SteelerNation - This is Your Wake Up Call

SteelerNation - Time to Wake Up to Reality

Pittsburgh Steelers fans are spoiled.  There is no way around that fact.  The team that totes the most Super Bowl titles in NFL history has a fan base that proclaims that fact from the mountain tops as much as they possibly can.  However, Steelers fans haven't had to endure many rough patches in the past 15 years.  The last time the Steelers had a losing record was in 2003 when the Tommy Maddox led Steelers finished with a balmy 6-10 record.  10 years since a losing record for the Steelers and their fan base have fans wondering what went wrong.  Well, alot went wrong, but in terms of the fan base its simple.  Welcome to reality.

The Steelers have been one of the most successful NFL teams since the NFL / AFL merger and that is something that is often taken for granted.  In a world where there are still NFL teams that have failed to even reach a Super Bowl, Pittsburgh has won 6 and played in 8.  There are teams that haven't had a winning season in 10 years and the Steelers haven't had a losing record in 10 years.  All of that leads to a fan base that can be spoiled, too quick to judge, and also quick to turn their back on the team.  When I attended the Steelers vs Bears game in Pittsburgh I had great seats to watch the Steelers gift wrap a 17-0 lead to the Bears.  This was all in the first quarter, and I saw Steelers fans leaving the stadium.  No, not going to the bathroom, not going to get a beer (which would be recommended watching this Steelers team), no they left Heinz Field.  I couldn't believe my eyes.  In the first quarter fans were simply walking out on their favorite team.  That is simply unacceptable in my book.

The fact remains that if Steelers fans (aka - SteelerNation) are the fans that they claim to be, then they will not turn their back on their team.  I am not saying that Steelers' fans can't voice their displeasure about the team that they root for.  I do that enough for the entire fan base, but what I am saying is that SteelerNation needs to realize that this bump in the road for the Steelers isn't the end of the world.  If the Steelers don't have a magical turn around up their sleeves they will be ending this season with a losing record.  I can actually hear the Steelers' bandwagon getting lighter.  Think one losing season in 10 is bad?  Try being a Cleveland Browns fan.  Try being a Jacksonville Jaguars fan.  Try being a St. Louis Rams fan.  One bad season doesn't signify the end of the world.  Remember, it could be worse, and as so many Steeler fans always remind me..."we have more rings than anyone else!"  Be happy for that and stand by your team through good and bad.  SteelerNation - This was your wake up call.

5 Reasons the Steelers Will Beat the Patriots

Ben Roethlisberger Needs his 'A' Game on Sunday

I still can't believe I am attempting this article, but what are you going to do.  For those that are curious, no I am not inebriated...just trying to stir the pot before the Steelers take the field this Sunday.  Say what you want, but the Steelers actually do have a chance to win this Sunday at Foxborough at 4:25, and I'll tell you why:

1 - The Steelers Play Up to Their Competition - This has always been the case with the Steelers.  Even in the years that they won Super Bowls 40 and 43, there were teams that always got their full attention (Ravens, Patriots, Colts) and those that often times got the "half assed" attempt (Browns, Jaguars, Raiders).  Sometimes against those lesser opponents the Steelers were good enough to scratch out an "ugly win", but this year that isn't the case.  The Pats will get the Steelers attention this week, just like the Ravens did two weeks ago, and don't be surprised if the Steelers elevate their game accordingly.

2 - Tom Brady is "Off" - No one has thrown more off target passes this year, and the receiving corps that Brady has sure isn't a Pro Bowl roster.  Brady has made lemonade out of lemons before, and certainly has done so this season.  The Steelers will have to get to Brady early and often and keep him off his timing patterns.  The biggest challenge for the Steelers will be covering Rob Gronkowski, but Brady being a bit "off" only increases the Steelers' chances of hanging around this Sunday.

3 - Something to Prove - The Steelers are due for a bounce back game.  Some called the Raiders game as a let down game following the big Ravens win.  I couldn't say I completely disagree with those that think that, but in the same way I could see this game as a bounce back game.  The Steelers know what people are saying and how they are viewed.  Within that locker room there are players that still feel this team can compete at a high level, and what better way to do that than on a stage like playing the Patriots in Foxborough?

4 - Ben Being Ben - The Steelers offensive line is banged up, and there are still alot of question marks up front, but if you've followed the Steelers for any amount of time you know that sometimes when the chips are stacked against Big Ben, when the pocket collapses, and when you think he is "dead to rites"...he escapes and makes a huge play.  Well, I think its safe to say that Ben very well could have to make plays like that to win, but I like Ben's odds against this Patriots defense.

