Behind the Steel Curtain - Steelers vs. Titans Postgame recap, analysis, highlights and updatesA level-headed news-discussion site with a sense of history and communityhttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/47293/steel_curtain_fave.png2013-09-11T09:26:24-04:00http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/rss/stream/44743252013-09-11T09:26:24-04:002013-09-11T09:26:24-04:00Titans brought Terrible Towels home after win
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<figcaption>Justin K. Aller</figcaption>
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<p>Titans quarterback Jake Locker pointed out a few Terrible Towels made the flight back to Nashville after Tennessee's 16-9 victory in Week 1.</p> Last year, there was a brief to-do about <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/">Ravens</a> running back <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/players/34930/ray-rice">Ray Rice</a> wearing a Terrible Towel over his head as he left Heinz Field (in a 20-carry, 40 yard performance in which Baltimore failed to score an offensive touchdown).
<p>
<a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.musiccitymiracles.com/">Titans</a> quarterback <span>Jake Locker</span> made mention of a few Terrible Towels floating around their locker room, en route for Nashville, after the Titans beat the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/">Steelers</a> 16-9 in Week 1.
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<p>
<a href="http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2013/09/10/locker-says-some-terrible-towels-made-the-trip-back-to-tennessee/" target="new">From Pro Football Talk:</a>
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"I know of a few floating around the locker room,” Titans quarterback Jake Locker told Erik Kuselias of NBCSN’s Pro Football Talk on Tuesday. “I didn’t personally get one home but I know that a few made the trip back. So I should try and track one down I guess.”
</p>
<p>
Maybe it's just a momento signifying an outstanding accomplishment - it's been 10 years since the Steelers lost their home opener. Perhaps a few players don't mind playing the role of the punk, and feel it's somehow their responsibility to show up the franchise by once again desecrating the symbol of Steelers' fandom world-wide.
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Whatever the reason, it shows again the significance of victories over the Steelers from teams that haven't won anything.
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It probably isn't a coincidence we don't read stories about Steelers players taking back with them whatever knock-off Terrible Towel the opposing home team gave away to fans the week of the game.
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<p>
At least Gatorade showers weren't involved this time.
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<h4>More from Behind the Steel Curtain:</h4>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/11/4719248/steelers-injury-report-leveon-bell-lisfranc-week-2-timeline-status">Commentary: Report: Bell may miss another month</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/11/4719022/steelers-vs-bengals-starting-offensive-line-week-2-depth-chart">Commentary: Beachum is the solution to a problem he caused.</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/11/4718474/nfl-power-rankings-pittsburgh-steelers-week-2">Week 2 Power Rankings</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/steelers-vs-bengals-news-and-updates-leading-into-week-2/2013/9/11/4718452/steelers-depth-chart-linebackers-starting-kion-wilson-bengals-week-2">Insurance adjuster to starting linebacker</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/11/4716936/nfl-news-eagles-offense-chip-kelly-week-1">Up tempo offense not a fad</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/11/4718398/steelers-bengals-week-2-ryan-clark-james-harrison">Clark: Harrison looks 'horrible' in Bengals' colors</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/steelers-film-room/2013/9/10/4713334/steelers-film-room-week-1-tennessee-titans-jarvis-jones-hit-chris-johnson">Steelers Film Room: Week 1 vs. Titans</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/11/4718366/nfl-week-1-statistics-rushing-passing-afc-north">Around the AFC North</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/10/4716612/Steelers-depth-chart-jarvis-jones-outside-linebacker-week-2">Jones and Worilds are co-starters</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/10/4715968/steelers-heath-miller-starting-bengals-week-2-injury-report">Opinions on Miller in Week 2 differ</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/10/4715500/steelers-depth-chart-running-back-starter-week-2-nfl">Redman and Bell still co-starters despite acquisition of Dwyer</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/10/4715414/steelers-starting-center-offensive-line-depth-chart-week-2-bengals">Beachum to start at center against Bengals</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/10/4715060/steelers-depth-chart-inside-linebacker-starting-week-2-bengals-larry-foote-injury">Vince Williams vs. Kion Wilson for Steelers starting ILB</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/10/4714830/steelers-heath-miller-week-2-status-injury-report">Heath Miller may return in Week 2</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/10/4714516/steelers-roster-transactions-additions-week-1-injury-report-maurkice-pouncey">Meet Fernando Velasco, the Steelers newest roster addition</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/10/4711738/steelers-injury-report-week-2-nfl-cincinnati-bengals">Steelers focus on conditioning is not preventing injuries</a></li>
</ul>
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https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/11/4718734/steelers-terrible-towel-curse-tennessee-titans-week-1-2013Neal Coolong2013-09-09T19:24:28-04:002013-09-09T19:24:28-04:00Homer's take on the State of Steeler Nation
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<figcaption>Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sport</figcaption>
