The 2008-2009 opened with a resounding victory over the Houston Texans. It just wasn't the units and players that you expected to perform, it was the much maligned offensive line and special teams coverage that did great jobs today. In the grand scheme of things, this is just he first game and there is a long way to go, but it is always good to get off on the right foot, and the Steelers did just that.
Steelers Offense- If WIllie Parker hadn't silenced the worries about his broken leg before today, consider them silenced. Parker had a remarkable day, 138 and 3 touchdowns. I have wondered many times in this space why the Steelers won't trust Parker inside the redzone to carry the ball in. Apparentely that is a thing of the past, as Parker went in between the tackles, and made people miss and powered through people. Ben Roethlisberger had a very Ben Roethlisberger day. Not stats that jump out at you, but extremely efficent and in full command of his offense. 13 for 14, two touchdowns, and his only incompletion was a throw away. He didn't hold the ball too long for the most part, and his quick drops and throws really negated the Texans rush. Hines Ward continues to soldier on, two more TDs to his credit. Like getting Heath involved early and often, but they seemed to go away from him as the game went on. But, how could you not be pleasentlu surprised at the play of the offensive line. They haven't had much time together as a unit, but that didn't show. They did have the hiccup of the two Mario Williams sacks, one which lead to a fumble. But, they kept Ben clean other then that, and opened up some big holes for Parker. The line was given a big challenge to start out with along with all the questions they have faced in the off-season, and they met the challenge. Hopefully this is the rule more then the exception.
Steelers Defense- After getting the favorable spot on the Texans first drive, the Steelers stiffled the Texans. Andre Johnson had 112 yards receiving, but didn't have many big plays. LaMarr Woodley look like the type of breakout talent that most people have him pegged as, as he got the trifecta of a sack, interception, and fumble recovery. The interception was especially nice as he jumped the route and brought it in with one hand. James Harrison continued his strong play from last season, as he had three sacks, and a forced fumble. James Farrior combined with the unlikely partner of Nick Eason for a sack. That is the type of pass rush that the Steelers have to have through this season. Casey Hampton showed no ill effects from his training camp punishment, and neither did Aaron Smith coming off of injury. Speaking of coming off of injury, Troy Polamalu looked fine, as he snagged an interception, already topping his total from last season. The Texans added on touchdowns in garbage time, but you had to be very impressed with the defensive the Steelers put forth.
Steelers Special Teams- Like the offensive line, the much maligned kick coverage team did a fantastic job today. They completely botteled up Andre Davis, allowing no big returns. The special teams were actually getting down field, busting the wedge, and knocking people out. Can't remember the last time I saw that on a consistent basis from the Steelers during a game. Mewelde Moore only had one punt to return so the jury will still be out on him. Mitch Berger wasn't great, but he wasn't awful either. Jeff Reed converted his lone field goal attempt.
Steelers Coaching- Mike Tomlin pushes his record in openers to 2-0, and you could tell that he was itching to be coaching in a game situation again. The oft-criticised Bruce Ariens had a solid game plan today. Calling several quick 3-step drops and throws put the offense in situtions where they could succeed, and largely negated the Texans pass rush. Also, hopefully giving Willie the ball as much as they did in the redzone is a sign of things to come. #### LeBeau bought plenty of pressure to bear on Matt Schaub, and got a good jump on raising the 2007 sack total. and getting three turnovers was nice as well.
Ah, the sweet return of Steelers football. The Penguins gave us fans a hell of a ride despite losing in the SCF, and the Pirates were, uh, the Pirates again. But, nothing compares to Steeler football, and we are under 24 hours away from the start of the 2008-09 season. The Steelers start at home against a kind of tricky opponent. The Houston Texans are not the same squad the Steelers mauled in the second week of the 2005 season. The Texans have vastly improved on defense, and most experts think they could compete for a playoff spot if they weren't in the AFC South, and even then some have them doing so. But the Steelers have won five straight season openers, the longest such streak right now in the NFL, and haven't lost the home opener since 2000.
Steelers offense vs. Texans defense- Line play is always important, but who wins this battle of the trenches will win this game. It is no secret that the Steelers offensive line struggled mightily last season, allowing 47 sacks. The line will get a huge test to start out with, as the Texans boast 14 sack man Mario Williams, Amobi Akoye, and DeMeco Ryans. Down the stretch teams hammered the Steelers with pressure through the middle, and the Texans will obviously be doing the same. New center Justin Hartwig is sure to get a baptism by fire, as well as new LG Chris Kemeoatu. Those two and Kendall Simmons have to make a statement that the o-line won't be pushed around like it was last season. As solid as the front-7 is, the Texans are vaunrable in their secondary. They protect it by using their front-7 pressure, but they are against one of the best if not the best QBs in the league in extending plays, Ben Roethlisberger. Big Ben is coming off a huge year in '07, and will look to pick up right where he left off. Rushing yards could be at a premium even with a fully healthy Willie Parker, so the offense has to make plays down the field to forced the Texans back on their heels. I have said that they are few linebackers that can match up with Heath Miller, well Ryans is one of those. It should be curious if they use him to take away Miller or rush him. I look for the Steelers to try to get a big play early, probably a deep pass to Santonio Holmes to try to set a tone for the game. That could open up more things for the offense, including running room. Then again, most of what I just typed won't mean much unless they can consistantly protect Big Ben.
Steelers Defense vs. Texans Offense
The Steelers defense absolutley abused the Texans the last meeting, but that was three years ago. The Texans offense is better then it was then, but it didn't take a gigantic leap forward. Matt Schaub was once the league's most coveted backup, and had an injury-plauged first year as the Texans starter. The once most porious offensive line in the league has gotten much better. While the Steelers have to get pressure on the quarterback, they have to succeed at getting to the quarterback. The Steelers had only 35 sacks last year, down 12 from the previous year. That total has to rise, and they can get off to a good start here. James Harrison is looking for another big year after his 2007 breakout year, but his teammate across the way, LaMarr Woodley, is looking to be this year's version of Harrison. Woodley was picked by the Sporting News to be this year's defensive breakout star, and the praise isn't unwarrented. In a little more then 70 snaps that Woodley was a part of last seaon, he recorded six sacks, including two in the playoff game against Jacksonville. I am curious to see how much playing time Lawrence Timmons will get. Timmons was a monster in camp and pre-season. He isn't starting, but a big showing when he does get in could really force the coaches hand. The Texans biggest weapon is without question their Pro Bowl WR Andre Johnson. Ike Taylor and Deshea Townshend are solid cover corners, but Johnson is among the league's elite at reciever. Taylor usually draws the tough matchups, and usually performs well. If the defense can get pressure and keep the big play to Johnson, they should be successful. The Texans have a decent stable of running backs, but it should be nothing the Steelers can't handle. Texans rookie Steve Slaton had some big games at Heinz Field while in college at West Virginia, but he will find that he defiantely isn't in college anymore.
Special Teams- No unit outside of the offensive line has been more scrutinized then the kick coverage teams. Like the offensive line, they will get a big test right off the bat with Andre Davis. Davis returned three to the house last year, including two in one game. And if memory serves me correct, he returned a punt for a touchdown against the Steelers when he played for the Browns in 2002. The Steelers can't allow short fields for the Texans, and keeping Johnson bottled up is a big key to winning this game. Mewelde Moore will get his first look at returning for the Steelers, as well as Mitch Berger punting the ball.