5 - Progressive Defense - The Steelers defense has improved little by little each week.  Sure there were some hiccups along the way, but this defense has been getting more turnovers and making plays as every week passes.  This bodes well as the Steelers defense will most likely have to set the table for the Steelers offense to make anything happen.  If the Steelers spot the Patriots a 14 point lead like they did the Raiders, then the game will not even be close to a 3 point deficit at the end.  This game will be on the Steelers defense's shoulders, and whether they can shoulder that load is TBD (to be determined).

Mike Tomlin Is Making Moves, But All the Wrong Ones

Why This Man, Kirby Wilson, SHOULD Be A Change
Mike Tomlin  Makes

Pittsburgh Steelers head coach, Mike Tomlin, sees a team that is 2-5 and in need of an overhaul.  Unlike the 2010 Tomlin that declared that changes would be made and the Steelers would "unleash hell" in the month of December...and nothing happened, the head coach is making moves for a team that is searching for an answer.  The only problem is that Tomlin is making the wrong moves.

The Steelers released punter Zoltan Mesko yesterday and demoted Jarvis Jones to 2nd string behind Jason Worilds.  I have been a harsh critic of Zoltan Mesko and his erratic, downright pitiful, and as Tomlin called it "Junior Varsity" punting this season.  This move is long overdue, but will it make a difference in the team winning and losing?  No.  Jarvis Jones hasn't been the impact player that people expected and although has shown flashes of the SEC player that dominated competition at Georgia, the bright spots have been outweighed by the missed tackles and blown assignments.  So, with Jones out, re-enter Jason Worilds as the OLB that will line up across from Lamarr Woodley.  Jason Worilds knows his assignments, but thats about the only difference between the two OLBs at this point.  Will benching Jarvis Jones make a big difference in the team winning and losing?  Probably not.

Tomlin had to make moves to appease the media and fan base, but if you know this team and you know the people in the organization you know that these moves were simply not enough.  If Mike Tomlin truly wants to make changes he will make moves that will send a message, not just moves that make tiny ripples in the overall ocean that is the Pittsburgh Steelers team.  One move I would make is to start playing Shamarko Thomas at safety more and more for Ryan Clark.  Someone tell me what Ryan Clark brings to this team that is helping them win?  Exactly, he has been more of a detriment than an asset.  Signing Max Starks again would at least add quality depth at a position that has been horrendous for the Steelers.  The biggest move that I want Tomlin to make is to tell Todd Haley that his services are no longer needed anymore.  Think back to the Baltimore Ravens last season.  Cam Cameron gets canned mid season and the offense thrives because of it.  I don't think Todd Haley is the main problem with the Steelers' offense, but it might just be time to eliminate one of the problems and let someone like RB Coach Kirby Wilson call the plays for the duration of the season.  Could it get worse than what it already is?  I don't think so.

I realize Tomlin is between a rock and a hard place, but changes need to be made...not so much for this season, but the future.  If you constantly threat to make changes and nothing ever changes, then the players know you are doing nothing but blowing smoke you know where, and that does no one any good.

For the Steelers, Is This the Beginning of the End?

Is This the Beginning of the End for the Steelers?

The loss to the Oakland Raiders still stings amongst SteelerNation.  How could the Pittsburgh Steelers travel across country and leave with a loss against the Raiders, again?!  Well, if you look at this team logistically you see some serious flaws.  Not only this past Sunday, but this entire season.  What once was a promising season has turned into a fiasco, and it could get worse.  Some fans say, "Play for a draft pick." while others scream, "We should be better."  Either way, what the team "should" be is not fixable with one draft pick.  Plain and simple.  Which brings me to the title of the article.  Is this the beginning of the end for the most successful organization in the NFL?  I'm starting to think that it very well could be.

There are alot of arrows that can point to the long term demise of the Steelers' organization, but there are a few that I am going to focus on.  First, missed draft picks.  One could point directly at the Steelers' 2008 draft class that consisted of 7 players that are not wearing black and gold except for fun in their free time.  Then you can look at the 2009 draft class that has 9 players in that class, with 2 that are still in the Steelers' organization (Ziggy Hood and the oft injured David Johnson).  To me, this isn't just about draft classes, but about drafting players high in the draft that simply were busts.  Players like Jason Worilds (taken in the 2nd round in 2010), Mike Adams (2nd round pick in 2012), and a guy like Chris Rainey garnering a 5th round pick when it was well documented the off the field issues with that individual.  When was the last time the Steelers had a pick that absolutely shocked everyone?  Can't think of one can you...thats because the Steelers' draft picks have been unbelievably underwhelming and that is why although the team has talent, it lacks skill and depth at some of the most important positions on the football field.  What is going to happen with Ben Roethlisberger leaves or retires?  Landry Jones?  That is laughable.  The answer is nowhere to be found.  It looks like the Steelers will be entering a new Mike Tomczak, Bubby Brister, Neil O'Donnell, and Kent Graham era if you ask me.  That sound like success?  Me neither.

