The fine people at Sports Illustrated have put together their annual list of the dirtiest players in the NFL and the Steelers' Hines Ward ranked No. 1, while safety Troy Polamalu was ninth.
Ward plays hard and he has drawn a couple of fines during his career, but he's not dirty.
A dirty player is one who goes for an opponent's knees. A dirty player is one who is out to hurt people. A dirty player has likely been suspended a time or two.
Ward is none of that. The same goes for Polamalu.
In fact, of the players on the list, the only ones I would consider dirty are Richie Incognito of the Rams, Harvey Dahl of the Falcons and Roy Williams of the Bengals.
Incognito is well known for his less-than-legal play, while Dahl is a cut-blocking specialist. Williams is so dirty that the league had to make horsecollar tackling illegal because of him - though it hasn't stopped him from doing it.
Albert Haynesworth of Washington and Kevin Mawae of the Titans are also on the list and I've heard from different players that they do some dirty stuff. But they are also very good players.
The thing to remember about these polls is that SI sends a lackey out to each training camp and polls 15 or so players - usually not starters because they're too busy – asking them a number of questions.
Many of the players polled really have no idea what to answer because they are end-of-roster guys or rookies. So they come up with what they've seen on the highlight shows. It's hardly a scientific process.
But kudos to SI for getting people to talk about it.
© As expected Travis Kirschke did not practice again Thursday as he continues to rehab his slightly torn calf muscle.
Linebacker Lawrence Timmons also sat out, though the team has two more practice days before leaving for Denver Sunday afternoon.
Thursday, November 05, 2009
Tuesday, November 03, 2009
Tuesday with Tomlin
Not much news out of head coach Mike Tomlin's press conference today.
As he said Monday, Tomlin reiterated that a decision about safety Ryan Clark's status would not be made until Thursday.
Linebacker Lawrence Timmons and defensive end Travis Kirschke are both questionable. Timmons, with an ankle injury, is more likely to play than Kirschke, who has a calf strain.
Willie Parker missed practice Monday with an illness. His status at this time is up in the air.
One thing of note that Tomlin did talk about Monday was that wide receiver Santonio Holmes, like Clark, also carries the sickle cell trait. But, Tomlin also noted that a couple of Denver's players also carry it as well.
Clark's illness after playing there, while tied into his carrying of that trait, was not soley based on that. There were some other determining factors as well.
As he said Monday, Tomlin reiterated that a decision about safety Ryan Clark's status would not be made until Thursday.
Linebacker Lawrence Timmons and defensive end Travis Kirschke are both questionable. Timmons, with an ankle injury, is more likely to play than Kirschke, who has a calf strain.
Willie Parker missed practice Monday with an illness. His status at this time is up in the air.
One thing of note that Tomlin did talk about Monday was that wide receiver Santonio Holmes, like Clark, also carries the sickle cell trait. But, Tomlin also noted that a couple of Denver's players also carry it as well.
Clark's illness after playing there, while tied into his carrying of that trait, was not soley based on that. There were some other determining factors as well.
Sunday, November 01, 2009
Next three weeks could decide AFC North
The next three weeks may very well decide who wins the AFC North title this season.
While Cincinnati and Pittsburgh are off, Baltimore hosts unbeaten Denver in one of the marquee matchups of Week 8.
A loss by the Ravens, which would be their fourth in a row following a 3-0 start, would all but bury them in the division race.
Week 9 will send the Ravens to Cincinnati, while the Steelers head to Denver.
Again, given that Baltimore has already lost once to the Bengals at home, a loss at Cincinnati would severely damage Baltimore's playoff hopes, even if it defeats Denver this weekend.
A loss by the Steelers in Denver would drop them to 5-3 and would, more importantly, be the team's second AFC loss.
It wouldn't be a killer, but it would hurt.
Week 10 then sees Cincinnati visiting Heinz Field, while Baltimore heads to Cleveland for what should be a cakewalk over the Browns.
Having already lost in Cincinnati, the Steelers have to beat the Bengals at home to have a chance to win the division, particularly with two games remaining against the Ravens.
While Cincinnati and Pittsburgh are off, Baltimore hosts unbeaten Denver in one of the marquee matchups of Week 8.
A loss by the Ravens, which would be their fourth in a row following a 3-0 start, would all but bury them in the division race.
Week 9 will send the Ravens to Cincinnati, while the Steelers head to Denver.
Again, given that Baltimore has already lost once to the Bengals at home, a loss at Cincinnati would severely damage Baltimore's playoff hopes, even if it defeats Denver this weekend.
A loss by the Steelers in Denver would drop them to 5-3 and would, more importantly, be the team's second AFC loss.
It wouldn't be a killer, but it would hurt.
Week 10 then sees Cincinnati visiting Heinz Field, while Baltimore heads to Cleveland for what should be a cakewalk over the Browns.
Having already lost in Cincinnati, the Steelers have to beat the Bengals at home to have a chance to win the division, particularly with two games remaining against the Ravens.
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Harrison named AFC Defensive Player of the Month
Steelers linebacker James Harrison was named the AFC Defensive Player of the Month for October.
The reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year finished October with 25 tackles, seven sacks and two forced fumbles in leading the Steelers to a 4-0 record.
The reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year finished October with 25 tackles, seven sacks and two forced fumbles in leading the Steelers to a 4-0 record.
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Clearing up some things
There's been a lot of talk back and forth between Pittsburgh and Minnesota fans about what did and did not occur in Sunday's meeting between the two teams.
First, Heath Miller did interfere with the Minnesota defender at the goal line. Was it away from the play? Yes. But Miller extended his arm on contact and that's going to get called every time.
Second, Jeff Dugan threw his legs up backward on his cross body block on James Harrison which is going to get called as a trip every time. Had he just dove at Harrison's legs, he'd have been OK. He didn't.
Finally, Harrison did not take a dive at Brett Favre's knee. He was held on the play by Bryant McKinnie - which was rightfully called for a penalty – and his momentum from that hold carried him into Favre's knees.
Last time I checked, the Vikings have a big game coming up this week with Green Bay. Maybe the Vikings trolls will finally start thinking about that game.
First, Heath Miller did interfere with the Minnesota defender at the goal line. Was it away from the play? Yes. But Miller extended his arm on contact and that's going to get called every time.
Second, Jeff Dugan threw his legs up backward on his cross body block on James Harrison which is going to get called as a trip every time. Had he just dove at Harrison's legs, he'd have been OK. He didn't.
Finally, Harrison did not take a dive at Brett Favre's knee. He was held on the play by Bryant McKinnie - which was rightfully called for a penalty – and his momentum from that hold carried him into Favre's knees.
Last time I checked, the Vikings have a big game coming up this week with Green Bay. Maybe the Vikings trolls will finally start thinking about that game.
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Post-Minnesota thoughts
Many Steelers fans like to complain about the play calling of offensive coordinator Bruce Arians, but how would you like to be a Minnesota Vikings fan right now.
As I sat in the press box and watched Adrian Peterson used sparingly, I was dumbfounded.
How in the world can you not run the best running back on the planet three times from the two-inch line?
I realize the great Brett Favre is the king of the one-yard touchdown pass to the tight end, but Minnesota offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell should have some 'splainin to do.
I didn't go over to Minnesota's locker room, but I checked the post-game quotes from Vikings head coach Brad Childress and he was never asked about that decision. That, my friends, is inexcusable.
But, as Steelers Digest editor Bob Labriola so often likes to say, "The other team has coaches too."
It's Labriola's way of saying that coaches get too cute instead of just doing the obvious.
© The Steelers did some of that as well Sunday, doing things like taking tight end Heath Miller off the field to instead play Shaun McDonald.
Sorry, but the only way Miller comes off the field if I'm running things is if he's injured. He's become way too valuable an option to not be out there on every play.
© I did like the backfield pairing of Mewelde Moore and Rashard Mendenhall. They're both solid receivers and are matchup problems on the edge.
© Did Jared Allen play?
I know a lot of people questioned the Steelers' decision to put the transition and franchise tags on Max Starks the previous two seasons before giving him a new contract this season, but he's turning into a solid NFL left tackle.
© The Vikings played a lot of cover-2 in this game to take away the Steelers' deep passing game.
That opened up some running lanes for Mendenhall, particularly on the right side, where Willie Colon had a solid game.
But Mendenhall has got to learn that you don't leave your feet in the NFL with the ball in your hands unless you're diving into the end zone.
That was a silly fumble in the fourth quarter.
© 5-2 at the bye week is about as good as could be expected.
The bye comes at a good time, too.
That was a nasty ankle injury for linebacker Lawrence Timmons, who got clipped from behind by teammate James Farrior. The guess here is that he might need every day in the next two weeks to get that healthy again.
And the calf injury suffered by Travis Kirschke is one of those things you get when you're a 35-year-old trying to play full time.
© The three neutral zone infractions on Casey Hampton were for lining up with part of his helmet in the zone. Some officials call it, others don't.
But once you're whistled for it once, don't you think you might get the idea?
© The pass interference call on Miller that negated a touchdown pass to Santonio Holmes likely would not have been called had he not extended his arm on contact.
As I sat in the press box and watched Adrian Peterson used sparingly, I was dumbfounded.
How in the world can you not run the best running back on the planet three times from the two-inch line?
I realize the great Brett Favre is the king of the one-yard touchdown pass to the tight end, but Minnesota offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell should have some 'splainin to do.
I didn't go over to Minnesota's locker room, but I checked the post-game quotes from Vikings head coach Brad Childress and he was never asked about that decision. That, my friends, is inexcusable.
But, as Steelers Digest editor Bob Labriola so often likes to say, "The other team has coaches too."
It's Labriola's way of saying that coaches get too cute instead of just doing the obvious.
© The Steelers did some of that as well Sunday, doing things like taking tight end Heath Miller off the field to instead play Shaun McDonald.
Sorry, but the only way Miller comes off the field if I'm running things is if he's injured. He's become way too valuable an option to not be out there on every play.
© I did like the backfield pairing of Mewelde Moore and Rashard Mendenhall. They're both solid receivers and are matchup problems on the edge.
© Did Jared Allen play?
I know a lot of people questioned the Steelers' decision to put the transition and franchise tags on Max Starks the previous two seasons before giving him a new contract this season, but he's turning into a solid NFL left tackle.
© The Vikings played a lot of cover-2 in this game to take away the Steelers' deep passing game.
That opened up some running lanes for Mendenhall, particularly on the right side, where Willie Colon had a solid game.
But Mendenhall has got to learn that you don't leave your feet in the NFL with the ball in your hands unless you're diving into the end zone.
That was a silly fumble in the fourth quarter.
© 5-2 at the bye week is about as good as could be expected.
The bye comes at a good time, too.
That was a nasty ankle injury for linebacker Lawrence Timmons, who got clipped from behind by teammate James Farrior. The guess here is that he might need every day in the next two weeks to get that healthy again.
And the calf injury suffered by Travis Kirschke is one of those things you get when you're a 35-year-old trying to play full time.
© The three neutral zone infractions on Casey Hampton were for lining up with part of his helmet in the zone. Some officials call it, others don't.
But once you're whistled for it once, don't you think you might get the idea?
© The pass interference call on Miller that negated a touchdown pass to Santonio Holmes likely would not have been called had he not extended his arm on contact.
Minnesota-Steelers game thread
You have plenty to say about today's game. Say it here, say it clear.
Friday, October 23, 2009
Who I like
This game is setting up perfectly for the Steelers.
Antoine Winfield, Minnesota's best cornerback, is doubtful to play with a sprained foot.
Percy Harvin, Minnesota's talented rookie return man/wide receiver, is questionable with a shoulder injury.
And Adrian Peterson, the best running back on the planet, has been slowed with an ankle injury.
The big thing, however, is Winfield's injury.
The Vikings' pass defense was 24th in the league with him in the lineup. It certainly won't be any better without him.
That's not good news against this Pittsburgh passing game.
Take the Steelers, 27-21
© Troy Polamalu practiced Friday and will play, as if there was any doubt.
Antoine Winfield, Minnesota's best cornerback, is doubtful to play with a sprained foot.
Percy Harvin, Minnesota's talented rookie return man/wide receiver, is questionable with a shoulder injury.
And Adrian Peterson, the best running back on the planet, has been slowed with an ankle injury.
The big thing, however, is Winfield's injury.
The Vikings' pass defense was 24th in the league with him in the lineup. It certainly won't be any better without him.
That's not good news against this Pittsburgh passing game.
Take the Steelers, 27-21
© Troy Polamalu practiced Friday and will play, as if there was any doubt.
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Polamalu sits out again
Troy Polamalu sat out his second consecutive day of practice Thursday as the Steelers prepare to play the Minnesota Vikings Sunday.
But the Steelers expect Polamalu to practice Friday and be good to play against the Vikings.
The team sat him out the past two days to give his left knee, which caused him to miss four games with an MCL sprain, some extra time to rest following his comeback last week against Cleveland.
Running back Rashard Mendenhall returned to practice today after being limited Wednesday with a bruised knee.
Mendenhall said he's taking the starting job week-to-week, while Willie Parker said he's OK with Mike Tomlin's decision to continue starting Mendenhall.
"I'm not 100 percent yet," said Parker, who missed two games with a sprained toe. "Coach (Mike) Tomlin knows that."
Defensive end Travis Kirschke also returned Thursday, while linebacker Andre Frazier sat with a quad injury.
But the Steelers expect Polamalu to practice Friday and be good to play against the Vikings.
The team sat him out the past two days to give his left knee, which caused him to miss four games with an MCL sprain, some extra time to rest following his comeback last week against Cleveland.
Running back Rashard Mendenhall returned to practice today after being limited Wednesday with a bruised knee.
Mendenhall said he's taking the starting job week-to-week, while Willie Parker said he's OK with Mike Tomlin's decision to continue starting Mendenhall.
"I'm not 100 percent yet," said Parker, who missed two games with a sprained toe. "Coach (Mike) Tomlin knows that."
Defensive end Travis Kirschke also returned Thursday, while linebacker Andre Frazier sat with a quad injury.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Reed will play
As expected, Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin said Tuesday that placekicker Jeff Reed will play Sunday when Pittsburgh hosts Minnesota.
It's actually not that difficult of a decision for Tomlin to make.
The NFLPA could file a grievance against the team if Tomlin chose to bench Reed over his arrest Sunday night in Pittsburgh on several charges, including resisting arrest.
And the NFLPA would likely win any such grievance.
It's a bit different than Tomlin's benching of Santonio Holmes last season following his arrest for marijuana possession.
First off, Holmes' situation happened on a Thursday, just a couple of days before the Steelers were set to play the New York Giants.
That gave Tomlin the leeway to bench Holmes because his arrest could be considered a distraction. You'll notice that Tomlin never said he was keeping Holmes inactive because of the arrest.
Also, because the Steelers have multiple wide receivers, Holmes' deactivation didn't affect the overall roster.
A coach can decide to deactivate whomever he wants, after all. We've already seen Tennessee have Jevon Kearse and New England deactivate Adalius Thomas – both of who were healthy - for games this season.
But to deactivate a kicker, the Steelers would have to cut somebody else and sign another kicker. That player who lost his roster spot, even for a week, would have a serious complaint.
So the Steelers will wait, see how this thing plays out, and move on from there. Any suspension would have to be mandated by the NFL and would likely only occur if Reed is convicted.
By the time that happens, Reed's problems could be some other team's. He'll be an unrestricted free agent at the end of this season and this latest run-in with the law probably means he's playing his last season with Pittsburgh.
© In other news Tuesday, Tomlin said Rashard Mendenhall will continue to start at running back, giving way every third series to Willie Parker.
It's actually not that difficult of a decision for Tomlin to make.
The NFLPA could file a grievance against the team if Tomlin chose to bench Reed over his arrest Sunday night in Pittsburgh on several charges, including resisting arrest.
And the NFLPA would likely win any such grievance.
It's a bit different than Tomlin's benching of Santonio Holmes last season following his arrest for marijuana possession.
First off, Holmes' situation happened on a Thursday, just a couple of days before the Steelers were set to play the New York Giants.
That gave Tomlin the leeway to bench Holmes because his arrest could be considered a distraction. You'll notice that Tomlin never said he was keeping Holmes inactive because of the arrest.
Also, because the Steelers have multiple wide receivers, Holmes' deactivation didn't affect the overall roster.
A coach can decide to deactivate whomever he wants, after all. We've already seen Tennessee have Jevon Kearse and New England deactivate Adalius Thomas – both of who were healthy - for games this season.
But to deactivate a kicker, the Steelers would have to cut somebody else and sign another kicker. That player who lost his roster spot, even for a week, would have a serious complaint.
So the Steelers will wait, see how this thing plays out, and move on from there. Any suspension would have to be mandated by the NFL and would likely only occur if Reed is convicted.
By the time that happens, Reed's problems could be some other team's. He'll be an unrestricted free agent at the end of this season and this latest run-in with the law probably means he's playing his last season with Pittsburgh.
© In other news Tuesday, Tomlin said Rashard Mendenhall will continue to start at running back, giving way every third series to Willie Parker.
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Post-Cleveland thoughts
I've covered every game Ben Roethlisberger has played at quarterback and can tell you without a doubt, he's playing the best football of his career.
Roethlisberger still makes an occasional dumb throw - like his second half interception, what was he thinking? – but he's playing quarterback better than anybody in the history of the Pittsburgh Steelers.
There, I said it. Roethlisberger is better than Bradshaw. Better than Layne. Better than O'Donnell. Better than Stewart. You get the idea.
© The run defense didn't really suffer this week without Aaron Smith as Travis Kirschke and Nick Eason, with a little bit of rookie Ziggy Hood thrown in, helped shut down the running lanes for the Browns pretty well.
We'll see this weekend, when the Steelers host the Vikings, if they can kick that into the next gear.
© Following Sunday's game, the Heinz Field maintenance crew began tearing up the center of the field to re-sod it. It's supposed to be completed by the morning.
© Cleveland is so bad that even the usually cheerleader-laden Browns media is looking ahead at how this team can get the No. 1 pick in next year's draft.
© All of those people who spent all of those years screaming for the Steelers to throw the ball to the tight end have to find themselves a new mantra.
Heath Miller is playing Pro Bowl football. With Tony Gonzalez now playing in Atlanta, this might be the year that Miller gets his due.
But let's be honest, despite all of the lobbying of previous years, he really didn't deserve it. Yeah, he's a pretty good blocker and reliable receiver, but the Pro Bowl is about production.
He's got that this year.
© The Steelers offensive line is playing outstanding football but will be facing its biggest test of the season against the Vikings.
Left guard Chris Kemoeatu and left tackle Max Starks both had to be helped off in the first quarter and while both returned, you don't want to be at anything less than 100 percent facing that Minnesota defensive line.
© People who were worried about this team's receivers coming into this season didn't realize that Hines Ward found the fountain of youth.
© Welcome back Troy Polamalu. Two games, two interceptions.
© Outside of Josh Cribbs, Shaun Rogers and Joe Thomas, I don't know who on Cleveland's roster would play for the Steelers.