It is that time of year again, as another fruitless Pirates summer gives way to the glorious return of Pittsburgh Steelers football. The 76th season for the Black and Gold looks to be a daunting one, but its not the automatic death sentence that a lot people think it is. No two ways about, the Steelers schedule is the toughest in the league with some brutal stretches in it, but this is a veteran laden team that knows how to win. Here is a position by position breakdown of the 2008 team looking to defend their AFC North crown, and make another run at the Super Bowl.
QB- Ben Roethlisberger Backups: Byron Leftwich, Dennis Dixon, Charlie Batch (IR)
With Big Ben, the Steelers have a true prize at starting QB. While he isn't held in as high of a regard as he should be league and nation wide, his numbers spell out an elite quaterback. Second in passer rating to only Brady last year, set the franchise TD pass record, .789 winning percentage (39-16) third among active QBs, and he needs 64 more passes to qualify for the alltime career passer rating record, and when he does he will 5th alltime. He has become a true leader on the team as well as its biggest playmaker. Quite simply nobody moves out of the pocket and can create on the run better then Big Ben. Even if he you think he is just a manager of the offense, you can't scoff at the fact that he simply wins. Said it last year, and I will say it again, the Steelers will go as far as Big Ben can take them. Byron Leftwich is a nice veteran option to go to as a backup. Still has to learn the offense, but hopefully we have plenty to do that. Dennis Dixon had a decent camp and pre-season, but has a lot to learn. It seems like the Steelers would just rather him focus on his QB duties then using him any slash role.
RB- Willie Parker Backups: Rashaard Mendenhall, Gary Russel, Mewelde Moore
Coming into camp, people had big question about Willie Parker's health after suffering a broken leg late last season. Parker put all doubts to bed with a fine camp and pre-season, showing no ill effects from the injury. Parker is an explosive threat, but I still don't know why the Steelers won't trust him at the goaline. His size doesn't show his strength and grit that he runs with. It is very strange that while he was leading or at top of the league in rushing, he was near the bottom in touchdowns. The team's first round pick Mendenhall has showed flashes of ability, but has shown more a disturbing trend of not being able to hold onto the ball. If Mendenhall wants to contribute anyway this year, he must learn to secure the ball. He won't be saddled with a big load, but that doesn't mean the Steelers don't expect great things out of him. Moore will the third down back, but is being more counted on in the kicking game. Gary Russel should see sparse playing time on offense, but will be on both kick coverage units.
FB- Carey Davis
The team's only fullback this year and last was ok his first year. But he wasn't making anybody forget the solid Dan Krieder. Davis does have more of an ability to carry the ball and catch out of the backfield which is appealing to coordinator Bruce Ariens.
OT- Willie Colon, Marval Smith Backups: Tony Hills, Trai Essex, Max Starks
Willie Colon wasn't overwhelming in his first year, and really struggled with speed rushers. Colon again was able to hold off Starks for the starting job. Colon can be physical, but he also has to keep his man in front on him. Has to backup the claim of the Steelers line not being a question mark any more. Smith is in the last year of his contract, and the veteran another solid year last year. Health always seems to be a question with him, and he must focus on staying on the field. Max Starks will mysteriously be payed 7 million dollars to backup this year, as this year seems destined to be his last in a Steeler uniform. Nobody is quite sure why, but Starks and head coach Mike Tomlin have never gotten along, and Starks is yet to get out of his doghouse despite some fine play in spot starts last year. Essex is also in the last year of his deal, and he to has shown ability in spot starts. If he is pressed into action, how he plays will determine if he bought back. Fourth Round Pick Tony Hills impressed no one in camp, and was lucky to make the team.
OG- Chris Kemeoatu, Kendall Simmons Backup: Darnell Stapleton
One of the areas where the Steelers can simply not afford an injury of any kind. Chris Kemeoatu has big shoes to fill, as the departed Alan Faneca left quite a legacy LG. Kemeoatu certainly has the size(6'3, 344) but it remains to be seen if he can be as good in space as Faneca was. The LG in particular is ask to pull a lot in the Steelers running game, and Kemeoatu has to step up. Kendall Simmons can be either good or very bad. A bit too often he is very bad. He must be more consistent as a lot ot teams were able to exploit the Steelers line by rushing the middle of it. Darnell Stapleton is loved by the coaching staff for his ability to play guard and center.
C- Justin Hartwig
The Steelers have now had nearly as many centers the last 3 years then they had the previous 40. Sean Mahan had a very poor year in '07, lost the job to Hartwig, voiced his displeasure, and was shipped out. He won't be missed. Hartwig has to stabilize the line, as like I said before, the line was exploited with big nose tackles and heavy blitzes up the middle. Hartwig has resposibilites in this offense that he hasn't had previously, such as line and blitz pick ups. Hartwig has to lead the pass blocking, as the Steelers simply cannot afford Big Ben hitting the ground 47 times again.
Hines Ward in the warhorse of the offense. No other reciever puts a fear in DBs in run blocking like Ward does. Just ask Ed Reed. Ward still makes the tough catches across the middle, and argueably the best reciever in Steelers history is still trucking. Santonio Holmes seems poised for a breakout year. Holmes is the Steelers big play threat, as his speed stretches the field. After a slow start his rookie season, he has developed a great repore with Big Ben, and his favorite target to find while scrambbling. Nate Washington overcame a dropping problem early last season to become a solid No. 3. Sweed didn't wow anybody in pre-season, and has played himself out of a bigger role. But, thats not saying he can't get a bigger role as the season goes on. Dallas Baker worked hard to make the team this year, and could see some playing time.
TE- Heath Miller Backups: Matt Spaeth, Sean McHugh
Heath Miller has seen a bigger role as his career has gone on, and now is the time to let his loose. Miller is big weapon that I still feel is underused. In the playoff game against Jacksonville, Miller could not be stopped. Quite simply there are few linebackers that can match up with him. Spaeth disgressed as the season went on, and saw less and less playing time. He is a big goaline target, but he has to work on the other areas of his game. Sean McHugh was just signed to the Steelers, and is more then anything a depth signing.
NT- Casey Hampton Backup: Chris Hoke
Casey Hampton was the story of training camp, as he showed up out of shape and was immediately banished to lone workouts while the rest of the team practiced. Time will tell if he public airing out will effect Hampton's play, but he has seemed to get the message. He is still a force in the middle, and among the elite NTs in the game. Chris Hoke was once again a solid backup, and will again see time on third down and pass rushing situations.
The old saying goes that you don't know what you got until its gone, proved no truer when Aaron Smith went down with a torn pectoral muscle. Smith was long the most undervalued part of the Steelers defense, and his worth was truely seen as the line was repeatedly gashed in his absence. Smith is healthy now, and he must stay that way. Keisel didn't seem to live up to all the special game planning done for him, as he had few big plays last year. He once again will be moved around a lot, but has to make more plays to justify that. He is still solid against the run. The Steelers graybeard Travis Kirschke refuses to be put out to pasture despite lackluster when he was forced into a starting role last year. Roye is back in a Steelers uniform after 10 years in Cleveland exile. Him and Eason will be better suited if they are not forced into starting roles.
