The Pittsburgh Steelers thread

[The Ugly Thief]

http://www.steelers.com/MediaContent//2004/08/03/17/general_steelers_logo_44529.jpg

oh, i forgot, we're only allowed to talk about LOSER teams on this forum - like the Bengals, Browns, & Reds

my bad - nevermind

;)

v

[rcc94]

I'll claim this team!

[FOBAgain]

http://bengalsjungle.com/pisssteelers.gif

:p :p :p :p :p :p :p :p

[ZLoveSarah]

Wewt! Ben Roethlisberger love.

[sabos_glasses]

Good news for Steelers fans: Hines is back.


I love how ESPN today was predicting Ben may not have the year he had last year. No shit? He won't start out 13-0 or whatever?

[Foofur]

The Steelers are spanking the Eagles. Yeah, it's only pre-season, but things are clicking.

[The Ugly Thief]

I didn't know Antwaan Randle-El got hurt. How did that happen ? They mentioned it in the ESPN article about Ward coming back.

Is it a serious injury ? This is the first I've heard of it.

v

[rcc94]

Unfortunately, this became an exciting game. 30 seconds left & Philly is 4 & 25 and down by 7.

[rcc94]

But not successful.

Pittsburg wins!

[Artpunchehorse]

http://www.steelers.com/MediaContent//2004/08/03/17/general_steelers_logo_44529.jpg

oh, i forgot, we're only allowed to talk about LOSER teams on this forum - like the Bengals, Browns, & Reds

my bad - nevermind

;)

v

New England just called, they want their bitch tonight. Guess the Steelers have to go to Boston.

[The Ugly Thief]

New England just called, they want their bitch tonight. Guess the Steelers have to go to Boston.We beat them once last year, we'll beat them this year.

v

[Handy Smurf]

We beat them once last year, we'll beat them this year.

v
What position are you playing this year?

[Bdubdubs]

The Steelers are spanking the Eagles. Yeah, it's only pre-season, but things are clicking.

Couple things there foof...the Eagles special teams crapped the bed last night. I would be concerned that the Eagles "First Team Offense" with the exception of Donovan's INT was able to throw the ball so effectively against the Stillers tough 'd'.

[aqualou]

being one who loves the underdog, i was a green bay fan a long while back. that had to end, so i moved to denver. retires finally and i moved to pittsburgh about ten years ago. i still have a soft spot for tampa bay, but there's no bigger underdog then buffalo. even i can't take that much abuse.

[jcarwash31]

being one who loves the underdog, i was a green bay fan a long while back. that had to end, so i moved to denver. retires finally and i moved to pittsburgh about ten years ago. i still have a soft spot for tampa bay, but there's no bigger underdog then buffalo. even i can't take that much abuse.
You should consider being a Vikings fan, because even when they are favored there is no way they will win.

[The Ugly Thief]

I would be concerned that the Eagles "First Team Offense" with the exception of Donovan's INT was able to throw the ball so effectively against the Stillers tough 'd'.It was an exhibition game. If people took anything in it seriously, then the Eagles should be concerned why their special teams unit gave up 2 return TDs in the first 2 quarters.

v

[RedRigmaJacket]

there's no bigger underdog then buffalo.

you are wrong there...the browns are the pinnacle underdogs.

[Bdubdubs]

It was an exhibition game. If people took anything in it seriously, then the Eagles should be concerned why their special teams unit gave up 2 return TDs in the first 2 quarters.

v

Oh, totally....I couldn't agree more.

[The_Deacon]

http://www.steelers.com/MediaContent//2004/08/03/17/general_steelers_logo_44529.jpg

oh, i forgot, we're only allowed to talk about LOSER teams on this forum - like the Bengals, Browns, & Reds

my bad - nevermind

;)

v
That is Ok. Don't sweat it!!! I so understand that Steelers fans make alot of mistakes......ALOT!!! :p :D :p :D :D

[Foofur]

2-0...hmmm. Sound familier?

:D

[The Ugly Thief]

Too bad about Randle-el- as good a punt returner as there is in the leagueunless he got hurt again yesterday (I didn't watch the exhibition game last night, so i don't know) then I don't think his injury is that serious at all. They were interviewing him @ the Eagles exhibition game & it sounds like he might even be back before the season starts.

also - I'm not so concerned about his punt returning. He's going to be more important as the other WR this year with Burress gone.

v

[The Ugly Thief]

oh great, Theismann has picked us to be the Super Bowl champs HERE (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/preview05/news/story?id=2152292) .

that can't be a good sign

v

[The Mad Hater]

who's carrying the ball out of the backfield this year? what's the status on Bettis and Staley? aren't they out for a while?

[The_Deacon]

who's carrying the ball out of the backfield this year? what's the status on Bettis and Staley? aren't they out for a while?
Big Ben will have to run like Forrest Gump.....run benny ...run!!! :p

[The Ugly Thief]

who's carrying the ball out of the backfield this year? what's the status on Bettis and Staley? aren't they out for a while?
Bettis had a sore calf & was out until this past weekend. Staley had knee surgery & is supposed to be back this week.

v

[The Ugly Thief]

Willie Parker - 162 yds !!!

Jerome who ?
Duce who ?

v

[yoshomon]

I started Mr. Parker on my fantasy team, oh yes I did!!

[The Mad Hater]

Willie Parker - 162 yds !!!

Jerome who ?
Duce who ?

v

congratulations. very impressive and decisive showing for the Steelers. I'm happy for you. and scared to death of your team. hopefully the 'Gals can at least squeak by them in Cincinnati.

[Jonathan]

Willie Parker - 162 yds !!!

If you need to get something done, get a Carolina boy to do it.

Jeff Reed in the playoffs last year (vs. the Jets). Willie Parker today. Go Tar Heels!

By the way, was it just me, or did it seem like the Steelers could move the ball at will against the Titans today?

[The Ugly Thief]

By the way, was it just me, or did it seem like the Steelers could move the ball at will against the Titans today?no, it wasn't you. They were basically going right through them. I think they only put true pressure on Roethlisberger 2 or 3 times. The thing that surprised everyone (including Bill Cowher) was that even with Bettis & Staley out of the game it was the running game that was making it happen. The running game was so effective that Roethlisberger only had 11 pass attempts in the entire game.

It was great to see Heath Miller catch the first TD. That guy is going to be huge for us in the red zone.

v

[Jonathan]

The running game was so effective that Roethlisberger only had 11 pass attempts in the entire game.
And he made the most of them, with a perfect QB rating. Which for some strange reason is 158.3

Thus proving that the quarterback rating is the most idiotic stat in all of sports.

[The Ugly Thief]

And he made the most of them, with a perfect QB rating. Which for some strange reason is 158.3

Thus proving that the quarterback rating is the most idiotic stat in all of sports.What is the equation that they use to calculate that anyway ? I've never even heard what it is.

v

[rcc94]

And he made the most of them, with a perfect QB rating. Which for some strange reason is 158.3

Thus proving that the quarterback rating is the most idiotic stat in all of sports.
And he got me 16 points for my Fantasy Football teams!

That's my Ben!

(I'm strangely possessive about NFL QBs.)

[gwar469]

i watched the entire Steelers/Titans game, and I must say, the Steelers looked damn good. I know the Titans aren't going to do squat this year, but the Steelers made them their bitches and then some.

[Jonathan]

What is the equation that they use to calculate that anyway ? I've never even heard what it is.

v

Are you sure you want to know? You'll be sorry you asked.

OK, if you insist:

Quarterback Rating
The NFL formula used to rate quarterbacks. The formula goes
like this:

Step 1: Complete passes divided by pass attempts. Subtract
0.3, then divide by 0.2.
Step 2: Passing yards divided by pass attempts. Subtract 3,
then divide by 4.
Step 3: Touchdown passes divided by pass attempts, then divide
by .05.
Step 4: Start with .095, and subtract interceptions divided by
attempts. Divide the product by .04.

The sum of each step cannot be greater than 2.375 or less than
zero. Add the sum of Steps 1 through 4, multiply by 100 and
divide by 6. There you have it, the NFL's Passer Rating
system. And no, we didn't just make that up. 158.3 is the maximum.

[The Ugly Thief]

you're right, I'm sorry I asked

v

[The Mad Hater]

Are you sure you want to know? You'll be sorry you asked.

OK, if you insist:

Quarterback Rating
The NFL formula used to rate quarterbacks. The formula goes
like this:

Step 1: Complete passes divided by pass attempts. Subtract
0.3, then divide by 0.2.
Step 2: Passing yards divided by pass attempts. Subtract 3,
then divide by 4.
Step 3: Touchdown passes divided by pass attempts, then divide
by .05.
Step 4: Start with .095, and subtract interceptions divided by
attempts. Divide the product by .04.

The sum of each step cannot be greater than 2.375 or less than
zero. Add the sum of Steps 1 through 4, multiply by 100 and
divide by 6. There you have it, the NFL's Passer Rating
system. And no, we didn't just make that up. 158.3 is the maximum.

what the fucking hell? and why? somebody should come up with a more sensible equation. who'll do it? Homsar? Thief? Akili?

[The Ugly Thief]

somebody should come up with a more sensible equation. who'll do it? Homsar? Thief? Akili?d00d, i can't balance my check book let alone try figure that out !

v

[The_Deacon]

what the.........?????????

[Jonathan]

Looking at the QB rating formula is like watching sausages being made. Only instead of saying "Ewww...I'm never eating sausage again!" you say "WTF? That's the most ridiculous statistic in the history of statistics."

what the fucking hell? and why? somebody should come up with a more sensible equation. who'll do it? Homsar? Thief? Akili?
I'll do it. Let me pull some numbers out of my ass and see what I can come up with.

How about:

(TD * 4.32435) - ((PC/PA * 5.38765429) / (INT ^ 7) + 42!)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Yards * http://mathforum.org/dr.math/faq/pi.gif) - ((TD/PA) + 8.2643333)

[The Mad Hater]

Looking at the QB rating formula is like watching sausages being made. Only instead of saying "Ewww...I'm never eating sausage again!" you say "WTF? That's the most ridiculous statistic in the history of statistics."


I'll do it. Let me pull some numbers out of my ass and see what I can come up with.

How about:

(TD * 4.32435) - ((PC/PA * 5.38765429) / (INT ^ 7) + 42!)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Yards * http://mathforum.org/dr.math/faq/pi.gif) - ((TD/PA) + 8.2643333)

now see, I can get my head around that. and it's so simple, why aren't they using it?

[rcc94]

How about:

(TD * 4.32435) - ((PC/PA * 5.38765429) / (INT ^ 7) + 42!)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Yards * http://mathforum.org/dr.math/faq/pi.gif) - ((TD/PA) + 8.2643333)
Because a formula just isn't a formula without pi(e)! :D

And nice use of a factorial.

[Homsar]

what the fucking hell? and why? somebody should come up with a more sensible equation. who'll do it? Homsar? Thief? Akili?

Well, sure!

On second thought, never mind.

[Zane]

not. :D


http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b114/woxycarrie/carriespix050.jpg

[the_birds]

Now the Steelers are going to crush the Texans this week. I am actually excited about this, because I want them to fire the offensive coordinator. The Texans have about as much chance as a wet noodle, to stand up to the Steelers.

Steelers will be 2-0 after this week. Go Texans, but only after you get rid of Chris Palmer, yes that Chris Palmer, Browns fans.

[aqualou]

Now the Steelers are going to crush the Texans this week. I am actually excited about this, because I want them to fire the offensive coordinator. The Texans have about as much chance as a wet noodle, to stand up to the Steelers.

Steelers will be 2-0 after this week. Go Texans, but only after you get rid of Chris Palmer, yes that Chris Palmer, Browns fans.
it's not even worth watching that game . . . Texans? . . . they need a better name.

[The Ugly Thief]

Steelers will be 2-0 after this week.well, they BETTER be ! Because it starts to get pretty damn interesting coming the 3rd week with the Patriots.

then a week off ... and then they're on MNF against San Diego

Steelers are on MNF 3 times this year & they're ALL great games : San Diego, Indy, and Baltimore !

those have the potential to be the 3 best MNF games this year

v

[Jonathan]

Only a Browns fan would wear an anti-Steelers shirt with a Steelers logo on it!

