly and can keep up with even the fastest edge rushers. He does lack body mass and will have to add on to a 285 frame if he wants to hold up in the NFL. It may be because of this lack of extra weight that he lacks a killer edge in the ground game, but it certainly isn't due to a lack of effort. With coaching, Brown could very well be one of the most complete Left Tackles in the game. Don't expect to see him slip out of the first round.

NFL Comparison: Michael Oher, OT, Baltimore Ravens

Mike Iupati, SR, OG, Idaho:

Ht: 6'6" Wt: 330 DOB: May 12, 1987

via t0.gstatic.com

Iupati, a native of American Somoa, is quickly becoming one of the most well-rounded guards in the upcoming draft. He possesses prototype size and is more than effective on the move. There aren't too many holes to Iupati's game, as he's just as solid in the running game as he is in pass protection. A great senior bowl, combine, and pro day could easily propel the big man into the first round. If not, he could be a steal in rounds 2 or 3, and is definitely a guy to keep an eye on during draft day.

NFL Comparison: Shawn Andrews, OG, Philadelphia Eagles

Sergio Render, SR, OG, Virginia Tech:

Ht: 6'3" Wt: 315 DOB: September 13, 1986

via t3.gstatic.com

Render is a road-grating run blocker who can use his ideal size to his advantage and push guys around on the field. Another guy who, if impressive enough, could make a run at the right guard spot if a guy like Essex were to leave. His protection in the passing game is not concrete but isn't trash either. At this point he projects as a late 2nd to 3rd round pick.

NFL Comparison: Chris Kemoeatu, OG, Pittsburgh Steelers

Kristofer O'Dowd, JR, C, USC:

Ht: 6'5" Wt: 300 lbs DOB: May 14, 1988

via t2.gstatic.com

Call it what you want, but I just don't get that "Alex Mack" vibe from O'Dowd. Sure he's definitely a solid prospect, he has the height and weight NFL centers typically have, and there aren't too many glaring weaknesses in his game, but that being said, there really isn't anything that shouts "overly dominant" to me. That being said, he plays at a high level of competition in the PAC-10 and holds his own. Even if he isn't the next Matt Birk, he could pan out and have a very solid career in the NFL. Expect to see him in the late first, or second round if he declares for April's draft.

NFL Comparison: Shaun O'Hara, C, New York Giants

Don't Rule out:

Eric Norwood, OLB, SR, South Carolina-Great Pass rusher out of SC, character guy who could add youth and much needed depth at the OLB spot and could eventually replace Harrison when the sad day comes when Deebo just doesn't have it any more.

Jerry Hughes, OLB/DE, SR, TCU-Almost the exact same rational as Norwood. Fantastic pass rusher who adds youth/depth/future replacement to the defense.

Bryan Bulaga, OT, JR, Iowa-It was my previous belief that if Bulaga were to declare for this year's draft, there would be no way in hell that the big man would fall out of the top 15 picks of the draft. However, after recently recovering from major thyroid gland issues, Bulaga's game has been up and down, and a little underwhelming considering the expectations set out for him at the beginning of this year. Keep in mind that he is a junior and that unless he gets a high first round grade he probably won't declare, but if he were and he were to fall to the Steelers, wherever we may land in the draft, there'd be plenty of cause to crap your pants, as he is imho, the best offensive lineman in this draft.

A Kicker-Spikey is running out of 2nd chances. He better perform and keep out of trouble for the rest of the year if he wants any of an already declining chance of being back in 'Da Burgh in 2010.

Don't even think about:

Carlos Dunlap, DE, JR, Florida-Almost every scouting report I've read to this point leads me to believe Dunlap will be the next Vernon Gholston. The reports consistently read that Dunlap shows a consistent lack of effort, variety of moves, and just a lazy attitude. It's a shame, but a guy with unreal size (6'6" 290 lbs) and athleticism will most likely bust out very early on in his career. His high number of sacks will assure him a spot with a team like KC, or Oakland, but don't be fooled, the guy's a bum.

Special Thanks to walterfootball for their scouting work which I have consulted in some of my profiling.

Let me know what you think.

-HSS

Poll

What do you think?

At The Half: The Steelers On The Back Stretch

2009-11-05T01:41:25Z

Observations at the halfway mark of the season. - RickVa

Okay. Things are about to get serious now. League-wide not much is likely to be settled by month's end. However it will be an absolutely critical period for the AFC North, particularly the Bengals and Ravens. After a perfect 4-0 record for October our guys are well positioned to be in very good shape going into December if they can take full or partial advantage of the opportunities presented to them this month. On the other hand, this is not the time for much in the way of stumbling or hiccups. While a mistake or two may not be fatal, it could lead to hard times, finger pointing and ulcers later on.

So, a quick look at the big picture in order to get our bearings and a sense of perspective, and then a look at where we appear to stand as an organization going into the second half of the season.

The League.

"Yes, teams like the Ravens, Colts, Giants, Broncos and Saints look terrific now; and teams like the Steelers, Patriots and Eagles appear to be stumbling. Let's see where things stand at Thanksgiving."