LB- James Farrior, LaMarr Woodley, Larry Foote, James Harrison Backups: Lawrence Timmons, Bruce Davis, Keyaron Fox, Donovan Woods, Andre Frazier
James Farrior returns again to quarterback the Steelers defense, and he recieved an extension on the basis of leading the team in tackles again as long as sacks last year. Larry Foote has been nothing but solid for the Steelers, but right now he just holding the spot for Timmons. James Harrison was last year's breakout star as he made the Pro Bowl and was the team MVP. Big things again will be expected out of him. LaMarr Woodley came on strong late last season, and his two sacks in the playoff game give him momentem for this year. The sack total has dropped each of the last two seasons, and Woodley and Harrison have to play a big part in getting it high again. No player impressed more in the pre-season then for the team then Lawrence Timmons. He was seemingly always around the ball, blowing up, and finishing plays. It just seems a matter of time before he is starting. Davis, Fox, Woods, and Frazier should all see time on special teams. Fox especially looked impressive in that area.
S- Troy Polamalu, Ryan Clark Backups: Tyrone Carter, Anthony Smith
This is potentially a big question area. Troy Polamalu is coming off a camp and pre-season where he saw basically no time with a hamstring problem. Injuries hampered him last season, as his dynamic play-making ability seemed slowed. He is coming into this season cold, and could have be slower to game speed. Ryan Clark seems fully healthy after a blood disorder which caused the removal of his spleen. Clark's absence seemed more glaring as the season went on. Tyrone Carter again filled in nicely in the nickle and dime packages, as well as starting for Polamalu. Oh, Anthony Smith. If only he would get his head on straight and keep his mouth shut, he would be a fine player. His biggest problem is that he refuses to be humbled and shamed. He still hits like a truck, but he has to work on his coverage abilities.
CB- Deshea Townshend, Ike Taylor Backups: Bryant McFadden, Anthony Madison, William ####
Deshea Townshend just refuses to relant his starting spot at RCB. Year in, year out Deshea just remains consistent as ever. Old Stone Hands Ike Taylor could be at the top of interception rankings every year if he could only hold onto the ball. That being said, he still is a underrated cover corner, as Chad Johnson has still yet to catch a TD with Ike on him. Bryant McFadden has yet to take the starting job, but I think that has more to do Deshea's play then any failings of his. William #### has come along steadily, and is becoming a good player. Anthony Madison still mainly contributes on special teams, and he might be the Steelers best player there.
P- Mitch Berger, Daniel Sepulveda (IR)-
Losing Sepulveda stings, but having a former Pro Bowler take his place isn't a bad option. The veteran beat out Paul Ernster for the spot and will also hold for Jeff Reed this season.
K- Jeff Reed-
Was very good for the Steelers last year, and he above any other, seems to have tamed the savage Heinz Field. Made two game winners in the pre-season, and continues to make all the kicks asked of him.
Special Teams- Coverage units were a huge problem last year. As much focus was put on them, things just weren't working. That has to change this year. Field postition is always critical and the coverage units always seemed to give up big returns when it mattered the most. Kick returning was also a problem last year. Plenty of canidates were given a shot in camp, and none overwhelmed. Mewelde Moore was handle the duties mainly, and while he doesn't have to be Devin Haster, he at the very least can't consistantly get short returns.
Sunday opened the second edition of Camp Tomlin, and the 76th season of Pittsburgh Steelers football. This edition will be the shortest the training camp the Steelers have had in quite awhile, as it is only scheduled to last three weeks. Some very important work needs to be done in that time, as the Steelers have to avoid the late fade of last season. Here are the biggest questions heading into this training camp.
1. The Lines- Without question, those were the two biggest weak spots on the club at the end of last season. The offensive line was in disaray for most of the season last year, and injuries really hurt the defensive line. Justin Hartwig was a nice under the radar signing made by the Steelers. Tomlin has said that the battle for center between and Sean Mahan should be a heated one. Unless he is referring to the temputure outside, it shouldn't be a heated one at all. Mahan looked lost at center last year, and was he played ranged from average to totally ineffective. The loss of Alan Faneca has been bemoaned all over, but I leaning towards the Steelers letting him go a la Joey Porter, just as he play was beginning to slip. Chris Kemoutu is big and has a nasty mean streak, but I can't seem him being asked to pull as much as Faneca did. Marvel Smith and Kendall Simmons are entrenched at LT and RG respectively, and really shouldn't be pushed at all. An interesting battle should be Max Starks and Willie Colon. Starks lost his RT job to Colon in training camp last year. Colon did a decent job, but Starks made of the best of his benching, as when he was called upon to fill in for the injured Smith at LT, seemed to get his 2005 form back. Couple that with the Steelers putting the transitional player tag on Starks, paying him 7 million for the this up-coming season. I really can't see the Steelers going the Browns with Brady Quinn, as in paying a player a bunch of money to sit the bench.
The defensive line might be an even bigger question. Make no mistake, this is the one area where the Steelers simply can't afford any injuries. Not only are all the starters 30+, but so are all of the backups. Casey Hampton has already caused a stir by showing up out of shape and failing the conditioning tests. He has been put on the PUP list and Tomlin has said he will not get off until he is fit enough. That is omnious start to camp for the a unit that unbattled last year. Aaron Smith, long underrated for his play and overall value to the defense, is coming off a torn bicep injury that sidelined him for the reminder of the season last year. That loss was devestating to the line, as the Steelers had no able replacement for him then, and still don't now. Smith is a lynchpin for the Steelers D, and cannot miss any time whatsoever. Brett Keisel had a solid year, but all the special game planning that was done for him by the coaching staff never really materialized. It would be nice if Bruce Davis steps in and is able to contribute right off the bat, but he is really going to have to put on a show for that to happen.
2. Linebackers- The unit that is the feature of the 3-4 defense has been underwhelming the last couple of years. The last two years the Steelers have seen their sack total drop, and some lackluster play for the LB corp is a big reason why. But the Steelers will have at least one new starter there, and that one person is ready to make an impact. LaMarr Woodley didn't see a lot of playing time until the end of last season, but he made it count. In the 80 snaps he was a part of, he collected four sacks, two of which came in the playoff game against Jacksonville. James Harrison made a leap into the big time last year, replacing Joey Porter with a array of play. The Pro Bowler was the team MVP last year, and they are going to need a similar year out of him this year. The battle for LILB is probably going to be the fiercest of camp. Larry Foote has been nothing but solid for the Steelers, leading them in tackles the last two seasons, but he even thinks his days are numbered with Lawrence Timmons behind him. Timmons never really got going last year due to injuries, but if he is able to match a grasp of the system with his speed, it won't be long until he sees a majority of the snaps. James Farrior is again set at RILB, as he continues to quarterback the defense.
3. Willie Parker vs. Rashard Mendenhall- Willie Parker was in the middle of another great season until he went down with a broken leg. People are wondering if they will be any long term effects from that injury, but from all accounts from the mini-camps Fast Willie showed little effects and looks to be ready to go. Mendenhall, the Steelers first round pick, isn't as explosive as Willie is, but has his own burst and is more a bruising back. So the question goes, how do you alternate playing time between the two? Do you try to run a formation where the two on the field at the same time as much as possible? If Willie does faulter, is Mendenhall ready to pick up the slack? I think this is still Parker's job for the time being, but I also think that unless he falls completly on his face, Mendenhall is going to get plenty of oppurtunties to see snaps with the first team.