[The_Deacon]

I will take the Texans and the points ;)

[The Ugly Thief]

I will take the Texans and the points ;)
the line on it is Pitt -6

I'll definitely take Pitt w/ that spread !

v

[The Ugly Thief]

I will take the Texans and the points ;)you lost your bet

v

[Jonathan]

If that's Ben when he's "questionable," I can't wait to see him at 100% :p

[RedRigmaJacket]

you lost your bet

v


what was the bet?

[Foofur]

So Ben is now 15-0 during the regular season (and he was 'questionable') and we have a third string running back. Sounds like dem Steelers got some options this year. Looking forward to the Patriots game this weekend. I have a feeling they may be up for that one. :D

[Handy Smurf]

So Ben is now 15-0 during the regular season (and he was 'questionable') and we have a third string running back. Sounds like dem Steelers got some options this year. Looking forward to the Patriots game this weekend. I have a feeling they may be up for that one. :D
Ok, Carson Palmer is by far the best quarterback in that division and unless Ben is vastly improved from last year, the results for the Steelers will be the same at best.
If you look at last year, as the season went on and the games began to matter more, Palmer got better and Roethlisberger got a lot worse. In fact, he almost singlehandedly lost them their first playoff game before mailing it in against New England.
Last year, Pitt had a far better defense (than the Bengals) and a far better offense than their (Pitt) '06 version (unless Willie Parker manages to play this way all year) In other words, Ben had more to work with last year. The Bengals have caught up this year. Palmer is already showing he is going to be one of the elite qbs in the league. Roethlisberger is just showing he knows how to act poorly in tv commercials

[The Ugly Thief]

what was the bet?
that's a good question. You're gonna have to ask Deacon.

So Ben is now 15-0 during the regular season (and he was 'questionable')
I don't know what to think about that whole hurt knee thing. Is it worse than Ben is letting us know or is it being exaggerated by the press ? I don't know yet. He seemed quite mobile to me - but maybe he's wearing some heavy duty knee brace that allows him to cover it up. I guess only time will tell. One thing I do know is that the press was doing their best to find out as much as possible from Ben before the game & he wasn't telling them shit (as he shouldn't). I saw some reporter stick a mic in his face and ask him "So, is there anything in particular which you do which causes the knee to be in pain ?" - as if Ben is going to say something like "Yes, whenever I run to my right I can't throw. So I really hope the Texans don't force me out of the pocket to run to my right because I'll be useless."

Ok, Carson Palmer is by far the best quarterback in that division and unless Ben is vastly improved from last year, the results for the Steelers will be the same at best.
If you look at last year, as the season went on and the games began to matter more, Palmer got better and Roethlisberger got a lot worse. In fact, he almost singlehandedly lost them their first playoff game before mailing it in against New England.
Last year, Pitt had a far better defense (than the Bengals) and a far better offense than their (Pitt) '06 version (unless Willie Parker manages to play this way all year) In other words, Ben had more to work with last year. The Bengals have caught up this year. Palmer is already showing he is going to be one of the elite qbs in the league. Roethlisberger is just showing he knows how to act poorly in tv commercials

ahhh, look at this folks. The Bengals win two games in a row and suddenly they've got the most cocky fans in the NFL. ;)

v

[Handy Smurf]

ahhh, look at this folks. The Bengals win two games in a row and suddenly they've got the most cocky fans in the NFL. ;)

v
Hey look at this folks, the guy from Atlanta suddenly proclaims himself to be a fan of the team that had the best regular season record in football last year, even though theyre hundreds of miles away and there also happens to be a team in his hometown. ;)


edited to add- I've always been cocky

[The Ugly Thief]

Hey look at this folks, the guy from Atlanta suddenly proclaims himself to be a fan of the team that had the best regular season record in football last year, even though theyre hundreds of miles away and there also happens to be a team in his hometown. ;)you've accused me of being a Steelers bandwagoner before & I told you that I've been a Steelers fan all my life.

and my "hometown" isn't Atlanta, it's Johnstown, PA.

I will admit to being somewhat of a Braves bandwagoner since I moved down here in the early 90s. But I think baseball is somewhat different than football in that you've GOTTA pull for the local team because that's the only team you see on tv EVERY single day.

v

[Handy Smurf]

you've accused me of being a Steelers bandwagoner before & I told you that I've been a Steelers fan all my life.
yes i have and yes you did

and my "hometown" isn't Atlanta, it's Johnstown, PA.thats the first time you bothered to mention that, and unless you live there now, it aint your hometown (but it explains being a Steeler fan at least)

I will admit to being somewhat of a Braves bandwagoner since I moved down here in the early 90s. But I think baseball is somewhat different than football in that you've GOTTA pull for the local team because that's the only team you see on tv EVERY single day.

v
having you admit you were a bandwagoneer in one way or another was all I was looking for here.
and yes I am cocky
and no, that doesnt change the fact that you dismissed the fact that Palmer is a far better QB with some offhand remark about my cockiness
;)

[The Ugly Thief]

having you admit you were a bandwagoneer in one way or another was all I was looking for here.
i know you were - you asshole :p

that doesnt change the fact that you dismissed the fact that Palmer is a far better QBto tell you truth, i haven't seen Palmer enough to comment on that. I've only seen him on highlights. But what i will say is that you were totally out of line by saying Ben fucked up last year in the playoffs. I know he threw some INT, but c'mon the guy was a rookie QB who was STARTING in the NFL. Heisman winners don't even do that !

What I've seen of Ben so far this year makes me say with confidence that he is MUCH better. He already had confidence, but I think he's got a much better grip on what he wants to do. I think he understands the offense more. I know those are typical cliche type of remarks, but it's really true. I've already said how psyched I am about the Steelers drafting Heath Miller, but I think you're gonna start to see Ben being much more dangerous now that he's got a big ol TE to pass to.

v

[crazybob60]

When Duce comes back healthy in a few weeks do you think that Willie Parker goes back to third string with the start he has had or do you think Pitt has a situation here?

[The Ugly Thief]

When Duce comes back healthy in a few weeks do you think that Willie Parker goes back to third string with the start he has had or do you think Pitt has a situation here?I think Parker has won a spot. I don't see Cowher parking him on the bench. Cowher likes to run...and run...and run...and run. So I think he is going to just have Jerome/Duce/Parker in CONSTANT rotation throughout the game in order to constantly have fresh legs in there.

It's still too early to tell of course - but no way do I see Parker sitting down throughout an entire game - even w/ Jerome AND Duce back.

I will say this : I expect both Jerome & Duce to not come back as soon as they originally thought. I think they'll at least take one extra week off because of Parker's success.

Oh, and not to take anything from Parker, but our offensive line is just OWNING the line ! Did you see some of those holes they were opening up ?

v

[the_birds]

I just want to say a hearty, "thanks" to the Steelers for crushing our Texans this past weekend, because the scourge of our team, Chris Palmer offensive coordinator was subsequently fired after our dismal performance. This is exactly the result I desired and I mentioned it last week.

Now, we can don our Texans jersey's once again, because the replacement has a proven track record of success and it might not be overnight, but the Texans will get better fast. We had lots of Steelers fans' in town this weekend and they were cool, I know a lot of people in W. PA, until they started about Heinz Field. Don't be ridiculous, we may not have the team, but we do have the finest stadium in pro football.

[The Ugly Thief]

I don't understand why they didn't just fire him during the off-season. I mean, they must have already had seriously doubts about him already. I'm sure he didn't just get fired because of the Steelers & Bills games.

we may not have the team, but we do have the finest stadium in pro football.sorry, but any stadium that causes that severe of a shadow in the middle of the field cannot be considered the "best" stadium. I couldn't even see any of the plays that were in the red zone.

i'm sure it's a nice stadium, but that was annoying as hell

v

[the_birds]

I don't understand why they didn't just fire him during the off-season. I mean, they must have already had seriously doubts about him already. I'm sure he didn't just get fired because of the Steelers & Bills games.

sorry, but any stadium that causes that severe of a shadow in the middle of the field cannot be considered the "best" stadium. I couldn't even see any of the plays that were in the red zone.

i'm sure it's a nice stadium, but that was annoying as hell

v

Yes, they should have fired him in the offseason, THAT'S WHAT I WANTED!!! But instead, they let him install another ridiculously conceived offense and blow the start to our season. Needless to say, a bunch of necks are on the line now.

Don't judge the stadium on the sun/shade spot. It was another ill-conceived notion that the heat would help us defeat probably the best team in football. Normally, the roof is not open for a day game or until later in the season when its much nicer. Its only been opened a few times ever for a day game, it just gets too hot in there...

[The Ugly Thief]

Don't judge the stadium on the sun/shade spot.
I have no other way to judge it since I've only seen it on tv. Now, everytime I watch a game that is in Houston I'm going to be thinking "Are they going to close that roof, or is that uber-annoying shadow going to make it impossible to see what the hell is going on again ?"

It was another ill-conceived notion that the heat would help us defeat probably the best team in football.I don't understand how having an overheated stadium would be beneficial to the Texans. How do they figure that ?

v

[Jonathan]

I don't understand how having an overheated stadium would be beneficial to the Texans. How do they figure that ?
I guess they figure that if you live in Houston, you're more used to the heat?

[The Ugly Thief]

If there's one particular element that "lost" the game for us it was our offensive line. Ben couldn't drop back for more than a second without having someone in his face & no holes were opened for Parker to run in.

Can't take anything away from NE though. They just outplayed us & deserved to win.

v

[Handy Smurf]

to borrow from another popular thread

Dear "Big Ben,"

Congratulations on that abortion of a game you played on Sunday. Way to prove that once again, when the chips are down and the odds are stacked in your favor, you fold under pressure. If you hadnt sucked so bad for the majority of 4 quarters against an average secondary, your team wouldnt have needed to try and come back in the first place. You truly are going to play second fiddle to Carson Palmer for the entirety of your career.

Sincerely,
Smiling in Cincinnati

[Homsar]

Dear Handy Smurf,

Ouch.

Your always,
Ben

[Jonathan]

Dear Smiling in Cincinnati,

My guess is that, when their respective careers are over and done with, Big Ben will have more Super Bowl rings than Carson Palmer.

But hey, Palmer's got that Heisman Trophy to keep him warm at night. So that's nice. Of course, Eric Crouch and Gino Toretta have one, too.

Best,
Confident in Pittsburgh

[Handy Smurf]

Dear Confident in Pittsburgh,

I guess when you really look at that young offensive core of Heath Miller and...and...Willie Parker, thats hard to argue with. Point taken. Its ok, I'm sure when Ben needs a hand in the future, the Steelers will still be full of the Bobby Shaws of the world to drop all those important passes

Bein smarmy,
Smilin in Cincinnati

[The Ugly Thief]

to borrow from another popular thread

Dear "Big Ben,"

If you hadnt sucked so bad for the majority of 4 quarters against an average secondary, your team wouldnt have needed to try and come back in the first place.Did you watch the game ? I'm not asking to be a smartass or anything, I'm seriously asking.

Because it definitely was NOT Ben's fault the Steelers lost that game. During the entire second half he had somebody in his face as soon as he would drop back to pass ! The entire Steelers offensive line got their asses HANDED to them yesterday ! They couldn't open ANY holes for Parker. They couldn't keep the Patriot out of the backfield AT ALL ! That entire Patriots line was basically in the Steelers backfield as soon as the ball was hiked !

So, it has nothing to do w/ the Patriots secondary anyway. When your QB is running for his life as soon as he touches the ball then it really doesn't matter too much what your secondary is doing. It was just ridiculous by the time it got to the 4th quarter.

We were definitely missing Bettis yesterday. Not that I think it would have made a HUGE difference in our general running game since the Patriots were penetrating quicker than the fucking ball, but there were certain situations in the first half where Cowher would have used him - like that one 4th and 1 play in the Patriots red zone when we ended up settling for a FG. I KNOW Cowher would have tried that if Bettis was in there.