Said that last month.

We don't have to wait until Thanksgiving. How about Halloween? It appeared that the big loser this year would be parity. Of course things are rarely as simple as they seem. Most of the undefeateds have been brought back to earth. Nobody is without at least one win. The Ravens were undefeated at the beginning of last month and were considered by some to be the best team in the league. Sunday's win against the Broncos prevented them from falling below .500 for the season. You would be tempted to think that the Redskins were the absolutely worst team in professional football. In fact, a quarter of the NFL have records equal to or worse than Washington. The Skins are only two games behind the Giants, another 'best in the League' candidate three weeks ago.

NFC. Right now the Saints are the king of this jungle. Is it just me or was the skill and athleticism on display this past Monday night by the Saints and the Falcons off the charts? It seems to me that we are experiencing a split between those teams that are going to the wall as far as talent, coaching, team culture contribute to the success of their organizations, while there is another group that is cutting corners in terms personnel on the field and the front office. This latter group seems to be increasingly exposed. And while New Orleans is very good, we are also seeing what Donovan McNabb can do when he has high quality tools surrounding him. If he and they can stay healthy. The Falcons have the potential to be very good and showed the other night that they are capable of shooting it out with their divisional rivals. The Cardinals seem to be more like Pittsburgh West in more ways than one. In particular, inconsistant play. And then there is AD, Farve and the Vikings. The Giants aren't done, neither are the Packers, and until they convince me otherwise the Cowboys are a fraud, but viewed as indispensible in some corners in terms of promoting the league. If the NFC is a jungle then the AFC must be Jurassic Park. Yes, there is the Wildcat, the Bengals have been surging a bit, you have the Ryan and Sanchez show in New York, the Broncos may very well be paper horsies and experience tells us to not count the Chargers out yet regardless of appearances. But...there are four carnivores stomping around these parts who collectively are responsible for seven of the last nine NFL Championships. The Dungy-less, Harrison-less Colts are struggling along undefeated, the rebuilding Patriots lead their division, the Ravens are revealing a level of balance that might be enough to get them over the hump come playoff time. The Steelers are defending Champs and clearly improved from last year's model.

Where we stand. We are at a comparable moment to Tomlin's first season with the Steelers. After a satisfying opening they came off the Bye playing a Monday Night game at Denver. The Steelers lost the game,as well as Aaron Smith and Ryan Clark for the year. They struggled for the rest of the season, though they managed to win the division. And then an early exit from the playoffs. Here's what's at stake in November: Cincy completes their division schedule by the end of the month. The Ravens have arguably the toughest stretch of their schedule in November. They already have gotten past the Broncos, ahead are the Bengals, Browns, Colts and Steelers. Here's the thing: if one of these teams gets hot and sweeps the month, then the divisional title hopes of at least one or both of its rivals probably will be shattered by month's end. The alternative scenario is that all three teams bumble along, alternating brilliant play with Keystone Kops type highlights. One step forward, one (or two) steps back.

Ground Hog Day. To say 'Advantage Steelers' would be an easy argument to make. Pittsburgh is clearly the hot team at the moment; in the midst of a four game winning streak, well rested, in a managable injury situation and with one exception the quality of play is high and trending in the right direction. As Blitz points out in a current thread the Broncos look very much like paper ponies. Nor am I overly enamored with the Ravens or the Bengals who are not the juggernauts that were advertised to be a month ago. And while the Steelers have been maddeningly charitable and inconsistent there have been no games this year where they appeared to be outclassed by an opponent. Some would argue the Vikings, but I don't buy into that. That's another fight for another time.

However. In some of the best of years the Steelers struggle at Denver. It may disappoint but not shock long time fans if the team were to find some way to lose at Invesco Field. Thus the Ground Hog Day scenario: In the first version the Steelers go out after the Bye and do not see their shadows meaning a playoff spot will be coming soon. They promptly scorch the Broncos bringing them down to earth with a thud. That will also bring hope to the Chargers who were last seen lying face down in the Pacific Ocean. The Steelers then would return home to blugeon a Bengals team that has been staggered, shattered or both after its death struggle with the Ravens the previous week. A small speed bump with the Chiefs (rule #1 for aspiring champions; beat the teams you're supposed to beat. KC qualifies) and then Blood Bath Part One featuring the Ravens after they have gone to war with the Colts. December would be for building momentum to the playoffs and positioning for seeding. In the second scenario the Steelers do see their shadow and figuratively speaking stick their heads underground. Securing a playoff position will take at least another six weeks if at all. Heartburn will be the order of the day as the three AFC North contenders take turns finding creative ways of disemboweling themselves and each other pushing back a decision into late December.

Other Observations.