4. Troy Polamalu- The Steelers wild card of their defense has already been put on the PUP list with a hamstring injury. That injury hampered him all season last year and he didn't have the type of explosiveness that he usually has. He was allowed to re-cooperate and train away from the team in California this past off-season. Troy is a veteran of the system and really isn't missing much being out. What is a concern is that he needs to be healthy. The Steelers is at its best when Troy is flying around all over the place, giving opposing offenses headaches. Especially with some the offenses the Steelers will see this year, a healthy Polamalu will be key.
5. Other Position Battles- Is this the year Deshea Townshend finally get displaced of his starting corner spot? Townshend continues to be the rock of the secondary, as all areas of his play remain solid. Bryant McFadden has been pushing him the last couple of years, and needs to have an above average camp if he to wrestle the job for the vet. Ryan Clark is coming off a serious ruptered spleen that forced him out from the middle of the season on last year. Anthony Smith never really recovered from his infamous guarantee and eventual emberassment at the hands of the Patriots last year. If Clark is healthy, he should be able to get his job back. Will the rookie Dennis Dixon show enough to supplant Charlie Batch as Big Ben's backup? I think Batch holds that spot for one more year. I do think Limas Sweed should supplant Nate Washington as the third reciever, and make an already potent Steelers passing attack that much better. For the third down back, new acquisition Mewelde Moore seems to have the inside track, as Carey Davis never stood out at any point last year.
6. Special Teams- Mike Tomlin vowed special teams would be a key point of his first camp, and they were. Unfortnately, their play during the season never reflected all the time put into them. Kick coverage was shotty at best, and gapping at their worst. Two many times, they allowed either touchdowns or big returns, always at key times. The units have to tighten up this year. Kick returning was also lax last year, save one return for a touchdown by Alan Rossum, there wasn't much to speak of. Jeremy Bloom and and Mewelde Moore should battle for that spot. I am not even including Willie Reid in that battle as I am sure that this camp will be his last as a Steeler.
Long time Steelers color analyst Myron Cope passed away this morning at 79. Cope had been battling various health ailments over the last few years, including multiple bouts with pneumonia.
Cope was the Steelers color analyst for 35 years. He worked first along Jack Fleming and then Bill Hillgrove in later years. Cope was known for a very colorful style, coming up with many zany catch phrases, songs, and general craziness from the booth. He hosted a long running and popular radio talk show, and contributed many commantaries to local news stations.
His raspy, high-pitched yelp was his trademark. Once one heard his voice, it was instantly recognizable and unforgettable. In a way, Cope was a kind of mascot for the Steelers over the years. Save the Cheif himself, no one person is more identifiable with Steelers football.
Cope also has the distinction of creating one of most well known and recognizable gimmicks in sports, the Terrible Towel. The Steelers asked Cope if he could come up with something to get the fans involved at the game. A week before a 1975 regular season game, Cope implored people on his radio show to bring a gold towel to the Steelers game that Sunday. The towel waving quickly caught on, and eventually became the mass produced product of the Terrible Towel. While he did create it, Cope didn't have a large cash in on it. Almost all of the proceeds of Terrible Towel sales go to charities that Myron supported. Terrible Towels have been a staple at Steeler games for over three decades, and have become the easiet way to identify the Steeler Nation.
Before Cope became a broadcaster for the Steelers, he was well respected sports writer in Pittsburgh and nationally. Cope wrote pieces for the Saturday Evening Post and Sports Illustrated. His expose on Muhammad Ali is widely considered one of the finest pieces sports journalism ever done. He also wrote a very famous piece on Roberto Clemente that got him a reputation as hypocondriac.
About the truest compliment that I could give Cope is that he was a true Pittsburgh original. Quite simply, there is no one like him and it safe bet that there won't be any one else like him. In a town with some very distinct sports announcers in Bob Prince and Mike Lange, Cope towered above all. You knew you weren't too far from Pittsburgh and Western Pennsylvania when you heard Cope's voice. It was like a homing beacon.
Cope was already missed in booth as he retired after the 2004 season. An attempt to get him to Detroit to announce Super Bowl XL was voided by his poor health. Myron Cope will always be the voice of the Steelers, no matter who comes after him. To all Steeler fans, give your Terrible Towel a wave in memorum. Yoi and double Yoi.
What is the biggest story of the Super Bowl? The Giants win, or the Patriots loss? Hard to say, because neither was given much chance of happening. It is the nature of our sports consuming beast to wax poetic and build up massive amounts of hyperbole on our teams.
The big problem that I had with the Pats is the same that I had with USC in '05. Both teams were crowned champions well before they ever set foot on their respective championship game fields. Both walked away with losses in games of epic proportion.
Now a team can't be that responsible for the coverage that is heaped on it, but they did little to deflect the media's praise. Unlike USC in '05, ESPN was far from the only culprit in the Patriots Greatest Team of All Time nonsense. Just about anybody that covered football for any entity practically fell over themselves praising the Pats.
Now, don't get me wrong. The Patriots were a great team, and the chances are they will be again next year. Spygate or no Spygate, the Pats have accomplished a great deal, and they are the team of this decade. That being said, all the GOAT talk should have been saved for later.
Perfection is a great story. Only one other NFL team can claim it, and just about everybody is sick of them. But, the Patriots act wore thin early. Whether it was countless talking heads claiming the Giants had no chance, to Ron Jaworski claiming the Pats could beat anybody that has ever played the game, or Tony Kornheiser slurpping 19-0 last April.
In 2005 USC was matched up against the greatest college teams of all time by ESPN. The experts consistantly had USC blowing out everybody, while slapping a Texas team that they had yet to beat in the face almost on a daily basis.
Every team seems to go on and on about how they get no respect nowandays. But the Giants could really claim to be. The Boston Hereld was taking pre-orders on a book about the Perfect Patriots, a week before the Super Bowl was even played. The Patriots themselves invited some Giants players to their post-game parties during last week. Teddy Bruschi and Junior Seau's Brokeback Mountain-esqe embrace right after the Pats scored seemed to send the message that it was in the bag with 2:42 left and Giants getting the ball back.
Last night proved that even the Mighty Patriots are failable. Tom Brady had a shaky game at best, while airmailing a pass to Wes Welker and then yelling at him for whatever reason, to throwing the ball about 10 yards out of bounds on that 4th and 13. The genius incarnent Bill Belichick did make a good catch on the 12 men on the field play, but going for it on 4th and 13 and passing up the field goal just wasn't the right move. Plus showing his normal amount of "class" by walking off the field before the game was over, echoing his prize reciever's move against Washington a few years back. The offensive line play was atrocious, and Randy Moss disappeared for much of the game.
This game showed more then anything how hard it is to be a great team and make history. As for the Patriots being the best of all time, not by a long shot. The three championships in four years is impressive, but they have what no other of the great teams they are compared to have: a Super Bowl loss. Couple that with losing in the Divisional Round and AFC Title Game last year, and they fall far behind the 80s 49ers, 70s Steelers, and 60s Packers. Not to mention the crimanally overlooked missing of the playoffs entirely in 2002, and their resume just doesn't stack up.
18-1 is damn good, no doubt about it. But is isn't good enough. They have joined the ranks of the 2005 USC Trojans, 2001 Mariners, 1990 Oakland As, and 1995-96 Red Wings as the teams that had massive regular season success, but had their successive seasons ruined by not following through when it mattered the most. You would be a fool to count out the Pats next year, but last night almost felt like an apex for their run. Maybe it won't be. Tom Brady still has plenty of years left, but that defense aged considerably over the season, and there is no telling how much money Asante Samuel and Randy Moss are going to demand. The Patriots of 2007 aren't the best of all time, as they weren't even the best team for 2007. Wise man once said "IF YOU WANNA CROWN EM, CROWN EM". The Patriots were crowned, and apprentely the crown layed to heavy upon their heads.