There is more than just draft blunders.  How about the front office?  Under Art Rooney II, the Steelers have faultered.  Sure, they won Super Bowl 43 in Tampa Bay, but that was essentially under Dan Rooney.  The Steelers drafting issues fall on the scouting department, general manager Kevin Colbert, and head coach Mike Tomlin.  The hole that they have dug themselves might take YEARS to climb out of.  This same board also dismissed Bruce Arians.  Whether you liked or demised Arians, you cannot argue he wasn't successful.  Ben Roethlisberger thrived under Arians, and after the dismissal bringing in Todd Haley has done nothing but inject controversy to the team and the organization.  Questionable decisions across the board that, in my opinion, will only set this team back for years to come.

Simply look at the roster and you will see a team that is old in spots, and extremely "green" in others.  Although across the board you see one thing and one thing only...NO QUALITY DEPTH.  This team is 2-5 and hanging by a thread...literally.  Not just injury concerns, but after the starters there is NO ONE qualified to step up.  Mike Tomlin's "the standard is the standard" has become as old and worn out as the age old "we have 6 super bowls and you don't" mantra of SteelerNation.  I am a Steelers fan, and I hope that this isn't the beginning of the end, but if you look at it realistically...its hard not to see more darkness than light ahead.

Coach Tomlin's Post Game Press Conference Following Steelers Loss

Fantasy Focus - Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Oakland Raiders

Le'Veon Bell - a START for your Fantasy Team

A new feature on the site is going to be an all Pittsburgh Steelers "Fantasy Focus" where I tell anyone that plays Fantasy Football and has a Steeler on their roster whether or not they should "start" or "sit" the player in black n' gold this week.  I take a look at this week's matchup in Oakland vs the Raiders.

START 'EM
- Heath Miller - Lets be honest, Heath Miller is Ben Roethlisberger's safety blanket.  When in doubt, throw it to #83.  Heath will get his touches, especially if Todd Haley decides to deploy extra tackles to help in protection that will allow Heath to run his routes instead of blocking.  The Steelers redzone problems most likely will be solved at some point, and don't be surprised if they are solved with Heath Miller getting more receptions in the red area.  That equals fantasy points for all those that have Heath on their team this week.

- Shaun Suisham - Shaun Suisham is having a career year, and even though the Steelers hope to score more TDs, they will still have plenty of FGs.  Suisham is a solid kicker who should be in your lineup until proven otherwise.

- Steelers D/ST - The Steelers defense is starting to get going in terms of getting pressure on the QB, not to mention they are facing a rookie QB.  Pryor is a different beast though, as he is leading the Raiders in rushing, but the Steelers defense typically does well against QBs like Pryor.  The Steelers special teams have been good all year, and Emmanuel Sanders is already lobbying for more chance to return kick offs, and that could mean points for your fantasy team.

- Le'Veon Bell - The rookie RB is Mike Tomlin's "boy".  Drafted by him, the entire zone blocking scheme was employed for just him.  His patience is something that is rare to see anymore, but ever game he has played he has improved and so have the Steelers rushing totals.  Look for that to continue, but also look for Bell to catch the ball out of the backfield and use his great hands to help the Steelers be more versatile.  Screen passes and swing passes could be the equalizer for a Raiders defense that likes to get after the QB.

- Antonio Brown - I've said it before, and I'll say it again.  Antonio Brown is turning into a younger, faster, and just as versatile Hines Ward.  He will get his catches, but the only question is will be break a long run or get deep?  I say start him anyways for the simple reason is you know the ball is headed his way.

SIT 'EM
- Emmanuel Sanders - Sanders has struggled to get open, and has had some misfortune where Ben was unable to find him when he did get open.  The Raiders do give up passing yards, but Sanders is too much of a question mark to start, in my opinion.

- Jonathan Dwyer / Felix Jones - With Le'Veon Bell visibly turning into the feature back that the Steelers thought he'd be, the work load for Dwyer and Jones is becoming less and less each week.  No need to start either of these two RBs unless someone like Dwyer carves a niche for himself as a goal line back, but I wouldn't bank on that anytime soon.  Sit both of these players.

- Ben Roethlisberger - Although last year Big Ben put up great numbers (over 300yds passing and 4 TDs) in Oakland, this Steelers offense is much more controlled, especially when they are running the ball.  Roethlisberger's stat lines have looked very mediocre in the past 2 wins.  Great news for the Steelers, but bad news for Fantasy owners.  I saw sit Big Ben with the Steelers not trying to be "pass happy".