Tomlin and the Coaching Staff. This week may provide an opportunity to measure the progress of Tomlin and his staff from year one to now.The challenge is to use the Bye to rest and heal the team while maintaining, if not accelerating momentum. One of the subtlties of coaching team sports is calibrating the growth and development of the team. Some teams are pretty much who they are from Day One of the season until the end. It is very much like running a race. Start off too fast or slow at the beginning and you either lack the energy to finish (Tomlin Year One) or fall behind and lack the finishing kick to win at the end. Will the team be physically and mentally ready for the November (and then December) run. Hopefully we haven't seen the Steelers best football yet and that their play will rise to meet the challenges ahead. Patience. A word about a quality for which we as fans seem to have very little tolerance. Look at what has happened with the offensive line without the benefit of wholesale personnel moves or coaching changes. Max Starks, Trai Essex, Willie Colon would be long gone if it were up to many of us. Perhaps that should be kept in mind as we move forward with our discussions about players such as Limas Sweed, Jeff Reed and Stefan Logan. Sometimes, as in the case of a Nick Eason that issues and information that we are not privy to, and often is frankly, none of our damn business (in Eason's case his mother's breast cancer) will impact how a player is handled by management. In the case of Sweed, what's rush? If his play were to become perfect today where would you play the guy? Who would you sit? Wallace? (Hell no!) We have a player who apparently runs great routes and gets good separation (otherwise how would he manage to get so wide open to drop those easy passes?). Is willing to make the difficult catches in traffic, is a devestating blocker, but has issues with the easy catches. Correctible? Who knows? We do know that Hines Ward given his age and his style is one play from IR. We know that Santonio's contract will eventually come up and its always a possibility that he might not sign here. And anyone can pull a hamstring. Assistants. Conversation doesn't travel too deep in reference to our coaching staff. Most talk revolves around three guys Tomlin and LeBeau, who we mostly like and Arians, who we mostly don't. I think its time that Offensive Line Coach Larry Zierein and Asst Head Coach/Defensive Line Coach John Mitchell earn some props.

The Champs. There has been much talk about the challenges and pitfalls involved with being defending champs. There are benefits as well. We have pretty much passed the point where we have to concern ourselves with 'hangovers' or big headedness. The self confidence and the swagger are clear advantages at this time of the year. Generally, I really like the hand that we have been dealt. Their talking Pro Bowl for Ben. Hines and Heath are having career years. Rashard is doing well and Willie is getting healthier. There aren't a lot of fronts better than the Vikings. The O-line was not overwhelmed. Harrison was named defensive player of the month, Troy will probably be named All Pro. Ziggy will get the quantity of work that should accelerate his development. I really like our chances. It'll be interesting to see what team shows up after the Bye.

2010 1st Round Mock Draft: Updated 11/04

2009-11-04T21:40:39Z

This one's dedicated to all the other sick, sick draft freaks out there like myself. I can already sense being challenged by who I chose for the Steelers this week. Yes I would love for an Eric Berry of Rolando McClain to fall to us, or for the Steelers to trade up to get them, but neither of those are going to happen. While the Steelers have shown a willingness to trade up to get someone they like, it's never been more than about 10 slots higher and it'll take more than that to get Cody or McClain. And we'd have to pull a Ditka and trade all of our picks to move up to get Berry.

1. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Ndamukong Suh DT, Nebraska
I really thought the Bucs would eventually produce a few mediocre wins but that doesn’t look like it’s going to happen. They have needs in multiple areas but especially on the defensive side of the ball. Right now their most pressing need is for someone to collapse the pocket and Suh can do that very well. Having already drafted the quarterback of the future last year in John Freeman, the only other option I could see this pick being is Oklahoma State OT Russell Okung to protect said QB.

2. Cleveland Browns: Eric Berry S, Tennessee
Cleveland needs help everywhere. This franchise is a disaster. In all probability they need a franchise QB, but I don’t think they’ll pull the trigger on that option since they have two QB’s on the roster that are at least adequate. And already having a cornerstone LT in Joe Thomas pretty much means they’re a lock for Berry if he’s available. Berry is pretty much the consensus best player in college football and is a once a decade talent in the mold of Ed Reed. Cleveland has seen first hand what a great safety can do for a franchise with division examples like Reed and Troy Polamalu.

3. St. Louis Rams: Jimmy Clausen QB, Notre Dame
The Rams number one priority this off season will be to find a new Quarterback. There’s no debate about it. In the last two years they have passed on Matt Ryan and Mark Sanchez. Clausen is having a great season and pro scouts will love the fact that he plays in a pro-style offense under center. If for some reason the Rams management thinks that Marc Bulger has any gas left in the tank they might consider taking the best defensive player available which would be Oklahoma DT Gerald McCoy.

4. Detroit Lions: Russell Okung OT, Oklahoma State
The Lions need a cornerstone LT to protect their 40 million dollar man in Matt Stafford. Okung is the top LT prospect and plays a near-flawless game. He athletic, uses his hands very well, and has quick feet to get out in front of speed rushers.

5. Kansas City Chiefs: Bruce Campbell OT, Maryland
Matt Cassell needs a LT that will give him enough time to throw the ball down field. KC spent a lot of money on Cassell and it would be nice if they got a return on their investment. It would also allow them to move 2008 1st round pick Brandon Albert to LG, his natural position, since it doesn't seem like he can make it playing on the outside. Campbell is showing strong play this season and is very similar to Okung. With Berry already off the board there are no other elite prospects available at a position of need for the Chiefs to consider with a top 5 pick.