Roethlisberger still makes an occasional dumb throw - like his second half interception, what was he thinking? – but he's playing quarterback better than anybody in the history of the Pittsburgh Steelers.
There, I said it. Roethlisberger is better than Bradshaw. Better than Layne. Better than O'Donnell. Better than Stewart. You get the idea.
© The run defense didn't really suffer this week without Aaron Smith as Travis Kirschke and Nick Eason, with a little bit of rookie Ziggy Hood thrown in, helped shut down the running lanes for the Browns pretty well.
We'll see this weekend, when the Steelers host the Vikings, if they can kick that into the next gear.
© Following Sunday's game, the Heinz Field maintenance crew began tearing up the center of the field to re-sod it. It's supposed to be completed by the morning.
© Cleveland is so bad that even the usually cheerleader-laden Browns media is looking ahead at how this team can get the No. 1 pick in next year's draft.
© All of those people who spent all of those years screaming for the Steelers to throw the ball to the tight end have to find themselves a new mantra.
Heath Miller is playing Pro Bowl football. With Tony Gonzalez now playing in Atlanta, this might be the year that Miller gets his due.
But let's be honest, despite all of the lobbying of previous years, he really didn't deserve it. Yeah, he's a pretty good blocker and reliable receiver, but the Pro Bowl is about production.
He's got that this year.
© The Steelers offensive line is playing outstanding football but will be facing its biggest test of the season against the Vikings.
Left guard Chris Kemoeatu and left tackle Max Starks both had to be helped off in the first quarter and while both returned, you don't want to be at anything less than 100 percent facing that Minnesota defensive line.
© People who were worried about this team's receivers coming into this season didn't realize that Hines Ward found the fountain of youth.
© Welcome back Troy Polamalu. Two games, two interceptions.
© Outside of Josh Cribbs, Shaun Rogers and Joe Thomas, I don't know who on Cleveland's roster would play for the Steelers.
Inactives
Kamerion Wimbley is a surprise inactive today for the Browns. Apparently, he had the flu and was sent home.
Also down for Cleveland is starting tight end Steve Heiden.
Sweed is inactive for the Steelers, along with Keenan Lewis, Carey Davis, Andre Frazier, Urbik, Hills and Sunny Harris.
Also down for Cleveland is starting tight end Steve Heiden.
Sweed is inactive for the Steelers, along with Keenan Lewis, Carey Davis, Andre Frazier, Urbik, Hills and Sunny Harris.
Friday, October 16, 2009
Who I like; Mendenhall will start
While losing Aaron Smith for the season can never be considered a good thing - even though some idiots on local talk radio have tried to make a case for it by citing it as a chance for Ziggy Hood to play - the one silver lining for the Steelers is that they've got their annual whipping boys, the Cleveland Browns, coming to town.
Make no mistake about it, the Steelers will miss Smith on defense. They will not be as stout against the run.
But this team is better able to handle that because of a much-improved offense. This team can win shootouts.
The Steelers won't, however, have on this week with the Browns.
Cleveland has scored four touchdowns this season. The Browns have 55 points in five games.
The Steelers could score 55 points in this game if they chose to.
Take Pittsburgh, 34-6
© By the way, Rashard Mendenhall was back in practice today and will get the start against the Browns at running back.
Make no mistake about it, the Steelers will miss Smith on defense. They will not be as stout against the run.
But this team is better able to handle that because of a much-improved offense. This team can win shootouts.
The Steelers won't, however, have on this week with the Browns.
Cleveland has scored four touchdowns this season. The Browns have 55 points in five games.
The Steelers could score 55 points in this game if they chose to.
Take Pittsburgh, 34-6
© By the way, Rashard Mendenhall was back in practice today and will get the start against the Browns at running back.
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Mendenhall misses practice
Running back Rashard Mendenhall missed practice Thursday for the Steelers due to an illness, but is expected to be ready to play by Sunday when the Steelers host the Browns.
Of course the illness could be used as an excuse by head coach Mike Tomlin to split carries more evenly between Mendenhall and Willie Parker, who is expected to return after missing the past two games with a toe injury.
Mendenhall has run the ball well with Parke out - albeit against two weak defenses - but the Steelers have been mum about how they'll split the carries upon Parker's return.
Prior to Parker's injury, he was starting, with Mendenhall spelling him every third series.
That changed in a loss at Cincinnati, when Mendenhall was benched on offense. But Parker was injured during that game and Mendenhall has responded with the two best games of his young career.
Of course the illness could be used as an excuse by head coach Mike Tomlin to split carries more evenly between Mendenhall and Willie Parker, who is expected to return after missing the past two games with a toe injury.
Mendenhall has run the ball well with Parke out - albeit against two weak defenses - but the Steelers have been mum about how they'll split the carries upon Parker's return.
Prior to Parker's injury, he was starting, with Mendenhall spelling him every third series.
That changed in a loss at Cincinnati, when Mendenhall was benched on offense. But Parker was injured during that game and Mendenhall has responded with the two best games of his young career.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Smith placed on injured reserve
The Steelers have placed defensive end Aaron Smith on injured reserve with a torn rotator cuff and signed lineman Sonny Harris off the Carolina Panthers' practice squad.
Harris, of course, was with the Steelers in training camp after being a sixth round pick in this year's draft.
I was a little surprised Carolina didn't add him to its active roster to block the Steelers from signing him away, but the Panthers must not have liked him that much.
Harris, of course, was with the Steelers in training camp after being a sixth round pick in this year's draft.
I was a little surprised Carolina didn't add him to its active roster to block the Steelers from signing him away, but the Panthers must not have liked him that much.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Steelers could get Polamalu, Parker, back, lose Smith
The hits just keep on coming for the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Though they are likely to get Troy Polamalu and Willie Parker back in the lineup this week, they have lost Aaron Smith, perhaps for the season, to a torn rotator cuff.
The star defensive end suffered the shoulder injury in the second half of the win against Detroit and was being evaluated Thursday.
Look for Travis Kirschke to step into the starting lineup this week against Cleveland, rotating with Nick Eason and rookie Ziggy Hood.
Hood's not quite ready to step into a starting role just yet, though he has gotten better at holding the point of attack.
They'll put the hard-sell on Hood and likely try to get him ready to take on a starting role coming out of the bye in a few weeks.
As for Smith, the Steelers can place him on injured reserve, thus ending his season, or they can keep him on the 53-man roster - ala Rod Woodson in 1995 - and hope that the surgery he has later this week will allow him to return in January.
Though they are likely to get Troy Polamalu and Willie Parker back in the lineup this week, they have lost Aaron Smith, perhaps for the season, to a torn rotator cuff.
The star defensive end suffered the shoulder injury in the second half of the win against Detroit and was being evaluated Thursday.
Look for Travis Kirschke to step into the starting lineup this week against Cleveland, rotating with Nick Eason and rookie Ziggy Hood.
Hood's not quite ready to step into a starting role just yet, though he has gotten better at holding the point of attack.
They'll put the hard-sell on Hood and likely try to get him ready to take on a starting role coming out of the bye in a few weeks.
As for Smith, the Steelers can place him on injured reserve, thus ending his season, or they can keep him on the 53-man roster - ala Rod Woodson in 1995 - and hope that the surgery he has later this week will allow him to return in January.
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Post-Detroit thoughts
It was a little more difficult than expected, but a win is a win.
And the fact that the defense came up big when it needed to at least showed something - particularly after an otherwise lackluster day.
Some fans - read gamblers – will make a big deal out of the fact the Steelers didn't cover in their 28-20 win over the Lions. But if they beat Cleveland and Minnesota at home in the next two weeks before their bye, all anyone will be talking about is 5-2, not how they got there.
© That rape case has really been a distraction for Ben Roethlisberger, huh?
Roethlisberger is completing and NFL-best 73.8 percent of his passes and is averaging just under 300 yards passing per game.
The biggest difference has been his willingness to check down to his running backs and tight ends.
It's no coincidence his completion percentage is what it is when he's already completed 29 passes to Heath Miller.
© Because of his pass catching ability, Rashard Mendenhall is a better fit as the starter for this team.
Oh yeah, he's running well too.
I like Willie Parker a lot. In fact, I was probably the first person in Pittsburgh to do a story on hiim when a I did a feature for SteelCityInsider.com on him during his first minicamp. Makes me feel like I discovered him, even though I didn't.
But Mendenhall has taken the bull by the horns.
The Steelers can keep resting Parker for another week or two to get his toe completely healed and use that as an excuse to keep on starting Mendenhall.
© I did find it interesting that when the Steelers were backed up against their own goal line in the second quarter, they came out with Mewelde Moore at tailback.
My first thought about that the coaching staff still has some fumble concerns with Mendenhall.
© Anybody who paid to see Cleveland play Buffalo today should get a refund. And their heads checked.
© In his past six quarters of football, James Harrison has five sacks.
That, my friends, is called production.
He has a tough matchup coming up with Cleveland's Joe Thomas, who has held him to a half-sack in three career meetings.
And the fact that the defense came up big when it needed to at least showed something - particularly after an otherwise lackluster day.
Some fans - read gamblers – will make a big deal out of the fact the Steelers didn't cover in their 28-20 win over the Lions. But if they beat Cleveland and Minnesota at home in the next two weeks before their bye, all anyone will be talking about is 5-2, not how they got there.
© That rape case has really been a distraction for Ben Roethlisberger, huh?
Roethlisberger is completing and NFL-best 73.8 percent of his passes and is averaging just under 300 yards passing per game.
The biggest difference has been his willingness to check down to his running backs and tight ends.
It's no coincidence his completion percentage is what it is when he's already completed 29 passes to Heath Miller.
© Because of his pass catching ability, Rashard Mendenhall is a better fit as the starter for this team.
Oh yeah, he's running well too.
I like Willie Parker a lot. In fact, I was probably the first person in Pittsburgh to do a story on hiim when a I did a feature for SteelCityInsider.com on him during his first minicamp. Makes me feel like I discovered him, even though I didn't.
But Mendenhall has taken the bull by the horns.
The Steelers can keep resting Parker for another week or two to get his toe completely healed and use that as an excuse to keep on starting Mendenhall.
© I did find it interesting that when the Steelers were backed up against their own goal line in the second quarter, they came out with Mewelde Moore at tailback.
My first thought about that the coaching staff still has some fumble concerns with Mendenhall.
© Anybody who paid to see Cleveland play Buffalo today should get a refund. And their heads checked.
© In his past six quarters of football, James Harrison has five sacks.
That, my friends, is called production.
He has a tough matchup coming up with Cleveland's Joe Thomas, who has held him to a half-sack in three career meetings.
Sweed's active against Lions
Limas Sweed is active this week against the Lions after his benching last week.
Down for the Steelers are Lewis, Parker, Polamalu, Urbik, Hills, McDonald and Eason.
Culpepper will start at QB for the Lions; Jon Jansen at RT in place of Gosder Cherlius; Turk McBride at RE in place of Dewayne White; Landon Cohen at DT in place of Sammie Hill.
© The only way the Steelers lose this game is if Larry Foote gave them food poisoning. A bunch of the guys went to Foote's house last night.
Down for the Steelers are Lewis, Parker, Polamalu, Urbik, Hills, McDonald and Eason.
Culpepper will start at QB for the Lions; Jon Jansen at RT in place of Gosder Cherlius; Turk McBride at RE in place of Dewayne White; Landon Cohen at DT in place of Sammie Hill.
© The only way the Steelers lose this game is if Larry Foote gave them food poisoning. A bunch of the guys went to Foote's house last night.
Friday, October 09, 2009
Who I like
Does this one even need any explanation?
Take the Steelers this week, 34-13, against a Detroit club that has given up 12 touchdown passes and more than 5-yards per carry.
Willie Parker and Troy Polamalu won't play, but it won't matter as the Steelers' MIA pass rush will get going.
Take the Steelers this week, 34-13, against a Detroit club that has given up 12 touchdown passes and more than 5-yards per carry.
Willie Parker and Troy Polamalu won't play, but it won't matter as the Steelers' MIA pass rush will get going.
Thursday, October 08, 2009
Team still distanced from Mendenhall
Listening to my tape over the past week, I've picked up on something that may give a little insight into how Rashard Mendenhall is perceived by his teammates.
When talking about the second-year running back, the only player who uses Mendenhall's first name is Willie Parker - a guy who would know him reasonably well from sitting through meetings with him.
Everyone else calls him Mendenhall.
Mendenhall didn't spend much time around the team after his injury last season - at least not until the playoffs. I only saw him on one road trip.
That's not really as big a deal as it was made out to be last season. He did his rehab. He got healthy. And some coaches don't like a lot of injured players around anyway because they really can't help the team - particularly a rookie.
But it's obvious Mendenhall isn't "one of the boys."
He's quiet and in fact, comes off as a little shy.
But another 165-yard game or two and you can bet the teammates will be talking differently about him.
When talking about the second-year running back, the only player who uses Mendenhall's first name is Willie Parker - a guy who would know him reasonably well from sitting through meetings with him.
Everyone else calls him Mendenhall.
Mendenhall didn't spend much time around the team after his injury last season - at least not until the playoffs. I only saw him on one road trip.
That's not really as big a deal as it was made out to be last season. He did his rehab. He got healthy. And some coaches don't like a lot of injured players around anyway because they really can't help the team - particularly a rookie.
But it's obvious Mendenhall isn't "one of the boys."
He's quiet and in fact, comes off as a little shy.
But another 165-yard game or two and you can bet the teammates will be talking differently about him.
Wednesday, October 07, 2009
Parker not optimistic
Willie Parker isn't optimistic about being able to play this week against the Detroit Lions due to his turf toe injury.
Parker said this injury is worse than previous turf toes he's had but that he expects to be back soon. There's also no need to rush things with backup Rashard Mendenhall having shown he can carry the load.
But, as Parker noted, that's also a reason why he, as a competitor, wants to come back and do well.
© Safety Troy Polamalu went through practice on a limited basis Wednesday as he moves toward returning from his sprained knee.
Several teammates, however, would prefer Polamalu sit out the game in Detroit and return against Cleveland.
Their reason is that Detroit's artificial surface is less forgiving than Heinz Field's natural surface and they don't want Polamalu to aggravate his knee.
© The Sporting News has named Pittsburgh the No. 1 sports city on the continent. Congratulations Steelers fans.
Parker said this injury is worse than previous turf toes he's had but that he expects to be back soon. There's also no need to rush things with backup Rashard Mendenhall having shown he can carry the load.
But, as Parker noted, that's also a reason why he, as a competitor, wants to come back and do well.
© Safety Troy Polamalu went through practice on a limited basis Wednesday as he moves toward returning from his sprained knee.
Several teammates, however, would prefer Polamalu sit out the game in Detroit and return against Cleveland.
Their reason is that Detroit's artificial surface is less forgiving than Heinz Field's natural surface and they don't want Polamalu to aggravate his knee.
© The Sporting News has named Pittsburgh the No. 1 sports city on the continent. Congratulations Steelers fans.
Monday, October 05, 2009
Post-San Diego thoughts
There's no truth to the rumor that San Diego was founded by the Germans. If it had been, the Chargers would have been much better prepared to handle the Steelers' blitzkreig rushing attack Sunday night.
Yes, that was the Steelers rushing for 177 yards on 36 carries in this game, bolstered by former whipping boy Rashard Mendenhall's 165 yards on 29 carries.
That said, San Diego's defense isn't a good one. But looking down Pittsburgh's schedule there aren't a lot of stout defenses remaining.
Baltimore twice. Check. Minnesota. Check.
Outside of those two teams, the rest of the schedule looks like the college football equivalent of Temple.
Who made this schedule, Joe Paterno?
© Perhaps the best thing we saw out of the Steelers Sunday night was that they continued trying to score in the fourth quarter.
Turned out to be a good thing, too, as San Diego got a gift touchdown from referee Jeff Triplette's crew on a "fumble" by Stefan Logan that was returned for a score.
Even after the play, the officials seemed to be looking at each other as if to say, "I thought it was your turn to blow the whistle."
Logan's forward progress was clearly stopped - he had six Chargers hanging on his 185-pound body – and had been for several seconds before the ball came loose.
© I loved Mike Tomlin's decision to go for it on fourth-and-inches from his own 30 with a 14-0 lead in the second quarter.
It was if he was thumbing his nose at Norv Turner and the San Diego defense because he knew there was no way the Jamal Williams-less Chargers were going to stop the Steelers from running.
Faced with a fourth-and-two from his own 40 minutes later, Turner punted.
© I'm not sure why reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year James Harrison was 30 yards downfield with less than five minutes remaining in the game to pick up perhaps the most obvious pass interference penalty in NFL history.
I'm pretty sure, judging from the way Harrison smacked would-be receiver Antonio Gates to the ground, that Harrison didn't know why he was put in that situation either.
I hate to question the great Dick LeBeau about such things, but given Harrison's sack-strip on San Diego's final offensive play – something he does with some regularity – it really stood out.
© Rashard Mendenhall will find Steelers fans very forgiving of past transgressions if he is able to continue pounding out 5.7 yards per carry as he did Sunday night.
The same will go for Limas Sweed when he gets back on the field – which will come at some point – when/if he starts holding onto those deep passes.
Yes, that was the Steelers rushing for 177 yards on 36 carries in this game, bolstered by former whipping boy Rashard Mendenhall's 165 yards on 29 carries.
That said, San Diego's defense isn't a good one. But looking down Pittsburgh's schedule there aren't a lot of stout defenses remaining.
Baltimore twice. Check. Minnesota. Check.
Outside of those two teams, the rest of the schedule looks like the college football equivalent of Temple.
Who made this schedule, Joe Paterno?
© Perhaps the best thing we saw out of the Steelers Sunday night was that they continued trying to score in the fourth quarter.
Turned out to be a good thing, too, as San Diego got a gift touchdown from referee Jeff Triplette's crew on a "fumble" by Stefan Logan that was returned for a score.
Even after the play, the officials seemed to be looking at each other as if to say, "I thought it was your turn to blow the whistle."
Logan's forward progress was clearly stopped - he had six Chargers hanging on his 185-pound body – and had been for several seconds before the ball came loose.
© I loved Mike Tomlin's decision to go for it on fourth-and-inches from his own 30 with a 14-0 lead in the second quarter.
It was if he was thumbing his nose at Norv Turner and the San Diego defense because he knew there was no way the Jamal Williams-less Chargers were going to stop the Steelers from running.
Faced with a fourth-and-two from his own 40 minutes later, Turner punted.
© I'm not sure why reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year James Harrison was 30 yards downfield with less than five minutes remaining in the game to pick up perhaps the most obvious pass interference penalty in NFL history.
I'm pretty sure, judging from the way Harrison smacked would-be receiver Antonio Gates to the ground, that Harrison didn't know why he was put in that situation either.
I hate to question the great Dick LeBeau about such things, but given Harrison's sack-strip on San Diego's final offensive play – something he does with some regularity – it really stood out.