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<p>Mr. Homer J. returns with tales of beer, Red Lobster and (disappointing) Steelers football.</p> <p>"THESE are the times that try men's souls," wrote Thomas Paine, on the darkest day of the year, two days before Christmas, in 1776.</p>
<p>"The summer soldier and the sunshine patriot will, in this crisis, shrink from the service of their country; but he that stands by it now, deserves the love and thanks of man and woman. Tyranny, like hell, is not easily conquered; yet we have this consolation with us, that the harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph." It got dark and cold early this year, Steeler fans.</p>
<p>And the home opener tried not only our patience, but - among true believers - our very souls. Homer was so upset, he headed for the Red Lobster to gorge himself on unlimited shrimp (scampi and hand breaded) and drown his sorrows with cold, delicious beer.</p>
<p>But even that failed to ease the pain, and he spent Sunday night beset with the twin demons of indigestion and flatulence. There is the haunting fear that the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/">Steelers</a> simply are not who we thought they are.</p>
<p>They looked awful in pre-season. Pre-season matters little, except that it helps shape the bottom half of the roster and the special teams. Yet what we saw in pre-season after the starters went out provided little reason for enthusiasm beyond Jones and Wheaton and a few others.</p>
<p>The Steelers, right now, are a lot like Pittsburgh was right after the steel mills closed down. The very old stayed, and the students stayed, but the middle-agers, those in the prime of their lives, left town to find work and the 'burgh was forced to live with what they called a "demographic hole."</p>
<p>Right now, the Steelers have a good number of veterans, and a number of extremely promising rookies, but the ghosts of <span>Limas Sweed</span>, Mendenhall, <span>Mike Wallace</span>, <span>Keenan Lewis</span>, and others haunt this franchise. Years two through six are the prime years, and there simply are not enough guys left from those drafts still on this roster.</p>
<p>There is a demographic hole, and it's the absence of star players who should be in the prime of their careers. A lot of what has happened has been bad luck. The injuries to DeCastro and Spence last summer - and the antics of Ta'amu and Rainey - made that a star-crossed draft.</p>
<p>Earlier, we heard how lucky the Steelers were that Mendenhall and Sweed were passed over by so many teams. Well, maybe we ought to rethink our luck and wonder what other teams knew that Colbert & Co didn't know. The draft, of course, is a crapshoot after the first eight or ten picks, and the Steelers regularly draft somewhere around twenty.</p>
<p>That, and salary cap hell, made a day of reckoning all the more likely. And now it's here. Parity is a bitch for winners. You draft lower, pay your stars more, and, sooner or later, it comes back to bite you.</p>
<p>D'oh!</p>
<p>Everyone has known the offensive line has been a problem, and they have done their best to address the problem, with two first round picks and two second round picks in recent drafts. They just haven't stayed healthy, and when they have, they haven't jelled as a unit. Everyone says they are athletic, but are they strong enough to control the line of scrimmage? We haven't seen that. At least not yet.</p>
<p>Perhaps the most frightening thing is that a team that used to be very, very deep has been scavenging the waiver wire, and the bottom half of the roster appears to have more holes in it than the hulk of the Titanic. Yeah, they picked up a Wallace, but it's Cody and he ain't Mike. And while they let go Starks and Legursky, their efforts to find an OL backup ended not with a bang but a Whimper (Homer apologizes).</p>
<p>It's a long season, and, as the veterans suffer injuries, these guys from the bottom half of the roster will be the next man up. That's not the most comforting thought. Just as unsettling was the coaching and game management of the home opener. The fumble on the opening drive was inexcusable on far too many levels. They did not have the right package in the game for the play that was called. They started to send the right players in, but time was running short on the play clock, so they called them back and went with the guys already in the game.</p>
<p>Ben got them to the line with four seconds left on the play clock, rushed the count, rushed the snap, fouled up his footwork, and botched the handoff, handing it off far too high and Redman never had full control of the ball. If there's one thing about a quick hitter, it's that you can't mess up the exchange. It comes too quick, and it's too close to the line of scrimmage. There is no room for error. None.</p>
<p>For Tomlin, Haley, and Roethlisberger to suffer simultaneous brain farts and fail to call a time out (all three TO's were remaining) is simply inexcusable. Nor did the coaching staff earn any plaudits with adjustments made after the loss of Pouncey. The status of Miller and Spaeth left them short at TE, and when Beachum had to move to Center, they were left with the tight end on many of their planned packages having to play center.</p>
<p>With the 53 and 45, you always have to gamble. Do you suit up an extra guy on the OL or the DL? Or ST? You gotta choose. They gambled that Pouncey wouldn't get hurt. They lost that gamble. And whatever adjustments were made after Beachum moved to center didn't seem to work. The offensive line made up for its lack of run blocking by failing to protect the quarterback.</p>
<p>The question now is whether the Steelers are as bad as they looked Sunday, and whether they can rally to a good or even respectable season. And the answer depends on whether the remaining veterans stay healthy (and get healthy in the case of Miller), and whether the promising rookies - Jones, Bell, Wheaton, and others - can be of immediate help.</p>
<p>This team has a very good defense, but the offense hasn't been able to move the ball since Ben went down last year in the Kansas City game. Not at all. The offensive line has been awful, and the running game nonexistent, If the team is forced to pass, but it can't adequately protect the QB, how long can Ben hold up?</p>