If there is one particular thing I was wondering it was why wasn't Cowher trying more running plays to the outside ? It was obvious that Parker wasn't going to get anywhere in the middle with all the holes clogged up - so why not try going to the outside & utilizing his speed more ?

But Ben looked good .... when he had more than a SECOND to pass ! That really bothers me. What the hell was up with the offensive line ?

Basically that whole game was won on the lines. We didn't get enough pressure to Brady & he made us pay for that with those quick 5-8 yard passes. Our coverage looked good whenever it was a pass of 20+ yards.

v

[The Mad Hater]

I'm one of those "whoever is playing Pittsburgh" fans, but that was a helluva game last night.

in spite of the loss, Pittsburgh is still the team to beat in my opinion. they've got about the best thing going all around, and they can't be perfect every game. it's a long season. having said that, I am still a fan of whoever is playing Pittsburgh.

[The Ugly Thief]

Palmer's got that Heisman Trophy to keep him warm at nightyep - or....well maybe he will end up with more Super Bowl rings if he gets traded a lot throughout his career. Just look at Doug Flutie ... he was there on the Patriots sideline bringing water to Brady whenever he would come over to talk to Belichick :)

So Flutie has some Super Bowl rings to go w/ his Heisman :)

v

[The Mad Hater]

Carson Palmer is a great QB on a decent team. Big Ben is a decent QB on a great team. I'm just asking: which would any of YOU prefer?

[The Ugly Thief]

oh - and one thing that was a HUGE mistake yesterday :

20-13, Patriots are winning

Steelers get the interference call down on the Patriots' 4 yard line

1st and goal on the Patriots 4

1min 20sec left in the game

Patriots are out of timeouts
Steelers have 2 timeouts

Why not RUN on the first down, and allow the clock to run down to about 45 seconds, and then call a timeout ? We would then have 3 more chances to get into the end zone, with another timout left for an emergency.

We should NOT have scored that TD with 1:20 left in the game when we had the ability to control the clock ! Don't give Brady more than a fucking minute to get into FG range for Vinateri !!!

MAJOR mistake on Cowher's part !!!

v

[Handy Smurf]

oh - and one thing that was a HUGE mistake yesterday :

20-13, Patriots are winning

Steelers get the interference call down on the Patriots' 4 yard line

1st and goal on the Patriots 4

1min 20sec left in the game

Patriots are out of timeouts
Steelers have 2 timeouts

Why not RUN on the first down, and allow the clock to run down to about 45 seconds, and then call a timeout ? We would then have 3 more chances to get into the end zone, with another timout left for an emergency.

We should NOT have scored that TD with 1:20 left in the game when we had the ability to control the clock ! Don't give Brady more than a fucking minute to get into FG range for Vinateri !!!

MAJOR mistake on Cowher's part !!!

v
great point. They left them with way too much time
although I thought it was a bit of a phantom PI call to begin with

and yes I watched the game, Ben looks easily flustered. Keep in mind how poorly he did last year when the games started to matter for something. He has very little pocket presence, he doesnt make decisions well under pressure. He took quite a few sacks and made some awful throws when the situation warranted getting rid of the ball

[The Ugly Thief]

I thought it was a bit of a phantom PI call to begin withya know, i gotta agree w/ you on that. I've only seen a replay of the play once & in the heat of the moment I was of course saying "YA FUCKING INTERFERENCE !!!" - but i can definitely see that being a totally iffy call. It was definitely a close call. I have to say this though : i think the ref made the "proper" call in that situation. If the ref doesn't call that, then the game ends right there & that play was way too close to being PI to end on that.

Ben looks easily flustered.... He has very little pocket presence, he doesnt make decisions well under pressure.
again i agree w/ you on that to a degree. BUT, he was getting very severe pressure at times. It wasn't just one blitzing linebacker who he could avoid & then look upfield. He was getting some very fucking serious pressure.

as for making bad decisions, I think he could definitely have been much MUCH worse. He held on to the ball when he could have passed an INT sometimes. Would they have been 20 yard gains if he didn't hang on to it ? Possibly. But he did manage to keep his team in the game.

hey, think of it this way : would Kerry Collins have done as well under that same pressure ? I think the answer to that is "DEFINITELY not".

...and how many years has Collins been in the NFL now ?

v

[Handy Smurf]

as for making bad decisions, I think he could definitely have been much MUCH worse. He held on to the ball when he could have passed an INT sometimes. Would they have been 20 yard gains if he didn't hang on to it ? Possibly. But he did manage to keep his team in the game.
v
exactly, but I think this is a reflection of my point, for the most part. Ben isnt horrible now, but he's not an elite QB either. He's also not going to be bad or average, I think he has a lot of the skills necessary to be a very good quarterback, but not top 3-4 QB in the league material. I think Manning, McNabb, and Culpepper have been manning those spots for the past few years...I think Palmer might step in and take Dante's place any time now
What carried that team thru most of last year was that he was a pretty cool, calm guy who made the right decisions at the right times. BUT, he had the benefit of one of the best running games in the league and one of the more dominant defenses, both of which were working together to set him up to succeed.
I have yet to see a game where he was
a) in a very important, high pressure situation
b) losing by a margin of any significance
c) forced to throw a lot for any given reason
where he looked terribly impressive.
Not to say he wont get a lot better, but I have been getting tired of the fact that the media is overlooking a guy like Palmer who was a higher pick, has more experience, probably has a better overall offense to work with this year, and actually improved last year as the season went on and the games became more meaningful.
Of course, a lot of people are suddenly jumping on the Bengals bandwagon, but before the season started, a lot of people were still completely unconvinced that Palmer would ever do anything. It seemed like more people were talking the past 2 seasons about Kyle Boller and his potential than they were about Palmer

[The Ugly Thief]

What carried that team thru most of last year was that he was a pretty cool, calm guy who made the right decisions at the right times. BUT, he had the benefit of one of the best running games in the league and one of the more dominant defenses, both of which were working together to set him up to succeed.That's very true. And that's why I was anxious to see how he would perform w/out Bettis & Duce. Of course Parker had great games in the first two games. However, the Steelers were still passing a lot in those games, and Ben was on target with EVERY pass he would throw. More importantly, they weren't just short high-percentage passes. Some of them were very significant long passes & they were totally on target.

I have yet to see a game where he was
a) in a very important, high pressure situation
b) losing by a margin of any significance
c) forced to throw a lot for any given reason
where he looked terribly impressive.

this is true also - to a degree. The thing is that when he HAS been in those particular situations he has usually been against the top teams - like the Patriots. It's kinda hard to pass judgment on a rookie or 2nd year QB just because he isn't looking like Montana when playing the Super Bowl champs.

Last night was one of those situations. He definitely HAD to pass, and he had a low percentage. He looked flustered, yes. But he also had a couple of key passes dropped. Randle-El dropped two passes that hit him in the chest. Also, I still feel that Patriot rush was just ridiculously good. I wouldn't expect ANY QB to succeed against that ! So, that's not exactly a good way to judge how he handles pressure because that was way over-the-top pressure.

I can't say I have any complaints about him at this point in the season. He definitely has the arm & the accuracy along with the toughness. The last thing to come is the ability to perform under extreme pressure & that's only going to come with time & experience.

I have been getting tired of the fact that the media is overlooking a guy like Palmer who was a higher pick, has more experience, probably has a better overall offense to work with this year, and actually improved last year as the season went on and the games became more meaningful.d00d, your boy is playing on a team that went 8-8 last year. Ben is on a team that went 15-1 & was in the AFC Championship last year. What do you expect the press to be like ?

I'll guarantee you that Palmer will start getting a TON more attention if the Bengals go 15-1 this year.

v

[rcc94]

Just want to add another perspective to Ben's performance yesterday. He's my QB on both my fantasy football teams, both of which were up against teams QB'ed by Peyton Manning.

Ben earned my teams 16 points (Yahoo had predicted 10), while Peyton only brought my opponents 2 points (Yahoo had predicted 16).

Hmm...

[Jonathan]

Carson Palmer is a great QB on a decent team. Big Ben is a decent QB on a great team. I'm just asking: which would any of YOU prefer?
Sure...if you accept that premise. Which I don't.

I don't think Palmer is as good as you think he is, and I think Roethlisberger is better than you think he is. And I'd rather have Roethlisberger.

[The Mad Hater]

Sure...if you accept that premise. Which I don't.

I don't think Palmer is as good as you think he is, and I think Roethlisberger is better than you think he is. And I'd rather have Roethlisberger.

you say Potato. I think the inverse of what you just said. and I'm a Bengals fan. you're a Steelers fan? see, this is what makes sports so damned fun. except when Ohio State fans are getting stabbed in Waffle House parking lots. I would never, ever stab you. I promise.

[The Ugly Thief]

Sure...if you accept that premise. Which I don't.

I don't think Palmer is as good as you think he is, and I think Roethlisberger is better than you think he is. And I'd rather have Roethlisberger.I would most definitely prefer to have a decent QB on a great team !!!

oh, and our "decent" QB is a 23 yr old who is only in his second season ! He already has the arm & the accuracy. He's improving on understanding the offense this year. He's beginning to understand how to read defenses. His ability to perform under pressure will only improve with more playing time. In the meantime, he's going to be gaining more experience in huge high-pressure games such as the playoffs.

I give Ben 3 years & he'll be considered one of the top 5 QBs in the NFL.

and he'll only be 26 then

v

[The Mad Hater]

jeez, you guys are all defensive about your team, aren't you?

I got no problem with Ben. I agree with Ugly, he's still young. it's going to take a couple years for him to fully mature, and he's maturing at a faster rate than I think anyone could have expected back in week 2, 2004. furthermore, I have a soft spot for him considering where he's from.

still, Palmer's where it's at. :P

[Jonathan]

you say Potato. I think the inverse of what you just said. and I'm a Bengals fan. you're a Steelers fan? see, this is what makes sports so damned fun. except when Ohio State fans are getting stabbed in Waffle House parking lots. I would never, ever stab you. I promise.

I agree on all counts.

And for the record, I'm not an Ohio State fan. I'm just applying there for grad school. :p

[The_Deacon]

I don't visit here often, but all the chatting here is mostly talking about Ben. :confused: I am wondering why??Big Ben had an amazing season last year because of the other 52 guys on the team. It is ganna be the same this year. And don't forget one of the best and long standing coaches in the NFL.

But.......come Oct. 23rd, the Steelers will be forced to assume the position :p

.....The Cincinnati Bengals will put a strangle hold on the AFC North on that day!

[The Mad Hater]

I give Ben 3 years & he'll be considered one of the top 5 QBs in the NFL.

and he'll only be 26 then

v

what's interesting is that right now, by certain standards, you could already consider him one of the top 5.

it's the fact that Pittsburgh suddenly emerged as the BEST team in the AFC last year, but only after Ben took the helm. I always wonder where they would be if Maddox hadn't been injured.

I have nothing but respect (and rival hatred, really) for a guy who can step into a game in his second week as a pro, and essentially lead his team to homefield advantage in the elite NFL conference. make no mistake, I think you Pitt loving assholes have it all, including the QB.

I still think that as a passer, Palmer is more talented. he can do things Ben can't do with the football, and he seems to be reading defenses about as well as we could ask him to. on the other hand, he doesn't have the mobility that Ben has, and he's in year three. it could have been a completely different story with Palmer if they had handed him the ball in week 2 of 2003.

on that note, however, you have to look at the system that Ben plays in compared to that of Palmer's. it's my opinion that a good lot of rookies could have been just as successful, if not more so, in Pittsburgh. it's a circular arguemnt really, and one I'll never win in this thread. I'll go back to the thread where I belong and proclaim that Palmer's the better QB. I doubt I'd get nearly this amount of passionate resistance.

back to point, though. last year, when playoff pictures started to take shape, there were 5 quarterbacks everybody was talking about. Manning, Vick, McNabb, Brady, and Roethlisberger. Culpepper was already losing his grip on the public's fascination due to the typical Minnesota freefall.

