Good Things Going Into Training Camp

[hawaiiansteel]

Good Things Going Into Training Camp:The Black & Gold Glass Is Half Full


A lot of people are already counting out the six time Super Bowl champion Pittsburgh Steelers, even before a single snap has been played in the 2010 NFL season.

The naysayers proclaim that without Roethlisberger for the first four games of the year the Steelers will dig themselves a hole that's too big to get out of.

They say that the defense is old and breaking down, while ignoring returns and additions, not to mention a history of excellence.

They say that the receiving corps is going to falter, that Hines Ward is old, while ignoring the fact that he's caught for over 1,000 yards the past two years.

Let's switch it up for a bit, and look at the positives going into training camp for the Black 'N Gold.

http://whirlwhim.files.wordpress.com/2009/01/underdog1.jpg

The Underdog Card

The Steelers perform extremely well when playing the underdog role. The road to Super Bowl XL was perhaps the prime example of this.

They're not stupid, they hear everything that's said. They know they aren't going to do this, that and the other thing because of X problem. Or at least, that's what they're hearing.

Being competitive athletes all, this isn't getting to them in the way that it may be getting to their fans. They're getting pumped up over this, it's lighting a fire inside of them that they're going to unleash on each and every play of the 2010 season.

http://cdn.bleacherreport.net/images_root/slides/photos/000/285/128/mike-wallace-catch-pittsburgh-steelers_display_image.jpg?1278315658

Mike Wallace

Mike Wallace had a great coming out party in his rookie season, and there's nothing that indicates that he'll drop off anytime soon.

Contrary to that, he'll be looked at more and more with the Santonio Holmes trade fresh in his mind - he knows that he has to be the replacement of a Super Bowl MVP.

He's got the physical tools to thrive in the Pittsburgh offense, especially with Hines Ward drawing the defense's eyes away from him.

He essentially is Holmes, without the ego and I (and many Steelers fans) are expecting big things from him this year.

http://cdn.bleacherreport.net/images_root/slides/photos/000/285/133/troy_polamalu02_display_image.jpg?1278315976

The Return Of The Trojan King

The emotional leader of the defense is back in business by all accounts this year.

After an injury plagued 2009 campaign, Polamalu's going to be firing on all cylinders come the 2010 season, and that should strike fear into all opposing offenses.

He's a player that absolutely, 100%, MUST be accounted for prior to snapping the ball, or he will make you pay the price.

With him, comes added experience in a secondary that struggled last year.
Expect the Steelers secondary to get a huge boost with Polamalu leading the charge.

http://cdn.bleacherreport.net/images_root/slides/photos/000/285/137/aaron-smith-300x206_display_image.jpg?1278316205

The Unsung Hero

Along with losing the leader of the secondary last year, the Steelers defensive line also took a huge blow with the injury to workhorse Aaron Smith.

Smith is one of the best 3-4 defensive ends in the NFL and never really gets the recognition or credit that he deserves. But he takes it all with a smile and goes out and leaves it all on the field.

With Smith ready to help anchor an already stout defensive line once more, the Steelers run defense will have a legitimate shot to once again land atop the NFL's best.

http://cdn.bleacherreport.net/images_root/slides/photos/000/285/140/PHP49B4394AB3F01_display_image.jpg?1278316388

William Gay's Replacement

With the pick acquired from the New York Jets that sent Holmes to play with former college rival Braylon Edwards, the Steelers promptly re-attained McFadden from their Super Bowl adversaries.

A lot of people seem to think that because McFadden played on one of the worst pass defenses last year, which leads me to believe that a lot of people lack the common sense that so easily should lead one to believe that the Arizona Cardinals do not play the same kind of defense as the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Not only will the amount of talent be marginally better in Pittsburgh, but the zone defense McFadden will be asked to play will suit him perfectly, as it did in his first stint with the team.

Not to mention, with him there, it gets Gay off of the field and that's good enough for Steelers fans everywhere.

http://www.sptimes.com/2007/11/07/images/tb_gators_pouncey450.jpg

Competition Along The Offensive Line

With the news of Willie Colon's injury and the fact that it will keep him out for the entirety of the regular season, the offensive line lost one of it's top players.

This isn't a good thing by any means, don't get me wrong. But, looking on the bright side, competition is rarely a bad thing. Especially among a unit that must battle together in the trenches.

It doesn't really matter who wins the battle for Colon's spot. Just as long as it creates a chemistry among the offensive line. During the competition, not only will skills improve, but respect will be earned. They'll come to know each other as warriors, and be more than proud to stand alongside each other in battle.

http://cdn.bleacherreport.net/images_root/slides/photos/000/285/149/sadad_display_image.jpg?1278316936

The Running Back Tandem

This is one of the things that I'm most excited for. Simply because, while I enjoy the passing attack, I grew up learning to run the ball down the other team's throat all game long.