<p>From the way Tomlin and Colbert worked the waiver wire in recent weeks, it seems like they understand there's a shortage of quality players at the bottom of the roster. There is still enough veteran talent to pull this team together, and have a decent season, so long as the kids do their part and grow into stars very, very quickly. But nothing is guaranteed.</p>
<p>The Steelers had won ten home openers in a row, but that didn't mean diddly squat Sunday, because the guys wearing gold and black weren't named Ward, Smith, Harrison, Lewis, Hoke, Bettis, Faneca, or any of the other departed stars who won those ten home openers.</p>
<p>This team has a lot of different guys - who just happen to wear the same black and gold. Never confuse the laundry with the guys who wear it. It's far too early to give up on the guys wearing the black and gold this year, but their start has tried our patience - and our souls.</p>
<p>We may soon find out who are the sunshine patriots among us. Those of us in Steeler Nation who count ourselves as winter soldiers will stand by this team as they sort things out and/or rebuild. Hopefully sooner, rather than later. But we will stand by them as we always have. Hope for fair weather. But prepare for a cold, difficult winter, just in case. The harder the conflict, as Tom Paine told us, the more glorious the triumph.</p>
<h4>More from Behind the Steel Curtain:</h4>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/9/4712534/steelers-sign-k-shayne-graham?utm_source=behindthesteelcurtain&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Steelers Sign K Shayne Graham</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/latest-news/2013/9/9/4712284/steelers-sign-fernando-velasco-maurkice-pouncey-knee-injury-center-guard-offensive-line-titans?utm_source=behindthesteelcurtain&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Steelers sign C/G Fernando Velasco in wake of Maurkice Pouncey injury</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/9/4711764/the-fall-of-the-house-of-colbert?utm_source=behindthesteelcurtain&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Are we witnessing the Fall of the House of Colbert?</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/9/4711466/steelers-running-backs-offensive-line-depth-chart-injury-report?utm_source=behindthesteelcurtain&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Steelers running game can't get worse, and that's a good thing</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/9/4710332/steelers-defense-week-1-tennessee-titans-highlights-recap?utm_source=behindthesteelcurtain&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">New Steelers defenders shine despite Week 1 loss to Titans</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/9/4710264/5-things-we-learned-steelers-titans-week-1-analysis?utm_source=behindthesteelcurtain&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">5 things we learned from the Steelers loss to the Tennessee Titans in Week 1</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/9/4710386/steelers-roster-moves-jonathan-dwyer-signing-injuries?utm_source=behindthesteelcurtain&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Steelers will re-sign running back Jonathan Dwyer</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/9/4708106/winners-losers-report-card-week-1-tennessee-titans?utm_source=behindthesteelcurtain&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Winners and Losers from Steelers loss to Tennessee Titans</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/8/4709384/steelers-injury-report-larod-stephens-howling-torn-acl-status?utm_source=behindthesteelcurtain&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Report: LaRod Stephens-Howling suffered torn ACL in loss to Titans</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/8/4708278/steelers-titans-week-1-recap-highlights-analysis-statistics?utm_source=behindthesteelcurtain&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Maybe the 2013 Steelers are who many feared they were</a></li>
</ul>
https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/9/4713070/homers-take-on-the-state-of-steeler-nationHomer J.2013-09-09T18:58:28-04:002013-09-09T18:58:28-04:00PFF grades Week 1: McLendon fares well vs. Titans
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<figcaption>Jason Bridge-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Big accolades for Steelers NT Steve McLendon, but as expected, a rather brutal grade was given to RT Marcus Gilbert for a poor performance in the Steelers' loss to Tennessee in Week 1.</p> <p>It's easy to cast a pall over the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/">Steelers</a> due to an abysmal offensive performance in their Week 1 loss to Tennessee. But it overshadows a pretty outstanding defensive effort, led by Steelers nose tackle <span>Steve McLendon</span>.</p>
<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1641774&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.profootballfocus.com%2Fdata%2Fgstats.php%3Ftab%3Dby_team%26season%3D2013%26gameid%3D2752%26teamid%3D25%26stats%3Do%26playerid%3D&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.behindthesteelcurtain.com%2F2013%2F9%2F9%2F4713008%2Fsteelers-pff-grades-week-1-vs-tennessee-titans" target="_blank" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener">He received the highest Steelers grade,</a> notching a +3.7 in just 39 snaps. He was given credit for two hurries and a hit on <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.musiccitymiracles.com/">Titans</a> quarterback <span>Jake Locker</span>, along with two stops.</p>
<p>On the flip side, it's still extremely difficult to discuss this game without mentioning the offense, as highlighted by right tackle Marcus Gilbert's performance that earned him a -3.5. Among his <strike>highlights</strike> lowlights were two sacks allowed and three pressures on quarterback <span>Ben Roethlisberger</span>, who appeared skittish by the end of the game.</p>
<p>The Titans got a game-high +4.9 from defensive tackle <span>Jurrell Casey</span>, who abused Steelers center <span>Kelvin Beachum</span> (-2.5) pretty much from the first snap Beachum was in for <span>Maurkice Pouncey</span>.</p>