© Rashard Mendenhall will find Steelers fans very forgiving of past transgressions if he is able to continue pounding out 5.7 yards per carry as he did Sunday night.
The same will go for Limas Sweed when he gets back on the field – which will come at some point – when/if he starts holding onto those deep passes.
Sunday, October 04, 2009
Sweed down, Mendenhall starting
As expected Limas Sweed is inactive tonight for the Steelers against San Diego.
Also down are Keenan Lewis, Willie Parker, Troy Polamalu, Kraig Urbik, Tony Hills and David Johnson.
Rashard Mendenhall will start in place of Parker.
Also down are Keenan Lewis, Willie Parker, Troy Polamalu, Kraig Urbik, Tony Hills and David Johnson.
Rashard Mendenhall will start in place of Parker.
Saturday, October 03, 2009
Steelers promote Redman, release Eason
The fans have gotten their wish as running back Isaac Redman has been promoted from the practice squad to the active roster for Sunday's game against San Diego.
To make room for Redman on the roster, defensive end Nick Eason was released.
the move means that Willie Parker is out for Sunday's game, which isn't a huge surprise since he didn't practice all week.
How Redman will fit into the running back rotation remains to be seen. But he will likely get a chance in short-yardage.
To make room for Redman on the roster, defensive end Nick Eason was released.
the move means that Willie Parker is out for Sunday's game, which isn't a huge surprise since he didn't practice all week.
How Redman will fit into the running back rotation remains to be seen. But he will likely get a chance in short-yardage.
Friday, October 02, 2009
Parker doubtful
Willie Parker was unable to practice again Friday and is listed as doubtful to play Sunday night against the San Diego Chargers due to turf toe.
For San Diego, linebacker Shawn Merriman and running back LaDainian Tomlinson are both probable to play after making it through the week.
If Parker does not play, look for Rashard Mendenhall and Mewelde Moore to share carries for the Steelers against a soft San Diego run defense.
For San Diego, linebacker Shawn Merriman and running back LaDainian Tomlinson are both probable to play after making it through the week.
If Parker does not play, look for Rashard Mendenhall and Mewelde Moore to share carries for the Steelers against a soft San Diego run defense.
Who I like
If the Steelers weren't desperate for a win last week, they certainly are this week against the San Diego Chargers.
These two teams met last season, with the Steelers coming away with a pair of victories at Heinz Field over the Chargers. In fact, the Chargers have struggled in Pittsburgh, having not won there since 1994.
LaDainian Tomlinson could return for San Diego this week, but has never run well against the Steelers. And, in fact, the Steelers may have less of a problem stopping Tomlinson than they would have had with Darren Sproles.
Don't get me wrong, Sproles wasn't going to hurt the Steelers running the ball, but he's dynamite on screens. And if Tomlinson plays on first and second down before giving way to Sproles, it takes some of the element of surprise away.
The Chargers are also not a dink-and-dunk team. Phillip Rivers is going to drop back and chuck the ball. San Diego has an X-factor in tight end Antonio Gates, but I would expect Lawrence Timmons to draw Gates in coverage a lot. He can run with the big man and also give him a physical matchup as well.
Both teams have struggled scoring touchdowns in the red zone and the winner will be the team that at least partially solves some of those woes.
I like Pittsburgh to be that team at home, winning, 27-20.
These two teams met last season, with the Steelers coming away with a pair of victories at Heinz Field over the Chargers. In fact, the Chargers have struggled in Pittsburgh, having not won there since 1994.
LaDainian Tomlinson could return for San Diego this week, but has never run well against the Steelers. And, in fact, the Steelers may have less of a problem stopping Tomlinson than they would have had with Darren Sproles.
Don't get me wrong, Sproles wasn't going to hurt the Steelers running the ball, but he's dynamite on screens. And if Tomlinson plays on first and second down before giving way to Sproles, it takes some of the element of surprise away.
The Chargers are also not a dink-and-dunk team. Phillip Rivers is going to drop back and chuck the ball. San Diego has an X-factor in tight end Antonio Gates, but I would expect Lawrence Timmons to draw Gates in coverage a lot. He can run with the big man and also give him a physical matchup as well.
Both teams have struggled scoring touchdowns in the red zone and the winner will be the team that at least partially solves some of those woes.
I like Pittsburgh to be that team at home, winning, 27-20.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Parker will play
Though he couldn't name a specific game, Willie Parker today said this isn't the first time he's had turf toe and he doesn't expect it to keep him from playing Sunday against San Diego.
That could be good news against a San Diego run defense that's been awful thus far and will be playing without nose tackle Jamal Williams.
Then again, the Steelers don't have the running game of Oakland, Baltimore or Miami, San Diego's first three opponents.
© Limas Sweed didn't have anything to say to reporters, today, waiving off interview requests.
© Matt Spaeth was a surprising non-scratch at practice. I'm not sure if that's good or bad.
© Interesting to note that the Chargers run the ball worse than the Steelers. San Diego's averaging 2.8 yards per carry and has a long run of 13 yards.
That could be good news against a San Diego run defense that's been awful thus far and will be playing without nose tackle Jamal Williams.
Then again, the Steelers don't have the running game of Oakland, Baltimore or Miami, San Diego's first three opponents.
© Limas Sweed didn't have anything to say to reporters, today, waiving off interview requests.
© Matt Spaeth was a surprising non-scratch at practice. I'm not sure if that's good or bad.
© Interesting to note that the Chargers run the ball worse than the Steelers. San Diego's averaging 2.8 yards per carry and has a long run of 13 yards.
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Sweed, Mendenhall put on notice
Mike Tomlin made no bones about it today at his Tuesday press conference, putting running back Rashard Mendenhall and wide receiver Limas Sweed on notice.
Tomlin said he is definitely giving consideration to benching Sweed in favor of veteran Shaun McDonald, while he wants to see a better week of practice out of Mendenhall after benching him last week against Cincinnati due to a lack of preparation.
© Rookie tight end David Johnson has a high ankle sprain and could be out several weeks. Fullback Frank Summers, meanwhile, has issues with his back and the team sent him out to a specialist to have it looked it.
That prompted a call to everyone's previous favorite whipping boy, Carey Davis, with Summers being placed on IR.
© Safety Troy Polamalu is progressing well, though Tomlin would not give a timetable as to when the All-Pro would be back in the lineup.
Tomlin said he is definitely giving consideration to benching Sweed in favor of veteran Shaun McDonald, while he wants to see a better week of practice out of Mendenhall after benching him last week against Cincinnati due to a lack of preparation.
© Rookie tight end David Johnson has a high ankle sprain and could be out several weeks. Fullback Frank Summers, meanwhile, has issues with his back and the team sent him out to a specialist to have it looked it.
That prompted a call to everyone's previous favorite whipping boy, Carey Davis, with Summers being placed on IR.
© Safety Troy Polamalu is progressing well, though Tomlin would not give a timetable as to when the All-Pro would be back in the lineup.
Monday, September 28, 2009
Post-Cincinnati thoughts
Perhaps the Bengals were just due.
Former Pirates announcer Bob Prince used to talk about the hidden vigorish. His theory was that the more often something happens, the less likely it is that it will continue to do so.
The Steelers hadn't lost in Cincinnati since 2001, including a 2006 playoff victory there.
The Bengals have had some decent teams during that span, yet still found ways to lose to the Steelers at home.
© Until the Steelers figure out that they need to continue scoring points no matter how big their lead, they are going to continue to struggle.
It's something other NFL teams have figured out. But you have to cut the Steelers a little break, they're new to this whole pass, pass, pass thing.
© I'm pretty sure Shaun McDonald wouldn't have dropped that pass in the end zone that Limas Sweed did.
I don't know if McDonald could have gotten open like Sweed did, but I know he'll catch everything thrown to him.
And no, Limas, holding your hands in the air to signal a touchdown isn't going to make it so.
Just a guess, but Sweed will not be active again this season unless one of the other receivers is injured.
© The Steelers used Deshea Townsend and Keiwan Ratliff at strong safety on obvious passing downs to combat Cincinnati's three- and four-receiver packages in place of Tyrone Carter.
Even with that, Troy Polamalu can't get healthy soon enough for this team.
© Rashard Mendenhall was benched because Mike Tomlin didn't like how he handled a little success.
I think that was coach-speak for Mendenhall failing his weekly assignment test, but I'm not positive of that.
Either way, he was MIA until deciding it would be a good idea to pitch Cincinnati's squib kick back to Stefan Logan at the 35 rather than falling down to give Ben Roethlisberger one shot to hit something down the field and kick a tying field goal.
It would have been a long shot, but no more so than Logan scoring when the entire Cincinnati defense was five yards from him.
© It's a shame that the Steelers blowing this game will overshadow strong games from cornerbacks Ike Taylor and William Gay.
They both made plays all over the place and got their hands on passes. Now, they just need to start catching those passes.
© Before you get too excited about the 1-2 start, remember that the Steelers opened the 1995 season by losing all-world defensive back Rod Woodson, their best player, in the opener to a knee injury and proceeded to begin the season 3-4.
Included in that run were losses at Jacksonville - the expansion team's first victory - and yes, a loss to the Bengals - in Pittsburgh, no less.
That 1995 team rebounded to go to the Super Bowl and probably should have won that game.
It happens.
Former Pirates announcer Bob Prince used to talk about the hidden vigorish. His theory was that the more often something happens, the less likely it is that it will continue to do so.
The Steelers hadn't lost in Cincinnati since 2001, including a 2006 playoff victory there.
The Bengals have had some decent teams during that span, yet still found ways to lose to the Steelers at home.
© Until the Steelers figure out that they need to continue scoring points no matter how big their lead, they are going to continue to struggle.
It's something other NFL teams have figured out. But you have to cut the Steelers a little break, they're new to this whole pass, pass, pass thing.
© I'm pretty sure Shaun McDonald wouldn't have dropped that pass in the end zone that Limas Sweed did.
I don't know if McDonald could have gotten open like Sweed did, but I know he'll catch everything thrown to him.
And no, Limas, holding your hands in the air to signal a touchdown isn't going to make it so.
Just a guess, but Sweed will not be active again this season unless one of the other receivers is injured.
© The Steelers used Deshea Townsend and Keiwan Ratliff at strong safety on obvious passing downs to combat Cincinnati's three- and four-receiver packages in place of Tyrone Carter.
Even with that, Troy Polamalu can't get healthy soon enough for this team.
© Rashard Mendenhall was benched because Mike Tomlin didn't like how he handled a little success.
I think that was coach-speak for Mendenhall failing his weekly assignment test, but I'm not positive of that.
Either way, he was MIA until deciding it would be a good idea to pitch Cincinnati's squib kick back to Stefan Logan at the 35 rather than falling down to give Ben Roethlisberger one shot to hit something down the field and kick a tying field goal.
It would have been a long shot, but no more so than Logan scoring when the entire Cincinnati defense was five yards from him.
© It's a shame that the Steelers blowing this game will overshadow strong games from cornerbacks Ike Taylor and William Gay.
They both made plays all over the place and got their hands on passes. Now, they just need to start catching those passes.
© Before you get too excited about the 1-2 start, remember that the Steelers opened the 1995 season by losing all-world defensive back Rod Woodson, their best player, in the opener to a knee injury and proceeded to begin the season 3-4.
Included in that run were losses at Jacksonville - the expansion team's first victory - and yes, a loss to the Bengals - in Pittsburgh, no less.
That 1995 team rebounded to go to the Super Bowl and probably should have won that game.
It happens.
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Summers inactive
Frank Summers is inactive this week, with David Johnson taking over the fullback duties.
Also inactive for the Steelers are Keenan Lewis, Troy Polamalu, Kriag Urbik, Tony Hills, Shaun McDonald and Nick Eason. Dennis Dixon is the third quarterback.
Tyrone Carter will start at strong safety.
Also inactive for the Steelers are Keenan Lewis, Troy Polamalu, Kriag Urbik, Tony Hills, Shaun McDonald and Nick Eason. Dennis Dixon is the third quarterback.
Tyrone Carter will start at strong safety.
Friday, September 25, 2009
Look for Steelers to rebound
I took some grief for picking the Bears to beat the Steelers last week - as if me picking Chicago somehow affected the outcome of the game.
But I saw a Pittsburgh team that was going to take some time to adjust to playing without Troy Polamalu. That turned out to be the case, as replacement Tyrone Carter was targeted numerous times by the Bears.
But Chicago is a team with a good tight end in Greg Olsen. This week's opponent, Cincinnati, is not quite so blessed.
Carson Palmer is a good quarterback, but he's been turning the ball over early this year and it doesn't look like his arm is what it once was before he injured his elbow last season.
And while Cedric Benson has been running hard, nobody runs consistently against the Steelers.
Take the Steelers to win this week, 27-17.
But I saw a Pittsburgh team that was going to take some time to adjust to playing without Troy Polamalu. That turned out to be the case, as replacement Tyrone Carter was targeted numerous times by the Bears.
But Chicago is a team with a good tight end in Greg Olsen. This week's opponent, Cincinnati, is not quite so blessed.
Carson Palmer is a good quarterback, but he's been turning the ball over early this year and it doesn't look like his arm is what it once was before he injured his elbow last season.
And while Cedric Benson has been running hard, nobody runs consistently against the Steelers.
Take the Steelers to win this week, 27-17.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Wednesday notes
There were a couple of scoring changes from the Steelers' loss to Chicago.
First, Tyrone Carter was credited with a sack of Jay Cutler in the second quarter that was originally ruled a scramble in the press box. The play went for a one-yard loss and happened with 40 seconds left in the first half.
That gives the Steelers three sacks this season instead of two, thus nullifying everyone's questions about the lack of a pass rush for this team.
© Willie Parker was charged with a first quarter fumble with 1:18 left in the first quarter. The forced fumble was given to Charles Tillman, while Parker was credited with a recovery.
© Tyrone Carter and Troy Polamalu were the only players out with injuries today. Hines Ward and Aaron Smith got a vet's day off.
Limas Sweed was back at practice after sitting out last week and being inactive against the Bears.
First, Tyrone Carter was credited with a sack of Jay Cutler in the second quarter that was originally ruled a scramble in the press box. The play went for a one-yard loss and happened with 40 seconds left in the first half.
That gives the Steelers three sacks this season instead of two, thus nullifying everyone's questions about the lack of a pass rush for this team.
© Willie Parker was charged with a first quarter fumble with 1:18 left in the first quarter. The forced fumble was given to Charles Tillman, while Parker was credited with a recovery.
© Tyrone Carter and Troy Polamalu were the only players out with injuries today. Hines Ward and Aaron Smith got a vet's day off.
Limas Sweed was back at practice after sitting out last week and being inactive against the Bears.
Monday, September 21, 2009
Post-Chicago thoughts
The last time the Steelers played in Chicago - in 1995 - they came back forced overtime, winning at Soldier Field for the only time in team history.
It was a game that proved the 1995 Steelers - a great defensive team - had enough juice offensively to be a Super Bowl contender.
Sunday, we saw the Steelers show why this team – which is great offensively and defensively – might not make it again.
For whatever reason, this team just doesn't seem to be able to keep its foot on the pedal offensively.
The Steelers walked down the field with relative ease on their opening possession and were on their way to a second score when Ben Roethlisberger threw a duck of a pass that was picked off by Charles Tillman.
We didn't see a whole lot of offense after that.
Certainly the rain played a factor in that. But the Steelers played plenty of games in horrid conditions last season.
I know Roethlisberger likes leading the Steelers on fourth quarter game-winning drives and the team has plenty of confidence in him doing that, but it's OK to win by 20 sometimes too.
© From the number of e-mails I received this week about my pick of the Bears to win this game, I guess there were a good number of people who didn't believe me when I wrote that the Steelers would have a more difficult time replacing Troy Polamalu than Chicago would replacing Brian Urlacher.
After watching Polamalu's replacement, Tyrone Cater, get beat for both Chicago touchdowns, I wonder if they believe me now.
© Cincinnati went to Green Bay and won on Sunday, making next week's game against the Steelers at Paul Brown Stadium a big one.
The winner will move to 2-1 and keep pace with Baltimore.
The loser will be 1-2 and trailing the other and Baltimore.
Trust me when I say that the Steelers can lose that game as well.
Actually, I think the loss Sunday will help refocus this team and the Steelers will win in Cincinnati.
© All the people continuing to trash the offensive line should chill out a little bit. The line played pretty darn well Sunday and Roethlisberger had plenty of time to throw.
This team still can't run the ball when opponents know they're going to run it, though.
It was a game that proved the 1995 Steelers - a great defensive team - had enough juice offensively to be a Super Bowl contender.
Sunday, we saw the Steelers show why this team – which is great offensively and defensively – might not make it again.
For whatever reason, this team just doesn't seem to be able to keep its foot on the pedal offensively.
The Steelers walked down the field with relative ease on their opening possession and were on their way to a second score when Ben Roethlisberger threw a duck of a pass that was picked off by Charles Tillman.
We didn't see a whole lot of offense after that.
Certainly the rain played a factor in that. But the Steelers played plenty of games in horrid conditions last season.
I know Roethlisberger likes leading the Steelers on fourth quarter game-winning drives and the team has plenty of confidence in him doing that, but it's OK to win by 20 sometimes too.
© From the number of e-mails I received this week about my pick of the Bears to win this game, I guess there were a good number of people who didn't believe me when I wrote that the Steelers would have a more difficult time replacing Troy Polamalu than Chicago would replacing Brian Urlacher.
After watching Polamalu's replacement, Tyrone Cater, get beat for both Chicago touchdowns, I wonder if they believe me now.
© Cincinnati went to Green Bay and won on Sunday, making next week's game against the Steelers at Paul Brown Stadium a big one.
The winner will move to 2-1 and keep pace with Baltimore.
The loser will be 1-2 and trailing the other and Baltimore.
Trust me when I say that the Steelers can lose that game as well.
Actually, I think the loss Sunday will help refocus this team and the Steelers will win in Cincinnati.
© All the people continuing to trash the offensive line should chill out a little bit. The line played pretty darn well Sunday and Roethlisberger had plenty of time to throw.
This team still can't run the ball when opponents know they're going to run it, though.
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Timmons active
As expected linebacker Lawrence Timmons is active today to play against the Bears and will start.
Inactive for the Steelers are Dennis Dixon, Limas Sweed, Keenan Lewis, Troy Polamalu, Kraig Urbik, Tony Hills, Nick Eason and Arnold Harrison.
Inactive for the Steelers are Dennis Dixon, Limas Sweed, Keenan Lewis, Troy Polamalu, Kraig Urbik, Tony Hills, Nick Eason and Arnold Harrison.
Friday, September 18, 2009
Sweed out, Timmons in
Limas Sweed won't play this week for the Steelers - did he play last week? - after suffering a foot injury Wednesday in practice.
That means Shaun McDonald, who was inactive against Tennessee, will 'get a hat this week,' as head coach Mike Tomlin is fond of saying.
McDonald will share time as the Steelers No. 3 receiver behind Hines Ward and Santonio Holmes with rookie Mike Wallace.