Ernie Holmes, member of the famous Steel Curtain and one of the best defensive lines ever, has died in a car accident.
Holmes was involved in a single car accident, in which his car left the road. He was 59.
Ernie Holmes was drafted by the Steelers in 1972, and was with the club until 1977. Holmes was a member of the fabled Steel Curtain, whose name at first only applied to the Steelers defensive front 4 of him, Joe Greene, L.C. Greenwood, and Dwight White. Famous for his arrowhead hair cut, Holmes flew a bit under the radar, but his fellow teammates also credited him for helping out in their successes. He won two Super Bowl rings as part of the teams that won Super Bowls IX and X.
This is another sad addition to the shocking number of former Steelers that have passed away in recent years. Teammates Mike Webster and Steve Courson have passed away in the last few years, along with other Steelers David Little and Justin Stralzyk. I send my sympathies as well for all of Steeler Nation to Holmes' family.
The Steelers gave it a valiant fight, but unfortnately for them the second game with Jacksonville ended up being a carbon copy of the first in many ways. The Steelers put themselves in a big, early hole, had a furious rally, and then couldn't hold when it mattered the most. The Steelers all but handed it to Jacksonville in the first half, handing them all their points on a silver platter. But still there most some questionable calls, from the phantom holding on Sean Mahan, to maybe going for two a bit early, while compounding it with an absolutley moronic play call on a 3rd and 6. This game was kind of a microcosm of all the bad elements of the Steelers play this year, and it cost them. But still, they had the game, and never gave in. I am proud my Steelers effort. This loss stings and is a disappointment, but like all the tough losses before, will not shake my devotion to my team. I am proud to wear my black and gold, and do so year round. I know its cliche, but hey, we'll get 'em next year.
Steelers Offense- I said that the Steelers fate would lie on Ben Roethlisberger, and it truely did. I think Ben knew it too, and that weight really seemed to effect him in the first half. He pressed way too much after the first drive. No two way about it, the two picks by Reshean Mathis were awful decisions by Ben, and were throws that just didn't need to be made. The last pick in the first half really hurt, as the Steelers desperatedly needed those points at that time, and would much later in the game. Give Ben a ton or credit for not folding the tent as he lead the Steelers back, almost on guts alone. He kept drive alives on several key thows, and willed the Steelers back into the game. This game reminded me very much of his first couple of playoff starts, which also came at home. Like those games against the Jets and Pats, he pressed more, and ended having some poor games. In a career year for him, things end on a sour note. The backs were pretty much stopped all night, but Najah had two touchdown runs at the goaline, one which opened the game. Credit Hines Ward. The shots on him on sidelines showed that he was in pain, but he gutted out a warrior effort. He had several huge grabs, one on a deflection from Heath Miller. He had an unbelievable catch on the two point conversion that was unfortanately wipped out by the phantom holding call on Sean Mahan. This game illustrated why I have been begging for Heath Miller to be more involved in the offense. The Jags simply had no answer for him. I don't have the exact number, but he had close to a dozen grabs, one going for a touchdown. Santonio Holmes converted a 4th and 12, and turned it into a touchdown. The offensive line play was as per usual, as once again Ben was under a ton of pressure and sacked five times. This was probably Alan Faneca's last game in a Steelers uniform, and the right side of the line is something that is really going to have be looked at in the off-season. Much kudos to Trai Essex, who performed very well after being thrown right into the fire.
Steelers Defense- Like the first game against the Jags, they couldn't get the key stop when it mattered the most. Granted they weren't given much help, but how can you have no backside cointain on a team that has loved to run draws on you? It was a shame, because that ruined the best effort from them in a long while. Granted, 31 points looks bad, but they were put in tough spots early, and allowed the Steelers to get back into the game with the interceptions. The Steelers constantly heard all week how they couldn't stop Jacksonville's run game, but for the most part, do a great job against Taylor and Jones-Drew. The Jags simply could not drive a long field on them, as they did a good job of pressuring David Garrad. LaMarr Woodley had a key sack, which set up the Steelers taking the lead. James Harrison had a sack, and looks to be the next in the long line of great Steelers linebackers. Even old Stonehands himself Ike Taylor came up with a big interception. But like I said, the one thing that is going to be remembered from this game is giving up 32 yards on 4th and 2 when you had a chance to close the game out. That all but ended it right there, and gift wrapped a game winning field goal for Jacksonville.
Special Teams- It cannot be understated how much the 96 yard kickoff return hurt the Steelers chances of winning the game. That took the wind right out the Steelers sails after a touchdown scoring first drive, and immediately put Jacksonville in the driver seat. I don't know how so much emphasis could be put on special teams like it was this year, and you still have plays like that. Daniel Sepulveda also underhit his last punt, and gave the Jaguars great field position at the midfield. Jeff Reed made his only field goal attempt, and once again, it is a crime he is not going to the Pro Bowl.
Steelers Coaching- Mike Tomlin did a fine job as the Steelers headman in his first year. He motivation trick of running the first game on a loop really seemed to fire up his players. He can take solace in the fact that his first year ended pretty much the same way his predeccessor's did, and he ended up just fine. A division title and making the playoffs is obviously nothing to scuff at. However, he was a bit quick to go for two, and probably should have just kicked the extra point after the attempt was pushed back. Also, I don't about using the first timeout when he did, stopping the clock right then and allowing Jacksonville to wind down the clock for their game winning field goal. I don't know what it is with Bruce Ariens and last minute calls against the Jags. That sweep by Ben was a 10 times worse call then the swing pass to Heath Miller in the first game. Like that call, it all but ended it for the Steelers. That was a give-up call, plain and simple. I know you want something safe, but going ultra-conservative in that instance was just the wrong move, period. You trusted Ben to get you back in the game, but when it matters the most, you hope for stupid #### call, that the Jags were ready for? #### LeBeau called a better game, as his blitzes finally forced pressure and got sacks. His unit tackled better then it has in months, and played with fire that they didn't have the final weeks of the season.
Perhaps no Steelers team that made the playoffs has entered them with as much uncertainity. The Steelers backed into the division championship after having a slogging December, going 1-3. They are also very beat up right now, which is something you really don't want going into the playoffs. Also the most recent injuries have effected the areas where they have struggled the most, pass blocking and run defense. Compound that with the the fact the Steelers are welcoming back the Jacksonville Jaguars, a team that beat them only three weeks ago. The Jaguars did win the physical battles in that game, but the way people talk about it, you would think the Jags beat the Steelers by 37 instead of 7. Combine all the injuries and tough matchup with the Steelers notorious struggles at home in the playoffs, their backs are very much up against it right now. But, the Steelers have shown that they usually play their best when their backs are against the wall and they can come out swinging, and it is pretty tough to beat the same team twice in a season, e####ally since the games are so close apart.