<h4>More from Behind the Steel Curtain:</h4>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/9/4712534/steelers-sign-k-shayne-graham?utm_source=behindthesteelcurtain&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Steelers Sign K Shayne Graham</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/latest-news/2013/9/9/4712284/steelers-sign-fernando-velasco-maurkice-pouncey-knee-injury-center-guard-offensive-line-titans?utm_source=behindthesteelcurtain&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Steelers sign C/G Fernando Velasco in wake of Maurkice Pouncey injury</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/9/4711764/the-fall-of-the-house-of-colbert?utm_source=behindthesteelcurtain&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Are we witnessing the Fall of the House of Colbert?</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/9/4711466/steelers-running-backs-offensive-line-depth-chart-injury-report?utm_source=behindthesteelcurtain&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Steelers running game can't get worse, and that's a good thing</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/9/4710332/steelers-defense-week-1-tennessee-titans-highlights-recap?utm_source=behindthesteelcurtain&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">New Steelers defenders shine despite Week 1 loss to Titans</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/9/4710264/5-things-we-learned-steelers-titans-week-1-analysis?utm_source=behindthesteelcurtain&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">5 things we learned from the Steelers loss to the Tennessee Titans in Week 1</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/9/4710386/steelers-roster-moves-jonathan-dwyer-signing-injuries?utm_source=behindthesteelcurtain&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Steelers will re-sign running back Jonathan Dwyer</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/9/4708106/winners-losers-report-card-week-1-tennessee-titans?utm_source=behindthesteelcurtain&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Winners and Losers from Steelers loss to Tennessee Titans</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/8/4709384/steelers-injury-report-larod-stephens-howling-torn-acl-status?utm_source=behindthesteelcurtain&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Report: LaRod Stephens-Howling suffered torn ACL in loss to Titans</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/8/4708278/steelers-titans-week-1-recap-highlights-analysis-statistics?utm_source=behindthesteelcurtain&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Maybe the 2013 Steelers are who many feared they were</a></li>
</ul>
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https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/9/4713008/steelers-pff-grades-week-1-vs-tennessee-titansNeal Coolong2013-09-09T16:25:25-04:002013-09-09T16:25:25-04:00Steelers sign C/G Fernando Velasco
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<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/8GPvvIj-rSNIWAnhzwVaWWarNJ4=/0x718:2019x2064/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/19251809/152098179.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Harry How</figcaption>
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<p>Velasco started all 16 games for the Titans in 2012, but was part of their final cuts this year after a subpar preseason.</p> <p>The <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/">Pittsburgh Steelers</a> have reportedly signed free agent C/G <span>Fernando Velasco</span> to a one-year contract. Adam Caplan first reported the deal and Velasco's agent, Brian Ayrault, has since confirmed.</p>
<p>Velasco started all 16 games at center/guard for the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.musiccitymiracles.com/">Tennessee Titans</a> in 2012 (funny how things work out like that), but was released a week and a half ago with their final cuts on August 30. He reportedly struggled during the preseason - being passed by Titans free agent signings <span>Rob Turner</span> and <span>Andy Levitre</span> and 1st round pick <span>Chance Warmack</span> for all of the starting spots on the interior of their offensive line.</p>
<p>However, Velasco's release <a href="http://www.musiccitymiracles.com/2013/8/31/4680286/nfl-roster-cuts-titans-release-fernando-velasco-roster-at-53" target="_blank">still came as a surprise</a> considering his solid play last year, position flexibility, and the fact that Tennessee's front office thought enough of Velasco to give him a <a href="http://www.musiccitymiracles.com/2013/3/11/4090658/wyatt-tennessee-titans-give-rfa-fernando-velasco-2nd-round-tender" target="_blank">2nd round tender as a restricted free agent back in March</a> (he entered the league undrafted in 2008).</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck">
<p>New Steelers center Fernando Velasco was our 11th ranked center last year. Solid player thoguh he did struggle during preseason.</p>
— Pro Football Focus (@PFF) <a href="https://twitter.com/PFF/statuses/377144031588798464">September 9, 2013</a>
</blockquote>
<p>
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<p>With <span>Maurkice Pouncey</span> out for the rest of the year, Velasco could conceivably start at center for the Steelers' Week 2 matchup vs. the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.cincyjungle.com/">Bengals</a>, which would allow <span>Kelvin Beachum</span> to return to his gameday position of blocking TE/utility backup for the whole offensive line.</p>
<p>But if Velasco does start, it would beg the question of why the Steelers signed C/G <span>Cody Wallace</span> to replace <span>John Malecki</span> after final cuts when Velasco was also available at the time.</p>
<blockquote data-partner="tweetdeck" class="twitter-tweet">
<p>I watched new Steelers OL Fernando Velasco this preseason and am surprised he was available. Strong, some mobility. Quality pick-up.</p>
— James C Wexell (@jimwexell) <a href="https://twitter.com/jimwexell/statuses/377153790203277312">September 9, 2013</a>