© On the good news front, it looks like linebacker Lawrence Timmons will play against the Bears.
Timmons missed the opener with a sprained ankle, but made it through practice Friday OK after being limited Wednesday and Thursday.
© Who I like - I think the Steelers will struggle a little bit as they get accustomed to playing without Troy Polamalu, while Chicago will be OK without Brian Urlacher because the Steelers won't run the ball effectively enough to hurt the Bears.
Jay Cutler will also bounce back a bit and the Steelers will lose, 20-17.
That means Shaun McDonald, who was inactive against Tennessee, will 'get a hat this week,' as head coach Mike Tomlin is fond of saying.
McDonald will share time as the Steelers No. 3 receiver behind Hines Ward and Santonio Holmes with rookie Mike Wallace.
© On the good news front, it looks like linebacker Lawrence Timmons will play against the Bears.
Timmons missed the opener with a sprained ankle, but made it through practice Friday OK after being limited Wednesday and Thursday.
© Who I like - I think the Steelers will struggle a little bit as they get accustomed to playing without Troy Polamalu, while Chicago will be OK without Brian Urlacher because the Steelers won't run the ball effectively enough to hurt the Bears.
Jay Cutler will also bounce back a bit and the Steelers will lose, 20-17.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Timmons back at practice
Linebacker Lawrence Timmons was back at practice Wednesday in a limited basis as he further tested his sore ankle, pushing forward toward playing Sunday in Chicago.
He did not, however, work in the team portion of the practice.
Getting Timmons back would be huge for the Steelers, who will be playing without strong safety Troy Polamalu.
© Limas Sweed was limited in practice Wednesday with a foot injury.
© Jeff Reed was named the AFC's special teams player of the week for his performance against Tennessee.
© Ben Roethlisberger was a little more open with the media on Wednesday than he usually is.
Roethlisberger usually talks in cliches and gives very short answers as he purposely tries to be bland.
Perhaps his most interesting comment came when asked about the 'Steelers' mentality.
"I think some of it comes from that being what the Steelers always did in the past. I always say you have to keep up with the times. That’s kind of evolving into a passing offense - league wide. People talk about the Steelers and the run game because we want to be physical. When you want to be physical, people assume that’s the run game. But that can mean a lot of different things. I guess you can go all the way back to the ‘70s and we were a grind-it-out team. We’re not that ‘70s team. We’re our own identity and that includes a lot of no-huddle stuff. It’s been good."
He did not, however, work in the team portion of the practice.
Getting Timmons back would be huge for the Steelers, who will be playing without strong safety Troy Polamalu.
© Limas Sweed was limited in practice Wednesday with a foot injury.
© Jeff Reed was named the AFC's special teams player of the week for his performance against Tennessee.
© Ben Roethlisberger was a little more open with the media on Wednesday than he usually is.
Roethlisberger usually talks in cliches and gives very short answers as he purposely tries to be bland.
Perhaps his most interesting comment came when asked about the 'Steelers' mentality.
"I think some of it comes from that being what the Steelers always did in the past. I always say you have to keep up with the times. That’s kind of evolving into a passing offense - league wide. People talk about the Steelers and the run game because we want to be physical. When you want to be physical, people assume that’s the run game. But that can mean a lot of different things. I guess you can go all the way back to the ‘70s and we were a grind-it-out team. We’re not that ‘70s team. We’re our own identity and that includes a lot of no-huddle stuff. It’s been good."
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Bettis rips Steelers
Former Steelers running back Jerome Bettis ripped the Steelers on Sports Illustrated's web site, saying, among other things, that the Steelers are, "a mediocre running team on their best day."
Bettis went on to trash pretty much every running back on the team - save Mewelde Moore – particularly rookie running back Frank Summers.
"The running back I like least on that team is Frank Summers, the rookie fullback. He doesn't seem to understand what's going on. He's missing plenty of blocks, and that's affecting everything. That definitely has to be addressed off the field this week."
The coaching staff and offensive line didn't get away unscathed, either, as Bettis said the line can't protect and allows the running backs to get hit behind the line of scrimmage too often.
As for the coaching staff, Bettis wondered why the line wasn't addressed during the offseason.
It was some pretty good stuff, the kind that you usually don't get from players who are still close enough to their playing days that they know many of the current guys in the locker room.
© In other news Tuesday, head coach Mike Tomlin said that the team is hopeful linebacker Lawrence Timmons will be back at practice by the end of week.
That would be a big boost for the Steelers. With Troy Polamalu out, the Steelers need Timmons to shadow Chicago tight end Greg Olsen, who would be a matchup nightmare for Tyrone Carter.
Bettis went on to trash pretty much every running back on the team - save Mewelde Moore – particularly rookie running back Frank Summers.
"The running back I like least on that team is Frank Summers, the rookie fullback. He doesn't seem to understand what's going on. He's missing plenty of blocks, and that's affecting everything. That definitely has to be addressed off the field this week."
The coaching staff and offensive line didn't get away unscathed, either, as Bettis said the line can't protect and allows the running backs to get hit behind the line of scrimmage too often.
As for the coaching staff, Bettis wondered why the line wasn't addressed during the offseason.
It was some pretty good stuff, the kind that you usually don't get from players who are still close enough to their playing days that they know many of the current guys in the locker room.
© In other news Tuesday, head coach Mike Tomlin said that the team is hopeful linebacker Lawrence Timmons will be back at practice by the end of week.
That would be a big boost for the Steelers. With Troy Polamalu out, the Steelers need Timmons to shadow Chicago tight end Greg Olsen, who would be a matchup nightmare for Tyrone Carter.
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Steelers talking with Tomlin
The Steelers are reportedly talking about a contract extension with head coach Mike Tomlin.
That, in itself, is not a surprise. Tomln's contract runs through the 2010 season, so getting him a new deal and avoiding a similar issue to the one that happened with Bill Cowher is something the team should be looking to avoid.
But where do you start with the money?
Cowher is reportedly looking for $10 million per season to get back onto the sideline.
That would obviously be on the high end of the wage scale.
Of current coaches, Tennessee's Jeff Fisher, the league's longest-tenured coach, makes $5.5 million per season. Lovie Smith is getting the same salary to coach the Bears, while Bill Belichick is costing New England $5 million per season.
Tomlin currently makes $2.5 million per season, so it only makes sense that he'll be asking to move into the $5-million club.
Of course the team will likely argue that he hasn't been around as long as those three aforementioned coaches.
That, in itself, is not a surprise. Tomln's contract runs through the 2010 season, so getting him a new deal and avoiding a similar issue to the one that happened with Bill Cowher is something the team should be looking to avoid.
But where do you start with the money?
Cowher is reportedly looking for $10 million per season to get back onto the sideline.
That would obviously be on the high end of the wage scale.
Of current coaches, Tennessee's Jeff Fisher, the league's longest-tenured coach, makes $5.5 million per season. Lovie Smith is getting the same salary to coach the Bears, while Bill Belichick is costing New England $5 million per season.
Tomlin currently makes $2.5 million per season, so it only makes sense that he'll be asking to move into the $5-million club.
Of course the team will likely argue that he hasn't been around as long as those three aforementioned coaches.
Friday, September 11, 2009
Post-Tennessee thoughts
Strong safety Troy Polamalu has a sprained MCL in his left knee and though it's too early to tell, head coach Mike Tomlin classified it as a three-to-six week injury.
That's not good news for the Steelers defense, which will play its next two games on the road at Chicago and and Cincinnati before coming home to host San Diego.
Even at the minimum of three weeks, those are three opponents who will be a stiff test for Pittsburgh's pass defense.
And Tyrone Carter is in no way, shape or form as good as Polamalu.
© Polamalu's leaping, one-handed interception in the first half of this game was one of the top five defensive plays I've seen in person in any sport.
Polamalu also has at least one of the others - his diving finger-tip interception last season being the other.
© The national media at this game were raving about Ben Roethlisberger's comeback and improv skills. Welcome to the party, boys.
Roethlisberger was 18 of 22 passing in the second half and overtime and three of those incompletions came on the game-winning drive.
© With Polamalu out, it becomes very important that Lawrence Timmons, who sat out this game with an ankle injury, be back in time to play against Chicago next week.
Keyaron Fox played well in Timmons' spot, but Timmons' speed in the passing game will be needed against the Bears.
© Though it wasn't on the same stage, Hines Ward almost pulled a Jerome Bettis with his fumble at the end of regulation.
Roethlisberger saved Bettis on that occasion as well.
© After a slow start, I thought the offensive line played better as the game wore on.
I'm still not sure why right tackle Willie Colon didn't pick up Jevon Kearse on Tennessee's lone sack of the second half, though.
What'd he think, Kearse was going to drop into coverage?
Colon let him go unblocked, turning to pick up the inside guy.
© Was punter Craig Hentrich thinking just a little bit about kicking the ball to Stefan Logan when he shanked a 28-yard punt late in the game? Just asking.
That's not good news for the Steelers defense, which will play its next two games on the road at Chicago and and Cincinnati before coming home to host San Diego.
Even at the minimum of three weeks, those are three opponents who will be a stiff test for Pittsburgh's pass defense.
And Tyrone Carter is in no way, shape or form as good as Polamalu.
© Polamalu's leaping, one-handed interception in the first half of this game was one of the top five defensive plays I've seen in person in any sport.
Polamalu also has at least one of the others - his diving finger-tip interception last season being the other.
© The national media at this game were raving about Ben Roethlisberger's comeback and improv skills. Welcome to the party, boys.
Roethlisberger was 18 of 22 passing in the second half and overtime and three of those incompletions came on the game-winning drive.
© With Polamalu out, it becomes very important that Lawrence Timmons, who sat out this game with an ankle injury, be back in time to play against Chicago next week.
Keyaron Fox played well in Timmons' spot, but Timmons' speed in the passing game will be needed against the Bears.
© Though it wasn't on the same stage, Hines Ward almost pulled a Jerome Bettis with his fumble at the end of regulation.
Roethlisberger saved Bettis on that occasion as well.
© After a slow start, I thought the offensive line played better as the game wore on.
I'm still not sure why right tackle Willie Colon didn't pick up Jevon Kearse on Tennessee's lone sack of the second half, though.
What'd he think, Kearse was going to drop into coverage?
Colon let him go unblocked, turning to pick up the inside guy.
© Was punter Craig Hentrich thinking just a little bit about kicking the ball to Stefan Logan when he shanked a 28-yard punt late in the game? Just asking.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Steelers-Titans inactives
Nate Washington is active tonight for the Titans.
Inactive for the Steelers are Joe Burnett, Keiwan Ratliff, Kraig Urbik, Tony Hills, Shaun McDonald, Nick Eason and Lawrence Timmons.
Interesting thing is that Ramon Foster is your backup RT. Essex the backup LT.
Inactive for the Steelers are Joe Burnett, Keiwan Ratliff, Kraig Urbik, Tony Hills, Shaun McDonald, Nick Eason and Lawrence Timmons.
Interesting thing is that Ramon Foster is your backup RT. Essex the backup LT.
Who I like
The first game of the regular season is always the most difficult to get a feel for.
Most teams don't show a whole lot during the preseason and you've got to try to guess the direction they will go in based on last season and what moves they made during the offseason.
The Steelers enter Thursday night's opener against the Titans as 5 1/2-point favorites. That's a pretty good sized spread against what should be a pretty good Tennessee team.
But I think the Steelers' offense should be better in 2009 than it was in 2008 and the defense should again be solid.
Tennessee also doesn't have the weapons to attack the Steelers in a way that could be effective - ie. spreading the Steelers out and chucking the ball around off of quick drops.
Because of that, I like the Steelers to cover in this one on a night when the players should be very hyped up.
Take Pittsburgh to win, 23-14.
Most teams don't show a whole lot during the preseason and you've got to try to guess the direction they will go in based on last season and what moves they made during the offseason.
The Steelers enter Thursday night's opener against the Titans as 5 1/2-point favorites. That's a pretty good sized spread against what should be a pretty good Tennessee team.
But I think the Steelers' offense should be better in 2009 than it was in 2008 and the defense should again be solid.
Tennessee also doesn't have the weapons to attack the Steelers in a way that could be effective - ie. spreading the Steelers out and chucking the ball around off of quick drops.
Because of that, I like the Steelers to cover in this one on a night when the players should be very hyped up.
Take Pittsburgh to win, 23-14.
Tuesday, September 08, 2009
Hartwig signs extension
The Steelers on Tuesday agreed to a three-year contract extension with center Justin Hartwig.
The deal will keep Hartwig in Pittsburgh through 2012.
© It does not appear linebacker Lawrence Timmons will play against the Titans on Thursday. Though he's walking without a limp, Timmons has still been unable to practice and is likely waiting until next week to see if he can make it back for the team's second game.
Timmons sprained the ankle two weeks ago against the Buffalo Bills in the Steelers' third preseason game.
© The team had its special teams charts up in the locker room this week and the one thing that jumped out at me was on the depth chart.
Behind long snapper Greg Warren there was simply a ? I guess James Harrison is no longer the team's backup long snapper.
The deal will keep Hartwig in Pittsburgh through 2012.
© It does not appear linebacker Lawrence Timmons will play against the Titans on Thursday. Though he's walking without a limp, Timmons has still been unable to practice and is likely waiting until next week to see if he can make it back for the team's second game.
Timmons sprained the ankle two weeks ago against the Buffalo Bills in the Steelers' third preseason game.
© The team had its special teams charts up in the locker room this week and the one thing that jumped out at me was on the depth chart.
Behind long snapper Greg Warren there was simply a ? I guess James Harrison is no longer the team's backup long snapper.
Monday, September 07, 2009
Steelers add practice squad player
The Steelers have added defensive back Tuff Harris - gotta love that name - to their practice squad.
The 6-0, 198-pound Harris has played to NFL seasons, in 2007 for Miami and 2008 for Tennessee.
Is there some gamesmanship going on here since the Steelers play the Titans this week?
Perhaps.
We'll know for sure next week if the Steelers release Harris.
The 6-0, 198-pound Harris has played to NFL seasons, in 2007 for Miami and 2008 for Tennessee.
Is there some gamesmanship going on here since the Steelers play the Titans this week?
Perhaps.
We'll know for sure next week if the Steelers release Harris.
Sunday, September 06, 2009
Sonny Harris gone
The Carolina Panthers must have liked what they saw of Sonny Harris Thursday night as much as I did. The Panthers signed Harris to their 53-man roster.
The Steelers did get pretty much everyone else they wanted back on their practice squad, which will be TE Dezmond Sherrod, C A.Q. Shipley, RB Justin Vincent, RB Isaac Redman, WR Tyler Grisham, DL Steve McLendon and LB Donovan Woods.
The Steelers did get pretty much everyone else they wanted back on their practice squad, which will be TE Dezmond Sherrod, C A.Q. Shipley, RB Justin Vincent, RB Isaac Redman, WR Tyler Grisham, DL Steve McLendon and LB Donovan Woods.
Friday, September 04, 2009
Cuts (as we find them)
Because they don't have to officially release the names until 4 p.m. Saturday, the Steelers aren't doing so. Their reasoning is that it allows them some wiggle-room to make trades.
But here's a list of who I've found that will be released.
Dallas Baker, Roy Lewis, Jeremy Parquet, Desmond Sherrod, Carey Davis, Isaac Redman, Bruce Davis, Anthony Madison, A.Q. Shipley, Scott Paxson, Sonny Harris, Jason Capizzi, Mike Reilly, Peter Czech, Justin Vincent, Tyler Grisham, Tom Korte, Steve McLendon, Andy Schantz and Brandon Williams
That's 20 of the 22 cuts they have to make. Again, these aren't official - yet.
If, for example, they can work out a trade for, say Travis Kirschke or Nick Eason, a guy like Sonny Harris could be back on the squad.
But here's a list of who I've found that will be released.
Dallas Baker, Roy Lewis, Jeremy Parquet, Desmond Sherrod, Carey Davis, Isaac Redman, Bruce Davis, Anthony Madison, A.Q. Shipley, Scott Paxson, Sonny Harris, Jason Capizzi, Mike Reilly, Peter Czech, Justin Vincent, Tyler Grisham, Tom Korte, Steve McLendon, Andy Schantz and Brandon Williams
That's 20 of the 22 cuts they have to make. Again, these aren't official - yet.
If, for example, they can work out a trade for, say Travis Kirschke or Nick Eason, a guy like Sonny Harris could be back on the squad.
Post-Carolina thoughts
First things first, I think the police had better get a search warrant for the NFL Network's Jason LaCanfora's house. He's been smoking some serious stuff.
LaCanfora is the bozo who reported that people he knows close to the situation have told him the Steelers are considering cutting Pro Bowl nose tackle Casey Hampton.
Let me just say this about that: There's a better chance the Steelers will sign me to play quarterback than there is that they'll cut Hampton.
To even suggest that they will borders on lunacy. In fact, the NFL Network may want to re-check LaCanfora's credentials as a reporter.
© There was little doubt that Stefan Logan had earned a spot on the Steelers' roster before the 21-10 win over Carolina.
The 80-yard punt return was nice. But I was even more impressed with his crackback block in the third quarter to help spring Shaun McDonald for a big run after the catch.
© Issac Redman has likely beaten out Tank Summers for the fifth running back spot as well.
Tank just didn't show enough in the two preseason game he played in, while Redman ran through the entire Carolina defense and an official to get into the end zone in the first half.
© Sorry Jason Capizzi and A.Q. Shipley fans, I don't see either player making this roster.
In fact, the team took a good long look at rookie Ramon Foster at left tackle and he was fine.
Shipley, meanwhile, looks like he's bound for the practice squad.
And don't give me that stuff about somebody scooping him up. It could happen, sure, but all of those teams also passed on him six or seven times in the draft as well.
© Arnold Harrison, Ryan Mundy and Travis Kirschke made strong statements against the Panthers.
Bruce Davis and Keiwan Ratliff did not.
The cutdown will come by 4 p.m. Friday. It's going to be one of the most difficult ones I've seen in 17 years of covering the Steelers.
This team is deep and talented.
LaCanfora is the bozo who reported that people he knows close to the situation have told him the Steelers are considering cutting Pro Bowl nose tackle Casey Hampton.
Let me just say this about that: There's a better chance the Steelers will sign me to play quarterback than there is that they'll cut Hampton.
To even suggest that they will borders on lunacy. In fact, the NFL Network may want to re-check LaCanfora's credentials as a reporter.
© There was little doubt that Stefan Logan had earned a spot on the Steelers' roster before the 21-10 win over Carolina.
The 80-yard punt return was nice. But I was even more impressed with his crackback block in the third quarter to help spring Shaun McDonald for a big run after the catch.
© Issac Redman has likely beaten out Tank Summers for the fifth running back spot as well.
Tank just didn't show enough in the two preseason game he played in, while Redman ran through the entire Carolina defense and an official to get into the end zone in the first half.
© Sorry Jason Capizzi and A.Q. Shipley fans, I don't see either player making this roster.