Steelers Offense vs Raiders Defense - BREAKDOWN

Oakland Has NOT Been Friendly to Big Ben

The Pittsburgh Steelers are headed to the "Black Hole" on Sunday for a 4:05 game between two, 2-4 teams.  The ramifications of this game are well documented, so its time I break down the opposition and today I break down the Steelers offense vs the Raiders defense in my Top 5 Storylines of the matchup:

- Big Ben = NO Big Mistake - Ben Roethlisberger doesn't like Oakland.  He has never won there.  Heck, the Steelers haven't won there since 1995.  Big Ben's struggles date back to 2006 when coming off of the Superbowl 40 victory where the big mistake was made on more than one occasion.  If the Steelers want to win this game, Ben Roethlisberger needs to be the Big Ben of the last 2 games, and not the Big Ben of the previous 4.  Keep the INT / Fumble line clean and the Steelers should be sitting pretty in terms of the ability to win the football game.

- Run, Run, Run - Did everyone see the Steelers run the football against that "vaunted" Ravens defense last week?  First time the Steelers rushed for over the century mark this season.  Now its time to duplicate that against a Raiders defense that gives up a stingy 99 yards a game.  Well, that isn't that stingy, but its actually better than the Steelers defense.  The Raiders are a vulnerable group through the air (giving up 241yds on average per game), but the Steelers need to run the football to open up the passing game.  Look for heavy doses of Le'Veon Bell, as well as Guy Whimper and Mike Adams as extra tackles to open up lanes for Bell to get loose.

- Redzone = Fun Zone? - The redzone has NOT been the "fun zone" for the Steelers.  Mike Tomlin recently addressed that during his weekly press conference.  The Steelers HAVE to be better in the redzone if they truly want to be an offensive team that can score more than 19 points.  The Steelers defense is pretty solid, but holding teams in today's NFL to under 17 points is difficult.  The Steelers shouldn't turn down points, but at the same time they shouldn't settle for FGs.  Shaun Suisham is "money", but the Steelers need TDs not FGs.  The Steelers gimmick plays typically were run between the 40s, but it might be time to expand that part of the playbook to the redzone too.  Just a thought!

- Spread the Love - The Steelers passing attack has been spreading the love, and it needs to continue.  Sometimes the Steelers offense gets hyper focused on one player, and this year it has been Antonio Brown, but look at the distribution chart and the Steelers are certainly spreading the love.  This offense needs to keep getting Heath Miller open down the seam, hitting Antonio Brown on those quick hitters, and hopefully get Emmanuel Sanders open deep on play action.  Spread the love to force the defense to say spread out, which will open up running lanes as well.  Wow, look at that...a novel idea...you listening Haley?!

- Mix and Match to Confuse the Raiders - The Steelers game plan last week confused the Ravens.  Anyone else see the Ravens CB not knowing what to do when Ben Roethlisberger split out wide?  The Steelers need to continue to use different line combinations, different formations, and different personnel to keep the Raiders guessing on what the Steelers offense will do in certain packages.  If they can't run the ball down the oppositions throats like in the past, you might as well out think them.  The Steelers accomplished that last week, lets see if they can get it done again Sunday.

The Pittsburgh Sports Notebook (10/22)

Lawrence Timmons Found Himself on the Injury Report

Alot of news on the injury front for the Steelers.  Plus, Penguins and Pirates information...lets do this.

STEELERS
- Injury news out of Mike Tomlin's Press Conference:
   - Markus Wheaton - OUT (Finger)
   - Kelvin Beachum - Day to Day (Ribs)
   - Marcus Gilbert - Day to Day (Quad)
   - Brett Keisel - Day to Day (Ribs)
   - Lamarr Woodley - Day to Day (Knee)
   - Cam Heyward - Day to Day (Illness)
   - Jerricho Cotchery - Day to Day (Abdomen)
   - Lawrence Timmons - Broken Hand - Will be Casted and he will play.
         - All players listed as "Day to Day" will most likely be limited in the early portion of the week.

- No news on rookie OLB Jarvis Jones, as the Steelers have to follow protocol and wait for him to be cleared by team doctors.

- Tomlin spoke at length about the team's inability to score TDs in the red zone declaring that pre-snap issues were a huge reason why.

- Something I've noticed all season, is the poor play by Steelers punter Zoltan Mesko.  Coach Tomlin agreed that his play has been subpar by calling some of his kicks as "junior varsity punts".  I couldn't have said it better myself.

- The Steelers travel to Oakland this Sunday for a 4:05pm (EST) kickoff.  They haven't won in Oakland since 1995.

- Both teams are 2-4, and the Raiders are coming off their bye week.