</blockquote>
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<h4>More from Behind the Steel Curtain:</h4>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/9/4712534/steelers-sign-k-shayne-graham?utm_source=behindthesteelcurtain&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Steelers Sign K Shayne Graham</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/9/4711764/the-fall-of-the-house-of-colbert?utm_source=behindthesteelcurtain&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Are we witnessing the Fall of the House of Colbert?</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/9/4711466/steelers-running-backs-offensive-line-depth-chart-injury-report?utm_source=behindthesteelcurtain&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Steelers running game can't get worse, and that's a good thing</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/9/4710332/steelers-defense-week-1-tennessee-titans-highlights-recap?utm_source=behindthesteelcurtain&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">New Steelers defenders shine despite Week 1 loss to Titans</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/9/4710264/5-things-we-learned-steelers-titans-week-1-analysis?utm_source=behindthesteelcurtain&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">5 things we learned from the Steelers loss to the Tennessee Titans in Week 1</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/9/4710386/steelers-roster-moves-jonathan-dwyer-signing-injuries?utm_source=behindthesteelcurtain&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Steelers will re-sign running back Jonathan Dwyer</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/9/4708106/winners-losers-report-card-week-1-tennessee-titans?utm_source=behindthesteelcurtain&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Winners and Losers from Steelers loss to Tennessee Titans</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/8/4709384/steelers-injury-report-larod-stephens-howling-torn-acl-status?utm_source=behindthesteelcurtain&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Report: LaRod Stephens-Howling suffered torn ACL in loss to Titans</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/8/4708278/steelers-titans-week-1-recap-highlights-analysis-statistics?utm_source=behindthesteelcurtain&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Maybe the 2013 Steelers are who many feared they were</a></li>
</ul>
https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/latest-news/2013/9/9/4712284/steelers-sign-fernando-velasco-maurkice-pouncey-knee-injury-center-guard-offensive-line-titansbarnerburner2013-09-09T10:00:16-04:002013-09-09T10:00:16-04:00McLendon, Jones shine in loss, but still no TOs
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/6wyIhHA3OrQRrZTWl7_TLzbWi88=/0x43:4000x2710/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/19219159/20130908_pjc_sj4_118.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Jason Bridge-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Steve McLendon and Jarvis Jones showed outstanding individual skills, but the Steelers defense still couldn't force takeaways. </p> <p><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/">Steelers</a> nose tackle <span>Steve McLendon</span> was thought to be a question mark heading into the Steelers' season. Preparing for their first year without <span>Casey Hampton</span> in 12 years, there was some concern whether McLendon would be able to hold down the nose tackle spot as well as Hampton did for so long.</p>
<p>While he's a different kind of player, McLendon did more than just hold his own in his first game playing more than just a few snaps. Against an impressive running team, McLendon had six tackles - two solo - and was seen often in the backfield. It seems like the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.musiccitymiracles.com/">Titans</a> ran all over the Steelers; they rushed 42 times for 112 yards - 2.7 yards per carry - with a long run of 11.</p>
<p>That's not bad, considering the only touchdown drive the Titans had was on short field after a <span>Ben Roethlisberger</span> interception.</p>
<p>McLendon looked quick and his lateral movement was outstanding. If this will end up being the worst Steelers game of the season - and the hope is it will be - this defense will be a tough unit to face through the rest of of the year.</p>
<p>For what McLendon helped do against the run, it was accentuated by rookie outside linebacker <span>Jarvis Jones</span>. Two tackles, and both came for loss in his debut. Jones had 31 snaps (starter <span>Jason Worilds</span> had 44), and made two highlight-level plays. It's likely the Steelers will figure out ways to get him on the field more frequently against Cincinnati in Week 2.</p>
<p>The Steelers also saw outstanding play from safety <span>Troy Polamalu</span> and defensive ends <span>Brett Keisel</span>, <span>Ziggy Hood</span> and Cameron Heyward. The problem, though, is once again, the defense failed to make plays on the ball. While Titans quarterback <span>Jake Locker</span> certainly cannot be mistaken for Dan Marino after that game, they caused enough pressure where it seemed like a turnover was bound to happen.</p>
<p>They did force a fumble from tight end <span>Delanie Walker</span>, but were unable to recover it.</p>
<p>It sounds too much like the last two seasons, but the defense played aggressively enough to feel like turnovers will happen eventually. Jones and McLendon played well enough to instill that wounded belief.</p>