6. Tennessee Titans: Gerald McCoy DT, Oklahoma
The Titans are having the most disappointing season this year after having the regular seasons’ best record a year ago. They have multiple needs, including QB, but Titans owner Bud Adams still likes Vince Young and that is the only reason I see them not going after a QB with this pick. Cornerback is probably their biggest need but without one worthy of this pick they will go with McCoy. The loss of Albert Haynesworth to free agency has exposed the lack of playmakers in the backfield of this defense. McCoy is the most polished DT prospect and has a quick burst and is great at using his hands to shed blockers.

7. Oakland Raiders: Taylor Mays S, USC
It’s been two weeks in a row that Mays was exposed as the player he is, reckless and undisciplined. With all of his exceptional athleticism, he takes poor angles in coverage and is only concerned with trying to lay out the big hit. We all know that Al Davis is enamored with speed, so if Mays is available this is a lock pick. Mays will stumble on draft day if Oakland comes to its senses and picks a replacement for the failed JaMarcus Russell experiment. In that event, Davis will surely go with Washington QB Jake Locker. Locker has the arm strength to throw the deep passes and is very mobile with a 4.6 40 time. Although don’t be surprised if Davis goes with Florida DE Carlos Dunlap, whose freakish measurables Davis with also love.

8. Washington Redskins: Sam Bradford QB, Oklahoma
With the benching of Jason Campbell and his continued poor play the Redskins have clearly lost all faith in him. Coach Zorn was stripped of his play-calling duties and will almost definitely be fired at the end of the season. Regardless, team owner Dan Snyder seems to hate Campbell and is going to replace him. A better pick would be an OT but Snyder is going to go with a flashy, big name like Bradford.

9. Buffalo Bills: Charles Brown OT, USC
Look for the Bills to replace the gaping hole left by the Jason Peters trade to Philly unless one of the top tier prospects like McCoy fall. This is a little high for Brown but he’s the only OT prospect left who projects to play on the left side with the struggles of Oklahoma OT Trent Williams and the injuries to Iowa OT Bryan Bulaga.

10. Seattle Seahawks: Jake Locker QB, Washington
Without any top tier left tackle prospects left to replace the aging Walter Jones, look for the Hawks to find an heir apparent to often injured Matt Hasselbeck. Locker comes from a shotgun style offense and will take some time to develop, but he’s a solid player with a strong arm and great mobility.

11. Jacksonville Jaguars: Dez Bryant WR, Oklahoma State
The Jags need a number one receiver despite being burned by plenty of them in recent years(Matt Jones, Reggie Williams) and find one in Bryant. I know Jags owner Wayne Weaver insists that he will draft Florida QB Tim Tebow if he gets the opportunity but Tebow is not a first round talent and will be available in the second or third round. The recent suspension of Bryant for lying about conversations with Deion Sanders will not hurt is draft stock. He’s got all the intangibles you look for in a receiver and looks a lot like Andre Johnson did when he came out of Miami.

12. San Francisco 49ers(via Carolina Panthers): Bryan Bulaga OT, Iowa
The 49ers greatest need is a RT to play opposite Joe Staley. Bulaga has had a down season with injuries and a thyroid condition but would be a perfect fit at RT at the pro level with his work ethic and run-blocking ability. Other options may be Florida CB Joe Hayden or Alabama ILB Rolando McClain who is continuing to rise up draft boards.

13. New York Jets: Joe Hayden CB, Florida
Having found a legitimate down field threat, at least for now, in the trade for Braylon Edwards, the Jets will most likely look for someone to play opposite Darrell Revis. They may also look for defensive line help, especially at DT where Kris Jenkins has had the second season-ending injury of his career. If the Jets decide to go wide receiver look for them to possibly take USC WR Damian Williams, whom QB Mark Sanchez had a great re pore with during his last year in college and will almost assuridy lobby for.

14. Miami Dolphins: Terrence Cody DT, Alabama
With the secondary shored up in last years draft look for the Fins to plug up their defensive front. They have been using aging veterans to plug the gaps for some time and could really use a shot of youth. Alternatives here could be help at linebacker. Team architect Bill Parcells may not look favorably on Codys prior weight issues in which case the most likely option would be Alabamas' ILB Rolando McClain.

15. Denver Broncos(via Chicago Bears): Rolando McClain ILB, Alabama
The Broncos have very few holes to fill. Look for them to take the best defensive player available. McClain is continuing to rise up draft boards and would be a perfect fit for a 3-4 defense. Also look for them to possibly add some youth to the secondary with CB Ras-I Dowling from Virginia even though they drafted Alphonso Smith last year.