PENGUINS
- The Penguins lost to the Colorado Avalanche last night 1-0, moving their record to 7-2.

- The Pens still remain atop the Metropolitan Division.

- Sidney Crosby's 8 game scoring streak was snapped last night.

- The Penguins struggled on the Power Play going 0-7 on the night.

- The Penguins dominated play, outshooting the Avalanche 34-14.

- Next game for the Penguins is Friday at home against the NY Islanders as they continue Metropolitan Division Play.

PIRATES
- The post season honors for the Pirates magical season have started to roll in and will probably continue to roll in here in the next few weeks.

- Pitcher, Francisco Liriano, was given the NL "Comeback Player of the Year" Award.

- Manager, Clint Hurdle, was named the NL Manager of the Year Award by The Sporting News.

Steelers vs Ravens - REPORT CARD

Ben Pondering His Weekly Grade...

QUARTERBACK - Ben Roethlisberger had another great game, but it was more about efficiency than it was flash.  He didn't throw for 300+ yards with 4 TDs.  No, he was 17/23 for 160yds and a TD.  No interceptions / fumbles again was huge for the Steelers.  Best part about Ben's performance?  The plays he made when it mattered the most.  With the game tied and the ball on the 37 yard line, Ben made some crucial plays to extend drives when the game was on the line.  Haven't seen that in a while.  Red Zone failures is what kept Ben from getting a superb grade for me.
GRADE - A

WIDE RECEIVERS - Antonio Brown continues to make plays in a variety of ways.  Returning the ball, running the ball, and obviously catching the football.  He has truly blossomed into a #1 WR this year, but the buck didn't stop at number 84.  Jerricho Cotchery had some great catches that extended drives along with Derick Moye and Heath Miller.  This group would get a great grade if it weren't for Heath's fumble that cost the Steelers 3 points, and Derick Moye's dropped pass in the endzone that should have been 6.
GRADE - A-

RUNNING BACKS - Alert the press!  The Steelers rushed for over 100 yards as a team for the first time this year.  Who cares they still don't have a 100yd rusher individually...baby steps people.  This was a big baby step in the correct direction.  Due in part to a great offensive game plan and improved OLine play, Le'Veon Bell finished with 93yds, Big Ben with 23, and Felix Jones added 16 yards to that total.  Not too shabby for a unit that was averaging under 70yds/game until the Ravens came to town.
GRADE - A-

OFFENSIVE LINE - Todd Haley helped this unit out BIG TIME by throwing Mike Adams and Guy Whimper in as extra tackles to not only protect the QB, but also to open up running lanes.  Both worked great as the Steelers rushed for over 100yds and Ben was only sacked once.  When Marcus Gilbert left the game with a sore quad, Whimper came in and didn't miss a beat.  This was BY FAR the best OLine performance for the Steelers this season, and I give them a very good grade...
GRADE - A

DEFENSIVE LINE - I gave this group a tough time last week saying that they weren't making enough plays. They changed that this week.  Steve McLendon was actually noticeable on the field, Cam Heyward is starting to look like a number 1 draft pick, and Ziggy Hood and Brett Keisel made great plays in the running game.  This is a group that is improving just like the OLine, and it couldn't come at a better time.  This group held the Ravens to 82 yards rushing, and although that isn't really "shutting someone down", its a step in the right direction.
GRADE - A-

LINEBACKERS - The linebacking crew had a great game, but really one player in particular...Lawrence Timmons.  Timmons registered a team high 17 tackles, with 12 solo tackles.  Yeah, thats not a typo.  A man that doesn't lead with his voice, but his play sure as heck backs it up.  Timmons was spying on the Raven's running backs all game, and it paid off.  Vince Williams played the best game of the season by far, and Lamarr Woodley is having a bounce back year that NO ONE is really talking about.  This group had a great game, but they still need Jarvis Jones healthy.
GRADE - A

SECONDARY - The Steelers' secondary had a pretty solid game.  William Gay broke up 2 TD passes and has solidified the opposite side of the field.  Cortez Allen has been taking the slot receiver and looks comfortable there.  Some questionable penalties went against Ike Taylor, but for the most part, the secondary was outstanding in this game.  Troy Polamalu's off sides craziness needs to improve, but he played more center field this past game then he has all  year.  Thats a good thing.
GRADE - B+

SPECIAL TEAMS - Shaun Suisham was 4-4, the Steelers didn't have to punt often, and the return game was "above the line" as Mike Tomlin would say.  You can't ask for much more from your special teams units.
GRADE - A+

COACHING - I wrote an entire article about this yesterday (if you missed it CLICK HERE) and each coach for the Steelers deserves a passing grade.  In fact, better than passing...
GRADE - A+

Ben Roethlisberger Discusses Steelers 19-16 Win Over the Ravens

This Win Goes to the Steelers Coaching Staff

Todd Haley is Due Some Credit from SteelerNation Today

Did I really just write that?  Is that really the title of this article?  Am I still drunk off of the huge Steelers win over the much maligned Baltimore Ravens that essentially kept the Steelers' hopes alive?  Maybe I am, but the title is true.  If I were to give a game ball to someone for the Steelers win, it wouldn't be Ben Roethlisberger, Shaun Suisham, Heath Miller, Ike Taylor, or any other play.  No there would be 3 main game balls, and they would go to Mike Tomlin, Todd Haley, and Dick Lebeau.