<h4>More from Behind the Steel Curtain:</h4>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/9/4710284/steelers-vs-titans-postgame-recap-analysis-highlights-and-updates">Titans at Steelers: Postgame recap, news and updates</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/8/4708342/steelers-injury-report-titans-week-1">Steelers Week 1 Injuries: Everything we know</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/9/4710310/steelers-roster-depth-chart-running-backs-baron-batch-jonathan-dwyer-injury-report">Dwyer isn't likely to return, but Baron Batch is s possibility</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/9/4708106/winners-losers-report-card-week-1-tennessee-titans">Winners and Losers from Steelers loss to Titans</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/8/4708148/steelers-titans-final-score-stats-review-injury-report-highlights?utm_source=behindthesteelcurtain&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Steelers vs. Titans Final Score: Pittsburgh savaged in season-opening loss to Tennessee</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/8/4708278/steelers-titans-week-1-recap-highlights-analysis-statistics?utm_source=behindthesteelcurtain&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Maybe the 2013 Steelers are who many feared they were</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/8/4708520/steelers-list-of-injuries-week-1-titans-pouncey-foote?utm_source=behindthesteelcurtain&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">The list of injured players begs only two questions the Steelers must ask themselves</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/steelers-film-room/2013/9/8/4708400/steelers-gif-troy-polamalu-film-titans-week-1-nfl?utm_source=behindthesteelcurtain&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Troy Polamalu times snap count again, gets tackle-for-loss of Titans QB Jake Locker</a></li>
</ul>
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https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/9/4710332/steelers-defense-week-1-tennessee-titans-highlights-recapNeal Coolong2013-09-09T09:00:20-04:002013-09-09T09:00:20-04:005 things we learned in loss to Titans
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/dzLKFE7ia5J7FvMsXAAG-GG0OtY=/0x140:3030x2160/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/19216945/20130908_pjc_al8_137.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sport</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>There were some good performances in the Steelers' 16-9 loss to Tennessee in Week 1, and a few things that we've now confirmed will be strengths and weaknesses of this team moving forward. </p> <h5>1. Tight ends are valuable in this offense</h5>
<p>With former tackle <span>Kelvin Beachum</span> starting as the team's second tight end, he was moved to center when <span>Maurkice Pouncey</span> was injured. It all seemed to go downhill from there. Communication along the line was poor, protection was even worse and it was generally a miserable performance up front. The tight ends in particular, though - <span>David Paulson</span> and David Johnson - were inadequate. The upside is <span>Heath Miller</span> is not long from his return. The <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/">Steelers</a> may speed that up a bit after the way the team looked in Week 1.</p>
<h5>2. Running game is facing significant problems</h5>
<p>Blocking, executing and timing, the Steelers lacked consistency in all areas. Isaac Redman's fumble was partially on quarterback <span>Ben Roethlisberger</span>, but the other fumble was not. It was one of many zero and negative gains on the game. The strength of this team was supposed to be running the football. The Steelers are a long way from being in that category.</p>
<h5>3. Defense will carry this team</h5>
<p>Judging on the preseason fans weren't supposed to worry about, and a first game that could rank among the franchise's all-time worst, the Steelers defense allowed less than three yards a carry, 229 total yards and 16 points in a game in which their offense turned the ball over twice and had five 3-and-out series.</p>
<h5>4. <span>Jarvis Jones</span> is legit</h5>
<p>It was like his preseason performances; he got on the field, and he made plays. He had two tackles-for-loss, including a highlight-worthy smack on <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.musiccitymiracles.com/">Titans</a> RB Chris Johnson. He looks strong and explosive, and he needs to get on the field starting in Week 2 against Cincinnati.</p>
<h5>5. Jerricho Cotchery won't just be a fourth receiver this year</h5>
<p>He caught four passes on seven targets, including the Steelers' only touchdown in the loss. He wasn't always a third option for the Steelers, either. Offensive coordinator Todd Haley and Roethlisberger liked the match-ups they had (some of that may have been caused by an outstanding game by CB Jason McCourty). The Steelers' offense really struggled up front, needless to say, and that threw a lot of the passing game out of whack. Rookie Markus Wheaton didn't even get one target, Cotchery was on the field for large chunks of the game.</p>
<h4>More from Behind the Steel Curtain:</h4>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/9/4710284/steelers-vs-titans-postgame-recap-analysis-highlights-and-updates">Titans at Steelers: Postgame recap, news and updates</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/8/4708342/steelers-injury-report-titans-week-1">Steelers Week 1 Injuries: Everything we know</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/9/4710310/steelers-roster-depth-chart-running-backs-baron-batch-jonathan-dwyer-injury-report">Dwyer isn't likely to return, but Baron Batch is possibility</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/9/4708106/winners-losers-report-card-week-1-tennessee-titans">Winners and Losers from Steelers loss to Titans</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/8/4708148/steelers-titans-final-score-stats-review-injury-report-highlights?utm_source=behindthesteelcurtain&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Steelers vs. Titans Final Score: Pittsburgh savaged in season-opening loss to Tennessee</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/8/4709384/steelers-injury-report-larod-stephens-howling-torn-acl-status?utm_source=behindthesteelcurtain&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Report: LaRod Stephens-Howling suffered torn ACL in loss to Titans</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/8/4708278/steelers-titans-week-1-recap-highlights-analysis-statistics?utm_source=behindthesteelcurtain&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Maybe the 2013 Steelers are who many feared they were</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/8/4708520/steelers-list-of-injuries-week-1-titans-pouncey-foote?utm_source=behindthesteelcurtain&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">The list of injured players begs only two questions the Steelers must ask themselves</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/steelers-film-room/2013/9/8/4708400/steelers-gif-troy-polamalu-film-titans-week-1-nfl?utm_source=behindthesteelcurtain&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Troy Polamalu times snap count again, gets tackle-for-loss of Titans QB Jake Locker</a></li>