16. San Diego Chargers: Brandon LaFell WR, LSU
Assuming they resign LT Marcus McNeill and in all probability franchise tag Shawn Merriman, they will most likely target someone to play opposite budding wideout Vincent Jackson. Another option may be to take Cal RB Jahvid Best or Clemson RB C.J. Spiller since they will most likely lose either Darren Sproles to free agency or cut LaDainian Tomlinson after the season. LaFell fits the mold of a taller wideout that the Chargers prefer.

17. Houston Texans: Ras-I Dowling CB, Virginia
The Texans need help in multiple areas but the biggest concern is in the secondary, especially if they let the unhappy Dunta Robinson leave via free agency in the offseason.

18. San Francisco 49ers: Travis Lewis OLB, Oklahoma
Having already taken care of the o-line earlier in the draft and the emergence of QB Alex Smith the 49ers will turn their attention to the defense. They need another pass rushing threat to go with stud linebacker Patrick Willis. But the 49ers' will go with the best defensive player available. Lewis is only a redshirt sophomore but like many underclassmen will probably declare early because of the implementation of a rookie wage scale in 2011.

19. Green Bay Packers: Trent Williams OT, Oklahoma
Green Bay will take the best tackle available after watching QB Aaron Rogers eat dirt every week. It’s obvious that Rogers is starting to show that the never-ending beatings he’s taken are taking a toll on him.

20. Arizona Cardinals: Navorro Bowman OLB, Penn State
Arizona needs LT help bad. They drafted Levi Brown a couple years ago to be a RT when they thought Matt Leinart, a lefty, would be the QB of the future. Well he hasn't been so far and Warner is suffering because of it. Unfortunately, there are no more tackles left with a first round grade. Look for the Cards’ to take the best defensive player available. If Charles Brown manages to slip a few spots back don't be surprised to see the Cards trade up to snag him.

21. Atlanta Falcons: Greg Hardy DE, Ole' Miss
The Falcons will take the best defensive player available. Hardy has some injury issues but is adept at playing both the run and the pass and will be an upgrade over the disappointing Jamaal Anderson. Look for the Falcons to also target a DB if Ras-I Dowling is available or another CB prospect emerges.

22. Baltimore Ravens: Jermaine Gresham TE, Oklahoma
Todd Heap hasn't played a 16-game season in years, is getting up there in age, and Gresham is the type of speedy, pass catching TE that is perfect for the development of QB Joe Flacco. Even though he's out with a knee injury for the rest of the year, he will have plenty of time to rehab before the NFL combine. A lot of people will think that the Ravens will draft a CB, especially considering how badly they have been torched through the air, but the Ravens draft on value and if Gresham wouldn’t have hurt his knee this year he would’ve been a top 10-15 pick. Plus there won’t be any other first round CB’s left.

23. New York Giants: Carlos Dunlap DE, Florida
Anyone who’s read my mock draft before knows I’m not big on Dunlap and I have likened him to Vernon Gholston. But there’s no denying his physical gifts and playing in the Giants 4-3 defense would be the best way for him to learn and to take advantage of his attributes.

24. Dallas Cowboys: Damian Williams WR, USC
Even with the sudden appearance of Mile Austin, look for the Cowboys to upgrade their receiving ranks. Williams can also sub for often injured Felix Jones on kick return duties. Other options may be to take the best defensive player available. I could also see them taking an OT to replace the aging Flozell Adams if Trent Williams or Charles Brown falls to them.

25. Philadelphia Eagles: Von Miller OLB/DE, Texas A&M
Without any tackle prospects left to replace the often injured Shawn Andrews, look for the Eagles to take the top linebacker prospect available. Miller is leading the nation with 13 sacks and even beat up on Russell Okung when they played against each other this year.

26. Cincinnati Bengals: Jahvid Best RB, Cal
The Bengals don’t have many real needs at this point, so look for them to take Best, who would be a perfect compliment to the emerging Cedric Benson. Another option would be Clemson RB C.J. Spiller who is more explosive but not a complete back.

27. Pittsburgh Steelers: Nate Allen S, South Florida
With DT Terrence Cody already off the board, look for the Steelers to find a safety who will eventually replace Ryan Clark. I’ve seen mock drafts where Cody is a top 10-15 pick and some where he doesn’t even go in the first round. Both Clark and Tyrone Carter have expiring contracts at the end of the season and they are also getting up there in age. The offensive line has been getting better every week and no longer seems like a dire position of need, although they may look for a guard like Alabama’s Mike Johnson or Idaho’s Mike Iupati. As with every year, I personally keep my fingers crossed that they will get a DB who can return punts and kicks. Stephan Logan hasn’t been bad but it’s inefficient to take a roster spot with a return specialist. Previously I had S Morgan Burnett from Georgia Tech but he is more of a strong safety prospect. Allen is better suited for the free safety position and has better range and coverage abilities. They may also consider Texas safety Earl Thomas who is having a great year as well. The greatest positions of need for the Steelers are Guard where Darnell Stapleton and Trai Essex are both weak points and rookie Craig Urbik didn’t show much during the off season; Defensive tackle, where Casey Hampton is 32 years old and in the final year of his contract; Cornerback, where even though “Big Play” Willie Gay has shown some promise he is still getting tested all game, although we did invest two draft picks last year; and as previously mentioned, Safety. Another consideration to a lesser extent would be to find an eventual replacement for James Farrior. He’s playing at a high level this year but he’s 34 years old and since it takes a couple years for linebackers to learn our system anyway it would be nice to find his replacement now.