I have been a harsh critic for the Steelers' coaching staff...all of them.  I've ripped Mike Tomlin, Dick Lebeau, and especially Todd Haley.  However, you have to give credit where credit is due.  I give Tomlin tons of credit for the job he has done with the team morale and keeping the players focused on the task at hand.  The Steelers could have easily slipped into mediocrity after starting the year 0-4, but during the bye week Tomlin kept the team focused, and the team has responded with 2 straight wins against quality competition.  Mike Tomlin isn't the best game manager, but his motivational techniques have worked so far this season, and he will have to remain on his "A Game" for this team to make something out of nothing.

Dick Lebeau is hard to criticize.  The man is a Hall of Famer and a top notch coach...period.  However, sometimes he tends to out think himself and become too predictable in his defensive play calling.  That was not the case yesterday.  The Steelers did something that the Ravens never expected...they played a TON of nickel defense.  They kept the Ravens guessing with players all standing at the line of scrimmage, using rookie Shamarko Thomas as a safety / CB in those situations, and were blitzing off the edges more in this game than they have all season.  Don't think this effected the Ravens?  It certainly did.  The corner pressure from Lamarr Woodley and the defensive backs blitzing caused Flacco to constantly be out of rhythm and never get into a groove as an offense.  One of the best decisions that Lebeau made was to deploy a "spy" on the Ravens running backs.  On passing downs you saw the Steelers most versatile defender, Lawrence Timmons, keyed on Ray Rice.  Rice got his yards, but he didn't have that back breaking play that seemed to turn the tide in the game.  No, Lebeau left the usual play book and put some wrinkles in, and it made a HUGE difference in the game.

No one should get more credit this morning that Todd Haley and the offensive coaching staff.  His wrinkles were ones that had the Ravens guessing.  What was more impressive?  Using the wildcat offense?  Deploying extra tackles to open up running lanes?  Showing balance for the first time this year?  How about all of them?!  The Steelers for the second week in a row look like an offense that has the capabilities to be 2 things: 1 - Dynamic and 2 - Unpredictable.  The latter is the most exciting.  The Steelers have utilized gadget plays, run screens, deployed the Wild Cat offense, and even have had WRs throwing the football.  If you are unpredictable, the defense is constantly guessing, and that is EXACTLY what happened on Sunday against a good Ravens defense.  The Ravens were never able to "pin their ears back" and get after the QB like they want.  The Steelers stayed with the running game, and putting Guy Whimper and Mike Adams in the lineup to help open running lanes made a huge difference (did I really just type that?).  The Steelers rushed for over 100yds as a TEAM for the first time this season, and it couldn't have come at a better time.  Throw statistics out the window, the Steelers offense played a great and a lot of that success is due to Todd Haley.

There are a lot of Haley haters out there, and rightfully so, but hopefully SteelerNation realizes that you should be criticized when its warranted, and given praise when praise is due.  Todd Haley and the rest of the Steelers' coaching staff all deserve praise on this Monday after the Steelers beat the Ravens 19-16 at Heinz Field to move to 2-4 on the season.

Mike Tomlin Talks About The Steelers Big Win over Baltimore

Vote Troy 2014

Today's @Steelers Win made possible by @HSforMen's Troy Polamalu. Help get Troy to the Pro Bowl by voting!!

Vote Troy 2014

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Intimidation

@Steelers get a HUGE WIN today! @TPolamalu was a big reason why! Vote @HSforMen's Polamalu for the Pro Bowl!

Intimidation

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Pittsburgh Steelers vs Baltimore Ravens - PREDICTION

Today at 4:25 the Pittsburgh Steelers will host the Baltimore Ravens in a pivotal AFC North match up.  A game that carries a ton of significance besides just another grudge match between the Steelers and Ravens.  If the Steelers are able to pull out a victory at Heinz Field, they will advance to 2-4 on the season and would be only 1 win behind the Ravens in the standings.  However, if the Ravens were to win in enemy territory, they would make the Steelers "hole" that they've dug for themselves a 6 foot grave.  Looking at the matchup, the Steelers and Ravens are very evenly matched, but I'll take a look at the matchup and give you a prediction...