</ul>
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https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/9/4710264/5-things-we-learned-steelers-titans-week-1-analysisNeal Coolong2013-09-09T07:23:17-04:002013-09-09T07:23:17-04:00Winners and Losers from loss to Titans
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/PZIc32XZuQIoccheTOSiPwTmvOk=/0x240:2848x2139/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/19216427/20130908_pjc_al8_126.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sport</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>It was a poor offensive game, although there were some bright spots along the Steelers' defense in their 16-9 loss to Tennessee in Week 1.</p> <h5>Winners</h5>
<p><b><span>Brett Keisel</span> - </b>A total of six tackles, but it looked early like Keisel would own the game by himself. While fans are no doubt furious over the loss, the <a href="https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Steelers</a> defense played fairly well overall.</p>
<p><b><span>Jarvis Jones</span> - </b>Two tackles, both for losses, it's curious why he wasn't in the game more often. It's not the only curious aspect of this game. He continues to make plays in each situation he's in, with his hit on <a href="https://www.musiccitymiracles.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Titans</a> running back Chris Johnson being one of the few highlights of an otherwise dreary game.</p>
<p><b><span>Emmanuel Sanders</span> - </b>With a career-high 12 targets, Sanders made some nice grabs in an otherwise deplorable offensive performance.</p>
<h5>Losers</h5>
<p><b><span>Isaac Redman</span> - </b>Two fumbles, and just a shade over one yard per carry. It was his worst game as a professional, and right in time to justify the Steelers keeping him on the roster over <span>Jonathan Dwyer</span>.</p>
<p><b><span>David DeCastro</span> - </b>Outside of rolling over Maurkice Pouncey's knee - an injury that likely will cost the All-Pro the season - DeCastro was part of an interior offensive line that was completely dominated through four quarters. The Steelers ran for 32 yards on 15 carries, and allowed five sacks and what seemed like pressure allowed every other drop back.</p>
<p><b><span>Kelvin Beachum</span> - </b>It's hard to single him out considering he's a tackle who took reps at guard this preseason, then started at tight end in Week 1 and ended up playing center, but the fact is he was overwhelmed at the point of attack, and the Titans brought pressure over him the entire game. Perhaps what was more glaring, though, was the lack of and poor level of communication along the line. That's the center's responsibility, and clearly (perhaps understandably), Beachum was not prepared.</p>
<p><b><span>Marcus Gilbert</span> - </b>He was slow to react to the large amount of stunting the Titans defense did, and didn't seem mentally in-tune to what was going on around him. Maybe the overall performance speaks to the mental value of having Pouncey on the field, but the offensive line was simply not prepared to face this defense.</p>
<h4>More from Behind the Steel Curtain:</h4>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/9/4710284/steelers-vs-titans-postgame-recap-analysis-highlights-and-updates">Titans at Steelers: Postgame recap, news and updates</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/8/4708342/steelers-injury-report-titans-week-1">Steelers Week 1 Injuries: Everything we know</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/9/4708106/winners-losers-report-card-week-1-tennessee-titans">Winners and Losers from Steelers loss to Titans</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/8/4708148/steelers-titans-final-score-stats-review-injury-report-highlights?utm_source=behindthesteelcurtain&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Steelers vs. Titans Final Score: Pittsburgh savaged in season-opening loss to Tennessee</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/8/4708278/steelers-titans-week-1-recap-highlights-analysis-statistics?utm_source=behindthesteelcurtain&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Maybe the 2013 Steelers are who many feared they were</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/8/4708520/steelers-list-of-injuries-week-1-titans-pouncey-foote?utm_source=behindthesteelcurtain&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">The list of injured players begs only two questions the Steelers must ask themselves</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/steelers-film-room/2013/9/8/4708400/steelers-gif-troy-polamalu-film-titans-week-1-nfl?utm_source=behindthesteelcurtain&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Troy Polamalu times snap count again, gets tackle-for-loss of Titans QB Jake Locker</a></li>
</ul>
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https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/9/4708106/winners-losers-report-card-week-1-tennessee-titansNeal Coolong2013-09-08T18:00:04-04:002013-09-08T18:00:04-04:00New season, same 2012 theme for the Steelers
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/QtDMrCLpHhg7f957sF1EXx5DOQY=/0x91:4000x2758/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/19193311/20130908_pjc_sj4_027.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Jason Bridge-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The Steelers struggled mightily in their 16-9 season opening loss to Tennessee, Sunday afternoon at Heinz Field. Many 2012 themes reared their ugly head in Week 1, including critical injuries and key turnovers, as Pittsburgh dropped its third straight season opener. </p> <p>My grandfather used to have a saying when it looked like a Pittsburgh sports team was about to have a bad year: "They just don't have it."</p>