In fact, the team took a good long look at rookie Ramon Foster at left tackle and he was fine.
Shipley, meanwhile, looks like he's bound for the practice squad.
And don't give me that stuff about somebody scooping him up. It could happen, sure, but all of those teams also passed on him six or seven times in the draft as well.
© Arnold Harrison, Ryan Mundy and Travis Kirschke made strong statements against the Panthers.
Bruce Davis and Keiwan Ratliff did not.
The cutdown will come by 4 p.m. Friday. It's going to be one of the most difficult ones I've seen in 17 years of covering the Steelers.
This team is deep and talented.
Wednesday, September 02, 2009
Watching the bubble
As the Steelers head into their final preseason game, there are plenty of roster spots yet to be won. There are also a number of veterans who find themselves on the bubble with this team, a testament to how deep Pittsburgh is this season.
Here's a look at the veteran bubble guys:
Keiwan Ratliff, CB - Ratliff was brought in as Deshea Townsend insurance and just in case rookies Keenan Lewis and Joe Burnett weren't ready to contribute. None of those things have happened. It may come down to keeping Ratliff, Ryan Mundy and/or Anthony Madison. Madison is a stellar special teams player.
Travis Kirschke, DL - Kirschke has been a nice find for the Steelers, helping them to a pair of Super Bowl wins. But he's also 34 and has a cranky back. If the Steelers are going to cut a lineman to keep both Ziggy Hood and Sonny Harris, it's likely to be Kirschke, not Nick Eason.
Jeremy Parquet/Jason Capizzi, OT - I know he's a favorite because he's a local guy, but Capizzi is fighting the odds. The team likes Tony Hills' feet better. Darnell Stapleton going on IR helps, though. It could come down to who plays guard better and Parquet has more experience there.
Shaun McDonald, WR - I like what McDonald brings to the table, but the team could decide that if it's going to keep Stefan Logan, it may only need four full-time receivers.
Patrick Bailey, LB - The 2008 team rookie of the year is on the bubble even though he's a very good special teams player. But all of their other backup linebackers – Keyaron Fox, Andre Frazier, Arnold Harrison and Donovan Woods, are solid special teamers as well. The difference is that those other players can actually help out on defense as well. Bailey would be overmatched at this point. He's still better than Bruce Davis, though. This is where Lawrence Timmons' injury could come into play, with the team perhaps keeping an extra linebacker if it feels Timmons may miss the first couple of games.
Here's a look at the veteran bubble guys:
Keiwan Ratliff, CB - Ratliff was brought in as Deshea Townsend insurance and just in case rookies Keenan Lewis and Joe Burnett weren't ready to contribute. None of those things have happened. It may come down to keeping Ratliff, Ryan Mundy and/or Anthony Madison. Madison is a stellar special teams player.
Travis Kirschke, DL - Kirschke has been a nice find for the Steelers, helping them to a pair of Super Bowl wins. But he's also 34 and has a cranky back. If the Steelers are going to cut a lineman to keep both Ziggy Hood and Sonny Harris, it's likely to be Kirschke, not Nick Eason.
Jeremy Parquet/Jason Capizzi, OT - I know he's a favorite because he's a local guy, but Capizzi is fighting the odds. The team likes Tony Hills' feet better. Darnell Stapleton going on IR helps, though. It could come down to who plays guard better and Parquet has more experience there.
Shaun McDonald, WR - I like what McDonald brings to the table, but the team could decide that if it's going to keep Stefan Logan, it may only need four full-time receivers.
Patrick Bailey, LB - The 2008 team rookie of the year is on the bubble even though he's a very good special teams player. But all of their other backup linebackers – Keyaron Fox, Andre Frazier, Arnold Harrison and Donovan Woods, are solid special teamers as well. The difference is that those other players can actually help out on defense as well. Bailey would be overmatched at this point. He's still better than Bruce Davis, though. This is where Lawrence Timmons' injury could come into play, with the team perhaps keeping an extra linebacker if it feels Timmons may miss the first couple of games.
Monday, August 31, 2009
Steelers sign Keisel, make roster moves
The Steelers signed defensive end Brett Keisel to a four-year contract extension and made five roster moves - including placing guard Darnell Stapleton on injured reserve - on Monday.
Keisel's deal will keep him in Pittsburgh through 2013.
Stapleton being placed on injured reserve means that Doug Legursky has likely earned a spot on the final 53-man roster. The Marshall product will be the team's gameday swingman at guard and center.
Released Monday to get to the NFL-limit of 75 were wide receivers Steven Black and Martin Nance, safety Derrick Richardson and center Alex Stepanovich.
The Steelers have until 4 p.m. Saturday to trim their roster to 53 players.
Keisel's deal will keep him in Pittsburgh through 2013.
Stapleton being placed on injured reserve means that Doug Legursky has likely earned a spot on the final 53-man roster. The Marshall product will be the team's gameday swingman at guard and center.
Released Monday to get to the NFL-limit of 75 were wide receivers Steven Black and Martin Nance, safety Derrick Richardson and center Alex Stepanovich.
The Steelers have until 4 p.m. Saturday to trim their roster to 53 players.
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Steelers-Bills post-game thoughts
Either the Steelers are really good or the Bills are really bad. It's probably a little bit of both.
OK. We know the Steelers are really good, but I really thought Buffalo would be better than it showed Saturday night at Heinz Field.
Trent Edwards looked a lot like Bruce Gradkowski in this one.
© Mike Tomlin said the plan going into the game was to send whichever unit didn't open the first half out for the second half.
As luck would have it, the offense began the game, so the defense was on the field for the first series of the second half.
Linebacker Lawrence Timmons sprained his ankle on the opening play.
© I've changed my opinion somewhat of Limas Sweed. He can be a viable starter for this team if Santonio Holmes or Hines Ward is injured.
He still doesn't block downfield real well for a guy his size, but perhaps that will come.
© I learned something I did not know Saturday night. Sweed has size 15 1/2 feet. That's not a misprint, 15 1/2.
Make tapping those toes on the sidelines troublesome.
© Stefan Logan, welcome to the team.
© As I detailed in a column in Saturday's newspaper, that does cause some problems for a team that is this deep with veterans that also wants to keep a large portion of its rookie class around as well.
© Rashard Mendenhall's fumble was created as much by Chris Kemoeatu getting blown up at the line of scrimmage as it was Mendenhall.
You'd still like to see Mendenhall wrap the ball up more tightly, though.
That said, you can see what his skills as a receiver do for this offense. He's also running pretty hard as well.
© Of the healthy players, the only ones who did not play were safety Derrick Richardson and linebackers Andy Schantz and Tom Korte.
The team has to make four cuts by the weekend. That would be a good place to start looking.
© Did you see Mike Wallace's cut to make the first guy miss on his end around? Not only is this guy fast, he's got a nice feel when he's running with the ball as well.
He turned a play that should have been for no-gain into a six-yard gain.
It was nullified by offsetting penalties, but it did show some of his playmaking ability.
OK. We know the Steelers are really good, but I really thought Buffalo would be better than it showed Saturday night at Heinz Field.
Trent Edwards looked a lot like Bruce Gradkowski in this one.
© Mike Tomlin said the plan going into the game was to send whichever unit didn't open the first half out for the second half.
As luck would have it, the offense began the game, so the defense was on the field for the first series of the second half.
Linebacker Lawrence Timmons sprained his ankle on the opening play.
© I've changed my opinion somewhat of Limas Sweed. He can be a viable starter for this team if Santonio Holmes or Hines Ward is injured.
He still doesn't block downfield real well for a guy his size, but perhaps that will come.
© I learned something I did not know Saturday night. Sweed has size 15 1/2 feet. That's not a misprint, 15 1/2.
Make tapping those toes on the sidelines troublesome.
© Stefan Logan, welcome to the team.
© As I detailed in a column in Saturday's newspaper, that does cause some problems for a team that is this deep with veterans that also wants to keep a large portion of its rookie class around as well.
© Rashard Mendenhall's fumble was created as much by Chris Kemoeatu getting blown up at the line of scrimmage as it was Mendenhall.
You'd still like to see Mendenhall wrap the ball up more tightly, though.
That said, you can see what his skills as a receiver do for this offense. He's also running pretty hard as well.
© Of the healthy players, the only ones who did not play were safety Derrick Richardson and linebackers Andy Schantz and Tom Korte.
The team has to make four cuts by the weekend. That would be a good place to start looking.
© Did you see Mike Wallace's cut to make the first guy miss on his end around? Not only is this guy fast, he's got a nice feel when he's running with the ball as well.
He turned a play that should have been for no-gain into a six-yard gain.
It was nullified by offsetting penalties, but it did show some of his playmaking ability.
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Thursday notes
At his press conference Thursday, Mike Tomlin pretty much said what I've been stating about Issac Redman since last week - if he can't play special teams, he won't be on the 53-man roster or the red zone back.
It looks like Redman is heading to the practice squad.
© Stefan Logan will get another good look as the return man against Buffalo Saturday, but Mewelde Moore will return some punts and rookie Mike Wallace will return kicks in the first half.
© Starters Willie Parker (hamstring), Santonio Holmes (back) and placekicker Jeff Reed (ankle) may be held out of Saturday's game.
None of the injuries are serious.
© According to the NFL Network, Tampa Bay has put any of its three veteran quarterbacks - including Byron Leftwich - on the trade market.
Don't be surprised to see the Steelers linked to Leftwich. Even though Charlie Batch is back and healthy, Leftwich is a better backup option for the Steelers.
If he can be attained for a low draft pick, it would be worth considering.
It looks like Redman is heading to the practice squad.
© Stefan Logan will get another good look as the return man against Buffalo Saturday, but Mewelde Moore will return some punts and rookie Mike Wallace will return kicks in the first half.
© Starters Willie Parker (hamstring), Santonio Holmes (back) and placekicker Jeff Reed (ankle) may be held out of Saturday's game.
None of the injuries are serious.
© According to the NFL Network, Tampa Bay has put any of its three veteran quarterbacks - including Byron Leftwich - on the trade market.
Don't be surprised to see the Steelers linked to Leftwich. Even though Charlie Batch is back and healthy, Leftwich is a better backup option for the Steelers.
If he can be attained for a low draft pick, it would be worth considering.
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
LeBeau a Hall of Fame finalist
Cornerback Dick LeBeau, perhaps better known as the Steelers defensive coordinator, and running back Floyd Little have been named by the Pro Football Hall of Fame’s Seniors Committee as finalists for election into the Hall of Fame with the Class of 2010.
LeBeau and Little will join 15 still-to-be-named modern-era candidates on the list of finalists from which the Class of 2010 will be selected. The Hall of Fame selection meeting will be held on February 6, 2010, the day before Super Bowl XLIV in South Florida. To be elected, the former standouts must each receive the same 80 percent voting support that is required of all finalists. The Hall’s Board of Selectors can elect a maximum of two senior candidates and five modern-era candidates for a class no smaller than four or larger than seven during next February’s meeting.
LeBeau was originally drafted by the Cleveland Browns in the fifth round of the 1959 draft. After being cut by the Browns, he was signed by Detroit where he starred for 14 seasons at cornerback for the Lions. He intercepted 62 passes which he returned for 762 yards and 3 TDs. His interception total ranked third all-time in NFL history at the time of his retirement following the 1972 season. Today, it remains a Lions team record and is tied for 7th among all-time NFL interceptors.
His single finest season came in 1970 when he intercepted a NFC-leading nine interceptions for 96 yards. LeBeau currently serves as the Pittsburgh Steelers defensive coordinator and is entering his 37th year of coaching. As a player he was voted to three Pro Bowls. He received his Pro Bowl nods in 1965, 1966, and 1967.
This likely means that LeBeau will finally get his due and be elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Every finalist for the past several years who has been selected by the senior committee has gained induction.
LeBeau and Little will join 15 still-to-be-named modern-era candidates on the list of finalists from which the Class of 2010 will be selected. The Hall of Fame selection meeting will be held on February 6, 2010, the day before Super Bowl XLIV in South Florida. To be elected, the former standouts must each receive the same 80 percent voting support that is required of all finalists. The Hall’s Board of Selectors can elect a maximum of two senior candidates and five modern-era candidates for a class no smaller than four or larger than seven during next February’s meeting.
LeBeau was originally drafted by the Cleveland Browns in the fifth round of the 1959 draft. After being cut by the Browns, he was signed by Detroit where he starred for 14 seasons at cornerback for the Lions. He intercepted 62 passes which he returned for 762 yards and 3 TDs. His interception total ranked third all-time in NFL history at the time of his retirement following the 1972 season. Today, it remains a Lions team record and is tied for 7th among all-time NFL interceptors.
His single finest season came in 1970 when he intercepted a NFC-leading nine interceptions for 96 yards. LeBeau currently serves as the Pittsburgh Steelers defensive coordinator and is entering his 37th year of coaching. As a player he was voted to three Pro Bowls. He received his Pro Bowl nods in 1965, 1966, and 1967.
This likely means that LeBeau will finally get his due and be elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Every finalist for the past several years who has been selected by the senior committee has gained induction.
Sunday, August 23, 2009
Post-Washington thoughts
There was plenty to like in Saturday's preseason loss to the Washington Redskins and some things that weren't so great for the Steelers.
We'll start with the good.
© Return man Stefan Logan may not have done quite enough to make this team with one good outing as much as rookie Joe Burnett did help him.
Logan averaged 12 yards per punt return and nearly 40 yards on four kick returns and both of those numbers are eye openers.
But the Steelers still like rookie speedster Mike Wallace as a kick returner. Burnett, however, has fumbled punts in each of the team's two preseason games.
The trouble with Logan, however, is that he's not going to be able to cover kicks - at least he hasn't yet - and with a veteran team, who do you cut on this team to keep a guy who only returns kicks?
Then again, Logan could be special and sometimes you have to bite the bullet.
© Second-year quarterback Dennis Dixon is starting to look like an NFL-caliber quarterback, at least one who can step in and make things happen in a pinch.
His back-to-back 17-yard plays in the second quarter – one a pass to Limas Sweed, the other a scramble – were big-time plays.
Dixon injured his AC joint in the fourth quarter - the same injury that dogged Ben Roethlisberger last season - but the severity of the injury is not yet known.
© Rashard Mendenhall looked much more comfortable running the ball this week than he did last week against Arizona. He hit his holes hard and got positive yardage with each carry.
Willie Parker also looked good.
Now if this team could just get its starting offensive line on the field together, we'll finally get to see if there's an improvement.
© After a slow start, the first-team offensive line got its feet under it - even with Doug Legursky at left guard in place of Chris Kemoeatu. Kemoeatu was out with a rib injury that's not serious.
The second-team line also did a pretty good job.
Remember, this was their first road game and that's always a little more difficult.
© This team wasn't supposed to have any depth at inside linebacker, but Keyaron Fox and Donovan Woods are thumpers.
Fox made a big stop on third down at the Pittsburgh 2 to keep Washington out of the end zone, while Woods blew up a return man on a kickoff.
They're both solid backups.
Now for the bad:
When you have more penalties than points, it's never a good thing.
That's two weeks in a row that the Steelers were highly penalized, something that hasn't been a problem in recent years.
They have to clean that stuff up.
© Burnett was this week's goat after being one of the stars of the first preseason game. In addition to his fumble, which led to one touchdown, he also got beat on a fade for another score.
But those are the things you deal with when rookies play.
© The Redskins gouged the Steelers on the ground at times in this one, something that doesn't usually happen, even to the team's third-team defense.
We'll say it was a schematic problem for now - at least until we get a chance to investigate further.
We'll start with the good.
© Return man Stefan Logan may not have done quite enough to make this team with one good outing as much as rookie Joe Burnett did help him.
Logan averaged 12 yards per punt return and nearly 40 yards on four kick returns and both of those numbers are eye openers.
But the Steelers still like rookie speedster Mike Wallace as a kick returner. Burnett, however, has fumbled punts in each of the team's two preseason games.
The trouble with Logan, however, is that he's not going to be able to cover kicks - at least he hasn't yet - and with a veteran team, who do you cut on this team to keep a guy who only returns kicks?
Then again, Logan could be special and sometimes you have to bite the bullet.
© Second-year quarterback Dennis Dixon is starting to look like an NFL-caliber quarterback, at least one who can step in and make things happen in a pinch.
His back-to-back 17-yard plays in the second quarter – one a pass to Limas Sweed, the other a scramble – were big-time plays.
Dixon injured his AC joint in the fourth quarter - the same injury that dogged Ben Roethlisberger last season - but the severity of the injury is not yet known.
© Rashard Mendenhall looked much more comfortable running the ball this week than he did last week against Arizona. He hit his holes hard and got positive yardage with each carry.
Willie Parker also looked good.
Now if this team could just get its starting offensive line on the field together, we'll finally get to see if there's an improvement.
© After a slow start, the first-team offensive line got its feet under it - even with Doug Legursky at left guard in place of Chris Kemoeatu. Kemoeatu was out with a rib injury that's not serious.
The second-team line also did a pretty good job.
Remember, this was their first road game and that's always a little more difficult.
© This team wasn't supposed to have any depth at inside linebacker, but Keyaron Fox and Donovan Woods are thumpers.
Fox made a big stop on third down at the Pittsburgh 2 to keep Washington out of the end zone, while Woods blew up a return man on a kickoff.
They're both solid backups.
Now for the bad:
When you have more penalties than points, it's never a good thing.
That's two weeks in a row that the Steelers were highly penalized, something that hasn't been a problem in recent years.
They have to clean that stuff up.
© Burnett was this week's goat after being one of the stars of the first preseason game. In addition to his fumble, which led to one touchdown, he also got beat on a fade for another score.
But those are the things you deal with when rookies play.
© The Redskins gouged the Steelers on the ground at times in this one, something that doesn't usually happen, even to the team's third-team defense.
We'll say it was a schematic problem for now - at least until we get a chance to investigate further.
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Roethlisberger appears OK
As I'm sure you know by now, Ben Roethlisberger was injured in Thursday's final practice at Saint Vincent College.
It appears that Roethlisberger is OK, though.
While he did not participate, Roethlisberger was at the team's annual softball game to close out training camp that pits the offense against the defense.
Roethlisberger sat in a chair by the third base coaching box without anything on his right ankle or foot.
He's probably out for Saturday's preseason game at Washington, but it does not appear to be a long-term injury.
It appears that Roethlisberger is OK, though.
While he did not participate, Roethlisberger was at the team's annual softball game to close out training camp that pits the offense against the defense.
Roethlisberger sat in a chair by the third base coaching box without anything on his right ankle or foot.
He's probably out for Saturday's preseason game at Washington, but it does not appear to be a long-term injury.
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Rookie class impressing, with one exception
As noted, at least in part, in my last post, the Steelers rookie class is looking like one of its best in quite some time.
It's early, of course, but defensive ends Ziggy Hood and Sonny Harris, wide receiver Mike Wallace, cornerbacks Keenan Lewis and Joe Burnett, tight end David Johnson and center A.Q. Shipley look like players who from this draft class who can contribute if not immediately, then down the road.