[Jonathan]

But.......come Oct. 23rd, the Steelers will be forced to assume the position :p

Care to make a bet? :p

I'm sure Vincent will be happy to wager with you... :P

[The Ugly Thief]

what's interesting is that right now, by certain standards, you could already consider him one of the top 5.I'm a Steelers fan, but I don't kid myself by thinking of Ben as one of the top QBs right now. But he certainly has the tools to get that label. The fact that he has the benefit of a good defense & a solid running game is the perfect way to bring a QB with enormous potential into the NFL. The entire offense isn't resting on his shoulders (or his arm), and he's gaining more and more experience very quickly.

and when he is passing he has quality receivers to throw it to. I know I'm bias, but I'll take Hines Ward over T.O. or Randy Moss any day. That guy is one tough son of a bitch, and he doesn't cause any kind of static w/ his young QB.

With Heath Miller as the 1st round draft pick, Ben is also going to have a great TE to evolve with. I have huge expectations for Heath Miller & feel he'll eventually be a key element to the Steelers' offense - just like a Jay Novacek or Mark Bavaro.
I always wonder where they would be if Maddox hadn't been injured.Maddox was on his way out whether he got hurt or not. There was already a lot of excitement among Steelers and their fans last year about "our new QB" going into last season. Maddox just sped up the process by getting hurt early last season. Otherwise, I think Cowher would have had Ben taking snaps as early as the 4th or 5th game, depending on our record at the time.

v

[The_Deacon]

Care to make a bet? :p

I'm sure Vincent will be happy to wager with you... :P
Maybe in a couple of weeks, and in another thread.

[The Ugly Thief]

I'm sure Vincent will be happy to wager with you... :P
hah ! I didn't even notice this until it appeared in The Deacon's post against the grey background. :)

v

[The_Deacon]

hah ! I didn't even notice this until it appeared in The Deacon's post against the grey background. :)

v
The Steelers thread will be sleepy for a while. :p :p

[The Ugly Thief]

The Steelers thread will be sleepy for a while. :p :p
only because this is their bye week. :)

but the week after it's MNF against the Chargers !

v

[The_Deacon]

GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO CHARGERS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Powder Blue needs to give the "Nati" some west coast lovin!!!! :p

[Homsar]

Chargers score late, down only 14-7 at the half.

What's this I hear about Ahnold going to be in the booth talking to M&M???

I must watch.

[Homsar]

Hmm! Ahnold predicted the greatest comeback in MNF history???

Who are we to doubt that the Chargers will win when he says so?

[Homsar]

Are you kidding me???????????????

If there was ever a bullshit call, that was it.

Sproles just completely messed up the fair catch.

He DID HAVE an unmolested opportunity to catch it, but he MISSED!

By the time he reached for it again, it was out of the reach of his short arms!!!

[Homsar]

Dang. Oh well. Ben was hurt, but probably just a hyperextension.
Will he be out for the Cincy game???

[The_Deacon]

Dang. Oh well. Ben was hurt, but probably just a hyperextension.
Will he be out for the Cincy game???
:D :D :D hhhhmmmm..????

[The Ugly Thief]

Just some observations from last night :

First & foremost, apparently Ben's knee isn't very serious. They will be doing an MRI on it this week...can't really say anything else...who knows ?

Another awesome game for Ben. He was 17 for 26, and should have easily have been at least 21/26 because of all the dropped passes. The worst dropped pass was from Gibson just before the end of the half. That would have been at least a 25 yard gain & probably more since he had an open field to run another 10 yard. It cost us a field goal before halftime.

Bettis has put on at least another 15lbs...but like Madden said : it's ok as long as he can accomplish what he needs to accomplish...and it's looking like he can.

That whole play w/ Hines Ward which was originally a TD but was reviewed & then brought back was complete and utter bullshit. Ward was clearly never touched. But I guess it doesn't matter since the Steelers ended up scoring a TD anyway.

The Steelers defense looked pretty good, limiting Tomlinson to only 62yrds..and denying that 2pt play. I loved that !

v

[Jonathan]

Yeah, when I saw that injury, my first reaction was that it was a hyperextension. He went off of the field upright, not on a cart. Also, it didn't seem like there was any unnatural lateral movement of the knee. It was helmet to patella, and the knee went back. Once the swelling goes down, we'll have a clearer picture, but I'm confident he'll be back this season.

I can never remember, though, which direction is hyperextension, and which direction is hypoextension?

[The Ugly Thief]

Once the swelling goes down, we'll have a clearer picture, but I'm confident he'll be back this season.do you think it is going to be inevitable that he'll miss at least one game ? It's kind of an odd injury, so it's really hard to tell. I was hoping that maybe it was going to end up being a badly bruised knee which would be terrible for the first 4-5 days, but after those initial couple days he would quickly recouperate & still be able to make the next game, while wearing a heavy-duty knee brace.

again, i'm talking best-case-scenario here...but do you think that even in a best case scenario he'll miss at least one game ?

v

[The Ugly Thief]

looks like Ben will miss 1 game at the most, possibly not that :

Roethlisberger could play Sunday

Pittsburgh, PA (Sports Network) - Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger had an MRI exam on his left knee Tuesday morning and the results revealed a hyperextended knee as well as a bone bruise.

He has not been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Heinz Field.

"We'll see how the week progresses," said head coach Bill Cowher. "I think we all have a deep sigh of relief in regards to the prognosis."

Roethlisberger went down during the last drive of the Monday night game against San Diego after taking a shot from Chargers rookie defensive lineman Luis Castillo.

Roethlisberger was on the ground for a few minutes before backup Charlie Batch replaced him. Batch handed off to Jerome Bettis on a couple of plays to help set up Jeff Reed's winning field goal in a 24-22 victory.

If Roethlisberger does not play Sunday and backup quarterback Tommy Maddox (calf injury) remains out, Batch could get the start against Jacksonville.

"Based on the information I have right now, Charlie Batch is the starter by default until I see more," added Cowher.

Before Roethlisberger left the game, he completed 17-of-26 passes for 225 yards with a touchdown in the victory.

Roethlisberger, who also added a rushing touchdown to open the scoring, hasn't thrown an interception this season in 86 attempts. He leads the AFC with a passer rating of 123.8, having completed 52-of-86 throws for 913 yards with seven touchdowns.

SOURCE (http://www.sportsnetwork.com/default.asp?c=sportsnetwork&page=/nfl/news/ABN3983931.htm)

v

[Jonathan]

Apparently, the word is that it was "just" a hyperextension (and a bone bruise) and that he might play against the Jags next Sunday.

The fact that it happened in a Monday night game kinda sucks, because that's one less day of rest he'll have, which could make a big difference. I bet his knee was sore when he woke up this morning.

Also, Tommy Maddox's injury isn't as bad as it was initially feared, so there could very well be a delay to the start of the Chaz Batch Era in Pittsburgh. Thank god for that.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2187451

[The Ugly Thief]

"Based on the information I have right now, Charlie Batch is the starter by default until I see more," added Cowher.

translation : If Ben shows Cowher he can walk more than two steps then Charlie Batch hits the bench again

v

[The_Deacon]

http://www.nfl.com/news/story/8957064 :)

[The_Deacon]

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a149/Deacon3232/Picture718.jpg

It is Steelers week!!! This is the new the new scene going into Paul Brown Stadium. Any Steelers fans coming into our house this week will not have a good time. Sorry.

[The Mad Hater]

I'm glad Roethlisberger didn't play. and NOT because the Steelers lost. I wanted him healthy against the Bengals. I wouldn't be satisfied with a Bengals victory if Rothy weren't the starter. it just wouldn't feel as good.

good luck Steelers fans! hopefully it's going to be a nail-biter.

[The Ugly Thief]

I'm looking forward to the Cinci game. Hopefully both Ben & Hines Ward will be back.

v

[Zane]

http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b114/woxycarrie/carriespix050.jpg

QUOTED FOR EMPHASIS :D :D :D

[kgray]

anyone care for a new av???

http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y22/ktbugs/fptsbrgav.jpg

[The_Deacon]

I'm looking forward to the Cinci game. Hopefully both Ben & Hines Ward will be back.

v
I would not want it any other way!!! :D I want the Steelers at thier best this week. That will make it so much sweeter when the Bengals win what I think will be a close one!

[Artpunchehorse]

I would not want it any other way!!! :D I want the Steelers at thier best this week. That will make it so much sweeter when the Bengals win what I think will be a close one!

I might rip down the goal posts after the win

[The_Deacon]

I might rip down the goal posts after the win
hell yeah, I will too. I may need some help getting my fat ass up on the damn thing though :p

[Handy Smurf]

I might rip down the goal posts after the win
Yes
yes
yes
:cool:

[Zane]

anyone care for a new av???

http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y22/ktbugs/fptsbrgav.jpg

Nice. How about a new one for you instead of the assface?! :p

[Zane]

A Kid-N-Play av, Handy? What the hell...lose another bet?

[The_Deacon]

I just though I would check out the Steelers thread seen as though it is Bengals Steelers week, but it looks as though there is not any Steeler fans here on Woxy. That is too bad.

Who Dey!!!! :D

[Jonathan]

Oh, we're here. We're just sitting back and enjoying you all run your mouths, because it's the most fun you'll be having all week.

Call it a quiet confidence.

[sabos_glasses]

I picked the Steelers, so when you say "I told you so..." I want to make sure I'm excluded. ;)

[The Ugly Thief]

Oh, we're here. We're just sitting back and enjoying you all run your mouths, because it's the most fun you'll be having all week.

Call it a quiet confidence.couldn't have said it better myself

v

[The_Deacon]

Oh, we're here. We're just sitting back and enjoying you all run your mouths, because it's the most fun you'll be having all week.

Call it a quiet confidence.
Ha Ha!!! That is what I was looking for!!!!!!!! Just a little friendly jawing, thats all. It is what makes this game all the more fun! I do not run my mouth. I just run my keyboard when I am bored and want to strike up a little fun.

...by the way, if the Bengals happen to lose, (which I don't think they will) I think I will be able to deal with it because I have been a Bengals fan for a very long time.

Looking to see a great game, so let's all get pumped, and enjoy Sunday!!! :D

[The_Deacon]

I picked the Steelers, so when you say "I told you so..." I want to make sure I'm excluded. ;)
Puss :p :p :p :p :p

[Zane]

Oh, we're here. We're just sitting back and enjoying you all run your mouths, because it's the most fun you'll be having all week.

Call it a quiet confidence.

Call it what you will. A confident man/fan would be stepping up to the plate by supporting their team.

I call PUSSY.










:D

[The_Deacon]

Call it what you will. A confident man/fan would be stepping up to the plate by supporting their team.

I call PUSSY.










:D
I call pussy all the time, but I usually never get a call back :( :(

[Zane]

I call pussy all the time, but I usually never get a call back :( :(

Sorry, honey. You'll have to create that thread in Randomville! :p

[Jonathan]

Call it what you will. A confident man/fan would be stepping up to the plate by supporting their team.

I call PUSSY.










:D

Sorry, I already told a 6'4", 240-pound bouncer to go fuck himself. I'm done being beligerent this week. :)

See you Sunday afternoon, though. :D

[Zane]

Sorry, I already told a 6'4", 240-pound bouncer to go fuck himself. I'm done being beligerent this week. :)

See you Sunday afternoon, though. :D

Well, I'm 5'9" and you don't scare me... :p

Where are your seats?

[Jonathan]

Well, I'm 5'9" and you don't scare me... :p

Where are your seats?

I'm 5'10", 170 lbs. I sure hope I don't scare you.

My seats? Um, in front of my TV. I meant see you on the boards. Sunday afternoon. After the Steelers kick the Bengals' ass.

There, is that enough trash talking for you? ;)

[The_Deacon]

[QUOTE=Jonathan]I'm 5'10", 170 lbs. I sure hope I don't scare you.

My seats? Um, in front of my TV. I meant see you on the boards. Sunday afternoon. After the Steelers kick the Bengals' ass.

There, is that enough trash talking for you? ;)[/QUOTE
I am 6'1", 235 lbs. Nobody scares me.

My seats? Club, sec.206....where the rich people are ganna hate me.

....And no, not enough trash talking for me!!! (remember, it is all in good fun)

[crazybob60]

Sorry, I already told a 6'4", 240-pound bouncer to go fuck himself. I'm done being beligerent this week. :)

See you Sunday afternoon, though. :D

WOW!!! Ballsy....what happened after that?