<p>Despite the turnover in personnel and the predictions by many that the 2013 season would be a mediocre one for the <a href="https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Steelers</a>, optimism was high for the team's home opener against Tennessee at Heinz Field, Sunday afternoon. And after the <a href="https://www.musiccitymiracles.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Titans</a>' Darius Reynaud flubbed the opening kickoff and inexplicably took a knee and a subsequent safety to give Pittsburgh the fastest 2-0 lead in NFL history, 2013 looked like it just might be different for the Black and Gold......that is until they brought out the cart for Pro Bowl center <span>Maurkice Pouncey</span>.</p>
<p>On Pittsburgh's first offensive possession after the safety induced free kick, Pouncey was injured and <a target="_blank" href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/8/4708230/steelers-maurkice-pouncey-injury-report-status-week-1-knee-acl-tear-surgery">lost for the year</a> with a torn ACL and MCL when second year guard <span>David DeCastro</span> rolled into his knee. Not long after that injury, with the ball inside the Titans 10 yard line, starting tailback <span>Isaac Redman</span> fumbled a high hand off by <span>Ben Roethlisberger</span> that Tennessee recovered in the end zone for a touch back.</p>
<p>And just like that, inside of five minutes of the first quarter, the Steelers continued two themes that plagued them all of last season: Critical injuries and a failure to capitalize on a golden opportunity against an inferior opponent.</p>
<p><span>But was it an inferior opponent? Pittsburgh was a seven point favorite over the Titans on Sunday, but you wouldn't know it by how the game unfolded, from the Redman fumble, onward, as Tennessee won, 16-9, in yet another ugly home performance. </span></p>
<p>Other 2012-like <a target="_blank" href="http://espn.go.com/nfl/boxscore?gameId=330908023">themes</a> for the Steelers in Week 1:</p>
<p>-Tennessee won the turnover battle, 2-0, and scored a touchdown after a Roethlisberger INT late in the first half, which ultimately proved to be the difference.</p>
<p>-Pittsburgh only managed to rush for 32 yards on the ground, including nine by Redman on eight carries.</p>
<p>-In addition to the serious injury to Pouncey, <span>Larry Foote</span> also appears to be <a target="_blank" href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/8/4708260/steelers-injury-report-larry-foote-biceps-surgery-season-ending">gone for the season</a> with a ruptured biceps, which makes the injuries to <span>LaRod Stephens-Howling</span>, <span>Cortez Allen</span> and <span>Ryan Clark</span> seem pretty minor.....for now.</p>
<p>-Roethlisberger was harassed most of the afternoon, as Tennessee's front seven pressured him frequently, resulting in five sacks.</p>
<p>-The Steelers defense only got to <span>Jake Locker</span> one time the entire afternoon.</p>
<p>Even with the struggles of the previous season, I think many fans had a Week 1 victory over the Titans penciled in. Now, with games coming up against better competition the next two weeks--Cincinnati and Chicago--an 0-3 start seems more likely than not.</p>
<p>Sunday's loss to the Titans was Pittsburgh's fourth straight in games that have mattered since that epic Charlie Batch-led victory over the <a href="https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Ravens</a> last December.</p>
<p>So, what may have looked like a new chapter in Steelers history, early on, turned into the same old story fairly quickly.</p>
<p>Nobody knew my grandfather, but many are familiar with former <a href="https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Cardinals</a> coach <a target="_blank" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m_N1OjGhIFc">Dennis Green</a> and his famous quote. To borrow and twist that memorable line: Maybe the 2013 Steelers are who many feared they would be. And unfortunately, I don't think anyone will be crowning them anytime soon.</p>
<h4>More from Behind the Steel Curtain:</h4>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/9/4710284/steelers-vs-titans-postgame-recap-analysis-highlights-and-updates">Titans at Steelers: Postgame recap, news and updates</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/8/4708342/steelers-injury-report-titans-week-1">Steelers Week 1 Injuries: Everything we know</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/9/4710310/steelers-roster-depth-chart-running-backs-baron-batch-jonathan-dwyer-injury-report">Dwyer isn't likely to return, but Baron Batch is s possibility</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/9/4708106/winners-losers-report-card-week-1-tennessee-titans">Winners and Losers from Steelers loss to Titans</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/8/4708148/steelers-titans-final-score-stats-review-injury-report-highlights?utm_source=behindthesteelcurtain&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Steelers vs. Titans Final Score: Pittsburgh savaged in season-opening loss to Tennessee</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/8/4708278/steelers-titans-week-1-recap-highlights-analysis-statistics?utm_source=behindthesteelcurtain&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Maybe the 2013 Steelers are who many feared they were</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/8/4708520/steelers-list-of-injuries-week-1-titans-pouncey-foote?utm_source=behindthesteelcurtain&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">The list of injured players begs only two questions the Steelers must ask themselves</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/steelers-film-room/2013/9/8/4708400/steelers-gif-troy-polamalu-film-titans-week-1-nfl?utm_source=behindthesteelcurtain&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Troy Polamalu times snap count again, gets tackle-for-loss of Titans QB Jake Locker</a></li>
</ul>
https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/9/8/4708278/steelers-titans-week-1-recap-highlights-analysis-statisticsAnthony Defeo