Add in impressive rookie free agent signings Ramon Foster and Isaac Redman, and you have what could be a very strong group.
The one disappointment? Guard Kraig Urbik, a third-round pick.
In the moments following the draft, when the Steelers brass spoke about this draft class, Urbik was the one guy who was pointed to that they felt had a chance to push for a starting job.
Right now, he's barely pushing for a roster spot.
The former Wisconsin star has looked tentative in one-on-one blocking drills. And he didn't seem to get a lot of push in the first preseason game against Arizona.
If Urbik fails to materialize as a player – and I'm not writing him off yet – the Steelers will almost be forced to spend a high draft pick on an offensive lineman in 2010.
Of course that was said the past two offseasons as well and the team hasn't made that move yet.
It's early, of course, but defensive ends Ziggy Hood and Sonny Harris, wide receiver Mike Wallace, cornerbacks Keenan Lewis and Joe Burnett, tight end David Johnson and center A.Q. Shipley look like players who from this draft class who can contribute if not immediately, then down the road.
Add in impressive rookie free agent signings Ramon Foster and Isaac Redman, and you have what could be a very strong group.
The one disappointment? Guard Kraig Urbik, a third-round pick.
In the moments following the draft, when the Steelers brass spoke about this draft class, Urbik was the one guy who was pointed to that they felt had a chance to push for a starting job.
Right now, he's barely pushing for a roster spot.
The former Wisconsin star has looked tentative in one-on-one blocking drills. And he didn't seem to get a lot of push in the first preseason game against Arizona.
If Urbik fails to materialize as a player – and I'm not writing him off yet – the Steelers will almost be forced to spend a high draft pick on an offensive lineman in 2010.
Of course that was said the past two offseasons as well and the team hasn't made that move yet.
Monday, August 17, 2009
Crowded backfield
Both rookies Isaac Redman and Tank Summers are pushing hard for roster spots with the Steelers but there may only be one spot available.
Willie Parker, Mewelde Moore and Rashard Mendenhall are guaranteed roster spots. Fullback Carey Davis isn't outstanding in any one phase - though he does have the best hands among the running backs - except on special teams, where he's one the team's leaders.
That could leave Justin Vincent – who's been on the practice squad the past two years – Summers and Redman fighting for one spot on the roster and one on the practice squad.
Redman has impressed as a runner. He's both tough and physical and has a running style similar to former star Barry Foster. He's got great lean and leg drive.
Summers, meanwhile, is being tried as a fullback and has also looked good as a special teams player.
Vincent isn't just a throw-away player either. The former LSU star knows the offense and got nine carries in the preseason opener.
The question is whether the Steelers feel Summers could be a capable replacement for Davis. Fans seem to think so but the coaching staff may not feel the same.
It's going to be something that bears watching as the team heads into its final three preseason games.
Willie Parker, Mewelde Moore and Rashard Mendenhall are guaranteed roster spots. Fullback Carey Davis isn't outstanding in any one phase - though he does have the best hands among the running backs - except on special teams, where he's one the team's leaders.
That could leave Justin Vincent – who's been on the practice squad the past two years – Summers and Redman fighting for one spot on the roster and one on the practice squad.
Redman has impressed as a runner. He's both tough and physical and has a running style similar to former star Barry Foster. He's got great lean and leg drive.
Summers, meanwhile, is being tried as a fullback and has also looked good as a special teams player.
Vincent isn't just a throw-away player either. The former LSU star knows the offense and got nine carries in the preseason opener.
The question is whether the Steelers feel Summers could be a capable replacement for Davis. Fans seem to think so but the coaching staff may not feel the same.
It's going to be something that bears watching as the team heads into its final three preseason games.
Friday, August 14, 2009
Post-Arizona thoughts
I guess we can finally put the Michael Vick to the Steelers garbage to rest.
Cripes, ESPN spent a good five minutes talking about it during their pre-game show. Are they that stupid?
© Limas Sweed stepped up nicely on the big stage. The 45-yard catch from Charlie Batch was a nice adjustment, but his 11-yard catch from Ben Roethlisberger on third-and-10 in the first quarter was better. He went up and snatched that ball out of the air with relative ease.
The drop on third down later in the game was regrettable, but remember, he's replacing Nate Washington, who had his share of drops as well.
© I'd like to see more burst out of Rashard Mendenhall, but I thought he ran reasonably hard as well.
Mendenahll did have a nice two-yard run on third-and-short in the first quarter. If he can just fill that role he'll help this team out.
© Welcome back Daniel Sepulveda.
Sepulveda got a big cheer when he came onto the field the first time and again after his first punt went 46 yards and Antrell Rolle was forced to call for a fair catch.
James Farrior joked after the game that Sepulveda was going to hurt the defense because he was going to give opposing offenses more field to work with.
© James Harrison played just two possessions and had three tackles and three assists. Had he played the entire game, that works out to about a 24-tackle effort. And that was with Kurt Warner throwing the ball 10 times.
It kind of gives you an idea that Arizona wasn't exactly throwing the ball down the field against the first-team defense.
The Steelers had better get used to that. Teams are going to dink and dunk them in an attempt to keep those two outside linebackers from killing their quarterback.
© Isaac Redman is a hard runner but did you notice those blocks that Tank Summers was throwing for him as a lead blocker?
Summers also had a couple of tackles on special teams. I was among those who didn't think Summers could push Carey Davis off the roster. I still think it's a stretch.
But Summers showed me Thursday he might be able to do it.
Summers showed some chops as a special teams coverage guy as well.
© I asked Redman after the game which was better, his 99-yard run at Bowie State or his three-yard TD on his first NFL carry - albeit in the preseason.
He said the three-yard TD.
Hard to believe the Steelers were his only option coming out of school, but then again, he wasn't on the field much in his final two seasons because of injuries and grades.
For my Washington County wrestling fans, Redman was a 215-pound state champion in New Jersey.
© The coaching staff couldn't have been happy to see Joe Burnett fumble his first punt return. He rebounded nicely.
© One of these days the quarterbacks will learn to throw the ball to Mike Wallace when he's running a fly pattern when he's 10 yards off the line of scrimmage. Throw it as far as you can and let him run under it.
© After a shaky start, Dennis Dixon got better as the game went on. He needed that because he's been struggling a bit at Saint Vincent College.
© Bruce Davis had an interception off a deflection and also got some pressure on the QB. But his best play was a special teams tackle in the second quarter. He's got to contribute there, something he did not do in 2008.
Cripes, ESPN spent a good five minutes talking about it during their pre-game show. Are they that stupid?
© Limas Sweed stepped up nicely on the big stage. The 45-yard catch from Charlie Batch was a nice adjustment, but his 11-yard catch from Ben Roethlisberger on third-and-10 in the first quarter was better. He went up and snatched that ball out of the air with relative ease.
The drop on third down later in the game was regrettable, but remember, he's replacing Nate Washington, who had his share of drops as well.
© I'd like to see more burst out of Rashard Mendenhall, but I thought he ran reasonably hard as well.
Mendenahll did have a nice two-yard run on third-and-short in the first quarter. If he can just fill that role he'll help this team out.
© Welcome back Daniel Sepulveda.
Sepulveda got a big cheer when he came onto the field the first time and again after his first punt went 46 yards and Antrell Rolle was forced to call for a fair catch.
James Farrior joked after the game that Sepulveda was going to hurt the defense because he was going to give opposing offenses more field to work with.
© James Harrison played just two possessions and had three tackles and three assists. Had he played the entire game, that works out to about a 24-tackle effort. And that was with Kurt Warner throwing the ball 10 times.
It kind of gives you an idea that Arizona wasn't exactly throwing the ball down the field against the first-team defense.
The Steelers had better get used to that. Teams are going to dink and dunk them in an attempt to keep those two outside linebackers from killing their quarterback.
© Isaac Redman is a hard runner but did you notice those blocks that Tank Summers was throwing for him as a lead blocker?
Summers also had a couple of tackles on special teams. I was among those who didn't think Summers could push Carey Davis off the roster. I still think it's a stretch.
But Summers showed me Thursday he might be able to do it.
Summers showed some chops as a special teams coverage guy as well.
© I asked Redman after the game which was better, his 99-yard run at Bowie State or his three-yard TD on his first NFL carry - albeit in the preseason.
He said the three-yard TD.
Hard to believe the Steelers were his only option coming out of school, but then again, he wasn't on the field much in his final two seasons because of injuries and grades.
For my Washington County wrestling fans, Redman was a 215-pound state champion in New Jersey.
© The coaching staff couldn't have been happy to see Joe Burnett fumble his first punt return. He rebounded nicely.
© One of these days the quarterbacks will learn to throw the ball to Mike Wallace when he's running a fly pattern when he's 10 yards off the line of scrimmage. Throw it as far as you can and let him run under it.
© After a shaky start, Dennis Dixon got better as the game went on. He needed that because he's been struggling a bit at Saint Vincent College.
© Bruce Davis had an interception off a deflection and also got some pressure on the QB. But his best play was a special teams tackle in the second quarter. He's got to contribute there, something he did not do in 2008.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Rookies to watch for
Here's a look at some players to watch for in the Steelers' preseason game Thursday against the Cardinals.
Ziggy Hood - This one needs no explaining. Hood, the Steelers' top draft pick, has the look of a future star - or at least as much of a star as defensive linemen can be in this defense.
Mike Wallace - The speedy wide receiver has been catching everything at Saint Vincent College. How will he do in game action with the threat of being hit? He's pushing for the No. 3 receiver spot - or at least spot duty in that spot as a deep threat. He's the frontrunner for the kick return spot as well.
Keenan Lewis - Lewis will be tested by Arizona's receiving corps even though star wideouts Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin won't play much. He's a big, physical corner,
Joe Burnett - Burnett has looked good on special teams as a gunner, but the Steelers got him to pump up their return game. He'll start as the No. 1 punt returner and also get a shot as the kickoff returner. He's not bad as a cornerback, either.
Ramon Foster - Foster is the undrafted rookie most likely to make the 53-man roster. He's outplayed third-round draft pick Kraig Urbik. He'll be playing at left guard. Watch this kid finish his blocks. He's nasty.
Isaac Redman - When I spoke to Redman earlier this spring, I watched some video of him on Youtube first to get a feel for his running style. It's bull in a China shop. He told me then that the Steelers hadn't asked him to play any fullback, but he's seeing time time there now. Keep an eye on him.
Brandon Williams – Williams has flown under the radar, but he's having a good camp after a good spring as well. He could beat veteran Shaun McDonald out for a roster spot.
Doug Legursky - A center-guard combo, Legursky will get the start at center with Justin Hartwig and Darnell Stapleton out. Not too many young players get a shot like this. Look for Legursky to make the most of it.
Rashard Mendenhall - His rookie season was a washout, so Mendenhall has plenty to prove.
Ziggy Hood - This one needs no explaining. Hood, the Steelers' top draft pick, has the look of a future star - or at least as much of a star as defensive linemen can be in this defense.
Mike Wallace - The speedy wide receiver has been catching everything at Saint Vincent College. How will he do in game action with the threat of being hit? He's pushing for the No. 3 receiver spot - or at least spot duty in that spot as a deep threat. He's the frontrunner for the kick return spot as well.
Keenan Lewis - Lewis will be tested by Arizona's receiving corps even though star wideouts Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin won't play much. He's a big, physical corner,
Joe Burnett - Burnett has looked good on special teams as a gunner, but the Steelers got him to pump up their return game. He'll start as the No. 1 punt returner and also get a shot as the kickoff returner. He's not bad as a cornerback, either.
Ramon Foster - Foster is the undrafted rookie most likely to make the 53-man roster. He's outplayed third-round draft pick Kraig Urbik. He'll be playing at left guard. Watch this kid finish his blocks. He's nasty.
Isaac Redman - When I spoke to Redman earlier this spring, I watched some video of him on Youtube first to get a feel for his running style. It's bull in a China shop. He told me then that the Steelers hadn't asked him to play any fullback, but he's seeing time time there now. Keep an eye on him.
Brandon Williams – Williams has flown under the radar, but he's having a good camp after a good spring as well. He could beat veteran Shaun McDonald out for a roster spot.
Doug Legursky - A center-guard combo, Legursky will get the start at center with Justin Hartwig and Darnell Stapleton out. Not too many young players get a shot like this. Look for Legursky to make the most of it.
Rashard Mendenhall - His rookie season was a washout, so Mendenhall has plenty to prove.
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Let's put Vick to Steelers to rest
Again the rumors that the Steelers are interested in Michael Vick are swirling out there.
But I can tell that it's not going to happen.
Mike Tomlin hasn't publicly denied that the Steelers might be interested in Vick, only saying that they examine all options but don't speak specifically about individual free agents.
Privately, however, while one source acknowledgeed that the team would probably be one of the few that could withstand the firestorm that is sure to surround Vick thanks to its rabid fanbase, it's really not interested.
I hope that's as plain as I can be with that. The Steelers aren't going to sign Vick.
But I can tell that it's not going to happen.
Mike Tomlin hasn't publicly denied that the Steelers might be interested in Vick, only saying that they examine all options but don't speak specifically about individual free agents.
Privately, however, while one source acknowledgeed that the team would probably be one of the few that could withstand the firestorm that is sure to surround Vick thanks to its rabid fanbase, it's really not interested.
I hope that's as plain as I can be with that. The Steelers aren't going to sign Vick.
Wallace impressive
Rookie Mike Wallace continues to impress at training camp, showing off great hands in addition to great speed.
If Limas Sweed isn't feeling the heat, he should be. Not only is veteran Shaun McDonald pushing him, so is Wallace.
© The starters will only play a couple of series in the preseason opener Thursday. That should give the Steelers a good look at sorting out that No. 3 receiver spot and some other positions as well.
© Andre Frazier is firmly entrenched as the No. 3 outside linebacker. James Harrison was given the day off Tuesday and Frazier filled in for him. This after stepping if for LaMarr Woodley last week.
© Aaron Smith was also given the day off and was replaced by Nick Eason, not rookie Ziggy Hood.
Don't want to give the kid a big head by throwing him right in there even though he'll eventually be that guy.
© Doug Legursky will start at center against the Cardinals. It says something for sticking to things and battling.
© Ben Roethlisberger's arm looks like it's working its way into regular season shape. He's throwing some great passes now, including a beautiful touch pass to running back Rashard Mendenhall down the sideline with Frazier in tow.
If Limas Sweed isn't feeling the heat, he should be. Not only is veteran Shaun McDonald pushing him, so is Wallace.
© The starters will only play a couple of series in the preseason opener Thursday. That should give the Steelers a good look at sorting out that No. 3 receiver spot and some other positions as well.
© Andre Frazier is firmly entrenched as the No. 3 outside linebacker. James Harrison was given the day off Tuesday and Frazier filled in for him. This after stepping if for LaMarr Woodley last week.
© Aaron Smith was also given the day off and was replaced by Nick Eason, not rookie Ziggy Hood.
Don't want to give the kid a big head by throwing him right in there even though he'll eventually be that guy.
© Doug Legursky will start at center against the Cardinals. It says something for sticking to things and battling.
© Ben Roethlisberger's arm looks like it's working its way into regular season shape. He's throwing some great passes now, including a beautiful touch pass to running back Rashard Mendenhall down the sideline with Frazier in tow.
Monday, August 10, 2009
Steelers add Stepanovich
The Steelers, thin at center due to two injuries, have signed former Arizona Cardinals center Alex Stepanovich.
Justin Hartwig has been bothered by a toe injury since training camp started July 31, and Darnell Stapleton is expected to be out for several weeks following left knee surgery. Stapleton, who began camp as the starting right guard, was the backup center last season.
The 6-foot-4, 296-pound Stepanovich was a fourth-round draft pick by the Cardinals in 2004 and spent three seasons with them before playing for Cincinnati in 2007 and Atlanta in 2008. He has played in 46 NFL games, making 34 starts.
This could be a sign that the team got bad news on Stapleton, who was at training camp on Sunday during family day. Stapleton had his right knee heavily wrapped.
Of course it could also be that they just don't want to wear Doug Legursky and A.Q. Shipley, the only two healthy centers they have, out.
I would expect Hartwig to try to return to practice on a full-time basis soon - likely next Saturday when the team returns to Saint Vincent College from its preseason opener.
Justin Hartwig has been bothered by a toe injury since training camp started July 31, and Darnell Stapleton is expected to be out for several weeks following left knee surgery. Stapleton, who began camp as the starting right guard, was the backup center last season.
The 6-foot-4, 296-pound Stepanovich was a fourth-round draft pick by the Cardinals in 2004 and spent three seasons with them before playing for Cincinnati in 2007 and Atlanta in 2008. He has played in 46 NFL games, making 34 starts.
This could be a sign that the team got bad news on Stapleton, who was at training camp on Sunday during family day. Stapleton had his right knee heavily wrapped.
Of course it could also be that they just don't want to wear Doug Legursky and A.Q. Shipley, the only two healthy centers they have, out.
I would expect Hartwig to try to return to practice on a full-time basis soon - likely next Saturday when the team returns to Saint Vincent College from its preseason opener.
Saturday, August 08, 2009
Reed, Keisel contract updates
While news has slowed down concerning contract talks between the Steelers and any of their players who are scheduled to become free agents at the end of the season, that's not exactly anything new.
When the team re-signed Casey Hampton a few years ago, it happened the night of the team's first preseason game. So there's still some time.
Word is, however, that there is some dispute between the coaching staff and the front office as to who should be top priority, defensive end Brett Keisel or placekicker Jeff Reed.
The coaching staff feels it should be Keisel, the front office, Reed.
There's not a lot of money left in the pot right now, so it will be interesting to see if something gets done.
The Steelers will have their franchise tag back at the end of this season after using it on offensive tackle Max Starks.
And if the team fails to get something done with both Keisel and Reed - among others - before we get too close to the regular season, don't be surprised if Reed is tagged.
The franchise tag value for kickers is a heck of a lot less than it is for defensive ends.
When the team re-signed Casey Hampton a few years ago, it happened the night of the team's first preseason game. So there's still some time.
Word is, however, that there is some dispute between the coaching staff and the front office as to who should be top priority, defensive end Brett Keisel or placekicker Jeff Reed.
The coaching staff feels it should be Keisel, the front office, Reed.
There's not a lot of money left in the pot right now, so it will be interesting to see if something gets done.
The Steelers will have their franchise tag back at the end of this season after using it on offensive tackle Max Starks.
And if the team fails to get something done with both Keisel and Reed - among others - before we get too close to the regular season, don't be surprised if Reed is tagged.
The franchise tag value for kickers is a heck of a lot less than it is for defensive ends.
Friday, August 07, 2009
Friday odds and ends
The Steratore brothers, Gene and Tony, are here as part of the officiating crew that was assigned to the Steelers practice to help out with interpretation of new rules and points of emphasis.
Gene and Tony are both Washington County guys and we in the media had a good meeting with them early this afternoon after they showed us the NFL film on the new rules in place for 2009.