Offense
- Between the Steelers and Ravens the offensive side of the football leaves a lot to be desired.  Both teams have flashes of brilliance, and times of down right atrocious football.  Looking at the rosters, its actually tough to decide who would have the edge here, but believe it or not I am giving the nod to the Steelers.  To me, Heath Miller and Antonio Brown will give the Ravens D fits today
Advantage - STEELERS

Defense
- The Steelers defense finally got their first turnovers of the year last week, but was it too little too late?  The Ravens defense has done a great job getting after the QB with Suggs and Dumervil and their DLine has played well so far this season.  The Ravens secondary is their weak point, but the Steelers will have to be able to run the ball to ease the Ravens pass defense.

Advantage - RAVENS

Special Teams
- The Steelers special teams has been a bright spot for the team this year, but when it comes to splash plays, they have had ZERO.  The Ravens special teams also has been solid, but its tough to give the nod to one team over the other (don't be surprised if this game doesn't come down to a big play on special teams one way or another)

Advantage - PUSH

Coaching
- Rumors of turmoil in the Baltimore locker room aren't new for the Ravens.  Last year that turmoil lead to a Super Bowl victory.  The Steelers weren't allowed to play games in the locker room and now they finally won a game.  This game doesn't need any extra motivation from the coaches, but when it comes to playing in Pittsburgh without a home victory yet, I like Coach Tomlin getting his crew ready for this huge game.

Advantage - STEELERS

PREDICTION
- These games are always close in the score column.  Blowouts in this matchup since 2005 are able to be counted on one hand.   I think this game will certainly follow suit.  An early lead will benefit either team, but especially the Steelers playing at home.  Look for a big play to make the difference in this game for either team.

STEELERS - 20
Ravens - 17

Steelers vs Ravens - Video Preview (TribLive Radio)

The NFL Breast Cancer Awareness is a JOKE

Let me start this by saying this: I do NOT have an issue with the NFL, Breast Cancer, Breast Cancer Awareness, Susan G. Komen, or any other foundation that raises money for the cure of a disease that has affected so many lives. All of those organizations by themselves serve their purpose to the fullest.  However, with that said, I have always had a problem with the NFL and their "October is breast cancer awareness so we will have our players parade around in highlighter pink cleats, gloves, towels, chin straps..." I could never pin point why I had such a disdain for this month of October in the NFL.  After all, the NFL is doing something good by selling pink items, gear the players wore, and offering items in pink that normally wouldn't be available.  The money raised would go to the American Cancer Society...the question is, what could possibly be wrong with this?  Well, as it turns out, plenty could be wrong with this.

In the past, when the NFL first started their "pink fest" campaign I looked at it logistically and saw that there was no way the NFL was truly concerned with breast cancer awareness other than just labeling the month and putting on a show.  A true publicity stunt.  Nothing less, and nothing more.  Did it hurt that they brought awareness to the cause even if not money?  Of course not, but when the NFL is a billion (yes, I said BILLION) dollar industry, shouldn't and couldn't they be doing more?  The answer to that is a resounding yes.  Then the other day I stumbled upon a report by Sports Illustrated.  The report solidified my stance on the NFL's monthly Breast Cancer Awareness nonsense.  Let me give you some of the details (per SI.com):

"...the breakdown of how the money from sales of the apparel gets distributed is as follows: 50 percent to the retailer; 37.5 percent to the manufacturer; 8.1 percent to the American Cancer Society for research; 3.24 percent to the administration at the Society; and 1.25 percent to the NFL."

Now let me say that the 1.25% that the NFL brings in is not chump change.  When the NFL makes around 8 billion dollars a calendar year, any percentage of profit will carry a heavy monetary note with it...even just 1%, but still the fact that the NFL parades themselves as the selfless organization that is "giving back" is off base.  The NFL is all about perception.  They are a brand, or "The Shield" as some call it, that does not dare tarnish the league name.  The league gets plenty of bad publicity from the rule changes, lawsuits, and players "acting a fool" off the field (just to name a few).  This is a publicity stunt to keep the NFL's name in a positive light.  A way for the league to say "Hey, look at us!  We are doing good!"  Nonetheless, I see it as nothing more than opening up Pandora's box in terms of assistance to organizations that could highly benefit from the same support that the Breast Cancer Awareness gets in the month of October from the National Football League.