Steelers Offense vs. Jaguars Defense- Make no doubt about it, if the Steelers are to win this game, it will be on the arm of Ben Roethlisberger. Big Ben sat out last week against Baltimore to rest his various injuries. But Big Ben is healthy, and is ready to go. The way people talk about Ben having to lead this team, you would think he would have never done it before. How quickly people forget. Yes, he didn't play that well in the Super Bowl itself, but the Steelers got there mainly because of the play of #7. When the Steelers rallied against the Jags in the first game, it was because of Ben, who threw three touchdowns on the way to tieing the game before Jacksonville won it. Santonio Holmes was limping around a bit in last week's game against the Ravens, but there has been no word of him have problems this week. All the recievers are going to have to be on top of their game, as they are sure to get plenty of chances to make plays. A wildcard could be Nate Washington, as he had three scores the last three weeks of the season. As always, working in Heath Miller would never be a bad thing. The Steelers will be working with their running back by comittee, as Najah Davenport, Carey Davis, and Verron Haynes will all get carries. The Jaguars dominated both lines of scrimmage in the last game, as they were able to get plenty of pressure on Big Ben. The injury to Max Starks wouldn't seem to help things, as the Steelers are down to their third stringer, Trai Essex. Essex has been in the Steelers system for a few years, has made four career starts, and played well last week against Baltimore. The Steelers are going to have pass protect better they have been, because Ben and the passing game are going to be the main threat on offense for these playoffs.
Steelers Defense vs. Jacksonville Offense- This is where the real battle is going to be fought in this game. The Jaguars pushed around and dominated the Steelers from a run standpoint in the first game. Fred Taylor nearly rushed for 150 yards, and Maurice Jones-Drew burned the Steelers on a couple of draw plays. There is no doubt the Jaguars will once again try to win this game on the ground. Also, if the Steelers demonstrate they can win with the passing game, the Jags would obviously want to keep the ball away from them. The Steelers have had huge problems stopping the run in the latter half of the season, which is mainly tied to a tackling problem. The first guy through has to make the tackle, or at least hold him and wait for help. Way too much has the first guy through just completely whiffed on the runner whoever that may be, and the yards piled up by opposing teams show that. David Garrad will be making his first career playoff start, and recent stats go against him. Of the 15 first time starters in the playoffs since 2002, only two have won their debuets, one being Ben Roethlisberger and the other Jake Delhomme. Both Big Ben and Delhomme had those first starts at home. Garrad has performed admirably this year, but the Jags will probably want to put this game on their running backs' legs. Troy Polamalu has not practiced the last couple of days, and at post time, it is not known whether he did today. Losing Polamalu for this game would be a big blow, as his versatility against the run and pass is key the Steelers defense. To win this game, the Steelers will have to find a way to slow down the Jags running game. The Jags will also probably look to make plays in the passing game through play action. The Steelers secondary has to to be on their heels for that, and can't sell out to the run always.
Special Teams- Jacksonville kicker Josh Scobee had a very hard time kicking in the first game at Heinz Field, but the elements won't be as rough for this game. Daniel Sepulveda could be big in terms of field position. The Steelers also have to cover kicks well, because few things can swing a playoff game more then a special teams play.
In a game that ultimately meant nothing for the Steelers, it was still disappointing to lose to the hapless Ravens. The Ravens dominated the Steelers most of the game, but the Steelers were missing some key players, and they weren't giving that much of an effort. The Steelers finished the regular season at 10-6, while might have been good at the beginning of the season, but how the schedule turned out and how the Steelers finished, is a disappointment. It is a worrisome that the Steelers aren't playing their strongest as they enter the playoffs. But everybody gets a clean slate, and the Steelers will host the Jaguars on Saturday, as they get a chance to avenge their loss of a couple weeks ago.
Steelers Offense- You think Ben Roethlisberger isn't valuable to the Steelers? Him sitting out this game illustrated what Big Ben means to his offense, and any potential success this team might have. Charlie Batch started out pretty bad, but rebounded in the fourth quarter and almost lead the Steelers all the way back. Batch locked onto one reciever a bit too much, and just seem to throwing it up at times. Santonio Holmes had a touchdown catch and run reminiscent of the final game winner against the Bengals last year. Cedrick Wilson maybe as an erractic of a reciever as the Steelers have ever had, but he had a very nice catch on a slant for a touchdown. Holmes came up limping late in the game, which is a bit of scare, as the Steelers will need him in the playoffs. Najah Davenport had a couple of nice runs, and scored the first touchdown of the game for the Steelers, plunging in from the run. It seemed a bit weird to me, but the second string guys that the Steelers brought in seemed to be protecting better the first teamers have for a long time. Granted the Ravens were dropping into coverage in the latter half of the game, but Batch had a solid pocket to work with for most of the fourth quarter.
Steelers Defense- The effort here was just deplorable. The sorry Ravens offense put up 27 points, and much of it with ease. Troy Smith easily found recievers, and the first man through almost never made the tackle. That has been the biggest problem for the Steelers, and it continues to be. Backs are too easily getting the second level on the Steelers D, and mostly getting big chunks of yards. Giving up 200 yard plus to Fred Taylor and Maurice Jones-Drew is one thing, but giving up that much to Musa Smith and Cory Ross is without excuse. That 30 yard run Ross had was just disgusting to watch from a Steeler standpoint. Breaks a sorry arm tackle, and then Anthony Smith gets juked out of his shoes. The Ravens converted too many 3rd and longs, including one on a draw. Teams will keep doing that to the Steelers until they prove they can stop it, which they haven't. Ike Taylor let an interception go right through his hands, and then didn't break on a ball where he could have had one. There was also two sloppy offsides calls. LaMarr Woodley got a sack, his first of his career. Tyrone Carter caused a fumble when Derrick Mason was stacked up, which setup a Steelers touchdown.
Steelers Special Teams- Willie Reid's fumble on the opening kickoff set a bad tone for the Steelers in this game. Reid better do some drastic things in the off-season and in camp next year, or he will not be making the team next year. The onside kick caught the Ravens completley off guard, as Jeff Reed has nice kick that popped up in the air was recovered by Nate Washington.
Steelers Coaching- Mike Tomlin rested players that needed to be, but the rest of the team didn't seem prepared for this game. He won his second challege of the year, but then went and made a bad decision to challenge a touchback without really checking with anybody else. Bruce Ariens seemd a bit hamstrung without his main signal caller in the game, and called a bunch of deep throws that aren't suited for Batch. #### LeBeau had better sit down and hammer himself and his defense all this week. There are no two ways about it, the Steelers defense is playing like #### right now. They keep getting beat on the same things, they aren't tackling, and they aren't getting sacks. They had better raise their game, because the team that manhandled them is coming back to the scene of the crime.
Due to an early Christmas present from Jolly Old St. Derek Anderson and his four interceptions, the Steelers wrapped up the AFC North. While this week's game has less meaning, it is not meaningless. The Steelers still can get the third seed in the AFC, but they would need the Raiders to beat the Chargers, and that seems very unlikely. Plus the Steelers are very beat up right now, and could use some rest for their starters. Ben Roethlisberger won't play this Sunday, as he didn't practice the last couple of days. The Ravens are at the end of a very disappointing season, where they went from Super Bowl contenders to picking in the Top 10 of next year's draft. The Steelers haven't won in Baltimore since 2002, and the Ravens will be looking to avenge the embrassing 35-7 beatdown the Steelers put on them earlier in the year. In a similar sitution in 2003, the Ravens had clinched the North, and had really nothing to play for in the final game, but they played all of their starters anyway, as beating the Steelers was that important to them. The Steelers won't do that, and if they can build an early lead, they will probably start pulling players.