The Hines Ward block on Cincinnati's Keith Rivers was shown prominently when the new rule outlawing blocks behind the play to the head and shoulders were talked about.
Gene Steratore explained that those kind of blocks will still be legal as long as there's no blow to the head or shoulders delivered. What the league wants is a block to the torso. He also said that whether the blocker is coming back toward the line of scrimmage will come into effect.
Shots to the quarterback's knees will also be penalized this season - unless the defender is attempting to wrap up the QB.
Groups of more than two players in a wedge is also outlawed. Blockers cannot be set up in groups of three on kickoffs if that third blocker is within two yards of the other two players. Teams covering kickoffs must also have three players on the outside of both hash marks.
© Also of note was that the officials, when asked, explained why more holding calls aren't called against players trying to block James Harrison.
According to the officials, if a defensive player puts himself in a position to be held - ie. goes to a rip move which puts him up underneath the offensive player - then they won't call it unless the defensive player clearly gets his feet past the offensive player.
If at that point, the arm is still around the neck, it's a hold.
In this case, Harrison's lack of height works against him. Since he rips a lot, he's forcing the arm up around the neck. But until he gets his feet past the defender, it's not a hold.
At least that's the league's story and they're sticking to it.
© Gene Steratore brought Washington County judge Mark Mascara and his family out here for the morning practice. It was nice to see Mark out and about. He was recently diagnosed with cancer and my thoughts have been with him during his trying time.
I coached Mark's son, Jameson, in baseball a couple of years ago and got to know him and his family. They're good people and hopefully he can beat this.
Gene and Tony are both Washington County guys and we in the media had a good meeting with them early this afternoon after they showed us the NFL film on the new rules in place for 2009.
The Hines Ward block on Cincinnati's Keith Rivers was shown prominently when the new rule outlawing blocks behind the play to the head and shoulders were talked about.
Gene Steratore explained that those kind of blocks will still be legal as long as there's no blow to the head or shoulders delivered. What the league wants is a block to the torso. He also said that whether the blocker is coming back toward the line of scrimmage will come into effect.
Shots to the quarterback's knees will also be penalized this season - unless the defender is attempting to wrap up the QB.
Groups of more than two players in a wedge is also outlawed. Blockers cannot be set up in groups of three on kickoffs if that third blocker is within two yards of the other two players. Teams covering kickoffs must also have three players on the outside of both hash marks.
© Also of note was that the officials, when asked, explained why more holding calls aren't called against players trying to block James Harrison.
According to the officials, if a defensive player puts himself in a position to be held - ie. goes to a rip move which puts him up underneath the offensive player - then they won't call it unless the defensive player clearly gets his feet past the offensive player.
If at that point, the arm is still around the neck, it's a hold.
In this case, Harrison's lack of height works against him. Since he rips a lot, he's forcing the arm up around the neck. But until he gets his feet past the defender, it's not a hold.
At least that's the league's story and they're sticking to it.
© Gene Steratore brought Washington County judge Mark Mascara and his family out here for the morning practice. It was nice to see Mark out and about. He was recently diagnosed with cancer and my thoughts have been with him during his trying time.
I coached Mark's son, Jameson, in baseball a couple of years ago and got to know him and his family. They're good people and hopefully he can beat this.
Thursday, August 06, 2009
Stapleton to have surgery
Steelers offensive lineman Darnell Stapleton will have surgery Friday to clean out his knee and could be out at least two weeks.
Stapleton, a third-year player, started 12 games during the regular season and all three postseason games at right guard for the Steelers in 2008.
He was in line to be the team's starting right guard again in 2009, though veteran Trai Essex was expected to push him for the job.
With Stapleton out, it's likely that Essex will be the starting right guard this season.
Stapleton, a third-year player, started 12 games during the regular season and all three postseason games at right guard for the Steelers in 2008.
He was in line to be the team's starting right guard again in 2009, though veteran Trai Essex was expected to push him for the job.
With Stapleton out, it's likely that Essex will be the starting right guard this season.
Wednesday, August 05, 2009
Wednesday's thoughts
Still no news on Darnell Stapleton, which I guess is good news.
Stapleton was actually down the field at this afternoon's practice tossing the ball back and forth with running back Mewelde Moore, who was also sitting out.
Mike Tomlin, however, still isn't saying what the problem with Stapleton is, other than that it's a knee problem.
© Tomlin is from the Bill Belichick school of talking about injuries. While Bill Cowher didn't want players talking about injuries, he was very transparent about them. If you asked about an injury, you usually got an honest answer.
Tomlin is much more guarded.
© The play of practice was one that most people didn't see - you really had to be watching closely to see it.
In the afternoon session, Lawrence Timmons came from the middle of the field pre-snap to line up over left tackle Max Starks. Quarterback Charlie Batch and the line stopped and pointed him out as a blitzer and Timmons backed off to the middle again before coming at the snap.
As Starks went to get a punch on Timmons, the linebacker deked as if he were going to take Starks on. But when Starks extended his arms, Timmons ducked at a dead run and blew around him. If it would have been a live drill, he would have killed the quarterback.
I probably didn't do the play justice, but it was a thing of beauty - unless you happen to be an offensive line afficiando. If that's the case, it was a Homer Simpson-like Doh! moment.
© With Ben Roethlisberger sitting out today, we got a good look at young quarterback Mike Reilly. All I can say is this: He'd better be very smart because he doesn't look like he has NFL-caliber arm strength.
© I really like what I see of young cornerbacks Joe Burnett and Keenan Lewis.
They don't always make the play - though Burnett had a nice interception this afternoon after dropping one in the morning – but they always look like they're in good position on the receiver.
Stapleton was actually down the field at this afternoon's practice tossing the ball back and forth with running back Mewelde Moore, who was also sitting out.
Mike Tomlin, however, still isn't saying what the problem with Stapleton is, other than that it's a knee problem.
© Tomlin is from the Bill Belichick school of talking about injuries. While Bill Cowher didn't want players talking about injuries, he was very transparent about them. If you asked about an injury, you usually got an honest answer.
Tomlin is much more guarded.
© The play of practice was one that most people didn't see - you really had to be watching closely to see it.
In the afternoon session, Lawrence Timmons came from the middle of the field pre-snap to line up over left tackle Max Starks. Quarterback Charlie Batch and the line stopped and pointed him out as a blitzer and Timmons backed off to the middle again before coming at the snap.
As Starks went to get a punch on Timmons, the linebacker deked as if he were going to take Starks on. But when Starks extended his arms, Timmons ducked at a dead run and blew around him. If it would have been a live drill, he would have killed the quarterback.
I probably didn't do the play justice, but it was a thing of beauty - unless you happen to be an offensive line afficiando. If that's the case, it was a Homer Simpson-like Doh! moment.
© With Ben Roethlisberger sitting out today, we got a good look at young quarterback Mike Reilly. All I can say is this: He'd better be very smart because he doesn't look like he has NFL-caliber arm strength.
© I really like what I see of young cornerbacks Joe Burnett and Keenan Lewis.
They don't always make the play - though Burnett had a nice interception this afternoon after dropping one in the morning – but they always look like they're in good position on the receiver.
Is Stapleton done?
It's looking more and more likely as if guard Darnell Stapleton could be done for the season - or at least an extended period of time.
I spoke with right tackle Willie Colon this morning and he talked as if Stapleton could be lost to a knee injury, much the same way that punter Daniel Sepulveda was last year around this time.
Now Colon would neither confirm or deny that anything was up, but he talked about the 2009 season as if Stapleton would not be available.
Doesn't mean he knows anything special or he could just be thinking ahead in case it actually does happen.
But Stapleton was nowhere to be seen here today.
I spoke with right tackle Willie Colon this morning and he talked as if Stapleton could be lost to a knee injury, much the same way that punter Daniel Sepulveda was last year around this time.
Now Colon would neither confirm or deny that anything was up, but he talked about the 2009 season as if Stapleton would not be available.
Doesn't mean he knows anything special or he could just be thinking ahead in case it actually does happen.
But Stapleton was nowhere to be seen here today.
Tuesday, August 04, 2009
What's up with Ward
Head coach Mike Tomlin is saying that there's nothing wrong with Hines Ward. Ward is saying the head coach wants him to sit out practices to take a good look at the young guys fighting for roster spots.
But the fact remains that Ward has now sat out three days worth of practices at Saint Vincent College.
Ward also barely practiced this spring, suiting up for only the final week of OTAs after having offseason shoulder surgery.
The B.S. meter is going off on this one, but Ward does appear healthy, running and catching passes after practice, Maybe they are getting more looks at the young wideouts - particuarly Limas Sweed. Maybe they are force-feeding Sweed the playbook just in case Ward or Santonio Holmes miss any time this season.
There isn't, after all, a ton of depth behind the two starters.
But the fact remains that Ward has now sat out three days worth of practices at Saint Vincent College.
Ward also barely practiced this spring, suiting up for only the final week of OTAs after having offseason shoulder surgery.
The B.S. meter is going off on this one, but Ward does appear healthy, running and catching passes after practice, Maybe they are getting more looks at the young wideouts - particuarly Limas Sweed. Maybe they are force-feeding Sweed the playbook just in case Ward or Santonio Holmes miss any time this season.
There isn't, after all, a ton of depth behind the two starters.
Hello again
After a two-day hiatus from the blogging world, I'm back. Sorry not to have the daily/multi-daily update you've become so used to, but sometimes things just can't be avoided. Only so many hours in a day.
The biggest news out of Latrobe right now is Darnell Stapleton's balky knee. The sore knee kept him out of practice on Monday and Tuesday morning and he was sent for an MRI.
But Stapleton was at lunch today with no brace on the knee, so that's probably a good sign.
I don't think it will matter, however, at the right guard position. As I said this spring, I think Stapleton's top competition at that spot will come from veteran Trai Essex, not rookie Kraig Urbik.
And, just a few days into camp, it's looking more and more likely that Essex will be the Steelers starting right guard this season.
If you're looking for more proof here, know that Jason Capizzi is spending a decent amount of time working at guard as well as tackle.
Capizzi has made some big improvements and even though at 6-9, he'd be the tallest guard in history, the team is beginning to look for that game day replacement for Essex - their Jack of all trades.
The biggest news out of Latrobe right now is Darnell Stapleton's balky knee. The sore knee kept him out of practice on Monday and Tuesday morning and he was sent for an MRI.
But Stapleton was at lunch today with no brace on the knee, so that's probably a good sign.
I don't think it will matter, however, at the right guard position. As I said this spring, I think Stapleton's top competition at that spot will come from veteran Trai Essex, not rookie Kraig Urbik.
And, just a few days into camp, it's looking more and more likely that Essex will be the Steelers starting right guard this season.
If you're looking for more proof here, know that Jason Capizzi is spending a decent amount of time working at guard as well as tackle.
Capizzi has made some big improvements and even though at 6-9, he'd be the tallest guard in history, the team is beginning to look for that game day replacement for Essex - their Jack of all trades.
Saturday, August 01, 2009
Saturday afternoon practice
Sorry this one took so long to get up, but I had to go back to Washington to pull desk duty tonight, so I had other things to take care of.
Lawrence Timmons left the afternoon practice with what was descibed as cramps by Mike Tomlin. They happened during back-on-backers, though, so who really knows if it was a cramp or something else? Either, way, it didn't look serious.
Back-on-backers wasn't really too exciting, though rookie running back Issac Redman caught my eye as a blocker and drew praise from head coach Mike Tomlin, who had joked at dinner the previous night that he didn't know the kid's name and had been calling him Barlow.
"I like the way you block 33," Tomlin said, later praising Redman again.
Redman looked the best of the running backs in the drill, though rookie tight end David Johnson showed he's stout when he gets set.
Of the backers, other than the usual suspects - read James Harrison - Andre Frazier and Donovan Woods both showed good power/moves.
Bruce Davis was disappointing and looks more like a finesse player than a powerful linebacker. He still has a long way to go.
Davis' cohort last training camp, Tony Hills looked equally as bad in the one-on-one pass blocking drills with the defensive linemen. According to trained eye Craig Wolfley, Hills stops moving his feet when he punches and also likes to lunge. Both are apparently no-nos for offensive linemen.
Things were getting so bad for Hills - who admittedly was matched with Harrison several times - that I felt they needed to bring Davis over for a morale boost. Not sure which one of them would have gotten the morale boost, but one would have.
Rookie guard Kriag Urbik also got schooled a number of times with head coach Mike Tomlin finally yelling at him to show a little self-respect. The rookie's not going to unseat Darnell Stapleton at right guard.
From what I've seen already of Trai Essex, though, he might. He looks leaner this year and he also appears more powerful.
Board favorite Doug Legursky - yes I finally watched him - isn't all that bad. With Justin Hartwig out with a toe injury, Legursky got plenty of work with the second unit and more than held his own. He might actually have a shot if he can prove he can play guard as well.
Legursky, though, like Timmons and running back Frank Summers, had to leave practice with cramps.
Charlie Batch has not started this camp very well, throwing some horrific passes. The No. 2 job could be there for the taking by Dennis Dixon.
Lawrence Timmons left the afternoon practice with what was descibed as cramps by Mike Tomlin. They happened during back-on-backers, though, so who really knows if it was a cramp or something else? Either, way, it didn't look serious.
Back-on-backers wasn't really too exciting, though rookie running back Issac Redman caught my eye as a blocker and drew praise from head coach Mike Tomlin, who had joked at dinner the previous night that he didn't know the kid's name and had been calling him Barlow.
"I like the way you block 33," Tomlin said, later praising Redman again.
Redman looked the best of the running backs in the drill, though rookie tight end David Johnson showed he's stout when he gets set.
Of the backers, other than the usual suspects - read James Harrison - Andre Frazier and Donovan Woods both showed good power/moves.
Bruce Davis was disappointing and looks more like a finesse player than a powerful linebacker. He still has a long way to go.
Davis' cohort last training camp, Tony Hills looked equally as bad in the one-on-one pass blocking drills with the defensive linemen. According to trained eye Craig Wolfley, Hills stops moving his feet when he punches and also likes to lunge. Both are apparently no-nos for offensive linemen.
Things were getting so bad for Hills - who admittedly was matched with Harrison several times - that I felt they needed to bring Davis over for a morale boost. Not sure which one of them would have gotten the morale boost, but one would have.
Rookie guard Kriag Urbik also got schooled a number of times with head coach Mike Tomlin finally yelling at him to show a little self-respect. The rookie's not going to unseat Darnell Stapleton at right guard.
From what I've seen already of Trai Essex, though, he might. He looks leaner this year and he also appears more powerful.
Board favorite Doug Legursky - yes I finally watched him - isn't all that bad. With Justin Hartwig out with a toe injury, Legursky got plenty of work with the second unit and more than held his own. He might actually have a shot if he can prove he can play guard as well.
Legursky, though, like Timmons and running back Frank Summers, had to leave practice with cramps.
Charlie Batch has not started this camp very well, throwing some horrific passes. The No. 2 job could be there for the taking by Dennis Dixon.
Aug. 1 morning practice update
There were a couple of surprise participants in the first practice session of the 2009 training camp as both Troy Polamalu and Deshea Townsend took part despite head coach Mike Tomlin saying both would be slowed early on by sore hamstrings.
Tight end Heath Miller (sports hernia surgery) and center Justin Hartwig (toe) did not practice.
With Hartwig out, Darnell Stapleton, who was also expected to be slowed early on, played center and did a good job there, keeping Casey Hampton at bay several times and actually getting some push on the big man.
Trai Essex worked with the first team line at right guard.
Daniel Sepulveda did his first major kicking in nearly a year and looked very good, often outkicking return men Santonio Holmes and Shaun McDonald. Rookies Joe Burnett and Mike Wallace were working with the gunners as this drill was more about punt coverage than returns.
First-round pick Ziggy Hood worked at left end with the third-team.
Offensive coordinator Bruce Arians let wide receiver Brandon Williams have it after Williams took his eyes off a pass in third down drills - starting running before he had the ball - and dropped the pass.
"Catch the $#^$#!$% ball before you start running with it. You've got to convert on the @#$%#$$#$!# third down."
Arians was very vocal this morning overall.
Ben Roethlisberger finally talked with the media this morning, but dodged all questions about his legal problems. In fact, after about the fifth questions about it, he threatened to walk away.
Tight end Heath Miller (sports hernia surgery) and center Justin Hartwig (toe) did not practice.
With Hartwig out, Darnell Stapleton, who was also expected to be slowed early on, played center and did a good job there, keeping Casey Hampton at bay several times and actually getting some push on the big man.
Trai Essex worked with the first team line at right guard.
Daniel Sepulveda did his first major kicking in nearly a year and looked very good, often outkicking return men Santonio Holmes and Shaun McDonald. Rookies Joe Burnett and Mike Wallace were working with the gunners as this drill was more about punt coverage than returns.
First-round pick Ziggy Hood worked at left end with the third-team.
Offensive coordinator Bruce Arians let wide receiver Brandon Williams have it after Williams took his eyes off a pass in third down drills - starting running before he had the ball - and dropped the pass.
"Catch the $#^$#!$% ball before you start running with it. You've got to convert on the @#$%#$$#$!# third down."
Arians was very vocal this morning overall.
Ben Roethlisberger finally talked with the media this morning, but dodged all questions about his legal problems. In fact, after about the fifth questions about it, he threatened to walk away.
Hampton still too heavy?
Word is that Steelers nose tackle Casey Hampton may still be heavier than what the team would like - even though he completed the run test Friday – and might still be asked to sit out some practices to work with a conditioning coach.
Hampton, of course, was placed on the PUP list last season by head coach Mike Tomlin after coming into camp overweight and unable to complete the run test.
We'll see what happens.
© Mike Tomlin dropped in at our dinner tonight and had a good laugh about the Michael Vick-cab driver stuff that started on a Pittsburgh radio station today.
"If we were bringing in Vick, would we use a cab?"
That was my point about the whole thing to begin with. Stupid rumor.
Hampton, of course, was placed on the PUP list last season by head coach Mike Tomlin after coming into camp overweight and unable to complete the run test.
We'll see what happens.
© Mike Tomlin dropped in at our dinner tonight and had a good laugh about the Michael Vick-cab driver stuff that started on a Pittsburgh radio station today.
"If we were bringing in Vick, would we use a cab?"
That was my point about the whole thing to begin with. Stupid rumor.
Friday, July 31, 2009
Miller had sports hernia surgery
One note of interest - other than of course the Steelers' lack of interest in Michael Vick – was Mike Tomlin's news that tight end Heath Miller had surgery to repair a sports hernia in June.
Tomlin said the team got to the injury soon enough that Miller is expected to be ready to return to the football field at some point before the regular season opener.
Tomlin said the team got to the injury soon enough that Miller is expected to be ready to return to the football field at some point before the regular season opener.
Steelers roll in
The Steelers have arrived here at Saint Vincent College ready to roll into training camp 2009.
No real surprises today - as usual on this, the most non-eventful day of the football season.