28. Seattle Seahawks(via Denver Broncos): C.J. Spiller RB, Clemson
Having taken care of their QB needs earlier in the draft, the Seahawks will turn to RB since there are no more tackles with a first round grade. With Jahvid Best already taken, Spiller is the next best choice. He’s not quite the complete prospect that Best is, but he's speedy, shifty, and always capable of breaking a long gain. He’s also a great return man.

29. New England Patriots: Sergio Kindle DL/OLB, Texas
The Patriots need more youth and depth in their linebacking corps.. They recently resigned the 40 year old Junior Seau. Kindle lines up all over the field for Texas and is the sort of versatile player Belichick loves.

30. Minnesota Vikings: Derrick Morgan DE, Georgia Tech
Without too many major holes on the team the Vikings have the luxury of bolstering the strength of their team, the defensive line. The one weak link is the end spot opposite Jared Allen. They may also consider future replacements for the Williams boys such as Rickey Sapp of Clemson, Jared Odrick from Penn State, or Arthur Jones of Syracuse.

31. Indianapolis Colts: Jerry Hughes DE/OLB, TCU
As always, the defense is the weak spot on this team. The Colts will take the best available defensive player.

32. New Orleans Saints: Sean Weatherspoon OLB, Missouri
The Saints will continue to add to an improving defense. Weatherspoon is probably the best OLB suited to play in a base 4-3 defense and would be a great addition to the Saints.

Pro Bowl Balloting Has Started

2009-11-04T20:12:43Z

If you go here: http://www.nfl.com/probowl/ballot you can vote for the Pro Bowl.

Now, I'm not up to date on every team and player in the league, so when in doubt, I voted for a Steeler or ex-Steeler. And, sometimes, I just voted for a Steeler I liked even though I knew there was someone better at the position in the AFC.

I have always been dissapointed to see that injured players are not considered. I think they should at least get the trip. I mean, they were playing like beasts in the service of the NFL when they got hurt. I think a nice trip to Miami (Bad move taking the game from Hawii) for the NFL circus would be a deserved reward (Aaron Smith).

Anyway, go vote and support your Steelers wherever possible.

Go Steelers.

Familiar feel? & a look ahead

2009-11-04T16:16:03Z

I thought I’d break my post silence even though I really have nothing to say. Don’t ask me why I wrote this because I really don’t know. Maybe it’s because I like to stir the pot. Maybe it’s because I remember crazy stuff like this. Anyhow, this is going to give hope to the Bronco fans and make some Steelers fans nervous. For the record, it doesn’t make me nervous. I am just a historical library of useless information. There is some valuable information but you have to have a shovel to get to it. I digress…on with the history lesson with a little look ahead added on.

The year was 2007. The year ironically many have compared this year to. Ben was having a good year. Troy was hurt early in the year. The Steelers however had fought their way to a 4-1 record at the bye. They lost a lead late against the Cardinals earlier but had steadied the ship. The bye came at a good time. Big Snack was still hobbled and Troy was playing hurt. Next up, a trip to Denver on Sunday night. Denver had just got handled by the Chargers the week before.

Hmm This sounds familiar. The only difference was they had a week off too. Surely the Steelers would come out fresh and take it to the Broncos after having an extra week to rest and prepare for the Broncos even though they were on a bye too, right? The Steelers came out and put up 7 quickly. Ben was having a good year remember? He made the Pro Bowl. Then all of a sudden the wheels came of the cart. Suddenly the Steelers looked rusty. Pardon the pun. Denver took advantage of sloppy play by the Steelers’ offense.

Denver had a 60 yard fumble return for a TD and heck there was even an Elvis (Dumervil) spotting. Ben was picked twice and sacked 4 times. For the offense playing so bad Willie Parker almost had 100 yards (93) and Ward and Holmes had 7 and six catches respectively. The bright spot was the Steelers’ tightends accounted for 3 of the Steelers’ four TDs. Heath had 2 and Spaeth had 1 on his only catch of the day.

Even though this was a sloppy game the offense rallied to tie the game late in the 4th. Only to have Elam boot a 49 yarder in the last seconds to finish the Steelers off. What was really irritating about this game was the feeling that the Steelers seemed to ebb and flow. They would seemingly take control and then give up a big play and have to dig out of a hole. Sound familiar? It was like a microcosm of the frustration of the 2007 season. They would seem in control lose control only to rally back just in time to lose the game late.

Now I sort of change gears and the subject. If there could ever be a stretch of the season where you want to gauge where you are and what needs to be changed, it’s the 3 week span from 25 Oct to Nov 15th. They passed part one by winning a game at home against a true contender. Part two is the challenge of coming off a bye week and beating a ticked off contender at home trying to rebound from a loss. The last will be Cincy week. That will be beating the competition in their division against a team that they should beat at home.