Steelers Offense vs. Ravens Defense- Ben Roethlisberger has been beat up this season, and is starting to feel the effects of getting sacked 40+ times. He will sit out this game with Baltimore, and despite a report that he had broken his ankle, it doesn't appear that serious. Charlie Batch has proven to be a very capable backup for the Steelers, as he has thrived in spot starts for the team over the years. The Steelers offensive line has proven an inability to protect Big Ben, and he can move around. Batch isn't the statue that Byron Leftwhich is, but he isn't that far off. The Steelers torched the Ravens deep down the field in the first meeting this season, but keeping Batch upright might mean trying to hit short hitters and intermediate routes. Of course Willie Parker is done for the season, so now the Steelers will relay on three backs to carry the load the rest of the way. Najah Davenport did an excellent job filling for Parker against St. Louis, going for 123 and pair of TDs, rushing and recieving. Fullback Carey Davis will also probably get some carries, as will old friend Verron Haynes, who was just re-signed this week. Bart Scott promised that he would have something for Hines Ward after he put two punishing blocks on Raven defenders in the first meeting. Ward can certainly take care of himself, and he will need to be his normal surehanded self with the backup quarterback in. Nate Washington has been making some plays the last couple of weeks, as he has 3 touchdowns the last two games. The Ravens defense still talks a big game, but quite frankly, they aren't the dominate defense they once were, as they give up big play after big play. They can blame the offense all they want for their struggles, but they need to look hard at themselves in the off-season, and they might not like what they see. The Ravens will of course do what they always do, have a ton of pre-snap movement, and try to confuse Batch with their multiple looks. The Steelers didn't protect all that bad against the Ravens in their first meeting, but Ben also scrambled out of a lot of would be sacks. The Ravens will be coming after Batch, and the Steelers have to find a way to combat that. Marval Smith has back surgery and is expected to be out at least to the Divisional Round if the Steelers get that far. Max Starks has done a very good job filling in for Smith, and should continue that.
Steelers Defense vs. Ravens Offense- The Steelers defense hasn't played very well the last month, but they did do a better job in the second half against the Rams. They did what they weren't doing, stopping the run, wrapping up, and not giving up the big play. The Ravens certainly aren't a great offense, in fact, they aren't even a good one. The Ravens are now down to their third string quarterback from the beginning of the year, Troy Smith. Smith hasn't looked terrible in two games of action, but he also hasn't been much to write home about either. The Ravens will really need to look at their quarterback situation for next year and beyond, but Smith is it for now. Smith has been throwing a lot on the run, as in college, that is what is more comfortable doing. The Steelers have had a big problem getting to the quarterback, as they have exactly 2 sacks the last month. Smith's mobility wouldn't lend itself to fix that, but it won't mean the Steelers won't be blitzing. James Harrison was just named Team MVP this week, and of course will be looking for another big game against the Ravens. Against the team that cut him, Harrison had a career game, going for 3.5 sacks, a interception, and a 2 forced fumbles. Harrison has been dropped into coverage as of late, but you would figure that #### LeBeau would want to unleash him again. The Steelers took the Ravens out of their rushing game in the first meeting by putting them far behind early, and Willis McGahee probably won't play in this game. The Ravens will be looking to get some plays down the field, and the Steelers have to be looking for that. The Ravens don't have the running game right now to grind out a victory, so the Steelers have to guard against the bootlegs and rollouts of Smith's, and potential throws down the field.
Special Teams- The Steelers gave up substanial kickoff returns to the Rams, allowing for short fields for them in the first half. The Steelers will have to limit that, as forcing the Ravens to drive a long field is a adventage to them. Daniel Sepulveda has had a fine rookie campaign, and he looks to have another good game punting the ball.
2007 was an interesting year in city of Black and Gold. There was unusual, sometimes refreshing changes and surprises. There also lingering and staggering disappointments. But like all years, there was plenty of good to go with the bad, and vice versa. Here is a team by team breakdown of the good and the bad in Pittsburgh sports. Here's to looking back at 2007 and hoping for an even better 2008.
Pittsburgh Steelers
The Good- This year brought the rarest of the rare events in Pittsburgh sports, a Steelers head coaching change. A realtive unknown defensive coordinator of the Minnesota Vikings leapfrogged in-house and fan favorite candidates Ken Whisenhunt and Russ Grimm. Of course that man was Mike Tomlin. Tomlin became the first ever black head coach in the history of Pittsburgh sports, when he officially got the job on January 20th. The first ever Camp Tomlin opened in late July, and was a very physical camp. Sometimes there were three-a-day practices. The Steelers jumped out of the gate and pounded the Browns without mercy, 34-7 on opening day. The Steelers would win five of their first six, including shutting out their Super Bowl XL opponents the Seattle Seahawks 21-0. 2007 was a special year, as it marked the club's 75th Aniversary. In what has been a year long celebration, an All Time team was chosen by fans, which included all the greats from the Dynasty 70s and four current players. A gala was held at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center where the team was gathered, and all things Steelers were celebrated. The current Steelers squad threw their own party, and beat the #### out of the rival Ravens on Monday Night Football, 35-7. The Steelers would sweep the Browns in a dramatic comeback effort at Heinz Field, lead my a memorable scramble by Ben Roethlisberger. The team held a share or outright lead of the AFC North all season, and clinched their record 18th Division Title with a loss of the Browns. Mike Tomlin, like his predecessor, will lead his team to the playoffs in his first season. Also, QB Ben Roethlisberger bounced back from the torrent '06 season, and has set the record for most TD passes in a season, breaking Terry Bradshaw almost 30 year club record.
The Bad- All Pro and perrenial Pro Bowl Guard Alan Faneca had a nasty salary dispute with manangement, one that lead to him boycotting a couple of days of mini-camp. Faneca has vowed this will be his last year as a Steeler, and so far, it looks like that will hold. Jeff Hartings retired and was replaced with the very ineffective Sean Mahen. The Steelers so far have only been 3-4 on the road, and only one of those wins come against a club with a winning record. The ugly loss to the Jets has put the team in a late season swoon. Anthony Smith made himself notorious by guaranteeing victory over the Patriots, and then the Steelers got slammed in Foxboro. The Jags then pushed them around, as the Steelers surrended their highest rushing total in 7 years. Ben Roethlisberger had had a career year, but has been on his back the second most times in the league. Willie Parker was also having a career year, but broke his right fibula and will be done for the season. Aaron Smith also suffered a season ending injury. The Steelers haven't played defense all that well in the latter half of the season, giving up 87 points in a three game stretch.
Pittsburgh Penguins
The Good- 2007 was a remarkable year for the Penguins. After losing to Flordia Panthers on January 7th, they wouldn't go pointless in a game until President's Day. Sidney Crosby proved his Next One Status, as he won Points Title and MVP of the league. Evgeni Malkin may not know the English language very well, but he sure can play hockey, as had a steller rookie campaign, finishing with 85 points and winning the Rookie of the Year Award. Jordan Staal, who wasn't even supposed to make the club his first year, became the youngest player to ever record a Hat Trick in a memorable comeback win in Toronto. The Penguins traded for new fan favorites Gary Roberts and Georges Laraque, and they have made a definite impact on the club. The Penguins finished with the third most points in Eastern Conference, their most since 1993, and one of the biggest improvements in from one season to the next ever. They made the playoffs for the first time since 2001, and restored a rabid fanbase to the Mellon Arena. Most importantly, all the off-ice drama involving a possible sell and moving of the club, was finally settled as the Penguins will stay in Pittsburgh, and will have a new arena in 2009-10. So far this season, the Penguins are about where they are when they began their big run last season. Sidney Crosby is still the best player in the league. Tyler Kennedy has proved to be a sparkplug, as has Chris Letang. Letang has two winners in the shootout, and capped the Penguins first ever sweep of the West Coast Canandian teams.