There were some unsubstantiated reports that Michael Vick was dropped off by a taxi cab at the team's practice facility in Pittsburgh. Those are false. The team is not interested in Vick.
One thing that is still cooking are contract extensions.
In addition to continuing talks with safety Ryan Clark, the team remains in negotiations with defensive end Brett Keisel.
Also of note is that offensive lineman Trai Essex said he's been led to believe he'll get every shot to unseat Darnell Stapleton at right guard.
As for now, I'm off to the run test. It appears the team is relenting a bit on closing the test to the media and will allow us to watch from the hillside above - as we did last year.
No players will be made available afterward, however.
No real surprises today - as usual on this, the most non-eventful day of the football season.
There were some unsubstantiated reports that Michael Vick was dropped off by a taxi cab at the team's practice facility in Pittsburgh. Those are false. The team is not interested in Vick.
One thing that is still cooking are contract extensions.
In addition to continuing talks with safety Ryan Clark, the team remains in negotiations with defensive end Brett Keisel.
Also of note is that offensive lineman Trai Essex said he's been led to believe he'll get every shot to unseat Darnell Stapleton at right guard.
As for now, I'm off to the run test. It appears the team is relenting a bit on closing the test to the media and will allow us to watch from the hillside above - as we did last year.
No players will be made available afterward, however.
Camp is here
The 2009 Steelers training camp has begun and you've found one of the top places to visit for up-to-date Steelers news by somebody actually covering the team – the other being my good friends at SteelCityInsider.com.
For those of you new to this blog, allow me to introduce myself. I'm Dale Lolley, Steelers beat reporter for the Observer-Reporter. This is my 17th training camp covering the Steelers as a beat reporter. The only person who has been on the beat longer is Ed Bouchette of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
In addition to this fine newspaper, you can see my work at SteelCityInsider.com and 4for4.com, and here me on occasion on the Steelers radio network on 970-AM, one of the team's flagship stations.
So welcome. Sit back, relax and stay for a while. The next three weeks should be very interesting.
For those of you new to this blog, allow me to introduce myself. I'm Dale Lolley, Steelers beat reporter for the Observer-Reporter. This is my 17th training camp covering the Steelers as a beat reporter. The only person who has been on the beat longer is Ed Bouchette of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
In addition to this fine newspaper, you can see my work at SteelCityInsider.com and 4for4.com, and here me on occasion on the Steelers radio network on 970-AM, one of the team's flagship stations.
So welcome. Sit back, relax and stay for a while. The next three weeks should be very interesting.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Steelers extend Miller, Clark next?
The Steelers on Wednesday gave tight end Heath Miller a six-year contract extension worth just over $35 million.
Pittsburgh still has a number of starters scheduled to become free agents at the end of the 2009 season, including former Pro Bowl nose tackle Casey Hampton and running back Willie Parker.
I'm told, though, the next potential free agent to sign could be safety Ryan Clark.
Pittsburgh still has a number of starters scheduled to become free agents at the end of the 2009 season, including former Pro Bowl nose tackle Casey Hampton and running back Willie Parker.
I'm told, though, the next potential free agent to sign could be safety Ryan Clark.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Take the Steelers and the over
The over/unders from Las Vegas are in for the NFL season and though I don't play them, if I did, I'd have to go over with the Steelers.
Depending on which service you look at, the Steelers are sitting at 10.5 or 11. Given their schedule, I'd have to go over on that. If the Steelers don't win 12 games in 2009 with the schedule they have, shame on them.
Other numbers I like looking around the AFC include the Colts over 10 – Peyton Manning is still the QB, right? – the Jets under 7, the Chargers over 10 and the Broncos under 6.5.
Depending on which service you look at, the Steelers are sitting at 10.5 or 11. Given their schedule, I'd have to go over on that. If the Steelers don't win 12 games in 2009 with the schedule they have, shame on them.
Other numbers I like looking around the AFC include the Colts over 10 – Peyton Manning is still the QB, right? – the Jets under 7, the Chargers over 10 and the Broncos under 6.5.
Saturday, July 25, 2009
Hood signed
The Steelers have agreed to terms on a contract with first-round draft pick Evander "Ziggy" Hood, meaning the rookie defensive lineman will be at camp when it opens on Friday.
The Steelers have signed all of their draft picks this year prior to the opening of camp.
None are expected to push for starting jobs, but several will be asked to contribute in some way.
The Steelers have signed all of their draft picks this year prior to the opening of camp.
None are expected to push for starting jobs, but several will be asked to contribute in some way.
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Something fishy with Roethlisberger suit
As you've probably heard by now, Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger has been served with a civil suit in Nevada for sexual assault by an employee of Harrah's Casino.
The whole thing sounds a little fishy.
First, there were no criminal charges issued in the alleged event.
And then there's the trouble with when the alleged event – whatever it may be – happened, July 2008.
Roethlisberger has been known to mess around with women. Heck, he's young, rich and famous.
But this seems like an attempt at a money grab.
The whole thing sounds a little fishy.
First, there were no criminal charges issued in the alleged event.
And then there's the trouble with when the alleged event – whatever it may be – happened, July 2008.
Roethlisberger has been known to mess around with women. Heck, he's young, rich and famous.
But this seems like an attempt at a money grab.
Sunday, July 19, 2009
What are the folks at EA Sports smoking?
The much-anticipated Madden 2010 player ratings for each team have been released. For a view of how the Steelers are rated in the game, visit http://espn.go.com/videogames/features/madden/madden10?teamId=29.
A couple of things jumped out at me when I was perusing the ratings.
First off, Lawrence Timmons is listed as a 78 in speed (74 overall). That puts him behind both James Harrison (85 speed) and LaMarr Woodley (82 speed) among the Steelers backers.
If I were a betting man, I'd put my money on Timmons winning a footrace among those players.
The other thing that really jumps out to me is that cornerback William Gay is rated as a 63 overall. Maybe nobody told the good people at EA Sports that Gay started a good number of games last season and played well. He's actually rated behind rookie Joe Burnett and just above Keenan Lewis.
Rookie Kraig Urbik (71) is also rated higher than Darnell Stapleton (70) at right guard.
A couple of things jumped out at me when I was perusing the ratings.
First off, Lawrence Timmons is listed as a 78 in speed (74 overall). That puts him behind both James Harrison (85 speed) and LaMarr Woodley (82 speed) among the Steelers backers.
If I were a betting man, I'd put my money on Timmons winning a footrace among those players.
The other thing that really jumps out to me is that cornerback William Gay is rated as a 63 overall. Maybe nobody told the good people at EA Sports that Gay started a good number of games last season and played well. He's actually rated behind rookie Joe Burnett and just above Keenan Lewis.
Rookie Kraig Urbik (71) is also rated higher than Darnell Stapleton (70) at right guard.
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Spaeth working with Fitzgerald
There was an interesting story on SI.com today about a camp Larry Fitzgerald is running in Minnesota for NFL receivers and defensive backs with help from Jerry Rice and Cris Carter.
One of the players in attendance at the camp has been Steelers tight end Matt Spaeth.
If you haven't checked out the story yet, give it a read.
One of the players in attendance at the camp has been Steelers tight end Matt Spaeth.
If you haven't checked out the story yet, give it a read.
Monday, July 13, 2009
Hartwig has broken toe
Just a couple of weeks out from training camp, center Justin Hartwig has reportedly suffered a broken toe when he dropped an object on his foot.
It's not a big deal, but will likely slow him early in taining camp, which opens at the end of the month.
At least it will probably get him out of the run test.
The run test, by the way, is closed to the media this year.
It's not a big deal, but will likely slow him early in taining camp, which opens at the end of the month.
At least it will probably get him out of the run test.
The run test, by the way, is closed to the media this year.
Wednesday, July 08, 2009
Good story on rookie symposium
Straight talk puts scare into NFL rookies
By CEDRIC GOLDEN
c.2009 Cox Newspapers
AUSTIN, Texas -- Think “Scared Straight!” meets the NFL.
In case you missed the reference, “Scared Straight!” was a 1978 documentary about convicts at New Jersey’s Rahway State Prison who warned juvenile delinquents about the brutal realities of prison life. The documentary spawned programs nationwide designed to steer youngsters away from a life of crime.
Now, the NFL isn’t Rahway, but commissioner Roger Goodell would make a mighty fine warden. He would be a lot more believable than that thieving, fake Bible thumper in Shawshank. Anyway, his league’s answer to “Scared Straight!” comes in the form of the NFL rookie symposium, an event that’s one part seminar and one part freshman orientation.
There were times last week when former Texas defensive end Brian Orakpo didn’t know if he was at a league function or a tent revival, but he and the other 255 draft picks had a truckload of literature dropped on their collective domes over four days in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla.
One of the featured speakers was ESPN studio analyst Cris Carter, a Hall of Fame wide receiver who testified about the trappings that can kill a promising career.
The young Carter was a mess. He was thrown out of Ohio State for dealing with an agent, then became a cocaine abuser early in his NFL career, prompting Philadelphia Eagles coach Buddy Ryan to release him after a season in which he caught 11 touchdown passes. It was the best thing that ever happened to him, Carter has said on more than one occasion.
Others in his line of work have fallen prey to numerous temptations: drugs, shady business deals, sexual indiscretions, drunken driving, steroids, street crime, and yes, dogfighting.
Carter’s message was simple: Do what I say, not what I did.
“This is a grown man’s league,” he barked. “This ain’t no little boys’ league.”
Then he yelled at a player he caught napping during the speech. Beautiful.
“It was something to hear him talk about his drug situation and being released,” said Orakpo, who went to the Washington Redskins with the 12th pick of the first round. “He said he had to get his life together because he had lost his job and couldn’t feed his family.”
Orakpo didn’t know the name of the rookie who drew Carter’s ire, but he knew attendance at the symposium was mandatory and to blow off the function would have resulted in a $50,000 fine from warden Goodell. And you thought that $100 for missing a Cowboys team meeting was scary.
Carter was a polarizing presence in the NFL because his off-the field problems nearly derailed his extraordinary career. Carter said he doubted if hardcore partiers like him and fellow Hall of Fame receiver Michael Irvin would survive in the Goodell era. The commish has dictatorial power in the personal conduct department, and NFL players know his brand of justice and the legal system’s can be mutually exclusive.
That’s part of the reason why the rookie symposium is one of the best things the league does. Invariably, there’s bound to be a couple of dumbbells who will go crazy when presented with two things that separate professional athletes from us regular folks -- an unlimited supply of cash and free time.
With that said, we know for every Pacman Jones or Chris Henry who gets arrested, there are a hundred Brian Orakpos and Jason Smiths who won’t see the backseat of a police cruiser. On Saturday, Orakpo and Smith -- the St. Louis Rams’ rookie offensive tackle from Baylor -- will join Tennessee Titans safety Michael Griffin at Akins High School, where Griffin, a former Longhorn, will hold his second annual Orange and White Football Camp.
Smith, the second overall pick behind Detroit Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford, said he didn’t get as much out of Carter’s speech, and that’s understandable because he’s not about to go out and shoot up a strip club any time soon.
“I’m not speaking for (Orakpo), but I know him well enough to say the chances of one of us coming into the league and getting strung out on cocaine next season is slim to none,” he said. “I was more affected by (Pittsburgh Steelers coach) Mike Tomlin’s speech. When a person like him is speaking about a place I’m trying to go (winning a Super Bowl), I take it very personally and if he tells me to jump, I’m going to jump.”
The players were given pamphlets outlining the dangers they face as young millionaires, along with pens to take notes. While rifling through his pamphlet, Orakpo saw a reference to Travis Henry, a running back who has fathered 11 children by 10 women while battling drug and financial problems. Henry is a sad illustration of how making it to the NFL doesn’t guarantee you’ve made it in life.
Former NFL cornerback Rod Babers said one session from the league’s 2003 rookie symposium stood out in his mind.
“This beautiful woman came up on the stage and we were looking around at each other and going, ’Man, she’s fine,”’ said Babers, a former Longhorn. “The first thing she said was, ’You shouldn’t judge a book by its cover.’ Then she told us she had been diagnosed with HIV two years ago.”
While some rookies will be helped by what they witnessed last week, the league could do a symposium every week and it wouldn’t prevent some players from falling into the same traps that have claimed others.
That said, give the league a thumbs up for its part in arming its newcomers with knowledge delivered by those who have been there before.
It’s not exactly “Scared Straight!” but Instructed Straight will do for now.
Cedric Golden writes for the Austin American-Statesman. E-mail: cgolden(at)statesman.com.
Story Filed By Cox Newspapers
For Use By Clients of the New York Times News Service
By CEDRIC GOLDEN
c.2009 Cox Newspapers
AUSTIN, Texas -- Think “Scared Straight!” meets the NFL.
In case you missed the reference, “Scared Straight!” was a 1978 documentary about convicts at New Jersey’s Rahway State Prison who warned juvenile delinquents about the brutal realities of prison life. The documentary spawned programs nationwide designed to steer youngsters away from a life of crime.
Now, the NFL isn’t Rahway, but commissioner Roger Goodell would make a mighty fine warden. He would be a lot more believable than that thieving, fake Bible thumper in Shawshank. Anyway, his league’s answer to “Scared Straight!” comes in the form of the NFL rookie symposium, an event that’s one part seminar and one part freshman orientation.
There were times last week when former Texas defensive end Brian Orakpo didn’t know if he was at a league function or a tent revival, but he and the other 255 draft picks had a truckload of literature dropped on their collective domes over four days in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla.
One of the featured speakers was ESPN studio analyst Cris Carter, a Hall of Fame wide receiver who testified about the trappings that can kill a promising career.
The young Carter was a mess. He was thrown out of Ohio State for dealing with an agent, then became a cocaine abuser early in his NFL career, prompting Philadelphia Eagles coach Buddy Ryan to release him after a season in which he caught 11 touchdown passes. It was the best thing that ever happened to him, Carter has said on more than one occasion.
Others in his line of work have fallen prey to numerous temptations: drugs, shady business deals, sexual indiscretions, drunken driving, steroids, street crime, and yes, dogfighting.
Carter’s message was simple: Do what I say, not what I did.
“This is a grown man’s league,” he barked. “This ain’t no little boys’ league.”
Then he yelled at a player he caught napping during the speech. Beautiful.
“It was something to hear him talk about his drug situation and being released,” said Orakpo, who went to the Washington Redskins with the 12th pick of the first round. “He said he had to get his life together because he had lost his job and couldn’t feed his family.”
Orakpo didn’t know the name of the rookie who drew Carter’s ire, but he knew attendance at the symposium was mandatory and to blow off the function would have resulted in a $50,000 fine from warden Goodell. And you thought that $100 for missing a Cowboys team meeting was scary.
Carter was a polarizing presence in the NFL because his off-the field problems nearly derailed his extraordinary career. Carter said he doubted if hardcore partiers like him and fellow Hall of Fame receiver Michael Irvin would survive in the Goodell era. The commish has dictatorial power in the personal conduct department, and NFL players know his brand of justice and the legal system’s can be mutually exclusive.
That’s part of the reason why the rookie symposium is one of the best things the league does. Invariably, there’s bound to be a couple of dumbbells who will go crazy when presented with two things that separate professional athletes from us regular folks -- an unlimited supply of cash and free time.
With that said, we know for every Pacman Jones or Chris Henry who gets arrested, there are a hundred Brian Orakpos and Jason Smiths who won’t see the backseat of a police cruiser. On Saturday, Orakpo and Smith -- the St. Louis Rams’ rookie offensive tackle from Baylor -- will join Tennessee Titans safety Michael Griffin at Akins High School, where Griffin, a former Longhorn, will hold his second annual Orange and White Football Camp.
Smith, the second overall pick behind Detroit Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford, said he didn’t get as much out of Carter’s speech, and that’s understandable because he’s not about to go out and shoot up a strip club any time soon.
“I’m not speaking for (Orakpo), but I know him well enough to say the chances of one of us coming into the league and getting strung out on cocaine next season is slim to none,” he said. “I was more affected by (Pittsburgh Steelers coach) Mike Tomlin’s speech. When a person like him is speaking about a place I’m trying to go (winning a Super Bowl), I take it very personally and if he tells me to jump, I’m going to jump.”
The players were given pamphlets outlining the dangers they face as young millionaires, along with pens to take notes. While rifling through his pamphlet, Orakpo saw a reference to Travis Henry, a running back who has fathered 11 children by 10 women while battling drug and financial problems. Henry is a sad illustration of how making it to the NFL doesn’t guarantee you’ve made it in life.
Former NFL cornerback Rod Babers said one session from the league’s 2003 rookie symposium stood out in his mind.
“This beautiful woman came up on the stage and we were looking around at each other and going, ’Man, she’s fine,”’ said Babers, a former Longhorn. “The first thing she said was, ’You shouldn’t judge a book by its cover.’ Then she told us she had been diagnosed with HIV two years ago.”
While some rookies will be helped by what they witnessed last week, the league could do a symposium every week and it wouldn’t prevent some players from falling into the same traps that have claimed others.
That said, give the league a thumbs up for its part in arming its newcomers with knowledge delivered by those who have been there before.
It’s not exactly “Scared Straight!” but Instructed Straight will do for now.
Cedric Golden writes for the Austin American-Statesman. E-mail: cgolden(at)statesman.com.
Story Filed By Cox Newspapers
For Use By Clients of the New York Times News Service
Sunday, July 05, 2009
Training camp three weeks away
Training camp is three weeks away and I can already feel the excitement about the upcoming football season building.
The Steelers don't have a lot of position battles this season, but they have some things worth watching.
Who will be the starting right guard, Darnell Stapleton, Kraig Urbik or darkhorse Trai Essex?
That's right. Essex could be a factor at that position.
The starting cornerback position is William Gay's to lose and he will have to fall flat on his face or get hurt to do so.
But who will be No. 3? Deshea Townsend again? One of the rookies? Keiwan Ratliff?
Ratliff has younger legs, but you can never count our Townsend. And the rookies, particularly Keenan Lewis, looked good this spring.
The other big battle will be fo the No. 3 receiver spot. I think Shaun McDonald may steal that one from Limas Sweed.
McDonald would give the team the ability to keep Hines Ward on the outside or shift him to the slot if it so chooses. If Sweed's on the field, Ward has to go to the slot.
The Steelers don't have a lot of position battles this season, but they have some things worth watching.
Who will be the starting right guard, Darnell Stapleton, Kraig Urbik or darkhorse Trai Essex?
That's right. Essex could be a factor at that position.
The starting cornerback position is William Gay's to lose and he will have to fall flat on his face or get hurt to do so.
But who will be No. 3? Deshea Townsend again? One of the rookies? Keiwan Ratliff?
Ratliff has younger legs, but you can never count our Townsend. And the rookies, particularly Keenan Lewis, looked good this spring.
The other big battle will be fo the No. 3 receiver spot. I think Shaun McDonald may steal that one from Limas Sweed.
McDonald would give the team the ability to keep Hines Ward on the outside or shift him to the slot if it so chooses. If Sweed's on the field, Ward has to go to the slot.
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