Each leg of this test reveals different things. The Minnesota test (part 1) was stopping a prolific running game and a crafty veteran QB. The bye week and Denver game (part 2) will show the Steelers’ response ability to win a big away game after a big home win. They would have to do it against a team they don’t have a lot of success against (6-13-1 all-time regular season and 2-7-1 in Denver regular season). The Bengals part (part 3) will have division championship repercussions.

The totality of the test will reveal itself in how the Steelers sit after this week. It could be anywhere from a three way tie to the winner having the upper hand over both contenders. With both Cincy losses in the AFC these next two weeks not only have huge division impact but conference impact as well. If both Cincy and Pittsburgh win this week, it will be similar to a playoff game matchup. If the Steelers win and the Bengals lose this week, it will be the usual Bengals trying to get to the top with a sense of desperation. If the Steelers lose and Bengals win this week, it will be the Steelers playing with a sense of desperation. Regardless of the scenario, it will be crazy in that stadium/field.

Maybe I’ll start my "driveby reports" back up. Maybe I’ll do my "humpday flash backs" again. Maybe I’ll just go back to riding waves. Actually I’m surprised I actually had time to write this. Have a great day.

STEEL CURTAIN RADIO #43: THE AIR UP THERE - WILL RYAN CLARK PLAY?

2009-11-04T07:27:24Z

STEEL CURTAIN RADIO #43: THE AIR UP THERE - WILL RYAN CLARK PLAY?

Paste in Browser or Click Link to Listen
http://media.libsyn.com/media/wtcb/SCR_43.mp3

Show Topics:

Will Ryan Clark Play Against Denver?
Offensive Game Breakdown
Defensive Game Breakdown
Why the Steelers are Old and Thin at DEnd
Game Prediction: Steelers 21 - Denver 17
Why I agree with Blitzburgh's thoughts on the Broncos

Master Feeds for all the shows on Whatchatalkinbout.com

The Bill Cowher question resurfaces.

2009-11-04T02:22:43Z

The Cleveland Browns recently fired their GM, who apparently was hand-picked by coach Eric Mangini. That's an absurd scenario, but let's move on.

I was listening to Tunch Ilkin with Craig Wolfley on 970 AM this morning, A caller came on the air saying he's a long time friend of Bill Cowher and still talks to him and Cowher said he's interested in returning to coaching within the next couple of years, but only under a couple of condition. One, he wants to go into a team that requires rebuilding, and two, he wants to have total control, both as coach and as GM, I imagine.

It didn't sound like the caller was BS'ing (though he could have), and both Tunch and Wolfley seemed very intrigued by the call.

Do you guys think the Browns will be calling up Cowher soon? It's a couple of years now that we've been talking about this, but hey, seems more possible now than ever. If not the Browns, what other team?

Redskins and Panthers are definitely two other options.

Packers vs Steelers - Inches Count

2009-11-04T01:41:31Z

I am not sure if everyone had a chance to watch the Green Bay versus Minnesota game, but I was struck by two plays that happened as Green Bay was staging a comeback, that defined the difference between Green Bay and the Pittsburgh Steelers in a nutshell.

I don't have the game recorded, so I will have to go off of memory... this was after Green Bay scored two touchdownds to bring the game within reach. Momentum had donned Green and Gold, and things were looking up.

On the next defensive possession (Minn had the ball) a blitzing lineman gets around behind Brett, and closes in on his blind side as Brett starts to throw. It looks familiar -- EXCEPT -- this time, the rusher is a half a second slow. Instead of stripping the ball (as Woodley did) Brett starts his throw. The ball pops up in the air and Green Bay watches as it falls in the middle of three defensemen. Incomplete pass. Vikings ball.

Later in the drive, a pass goes off the hands of a Vikings receiver and pops into the air... falling harmlessly between two Green Bay defenders. Incomplete pass. Vikings ball... the Vikings would later score, putting the game out of reach.

The week before, simlar plays happened... but the ball was stripped and returned for a touchdown in one instance, and it was intercepted and returned for a touchdown in the other.

A half a step... a dropped interception... inches separated the Packers last week from what the Steelers did the week before.

But, the great teams make those plays, and the pretty good teams don't.

Football may be a game of inches... but those inches separate also-rans from champions... And the distance measured is the distance between good and great.

Anthony Madison???

2009-11-04T01:05:21Z

The biggest regression this season has been kickoff coverage, and Stefan Logan hasn't exactly been the best gunner we've ever seen. The Cleveland Browns have just waived Anthony Madison, who was a real special teams ace last season.

Tomlin said he will fix the kickoff coverage unit, even if it means changing personnel.

Madison is available. I'm wondering what the chances are that he'll end up in the Black and Gold. And, I'm wondering whether Tomlin is considering whether he needs and can afford Logan as a return man who doesn't get the job done on coverage teams.