Getting back to the Steelers....what's the hype on Hines Ward this week? I haven't checked anything yet and since he isn't on any of my three fantasy teams well, I just don't know or care to keep up with his condition.

[The Ugly Thief]

Getting back to the Steelers....what's the hype on Hines Ward this week?He was listed as "Questionable" Wednesday.

v

[The_Deacon]

Ok, no more talk from The_Deacon. :cool:

....it is time for me to be serious for a moment, so here it is.....

I am sure that the Cincinnati Bengals will have the AFC North clinched by 4:20pm on Sunday :p :p :p :p

[Foofur]

Lookin' good from a Steeler standpoint at the start of the fourth quarter! :cool:

I just had to wear my Steelers sweatshirt at Cinicinnati Children's Hospital while my son is recovering. Not too many comments to my surprise. Maybe they know what's coming. :D

[The_Deacon]

Ok Steeler fans, don't hate me. :o I was just having Steeler week fun last week. I never said I did not repect your team at any point last week. I just jumped into your thread to get you all having some fun with the game. I do respect the the Steelers. I will never like the Steelers, but as a football fan, I repect the way Bill Cowher coaches the team.

[The Mad Hater]

personally, I can't wait until they go up against the Colts. that's going to be a fuckaree of a game. I'll be rooting Colts on the outside, but part of me wants this so-called improved defense of theirs to get flattened. I'm sick of hearing about Dwight Freeney and how Peyton finally has the right elements in place to win the Superbowl. like folks were saying about the Bengals tear to start the season, WHO HAVE THEY PLAYED? and didn't Houston put up twenty against them yesterday?

[The Ugly Thief]

personally, I can't wait until they go up against the Colts. that's going to be a fuckaree of a game. I'll be rooting Colts on the outside, but part of me wants this so-called improved defense of theirs to get flattened.d00d, if the Colts are still undefeated when we play them then you HAVE to cheer for the Steelers !!! I know it may be painful as a Bengals fan, but c'mon !!!

v

[The Mad Hater]

as a rule, I don't root Steelers until the Bengals have been mathematically or competitively eliminated from the season. but then, I'm Steelers till the end (or Browns, but NEVER Ravens). AFC Central, er, um, NORTH reprezent-zent.

either way, I won't be disappointed if the Steelers do win that one. I'll be very happy to say that the Colts ain't all that. of course, I'm hoping the Bengals give them the what for as well. that would feel even better.

[The_Deacon]

imagine this......

Cincy beats Indy in week 11 to go 8-2.

Steelers beat the Colts on Monday night football in week 12 to go 7-3.

Then......in week 13, the Bengals win in overtime at Ketchup field to take a 2 game lead in the AFC North.

......now come on my Steeler fan friends, wouldn't that be fun!!!! ;)

[Jonathan]

Ok Steeler fans, don't hate me. :o I was just having Steeler week fun last week. I never said I did not repect your team at any point last week. I just jumped into your thread to get you all having some fun with the game. I do respect the the Steelers. I will never like the Steelers, but as a football fan, I repect the way Bill Cowher coaches the team.
Dude, you know I don't hate you. You're sticking up for your team. Nothing wrong with that.

Of course, you did bring me out of my shell with respect to the trash-talking in the run-up to the game. I was trying my best to take the high road, you bastard. :D

[The_Deacon]

Dude, you know I don't hate you. You're sticking up for your team. Nothing wrong with that.

Of course, you did bring me out of my shell with respect to the trash-talking in the run-up to the game. I was trying my best to take the high road, you bastard. :D
I know, but that is no fun as I'm sure you realize now. The high road is boring, but day at hand is always fun!!!! ,,,,especially when you know the next day has got to be better than today!!!!! ;)

[The Mad Hater]

wow...

if Anthony Wright didn't suck a whole bunch, I'm not sure that the Steelers could have won that game.

[The_Deacon]

wow...

if Anthony Wright didn't suck a whole bunch, I'm not sure that the Steelers could have won that game.
if the Ravens had a quarterback at all, the Steeler would be 2 and a half games back int the AFC North :( :(

[Jonathan]

I'll be the first to admit that our defense had a poor game, but they showed up in the final drive when it mattered, and that's all that counts. They don't factor in the point spread when they do the records, after all.

Besides, I'm not so sure we didn't deserve to win that game. It's not like Baltimore was great shakes or anything. An ugly Monday Night game, like so many before it. In terms of Halloween, this was definitely a trick, not a treat.

[Jonathan]

if the Ravens had a quarterback at all, the Steeler would be 2 and a half games back int the AFC North :( :(

Actually, it'd be 1 1/2 games back. Two games back in the win column, one back in the loss column = 1 1/2 back overall...

[The Ugly Thief]

if the Ravens had a quarterback at all, the Steeler would be 2 and a half games back int the AFC North :( :(I think your math is a little off. The Steelers would have been 1.5 games back if they had lost this game. As it is, they are a .5 game back.

couple things :

- the Steelers seemed to be lacking their normal passion. I don't know what it was, but they weren't as intense as they usually are

- the Steelers' pass rush was all but non-existant for the first 3 qrtrs Wright had waaaay too much time for most of that game. The good thing was that the rush came when it was needed the most - at the end. I just don't understand why it took that long to show up.

- some of the play calls by Cowher (and/or the Off Coord) were very poor. Calling that run play on 3rd & 4 w/ 1:45 left in the game was stupid. They totally should have run a short play-action pass. Baltimore was playing run 100% there. Also, the play calls were waaaay too conservative during the entire game. They totally should have been trying more middle-to-long length pass plays against that Baltimore defense.

- I don't mean to say 'I told ya so', but Heath Miller is quickly proving to be an AWESOME draft pick. Who was the last rookie TE to make such a big impact on an offense ? Eventually, he'll become as important to Ben as Jay Novacek was to Troy Aikman.

v

[Jonathan]

- I don't mean to say 'I told ya so', but Heath Miller is quickly proving to be an AWESOME draft pick. Who was the last rookie TE to make such a big impact on an offense ? Eventually, he'll become as important to Ben as Jay Novacek was to Troy Aikman.

v

First touchdown...it was OBVIOUS that they were going to Miller, just by his movements behind the line. Yet, he was still wide open.

Second touchdown...he was wide open, but that's partly because his man slipped. Still, Roethlisberger to Miller is a potent combination that is going to produce a lot of touchdowns throughout the years. I like the Novacek comparison.

[The Ugly Thief]

First touchdown...it was OBVIOUS that they were going to Miller, just by his movements behind the line. Yet, he was still wide open.

Second touchdown...he was wide open, but that's partly because his man slipped. Still, Roethlisberger to Miller is a potent combination that is going to produce a lot of touchdowns throughout the years. I like the Novacek comparison.
and it wasn't just his TDs either. He made a couple other key receptions. If you notice, just about every reception that he every makes is a key reception. The TDs are the obvious ones, but even his other receptions are usually on 3rd downs or maybe on a broken play that turns a potential loss into a 6 yrd gain.

one other thing : I don't really like gimmick plays, but I really like that play that the Steelers run on 4th down when they are just out of FG range where they have Ben punt from the shotgun formation. They did it tonight & I've seen them do it a couple other times. It's actually a really smart play. It forces the defense to lineup against a play, without someone lined up to return the punt. Also, you really aren't losing anything by having Ben punt in that situation because you're so close to the end zone anyway. I'm actually surprised more teams don't do that when given the chance.

v

[Homsar]

Probably because Ben actually knows how to punt.

[rcc94]

one other thing : I don't really like gimmick plays, but I really like that play that the Steelers run on 4th down when they are just out of FG range where they have Ben punt from the shotgun formation. They did it tonight & I've seen them do it a couple other times. It's actually a really smart play. It forces the defense to lineup against a play, without someone lined up to return the punt. Also, you really aren't losing anything by having Ben punt in that situation because you're so close to the end zone anyway. I'm actually surprised more teams don't do that when given the chance.

v
That was a very nice play. Just inches from the end zone - perfect.

[The Ugly Thief]

Probably because Ben actually knows how to punt.but it's not like Ben is a great punter or anything. I'm sure there are plenty of other QBs who could punt just as well as him if they just practiced it a little bit.

The thing that makes it such a great play is that you only need your QB to make about a 30 yrd punt & it will be a successful play. There's not going to be any return on it. If it takes a bad bounce then the WRs just grab it & down it at about the 10-15 yrd line. If it takes a good bounce then you get what we had tonight - and it ends up right at the 1.

i don't know, it just makes sense to me. I'm surrprised more teams don't do it.

v

[The Ugly Thief]

wow...

if Anthony Wright didn't suck a whole bunch, I'm not sure that the Steelers could have won that game.
I can't believe the Ravens can't find a better QB than him ! I would be willing to bet that there are at least 4 or 5 college QBs who could step into that position next week & start doing a better job than him ! His passing was almost embarrissingly bad. He couldn't scramble at all. He was unable to find anyone who was open. He also seemed to be in panic mode during the entire game.

I'm surprised he only threw 2 INT, but I think that also might be attributable to his ridiculously inaccurate passing - even the Steelers secondary couldn't catch some of those passes.

Also, I think he may have had better protection from the Pitt defense than any QB we faced this year. He had TONS of time throughout most of the game.

If the Ravens still have him as QB next season then Brian Billick should be fired. I think his days are numbered anyway.

v

[The_Deacon]

Actually, it'd be 1 1/2 games back. Two games back in the win column, one back in the loss column = 1 1/2 back overall...
my bad, I was tired :o

[Foofur]

How do you think Charlie Batch will fare this weekend on the frozen tundra? Big Ben is out for two weeks (Anyone know if he'll be back before the Indy game?)

[Jonathan]

How do you think Charlie Batch will fare this weekend on the frozen tundra? Big Ben is out for two weeks (Anyone know if he'll be back before the Indy game?)

He should be back for the Colts game. He may even be back for the Browns game.

Chaz Batch will do a fine job handing the ball off to Wille Parker.

In all seriousness, Batch is a decent quarterback. Look at what he did with the Lions (.500 ball) and what they've done since he's been gone (something quite a bit less than .500 ball)

[crazybob60]

If anything whatsoever happens to Batch, well the steelers may be in some trouble because I doubt Maddox could even catch a cold right now. I wouldn't be surprised to see whomever they have at third string right now come in before Maddox. I don't see how he kept his job at all after the horrid performance that he had before. These next few weeks are when the Bengals have the window of opportunity to make a move and possibly wrap up their division if the Bengals win all three games that Big Ben could be out and the Steelers lose 1-2 games that he is out which I think will probably happen. I guess only time will tell, but again, the good thing about football is that it is played on the field every Sunday and as it has been stated sooooo many times before, On any given Sunday any team can beat any other given team, nothing is given, especially anymore.

[The Ugly Thief]

The good thing about this all is that it is happening at the best time possible as far as the Steelers' schedule is concerned. The next 2 weeks (GB, Cleve) are probably the best games for Ben to miss for the rest of the season. You could do worse than Batch for a backup QB (like Maddox). I don't understand why Batch hasn't been #2 this whole time anyway.

SIDE NOTE : Running back Jerome Bettis was downgraded from questionable to doubtful for Sunday’s game. Duce Staley will play if Bettis can not go. Running back Willie Parker, who missed practice on Wednesday, is expected to return to practice on Thursday.

SOURCE (http://media3.steelers.com/article/58865/)

could be interesting to finally see Duce Staley again

v

[The Ugly Thief]

I'm starting to think that we may have the absolute worst backup QBs in the NFL. But I'm not going to linger on it too much, because in the end, we won.

The defense needed to show up in a big way today & they did. How many times did we have GB in a 3 & 10 or 3 & 9 situation ? It seemed like they were constantly in a 3 and long.

I'm also thinking that it takes about 2.5 quarters for the Steelers offensive line to really get into high gear. Right around the middle of the 3rd quarter is when they manage to put together a very cohesive & important rushing drive. From there on, our RBs just suddenly seem to be able to do so much more for the entire 4th quarter.

v

[Foofur]

Well - another victory, but it wasn't pretty. Anytime you can walk away from Lambeau with a win is a good thing. Willie Parker turned his ankle and didn't play the second half but Duce looked good. Bring on the Brownies.