The Bad- The Penguins lost their opening round series 4-1 to the Ottawa Senators, who would eventually represent the Eastern Conference in the Stanley Cup Finals. They just looked overmatched at times, and lost both games at home. The acqusitions of Daryl Sydor and Petr Sykora have worked out stekchedly at best. Marc-Andre Fluery has so far had a very hit and miss campaign, and went down with a severe high ankle sprain. Defensive play has been again, rather hit and miss, and they just lost their best defender Mark Eaton again to a torn ACL. The Penguins have not fared so well inside the Atlantic Division this year, which has gotten substantially tougher.
The Pittsburgh Pirates- It was long overdue, but the Pirates managment changes that needed to be made finally were. Kevin McClathy resigned in June, and Dave Littlefield and Jim Tracy were fired. Also the directors of baseball operations and scoting were let go. An entire new set of personell will lead the Pirates next year, as Frank Coonley will be the new President, Neal Huntington the new GM, and John Russel the new mananger. Tom Gorzelanny proved to be a solid arm, winning 14 games. Matt Capps took over the closer's role in June, and despite few chances, performed very well in it. Xavier Nady lead the club in the major offensive categories. Freddy Sanchez rebounded from a slow start to finish with another solid year at the plate. Najar Morgan and Stephen Pierce looked promising as September callups.
The Bad- The embrassing overly long consectutive losing seasons streak has now reached an incomprehensible 15 straight seasons. The Bucs weren't competitive in a division that begged everybody to be. Major off-season acquisition Adam LaRoche had a dreadful first two months, as he struggled to keep his average above .100. He eventually leveled out, but was mostly inconsistent the rest of the year. Zach Duke continued his decline from his rookie year, as he was hit hard before being out most of the season with an injury. Paul Malohm was awful the first couple of months, but when he figured some things out, he had the worst run support out of any pitcher in the league. Ronnie Paulino was an absolute embrassement behind and at the plate, yet got start after start. Ian Snell fell apart in the second half of the season, wrecking what looked like a promising season. His comments about the Rockies stealing his signs just seemed to be him blaming his struggles on others. The free agent signing of Tony Armas Jr. was an unmitigated diaster. There was the pointless trades for Matt Morris and Caesar Izturis. Jim Tracy showed complete apathy in dealing with his team, and at most times, seemed to not care at all. Pitching coach Jim Colburn continued his mis-manangement of his staff, while picking fights with other players, one very publicy with Jack Wilson. Team defense was appauling, e####ally that of Jason Bay. Bay went into a month long spiril in June, and never really recovered. Middle relieft was hapless, and Solomon Torres compounded his erratic pitching by lauching a complaint against the team, saying they tricked him into signing a below market deal. There was also a fan protest, where some fans rallied before a game, and then walked out.
Penn State Football
The Good- The Nittany Lions beat the #### out of Notre Dame, avenging last season's loss in South Bend. They also thrashed Wisconsin at home. Dan Connor had another strong year, and surpassed Paul Posluzny's record for tackles. Sean Lee looks poised to break that record next year, as he also had a very strong year. Rodney Kinlaw filled in nicely for Austin Scott. Joe Paterno, after a year wait, was inducted in the College Football Hall of Fame.
The Bad- The off the field run-ins with the law are almost too numerous to mention. A fight that involved Chris Baker and Anthony Scirrato lead the whole team having to clean up Beaver Stadium after home games. Austin Scott was charged with rape and left the team. There were also other fights involving players that lead to arrests. Anthony Morelli look poised for a break through, but instead was terribly inconsistent, and played e####ally poorly against against big game opponents. His three turnovers inside the 20 lost a game to Illinois, others he just failed to show up. The loss to Michigan came after that team had lost two in a row and were reeling. Losing the season finale to a poor Michigan State team was just inexcusable. A team that had the talent to compete for a National Title, instead terribly underacheived, and will settle for the Alamo Bowl.
Pitt Football
The Good- LaSean McCoy is the real deal. The freshman running back came out of nowhere to the Panthers lone threat on offense, and even then most defenses had a tremendous time stopping him. He set a new record for yards in a season by a freshman, passing some guy named Dorsett. The team showed some heart in raising up to beat Cincinnati. Scott McKillop was at the top of the Nation in tackles. In the year of the upset, Pitt saved a big one for last, as they went into Morgantown and stunned the Moutaineers. It was a landmark win in the history of the Backyard Brawl, and the first big win for Dave Wannstedt.
The Bad- Pitt suffered big losses to injuries, from WR Derek Kinder at the beginning of the season to Gus Mustakais. They were blown out in back to back weeks by Virginia and UConn. They suffered bad losses to Navy, Louisville, and Rutgers, all which they had a chance to win, but wound up with turnovers inside the 5. Dave Wannstedt struggled for most the season, as he team seemed to be searching for an identity all season. Pat Bostick had a surreal first year, as he left camp to deal with personal problems, returned, and wound up starting for most of the year due to injury and ineffectiveness. The much hailed recruit had a shaky first year at best. They finished below .500 and will miss a bowl for the third consectutive year.
Pitt Men's Baskeball Ball
The Good- Pitt had a nice win over Georgetown at the beginning of the year. They made another deep run in the Big East Tourney, as they deafeated their nemesis Marquette, and had a big comeback win over Louisville to make the Final. They advanced to the Sweet 16, beating Wright State and a very scrappy Virginia Commonwealth team. So far this year, they are 11-0, and got a landmark win over Duke just last week. Freshman DeJuan Blair looks a man-beast, and Lavaunce Fields and Sam Young have continued their strong careers.
The Bad- Pitt continued an alarming trend in the Big East Tournament Final, as they got blown out by Georgetown, while scoring the fewest points in Big East Final history. The loss makes the Panthers just 1-6 in the Final alltime. Shooting seemed to dessert the Panthers at the wrong times, and they were throughly handled by UCLA and old coach Ben Howland in the Sweet 16. The Panthers again couldn't get past the Sweet 16. Aaron Gray was maddingly inconsistent, as he was easily intimidated, and rarely used his sized to his adventage. Lavaunce Fields had an run-in with the law, but has seemed to blow over.
Well, here's to a better 2008, as hopefully the Steelers can make a deep run in the playoffs, and ditto for the Penguins. Hopefully this is the year the Pirates end there losing streak, and start heading in the right direction. Hopefully Pitt can get past its struggles in the Big East Final and the NCAA Tournament. Hopefully LaSean McCoy continues to be a freak, and get he Pitt back to a bowl and respectability. Hopefully Joe Pa gets the Nitts to the top of the Big 10, and to a bigtime bowl while overtaking Bobby Bowden. Should be interesting to see over the next 12 months, and I can't wait to see what will happen. Special thanks to the people who regulary read my blog and for anybody who has dropped in and read it. I know I am not the best of writers, and e####ally not the most clean and gramatically correct, but I have fun doing this. Hope everybody out there has a great Christmas, a Happy New Year, and of course to all, a good night.