I'm not saying it's time to jettison the joystick, but I'm throwing this question out there:

Kickoff coverage is awful. Someone is out there who has shown he can do the job that is NOT being done now. Should the Steelers pick up Madison, and, if so, who goes?

Discuss.

Hines Ward wins distinctive honor among NFL Players

2009-11-04T00:15:14Z

Dirtiest Player in the NFL

He was ranked the leagues #1 dirtiest player. This is a badge of honor. Basically, what this means, is that 31 teams defenses all voted for Hines Ward as the dirtiest, because its apparently the only way they can explain/live with the shame of how an ickle wide receiver consistently levels the "biggest and baddest" in the NFL. Keith Rivers(edit) jaw still starts to throb when he watches highlights of the man.

Seriously, this poll does not bother me, it makes me laugh. They really do fear Psycho Ward in the NFL, this poll proves it.

Bonus love for this poll with Joey Porter winning #3. We all know Joey is a Steeler for life so lets show love for him too.

Lets hope Hines goes out with a chip on his shoulder and shows Denver how "dirty" he can be.

FORMER STEELERS UPDATE (11/5/09)

2009-11-03T21:13:03Z

I'm always interested in what's going on with former Steelers players. Unlike a lot of teams, most guys don't seem to leave the team disgruntled and badmouthing their time in Pittsburgh (didn't do much for Plax in the long run).

So, this thread, which I'll update as warranted, will contain news about guys who once wore the black and gold, with the most recent update in bold type.

MIKE SCHNECK - Schneck was the Steelers' long-snapper from 1999 - 2004. He went on to Buffalo and has been with the Falcons since 2007. He went on season-ending IR with a (presumed) rib injury.

DEZMOND SHERROD - Sherrod was a rookie tight end who was on the Steelers practice squad in 2008. He was out of football this year, but signed with the Texans practice squad on November 4, 2009. It's safe to assume this move was triggered by stud tight end Owen Daniels going onto IR the same day.

ANTHONY MADISON - Madison, a special teams demon for the Steelers (2006 - 2008) was cut by the Browns on November 3, 2009. He's never started a game in his four year career, and I don't really remember him seeing much in the secondary. But the guy was a key part of the 2008 kick and punt coverage turnaround. The Browns, who can't score an offensive TD and just got rid of their GM, decided to dump Madison. Yet another example of how screwed up they are. I hope he lands somewhere. I like the guy.

MITCH BERGER - On October 26, 2009, the Broncos cut their punter (Brett Kern) and signed former Colorado Buffalo Mitch Berger. Berger, of course, lived the book Adventures in Punting en route to claiming a Super Bowl ring with the Steelers in 2008. His services were not retained when the healthy Daniel Sepulveda returned. Berger's punting ranged between interesting and disastrous. In his first game (in which the undefeated Broncos were shellacked by Baltimore), he punted 8 times for a 38.4 yd average.

SEAN MAHAN - Tampa Bay cut Mahan, a classic center (classic in the sense he was built like one from the nineteen forties) on October 27, 2009. He started all 16 games for Pittsburgh in 2007. Mahan is listed at 6'-3", 301. He seemed smaller and struggled handling nose tackles all season long. He was replaced by Jeff Hartwig for 2007 and went back to Tampa Bay, where he had played from 2003 - 2006. He appeared in 12 games in 2008 (starting none) and had started 4 games in 2009.

VERRON HAYNES - Haynes was the Steelers third down back for several years, playing there from 2002 - 2007. He was out of football in 2008, and made the roster in camp. However, he didn't play, was cut in September, but re-signed a few days later. He's played in the last three games, catching 3 passes for a total of 20 yards.Haynes is from Georgia and was a Bulldog in college. Nice to see him playing in his home state.

Keystone Zebras Want You

2009-11-03T19:49:35Z

Do you have a bad hip? Arthritic anckles? Dodgey knee? Have you ever walked into something in broad daylight because you have shockingly poor vision? Wondered why you see double while you're sober? Started using a walking stick with a red tip? Have you ever been accused of poor work habits? Incopetence at your job? Realized you are grossly under-qualified for the paycheck you are drawing?

If you answered yes to any or all nof these questions, then the Keystone Referees are looking for you.

You need not have experience, good eye sight, physical ability, a memory, verbal ability, a sense of time, a sense of urgency, adequite hearing, a pulse, good hygene, or a drive to succeed.

You, as a Keystone Referee will partner with the NFL to influence games, frustrate fans and foil fair play.

Through our comprehensive, unsupervised, one hour program you will learn all you need to know to referee in the NFL. You will learn how to throw a flag or not throw a flag, depending on your ability, or disability. You will lean a keen sense of right and wrong and the ability to ignore both. You will learn the fine art of closing your eyes and guessing. You will learn many other things you never thought you could pass off for skills in a career.

And now, thanks to a new program to insure quality by the NFL, your seeing eye dogs, walkers, canes, prosthetics and wheelchairs will be allowed on the field.

What a rewarding career you will have when your performance is no longer judged, reviewed, or held accountable. No longer will you have to worry about job security, a stern superior, peer standards, or inadequacy.

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