[The Ugly Thief]

no, it wasn't pretty - but i didn't expect it to be w/out Ben.

but i still think they should let him sit next week as well if he needs to...better now than later.

v

[mik]

The Packers sure did have their chances to win :(
One good thing did come out of the game however, the Steelers are hanging right in there with the Bengals. Man I hate the Bengals...............

[The_Deacon]

...........well shit...... :(

[The Ugly Thief]

For somebody who is running the football for the first time all season Duce Staley looked GREAT ! He started showing that great combination of power & agility very quickly. I'm assuming we'll be seeing only more of him with every game from here on. I think it will still take about 2 or 3 more games until he is truly in his element, but he's definitely on the right track.

He's already impressed me more in this game than Bettis has so far this season. That's not a knock on Bettis as much as it's a shock on my part. I just didn't expect much from Duce since he has been on the bench for so long.

v

[crazybob60]

Why am I still so baffled at the fact that the defensive coordinator there in Pittsburgh is Dick LeBeau after what he did here in Cincy...

[Jonathan]

Because some people are very good assistant coaches/coordinators, but don't have what it takes to be a head coach. Dick LeBeau is one of those people. He's a very good defensive coordinator, but his focus is just that...on defense. He's a lousy head coach. Kudos to him for figuring out what he's good at and sticking to it.

Buddy Ryan is another good example. Great coordinator, crap head coach.

[The Ugly Thief]

Buddy Ryan is another good example. Great coordinator, crap head coach.I still think Brian Billick falls into that category as well.

v

[The_Deacon]

I still think Brian Billick falls into that category as well.

v
Me too.................

[Jonathan]

Don't look now...the Steelers are 7-2 and (with the tiebreaker) on top of the AFC North. The Bengals are in their customary position under the Steelers in the standings. :D

[The Ugly Thief]

I don't really know what to think about Charlie Batch's injury. They said he "may have broke a bone in his hand". But he was standing on the sidelines during the 2nd half. So, does that mean that "breaking a bone in your hand" isn't as severe of an injury as "breaking your hand" ? Should he not even be considered a possibility from now on ? Is it just a given that he's out now ? I really wanna hear more about that.

It would be terrible if he's out because he was obviously getting into his rhythmn during this game. He looked better than a lot of NFL starters look.......and of course I sure as hell don't want to have Maddox start against Baltimore.

- the Steelers' worst defensive drive of every game is ALWAYS the first drive of the game. I swear the opponents move the ball with the most consistancy in that very first drive. I don't know what it is. Maybe the Steelers' defense just takes about a half a quarter to start to warm up. I don't know....but I've gotten used to seeing the Steelers behind 7-0.

v

[The_Deacon]

I don't really know what to think about Charlie Batch's injury. They said he "may have broke a bone in his hand". But he was standing on the sidelines during the 2nd half. So, does that mean that "breaking a bone in your hand" isn't as severe of an injury as "breaking your hand" ? Should he not even be considered a possibility from now on ? Is it just a given that he's out now ? I really wanna hear more about that.

It would be terrible if he's out because he was obviously getting into his rhythmn during this game. He looked better than a lot of NFL starters look.......and of course I sure as hell don't want to have Maddox start against Baltimore.

- the Steelers' worst defensive drive of every game is ALWAYS the first drive of the game. I swear the opponents move the ball with the most consistancy in that very first drive. I don't know what it is. Maybe the Steelers' defense just takes about a half a quarter to start to warm up. I don't know....but I've gotten used to seeing the Steelers behind 7-0.

v


nice break down Thief, but.....

The Steelers are very good right now, no matter who is playing QB, and no matter who they are playing :o

[aqualou]

roh-roh reorge
http://www.cybercomm.nl/~ivo/photo_ASTRO3.JPEG

[The Ugly Thief]

I'm starting to think that the injury to Charlie Batch may have even been more devastating than the injury to Roethlisberger. At least w/ Batch we would have a backup QB who was capable of running an offense which was capable of making a first down ! Instead, we have the #3 QB Maddox who is apparently incapable of going through an entire drive w/out at least giving the opponent an opportunity to get a turnover.

v

[sabos_glasses]

I'm starting to think that the injury to Charlie Batch may have even been more devastating than the injury to Roethlisberger. At least w/ Batch we would have a backup QB who was capable of running an offense which was capable of making a first down ! Instead, we have the #3 QB Maddox who is apparently incapable of going through an entire drive w/out at least giving the opponent an opportunity to get a turnover.

v

I was thinking that same thing while watching the game. Those were two of the worst QBs I've seen in a long time.

[twentyshots]

I thought Pittsburgh had it in the bag when they forced overtime....but it looks like things stay a little tight in this division still.

[The Ugly Thief]

I was thinking that same thing while watching the game. Those were two of the worst QBs I've seen in a long time.they most certainly were. The difference is that Maddox is #3 on the Steelers, and Boller is the starter in Baltimore.

The Ravens were just the perfect team to defeat the Steelers w/ Maddox starting. Their defense is already tough on the run. So with Maddox in there, they just lined up to blitz just about EVERY play. Passing was obviously futile w/ Mr. Int in there.

I'm not liking the prospects of Ben's first game back to be against Indy. That's rough.

v

[Homsar]

Dear Steelers,

Thank you for keeping us in first place, even if it is a tie.

Sincerely,

The Bengals

[djudge79]

they most certainly were. The difference is that Maddox is #3 on the Steelers, and Boller is the starter in Baltimore.

The Ravens were just the perfect team to defeat the Steelers w/ Maddox starting. Their defense is already tough on the run. So with Maddox in there, they just lined up to blitz just about EVERY play. Passing was obviously futile w/ Mr. Int in there.

I'm not liking the prospects of Ben's first game back to be against Indy. That's rough.

v
if it's any consolation, i think the bengals showed that indy's still susceptible to a power running game. both rudi and chris perry had some huge holes to run into today.

[The Mad Hater]

Dear Steelers,

Thank you for keeping us in first place, even if it is a tie.

Sincerely,

The Bengals

this is where the gods of football have fun fucking with fans.

remember '03, when the AFC North was a tossup right up until the last couple of weeks?

everybody thought that the Bengals would lose, the Steelers would win, and we'd have a clear frontrunner. not so. amazingly, not so.

[The Ugly Thief]

Maddox = 2 OTs & 2 losses

The first loss against the Jaguars was completely 100% HIS fault. I'm not one to ever blame a loss on one particular player, but c'mon. The guy threw 3 INTs & had one really STUPID fumble - and they all were very VERY costly in that game.

This game against Baltimore wasn't completely 100% Maddox's fault. Granted, he was horrible, and the Ravens simply played against the run on EVERY play, but the Steelers should have won this game. That freak play w/ Hines Ward where the ball ricocheted off his foot & became an INT during OT is just something that you have to shrug your shoulders at & say "oh well...waddya gonna do ?"

the Steelers will be back

v

[RedRigmaJacket]

Maddox beat the Browns last week...remember?

[The Ugly Thief]

Maddox beat the Browns last week...remember?no he didn't. Charlie Batch started against the Browns, and was awesome - going 13/19 in the first half & getting us up 17-7 at halftime. Unfortunately, he broke a bone in his hand on the second-to-last play of the half, and was out for the rest of the game. Maddox then took over & the rest of our scoring was done by others. Randle El threw a 51 yrd TD to Ward & Veron Hayes ran in for a 9 yrd TD. The Steelers even altered their offense during the 2nd half so Maddox wouldn't have to pass - or would only have to pass simple screens during a 3rd and long situation.

basically, the only thing Maddox did against the Browns was to successfully NOT lose the game for us

v

[Jonathan]

basically, the only thing Maddox did against the Browns was to successfully NOT lose the game for us

I was going to say this, but Vincent beat me to it. It bears repeating.

Tommy Maddox = sucks

[Homsar]

I thought Maddox did ok a few years ago?

[The Ugly Thief]

I thought Maddox did ok a few years ago?yha, he actually did. I don't know what has happened to him since, but he sure as hell is no longer a capable QB. This wouldn't even be an issue if Batch didn't break his hand on a freak play against the Browns (while following through on a pass his hand smacked against another player's helmet). So, now we're stuck w/ #3 - Maddox.

I was upset that Cowher didn't try some more gimmick type plays against the Ravens yesterday when it became obvious Maddox was going to be completely worthless.....maybe a reverse w/ Randle-El .... or another play which put the ball into Randle-El's hands to pass....I don't know....ANYTHING....just get the ball out of Maddox's hands !

I'm just assuming Ben will be returning against Indy....not exactly an ideal way to return.

v

[Homsar]

I think I heard the announcers wondering when the Steelers would break out the trickery.
And the protection for Maddox wasn't exactly stellar either.

[crazybob60]

ok, Ben should be back next week, but barring something happens and he would get tweaked or something, that would put Maddox back in, but who are the backups after him since Batch has been hurt. I know that Randle-El could probably fill in in a pinch (were those two passes he completed on Sunday just trick plays or did he actually line up as the QB?) But have they signed someone else or have they moved someone on up from the practice squad? I tried looking in the obvious places like nfl.com rototimes.com and the steelers webpage but couldn't find anything on the surface....anybody able to fill me in?

[Jonathan]

Randel El is designated as the fourth QB, I believe. Hines Ward also played QB in college. The Steelers probably have more college QBs on their roster than any other NFL team.

Remember, Ben was out because he had surgery, not for rest or recuperation. The surgery should have fixed the problem, so tweaking shouldn't be an issue. I'm confident he'll go the whole game, and, indeed the whole rest of the season.

[The Ugly Thief]

And the protection for Maddox wasn't exactly stellar either.
no it wasn't - and that's part of the reason I am saying he can't be completely blamed for the loss.

but with that said, I'm still not ready to blame the Steelers offensive line either, because I believe the Ravens were just plain-out blitzing on every single play.

also, it doesn't exactly take much to turn Maddox into a deer in headlights. I mean one guy comes within 3 feet of him, and he is instantly in panic mode.

Remember, Ben was out because he had surgery, not for rest or recuperation. The surgery should have fixed the problem, so tweaking shouldn't be an issue. I'm confident he'll go the whole game, and, indeed the whole rest of the season.
I'm hoping. I got the feeling yesterday that Cowher was looking for an excuse to put Ben in. I think had Maddox thrown some very ridiculously bad interceptions (like against Jacksonville) then Ben would have been put in.

v

[Homsar]

You know things will be going badly when they take Ward and put him at QB.
Maybe the Bus can throw it?

[The Ugly Thief]

The 2005 Winner of the Idiotic Coaching Call of 2005 :
Bill Cowher's decision to begin the 2nd half with an onside kick.

Can you fucking believe he made that call ? The score was 16-7 at the beginning of the 2nd half. The Steelers defense had been effective for the last 4 series of the 2nd quarter. Bill Cowher had said before the game that his strategy was to "be patient" & stay within a TD of Indy - and then win it in the 4th quarter. So, how does he begin carrying out this strategy in the 2nd half ? HE GIVES THEM THE BALL ON THE STEELERS' 35 YARD LINE !

Oh, and another stupid call by Cowher : The QB draw call on 4th & 4.

I've been biting my lip this entire season over stupid calls made by Cowher. I'm not blaming this entire loss on him, but I think it's time to point out just how much of a liability he has truly become. The most obvious thing in particular is just how over-conservative he has made our entire offense. It was ok to be conservative when we had a reliable running game, but that is obviously no longer the case - yet he still has this overly conservative offense.

There have been plenty of other strategic errors made by Cowher throughout the season. They've all cost us. It's just that we've been lucky enough to be able to forget about most of them because we won anyway.

v

[paranoidandroid]

this game could have been a lot worse..the steelers got bailed out a few times with the multiple 15-yard penalty's called on the colts. the steelers' offense was basically motionless most of the first half.

it's pretty simple really.

stop the steelers run game, and you win.

[Homsar]

Sweet! Hold on while I tell the Bengals....