Last week's Thursday night football game pitted the Chicago Bears against the New York Giants.  As I watched  a portion of the game I couldn't help but notice Bears' receiver Brandon Marshall sporting some funky lime green cleats.  Unknown to me why he was doing such a thing, I reached out to some Bears fans I know on Twitter and asked them what was going with the cleats.  They told me how the month of October is not just Breast Cancer Awareness month, but also Mental Health Awareness month.  It was reported long ago about Brandon Marshall's personal history with mental issues.  He has been diagnosed with "Borderline Personality Disorder" shortly after joining the Bears organization.  Turns out, lime green is the color of the metal health awareness just as pink is the color for breast cancer awareness.  The NFL does not endorse mental health awareness and therefore slapped Marshall with a $10,500 for his green cleats.  Marshall said that whatever fine he gets for wearing the cleats he will send to support mental health awareness. 

With that, the NFL is back at their crooked ways.  Simply because the NFL does not "endorse" (or should I say "profit") from anything other than the pink of breast cancer awareness, it fines players trying to support their own cause.  I understand a uniform and the reason for sticking to a uniform, but at the same time aren't there causes that the NFL could be supporting along with Breast Cancer?  This is what I was talking about when opening up Pandora's box of "supporting causes" the NFL started with the pink-parade in the month of October.  I'm a solution based man, and I have a solution to this issue.  The NFL makes enough money that they could paint the field, have commercials, have players endorse organizations and they would provide MONEY (not memorabilia) to individual organizations that will go a lot further than selling a "pink brand" like they do for  the month of October.  All in all, if you ask me, its just another crooked move by a crooked organization that is only concerned about one thing...public perception.

Steelers Defense vs Ravens Offense - BREAKDOWN

Its Time for Troy to Get the Ball In His Hands this Sunday...

In this second installment of the Steelers vs Ravens breakdown, we analyze the top 5 story lines that face the Steelers Defense going against the Ravens offense.  Time to simplify...

- No Big Plays - The Steelers are a team that is built to keep the play in front of them.  Don't allow the big run, stop the swing pass from going the distance, and never let a WR behind anyone.  Obviously, situations happen where mistakes are made, but the Steelers usually minimize those mistakes.  Last game against the Jets the Steelers created 2 turnovers that erased some pretty big mistakes made by the defense.  Not to mention the potential for a huge play down the middle of the field where Troy Polamalu got caught guessing and Geno Smith over threw his receiver.  Joe Flacco might not be "Elite", but he isn't going to miss on that many throws.  The Steelers need to keep the plays in front of them...plain and simple.

- Stop the Run - So the Ravens are tied with the worst Yards Per Carry in the NFL with a 2.7 ypc average. Don't think for a second that this Baltimore team is going to come out and just throw the ball all over the field.  Only bad things happen when that starts to transpire.  The Ravens will try and establish the run to back the defense off Joe Flacco and allow the plays to be made through the air.  The Steelers have been okay against the run, and okay is a correct word to use.  After all, this defense doesn't completely shut down anything anymore.  The Steelers are 22nd in the NFL allowing 114yds per game on the ground.  When was the last time the Steelers did that??  I don't even want to look.  Just know that if the Steelers want to win Sunday, they need to shut down the run game of the Ravens.

- Force the Mistake - Too often the Steelers simply sit back and wait for someone like Troy Polamalu to make a tremendous play or to guess correctly.  The Steelers desperately need to win the turnover battle to win this football game and they can't just wait for it to happen.  The 2 turnovers that they have caused this season (both against Geno Smith and the Jets) were forced turnovers.  It wasn't like Geno Smith just threw  a bad ball.  No, the Steelers were pressuring the QB and forced the poor throw.  That is what needs to happen if the Steelers want to make the Ravens pay when they come to town this Sunday.

- Get Out of Your Own Way - Anyone else think the Steelers sometimes out smart themselves?  Maybe its time for more of a standard look this Sunday.  Keep Troy Polamalu away from the line of scrimmage except in key situations, let him roam the secondary making plays, and send the blitz when the time calls for it.  Dick Lebeau is an innovator, but at the same time can outsmart the wrong team.

- Give the Crowd Something to Cheer For - SteelerNation is starving for a home win.  I was present for the last home game when the Steelers lost to the Bears and it was sad.  I saw fans (probably privileged season ticket holders) leave the game in the first quarter.  Let me say that again....LEAVE IN THE FIRST QUARTER.  Heinz Field was just waiting for "Renegade" to be played and to get the place JACKED UP, but the Steelers gave up too many big plays and turned the ball over too many times for the Steelers to get their first home win of the season.  That doesn't mean it can't happen this Sunday.  Make plays early to get the crowd involved, and never let them sit in their seats again.  What better opponent to get the first win at home against...the hated Baltimore Ravens.

Miss the Steelers Offensive Breakdown vs the Ravens Defense?  Just CLICK HERE