[Louisianagrl]

Steelers....(and in particular, Miami alumni Ben Roethlisberger)...

You.Have.Been.SERVED!

Steel Curtain 7
COLTS 26

I would, once again, hate to be a sore winner, but when Peyton connected with Harrison on the FIRST DRIVE...that pretty much set the whole tone.

Indianapolis Colts....still perfect.;)

[The Ugly Thief]

Steelers....(and in particular, Miami alumni Ben Roethlisberger)...

You.Have.Been.SERVED!

Steel Curtain 7
COLTS 26

I would, once again, hate to be a sore winner, but when Peyton connected with Harrison on the FIRST DRIVE...that pretty much set the whole tone.

Indianapolis Colts....still perfect.;)
for as bad as 26-7 looks on the screen, i still don't feel that the Steelers were SERVED.

The Colts scored 2 TDs. The first was on their very first play from scrimmage, and the other came after that IDIOTIC onside kick attempt which gave them the ball on the Steelers 35. Outside of those two TDs, the Colts KILLER ALL-POWERFUL NO-HUDDLE SUPER OFFENSE was held to FGs.

...and don't tell me you weren't quite concerned right around the middle of the 2nd quarter when Peyton was completely bewildered, changing calls, commiting delay of game, and throwing into empty areas of the field.

I don't mean to sound like a sore loser, but that STUPID onside kick attempt at the beginning of the 2nd half completely handed whatever type of momentum and morale victory the Steelers defense had going into halftime right over to the Colts & changed the rest of the Steelers gameplan for the rest of the 2nd half.

They may have given up 26 points, but I'm certainly not disappointed with our defense.

v

[Louisianagrl]

for as bad as 26-7 looks on the screen, i still don't feel that the Steelers were SERVED.

...and don't tell me you weren't quite concerned right around the middle of the 2nd quarter when Peyton was completely bewildered, changing calls, commiting delay of game, and throwing into empty areas of the field.

I don't mean to sound like a sore loser, but that STUPID onside kick attempt at the beginning of the 2nd half completely handed whatever type of momentum and morale victory the Steelers defense had going into halftime right over to the Colts & changed the rest of the Steelers gameplan for the rest of the 2nd half.

They may have given up 26 points, but I'm certainly not disappointed with our defense.

The onside kick was a bad move, especially at that point in the game. TUT, I wasn't concerned during the second quarter because, to be honest, I was asleep-I have to wake up at 3:30 AM to go to work. :D

And served means they lost. And for an offense led by Ben Roethlisturkeyburger that's allegedly so high powered, one touchdown ain't much...hence the serving.

Mmmm...turkeyburgers...

[Jonathan]

for as bad as 26-7 looks on the screen, i still don't feel that the Steelers were SERVED.

The Colts scored 2 TDs. The first was on their very first play from scrimmage, and the other came after that IDIOTIC onside kick attempt which gave them the ball on the Steelers 35. Outside of those two TDs, the Colts KILLER ALL-POWERFUL NO-HUDDLE SUPER OFFENSE was held to FGs.

...and don't tell me you weren't quite concerned right around the middle of the 2nd quarter when Peyton was completely bewildered, changing calls, commiting delay of game, and throwing into empty areas of the field.

I don't mean to sound like a sore loser, but that STUPID onside kick attempt at the beginning of the 2nd half completely handed whatever type of momentum and morale victory the Steelers defense had going into halftime right over to the Colts & changed the rest of the Steelers gameplan for the rest of the 2nd half.

They may have given up 26 points, but I'm certainly not disappointed with our defense.

v

Exactly. The opening TD put me in a foul mood, but I was quite comfortable and confident up until the end of the half.

I'll go one step further...it wasn't so much the onside kick as the interception right before halftime that gave the Colts the ball back in field goal range that was the killer. I still don't know why Ben threw that ball...it looked for all the world like he was just going to run it out of bounds to stop the clock, and then he needlessly launched it at the last second. Even if the time expires without the Steelers scoring, they still go into halftime only one score down, and maybe they don't try that onside kick in a foolish attempt to get those points back.

And served means they lost.

Uh, no. Nice try. "Being served" means a humiliating ass kicking and we all know it. The 49ers were served when they lost to Philly. The Saints were served when they lost to Green Bay.

[Louisianagrl]

Uh, no. Nice try. "Being served" means a humiliating ass kicking and we all know it. The 49ers were served when they lost to Philly. The Saints were served when they lost to Green Bay.

The Saints are generally served, with the exception of Sunday night, when they beat a team that is actually worse than they are.

And 26-7 is a bit humiliating for the Steel Curtain, which went 15-1 last year in the regular season. They couldn't score more than 1 TD? Served.

(wow-this is a really inane argument)

[The Ugly Thief]

And for an offense led by Ben Roethlisturkeyburger that's allegedly so high powered, one touchdown ain't much...hence the serving.
actually, nobody has ever accused the Steelers of having a "high powered" offense. It's true that Ben puts up good numbers. But they're usually in the category of QB Rating or QB Efficiency. He doesn't rack up 350+ yard games or anything like that. I believe he has the potential to do that someday - but he has to be given the offense which will actually allow him to do that. Right now, the Steelers entire offense revolves around the run, with passes only coming as a type of unwanted necessity on 3rd and long situations....and the run ain't cuttin' it these days. I think Ben has the arm & mindset to become that high yardage type of QB. But he'll never get there w/ this current high school offense Cowher is running.

v

[Louisianagrl]

actually, nobody has ever accused the Steelers of having a "high powered" offense. It's true that Ben puts up good numbers. But they're usually in the category of QB Rating or QB Efficiency. He doesn't rack up 350+ yard games or anything like that. I believe he has the potential to do that someday - but he has to be given the offense which will actually allow him to do that. Right now, the Steelers entire offense revolves around the run, with passes only coming as a type of unwanted necessity on 3rd and long situations....and the run ain't cuttin' it these days. I think Ben has the arm & mindset to become that high yardage type of QB. But he'll never get there w/ this current high school offense Cowher is running.

v

No, I would agree-their run ain't cuttin' it. Also, I just like bashing Roethlisostrichburger because he went to Miami....;)

[The Ugly Thief]

No, I would agree-their run ain't cuttin' it.The last 5 games (2 Balt ; GB ; Cleve ; Indy ; 3-2) have convinced me that this Steelers team is not a Super Bowl team. (yes, I said it)

At the beginning of the season, the Steelers were able to win on the strength of this simple/low-risk offense. Then, something happened (I still haven't exactly figured out what) and all of the sudden they were unable to run the fucking football. At first I thought Willie Parker's NFL honeymoon was just coming to a crashing halt. Then, I thought maybe Bettis was too far out of shape to run. Then, I thought maybe Duce Staley was playing hurt & just not the same RB. I think the Bettis & Staley cases are both partially true...and nobody is saying Willie Parker is the next LaDainian Tomlinson, but I think the Steelers' real running problems are w/ their offensive line. Nobody would be able to run for much when you constantly have one or two guys hitting you in the backfield.

So, I think it's time for Cowher to start adjusting this offense to become less reliable upon the run & giving Ward, Randle-El, and Quincy Morgan a chance to actually contribute more often. Bettis & Staley aren't BOTH going to return next season, and I would be shocked (and disappointed) if the Steelers hang on to Bettis for another season. He needs to hang it up. I believe Staley is much more hurt than we are being told. He had a decent game several weeks ago, but has only been on the field for several plays ever since. I think he's injured & the Steelers know it. So, I foresee a 2006 Steeler team w/ Willie Parker as their #1 RB. And though Parker has shown he is quite capable when holes are opened up for him, an offense with Ward & Randle-El @ WR & Parker in the backfield is not an offense which should be putting the run as their best weapon.

bottom line : The Steelers have the offensive weapons - Cowher just has to start putting more time & energy into developing an effective offense which will actually use them properly.

v

[Louisianagrl]

The last 5 games (2 Balt ; GB ; Cleve ; Indy ; 3-2) have convinced me that this Steelers team is not a Super Bowl team. (yes, I said it)


bottom line : The Steelers have the offensive weapons - Cowher just has to start putting more time & energy into developing an effective offense which will actually use them properly.

v

Well said. I'd say you summed it up quite well.

[The Ugly Thief]

it wasn't so much the onside kick as the interception right before halftime that gave the Colts the ball back in field goal range that was the killer.It was a very stupid interception. He definitely should have run it. He had an open field in front of him. It was probably one of Ben's worst moments this season.

but also, it wasn't just the INT which killed them - it was also that 15 yard personal foul. That's devastating when the other team only has 15 secs left to get in FG.

some side notes :

- i think Palimaulo's INT had a significant effect upon Peyton & the Indy offense (more than you would think). From there, Peyton became obviously concerned about the Steelers different formations & was less prone to pass into coverage .... but all of that was completely flushed down the toilet once Indy was handed the ball on our 35 at the beginning of the half & able to go up by 16.

again, and i know i've already been saying this on here, I blame this whole loss on the offense. Cowher should have seen the dents in the running game over the past several games w/out Ben. Granted, teams will play the run tougher when they know your starting QB isn't there, but the Steelers running game (namely the offensive line) has just completely collapsed IMO & he should have been taking that into consideration when planning for this game. It almost seemed as though they were running a more west coast type of offense when Charlie Batch started....lots of short slants. I don't see why the Steelers couldn't adopt an effective west coast offense. Right now, it seems like they have the ideal type of weapons for it (2 very effective WR ; a tall & accurate QB ; a fast RB).

and i don't think they even ran a single play-action play during the entire game, did they ? If they did, it was only once.

v

[frizgolf]

I kept waiting for the Steelers to open it up.
I was calling for the crossing patterns 12, 15 yards out. Never happened.
As a Bengals fan, yeah, I rooted against 'em, but, hey, I wanna see a good game. And I wanna see Pittsburgh at their best next week, not when they're reeling.
Well, TUT, don't give up. There's five weeks left. Anything can happen.

[The Ugly Thief]

I kept waiting for the Steelers to open it up.
I was calling for the crossing patterns 12, 15 yards out. Never happened.
yha, well unfortunately it takes about 3.95 quarters to convince Cowher that he can't run.

v

[sabos_glasses]

I can already envision that fat boy Bettis plowing through the Bengals D though.

[Louisianagrl]

I sat down today and interviewed the man who will probably win coach of the year (sorry guys Cowher it ain't gonna be-he needs to give Roethlisalligatorburger some better direction): Tony Dungy. Fab interview-really friendly. My losing sleep was definitely worth it to talk to this man. :D

[The Ugly Thief]

After seeing a pre-game interview w/ Cowher in which he labelled Ben as "100%" and seeing Ben move quite well throughout the game, I'm convinced Ben should have started against Baltimore the week before.

v

[The_Deacon]

I can already envision that fat boy Bettis plowing through the Bengals D though.
no need to envision ,,,, we have seen it for real too many times :(

[Artpunchehorse]

I can already envision that fat boy Bettis plowing through the Bengals D though.

and Parker running around them

and Polamalu picking off a pass

and Porter killing Carson

and Kimo and Hampton stuffing Rudi

and Taylor blanketing Chad

and I am a huge Bengals fan

[Jonathan]

And I like the way you think, Art. :D

[grebo]

and Parker running around them

and Polamalu picking off a pass

and Porter killing Carson

and Kimo and Hampton stuffing Rudi

and Taylor blanketing Chad

and I am a huge Bengals fan

Also a Bengals fan, but I don't see Parker running around them. The Steelers have beaten the Bengals by running through them. They are best served by sticking with Bettis and Staley. If I remember right, even though Parker got a lot of yards on 10/23, it wasn't until later in the game, after the Bus had run them over.

[deuce]

I sat down today and interviewed the man who will probably win coach of the year (sorry guys Cowher it ain't gonna be-he needs to give Roethlisalligatorburger some better direction): Tony Dungy. Fab interview-really friendly. My losing sleep was definitely worth it to talk to this man. :D

Peyton Manning deserves coach of the year much more so than Tony Dungy.

If for some reason the Bengals don't go to the Super Bowl, Lovie Smith will be the coach of the year instead of Marvin Lewis. Otherwise, its Marvin Lewis.

[crazybob60]

and Parker running around them

and Polamalu picking off a pass

and Porter killing Carson

and Kimo and Hampton stuffing Rudi

and Taylor blanketing Chad

and I am a huge Bengals fan

I can see the first one happening but have a hard time believing the rest, you stating as if the Bengals are just going to roll over and hand it to the Steelers because its at Pitt and Pitt has lost two in a row, but the Bengals are just as if not more hungry than the Steelers right now in my opinion, why else would Chad Johnson be wearing the terrible towel as a bib if he wasn't hungry for the victory??!!! :p :cool: :D

[Fourthisto]

AaahahHAhAhahahhAHAHhHahHAHHHAhAhHAHhahahAHhahahha HAAHhAhAhhahHAHAHHAHWHAHAHHWHAHhaHAhHAhaHhehhHEhah hahHEhehehehehehoahhehahhahHHSHHEHEHAHAHhahnaahAHh e
HAHhaHEHEaaaahahageheghehahhahhannahhHEHeHehHEHHAH AHHHEh.

[The_Deacon]

We are not longer your bitches.,,,,,,,bitches :D :D

[Urge26]

Good job Steel crew... go sulk in mediocrity

[Fourthisto]

and Parker fumbling around them

and Polamalu tackling like a piece of jello would

and Porter killing too many ho-hos in the off season

and Kimo and Hampton becoming roadkill for Rudi

and Taylor gettin lucky in holding off Chad from getting more than 5 catches

Fixed that for you.

[euro60]

Q: How do you rub it in?

A: WHO DEY!!


:) :) :) :) :)

[The Ugly Thief]

The Steelers ran only 2 play-action plays this entire game - and both of them were successful. One of them was a pass over the middle to Heath Miller, and another was a pass to Ward(?). Both of them were followed by successful runs afterwards. Why they don't do that more often is beyond me.

They've got the tools, they're just not using them correctly. If they don't care enough about revamping their offense by getting a new offensive coordinator for next season then I'm convinced Cowher should be replaced.

v

[Urge26]

The Steelers ran only 2 play-action plays this entire game - and both of them were successful. One of them was a pass over the middle to Heath Miller, and another was a pass to Ward(?). Both of them were followed by successful runs afterwards. Why they don't do that more often is beyond me.

They've got the tools, they're just not using them correctly. If they don't care enough about revamping their offense by getting a new offensive coordinator for next season then I'm convinced Cowher should be replaced.

v

Good to see Steeler fans questioning a hall of fame coach. Hines Ward is a super twink.

[The Ugly Thief]

Good to see Steeler fans questioning a hall of fame coach.

- he's a hall of fame coach who only allows his QB (who has a QB rating over 100) to only consevutively pass when we are down by 2 TDs

- he's a hall of fame coach who gave up our opportunity to go into OT against NE earlier this season by scoring from the 1yrd line w/ more than 2mins left instead of letting the clock rundown

- he's a hall of fame coach who, when Roethlisberger was injured, opted to start Tommy Maddox in front of a more experienced & skilled Charlie Batts, only to watch Maddox singlehandedly hand the game to Jacksonville by throwing 3 INT & then fumble in OT with the Jaguars recovering it & running into the end zone for the victory

- he's a hall of fame coach who has run an offense which he admits is on the "high school level", but refuses to change it in any way whatsoever, no matter how bad it is functioning

- he's a hall of fame coach who decided to attempt an onside kick at the beginning of the 2nd half in a game against the #1 offense in the NFL when we were only behind by 9 pts at the time

There's plenty of other examples I could show if I thought about it some more. Suffice it to say that I haven't watched a single Steelers game this season w/out saying "What the FUCK was Cowher even thinking with that ?"

We're a Super Bowl team that is now in serious jeopardy of not getting into the playoffs.

v

[gwar469]

There's plenty of other examples I could show if I thought about it some more. Suffice it to say that I haven't watched a single Steelers game this season w/out saying "What the FUCK was Cowher even thinking with that ?"
v

dude, you could take this statement and use any team and any coach. classic armchair quarterbacking. we fans always know what's best for the team, even though 99.99% of people don't know a reverse from an end-around.

the Steelers are just playing through some tough injuries. the o-line is banged up, meaning the running game is susceptible. injured QB, messing up the passing game. i don't know what to say about the defense today, except the Bengals were motivated.

bottom line: the Steelers have been a solid team for Cowher's tenure. he may not be able to coach and win the big games, but he's still a damn good coach. give Ben a couple more years to mature. trust me, i've had to watch coaches like Dave Shula, Bruce Coslet, and Dick Lebeau (defensive genius that he is, tho).

[The Ugly Thief]

bottom line: the Steelers have been a solid team for Cowher's tenure. he may not be able to coach and win the big games, but he's still a damn good coach.fine, then get an offensive coordinator who will actually use our weapons properly ! or at least run an offense that isn't on the "high school level" !

I understand that Cowher wanted to keep the offense simple for Ben since he's only in his 2nd season, and that's fine - but we better not be running the same braindead offense next season ! We've got 2 very capable WRs, a future Pro Bowl TE, and a fast RB. A West Coast type of offense would fit into our tools perfectly. Ben's extremely accurate w/ quick slants, and more play-action in order to keep the defenses honest.

v

[gwar469]

fine, then get an offensive coordinator who will actually use our weapons properly ! or at least run an offense that isn't on the "high school level" !

I understand that Cowher wanted to keep the offense simple for Ben since he's only in his 2nd season, and that's fine - but we better not be running the same braindead offense next season ! We've got 2 very capable WRs, a future Pro Bowl TE, and a fast RB. A West Coast type of offense would fit into our tools perfectly. Ben's extremely accurate w/ quick slants, and more play-action in order to keep the defenses honest.

v

totally agreed, but you're going to be working against heavy momentum. adapting a West Coast offense at Pittsburgh probably won't happen until we get a female president. Ben is a very capable QB with lots of weapons. maybe Cowher is just afraid of converting to more of a passing team. or he's being held back by ownership. either way, i can't say you're wrong.

[Artpunchehorse]

I wish nothing but the absolute worst for Hines Ward. Wipe that smug smile of your face loser

[Homsar]

The Steelers will rush for negative yards against the Bears on Sunday.
You heard it here first.

[Fourthisto]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v435/Fourthisto/Untitled3.jpg

[sabos_glasses]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v435/Fourthisto/Untitled3.jpg
:D :D :D

[The_Deacon]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v435/Fourthisto/Untitled3.jpg
Fourthisto's post........Priceless!!!! :D :D

[Foofur]

The Steelers grabbed a very important win as the Chiefs lost and even though San Diego won the Steelers own the tie-breaker. Next opponent: The Cleveland Browns.

[The Ugly Thief]

I'm convinced Ben's hand is still hurting & he probably shouldn't be starting these games. At least that is the explanation I'm going with as to why the Steelers offense has gone BEYOND conservative.

v

[frizgolf]

I'm convinced Ben's hand is still hurting & he probably shouldn't be starting these games. At least that is the explanation I'm going with as to why the Steelers offense has gone BEYOND conservative.

v
Sounds like a good explanation.
I know one thing, they're winning again, and nobody wants to face 'em in the playoffs.

[The_Deacon]

Sounds like a good explanation.
I know one thing, they're winning again, and nobody wants to face 'em in the playoffs.
Nope :( Not at all :( .....not even the AFC NORTH DIVISION CHAMPS! :p

[The Ugly Thief]

41-0

and IN Cleveland no less ! You've gotta love that.

I didn't watch the game, but i've looked at the stats & it appears that Batch came in for a little bit. He threw 1 pass for 30 yds. Did anybody see the game & know how long Batch was in for ?

v

[ThomasC]

41-0

and IN Cleveland no less ! You've gotta love that.

I didn't watch the game, but i've looked at the stats & it appears that Batch came in for a little bit. He threw 1 pass for 30 yds. Did anybody see the game & know how long Batch was in for ?

v
That was a great touchdown pass to Quincy Morgan. I can't remember if he played in Pitt's last two-play TD scoring drive in the 3rd (the ball was handed to Verron Haynes both times), but he was definitely in for all of the 4th.

[crazybob60]

That was a great touchdown pass to Quincy Morgan. I can't remember if he played in Pitt's last two-play TD scoring drive in the 3rd (the ball was handed to Verron Haynes both times), but he was definitely in for all of the 4th.

Good old Quincy Morgan sticking it to his old club. You know he had to love that. Q is actually a pretty nice guy, well when I met it. It was at some show at the convention center up there in Cleveland and he wasn't even supposed to show up, but he was just there walking around ( I believe either his 2nd or 3rd year in the league and just signing autographs for grown-ups and kids alike) Very nice guy. There was one guy who had this huge plywood cutout in the shop of a dog's bone and it had been autographed by any and every Cleveland Browns player you could probably think of, old and new alike, I would say there was a good 200 autos on there, and Morgan had not signed it, and I can not begin to describe Quincy's reaction and face when he saw this. Ok, neither of these stories had any relevancy to what this thread is about and boy did I ever go off on a tangent, I had a tendency to do so. Sorry bout that.

[Foofur]

They were saying during the games on Saturday that if the playoffs were to start today, the Steelers would be playing the Bengals. Mmmm. Humble pie. I certainly think there will be some helmets slamming in that game. :D

[crazybob60]

They were saying during the games on Saturday that if the playoffs were to start today, the Steelers would be playing the Bengals. Mmmm. Humble pie. I certainly think there will be some helmets slamming in that game. :D

I would take that anyday of the week and us being int he third seed and if the pieces fall right us playing Indy in the AFC Championship instead of int he second round.

[Foofur]

So are we ready for the Colts. This will be the big test. Hopefully the Colts will be caught a bit rusty and the Steelers can take advantage. Regardless, the Steelers are going to have to play the best football next Sunday. Game time is 1:00 PM. The silent count will have to be working in the volume dome. Go Steelers!!! :D

[Artpunchehorse]

So are we ready for the Colts. This will be the big test. Hopefully the Colts will be caught a bit rusty and the Steelers can take advantage. Regardless, the Steelers are going to have to play the best football next Sunday. Game time is 1:00 PM. The silent count will have to be working in the volume dome. Go Steelers!!! :D

Maybe Peyton will get hurt

[frizgolf]

Steelers are on a roll. Colts took a couple lumps late, when the games didn't mean anything. Or did they?
A loss is a loss. That's gotta weigh on their minds.
If the Steelers stop making dumb penalties and get the offense going early, they have a legitimate shot.
Just one year removed from a one loss season, I think they're pouring it on at the right time.

[Foofur]

The defense has to get Peyton out of his rythmn. They have to slow down the Colts offense. That's a tall task for anyone. The Steelers will be up for it and damn if Bettis didn't look good today.

[The Ugly Thief]

So are we ready for the Colts.

I think we're as ready for Indy as we're ever going to be.

Also, keep in mind that the first game against Indy this year was Ben's first game back from his knee injury...and it was probably his worst game all season.

v

[frizgolf]

You can pass on the Colts. The Bengals proved that. The Steelers defense is much better than the Bengals. They can blitz Manning. Run early, open the passing game, and go all out Ben after that.

[Fourthisto]

I hope next Saturday night Peyton sneaks into the Steelers' hotel and puts an undercooked chicken under one of Jerome Potbellyis' fatrolls, and he pukes off a hundred pounds during the game. Because I want to see footage of his mom and dad cheering THAT on. "YAY!! MY BABY IS DOWN TO HIS BIRTHWEIGHT!!!"

[NoBleeding]

I hope next Saturday night Peyton sneaks into the Steelers' hotel and puts an undercooked chicken under one of Jerome Potbellyis' fatrolls, and he pukes off a hundred pounds during the game. Because I want to see footage of his mom and dad cheering THAT on. "YAY!! MY BABY IS DOWN TO HIS BIRTHWEIGHT!!!"

How 'ose grapes taste? Sour, huh?

[Fourthisto]

How 'ose grapes taste? Sour, huh?

No sour grapes here, I've always hated that piece of shit. He's just on my all-time hated list.

[NoBleeding]

You can hate him all the way to Canton.