Rashard Mendenhall certainly came on last season and he's got a new partner in crime, former Yellow Jacket Jonathan Dwyer.

Dwyer brings a power aspect to the table that the Steelers have been lacking since the 2005 retirement of Jerome 'The Bus' Bettis.

If, and this is a big if, offensive coordinator Bruce Arians can come up with a gameplan that gets both men involved, preferably in the backfield together, the Steelers could return to their glory days of smash mouth football.

http://cdn.bleacherreport.net/images_root/slides/photos/000/285/151/DM_090803_CFB_JASON_WORILDS_NEW_display_image.jpg? 1278317164

Rookies Ready To Step Up On Special Teams

It's doubtful that many rookies actually see significant playing time on either offense or defense, with perhaps the only exception being the wide receiver position - though even that's unlikely in my eyes.

But, the ever prevalent special teams is going to need some heavy hitters and sure tacklers after the mess that was last season still making Steelers fans cringe.

Jason Worilds is going to find himself cracking heads on kick and punt returns for at the very least his first year, while also becoming accustomed to playing the rush linebacker position.

Emmanuel Sanders may get a shot at returning kicks and if he fares well, Stefan Logan may find himself as an expendable roster spot. More than likely though he gets worked into some four wide packages every now and again.


http://prod.static.steelers.clubs.nfl.com/assets/images/imported/PIT/photos/persons/coach-cards/LeBeau_Dick.jpg

Saint LeBeau

I, like most Steelers fans, refuse to count out a defense that's coached by the living legend and newest member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame - Saint LeBeau.

Without a doubt, the best defensive coordinator in the NFL, and perhaps the best (and certainly on the short list) of all time.

I find it hard not to believe that he doesn't offer the secondary a lot of insight and tips, being a former cornerback himself and when given a true play making safety to work with, it's a simple recipe for success.

The Steelers may not beat you, but LeBeau will certainly confuse your quarterback and have your offensive coordinator pulling his hair out and throwing his clipboard to the ground.

http://cdn.bleacherreport.net/images_root/slides/photos/000/285/157/steelers-fans_display_image.jpg?1278317711

The Fans

Another reason I can never count the Steelers out - their fan base.
No team's fans travel like Steelers fans. They fill visiting stadiums with an absolute sea of black and gold.

Not to mention, they're loyal to a fault. Granted, they've had it good for the majority of the team's history, but rooting for a great team isn't something you can hold against the fans.

http://cdn.bleacherreport.net/images_root/slides/photos/000/285/160/steelers_display_image.jpg?1278317940

Pride, Heart, Team

The biggest gripe I had with last year's version of the Steelers wasn't the absence of the playoffs, it wasn't the errant special teams coverage and it wasn't the atrocious play calling.

It was the lack of heart.

This team is playing with a chip on their shoulders this year. The fans know it, the coaches know it and most importantly - the players know it.

Have some faith, let the Ben Roethlisberger off-season sage fade into anonymity and let's turn out in full gear for the 2010 season.

http://bleacherreport.com/articles/4...lf-full#page/1

[JPbucco]

Meh.

I'm still worried.

[flippy]

Meh.

I'm still worried.

Lucky for us, you're irrational. :wink

[JPbucco]

Actually I'm usually the most optimistic Steeler fan in the world.

I'm just worried about how Wallace will beat double teams and the lack of depth behind Mendy.

Free Fargas!!

[Oviedo]

Actually I'm usually the most optimistic Steeler fan in the world.

I'm just worried about how Wallace will beat double teams and the lack of depth behind Mendy.

Free Fargas!!

Wallace beating double teams is going to be a big issue that has to be overcome. I'm more concerend with OT than another RB. If no one blocks it doesn't matter if we have 20 RBs.

[cruzer8]

Actually I'm usually the most optimistic Steeler fan in the world.

I'm just worried about how Wallace will beat double teams and the lack of depth behind Mendy.

Free Fargas!!

If teams are going to double Wallace then that leaves Ward, ARE and Miller in single coverage. Those three are all excellent route runners and know how to get open. I'll take it!

[RuthlessBurgher]

Actually I'm usually the most optimistic Steeler fan in the world.

I'm just worried about how Wallace will beat double teams and the lack of depth behind Mendy.

Free Fargas!!

Wallace beating double teams is going to be a big issue that has to be overcome. I'm more concerend with OT than another RB. If no one blocks it doesn't matter if we have 20 RBs.

I agree with this. I think the one thing that will hurt us the most this season...more than the Ben suspension or the Santonio trade...is the Colon injury. People have their biases against Colon, but he more than held his own at tackle, and we do not have any measurable depth behind him (we do have depth at QB and WR, which softens the blow without Ben and Tone, but I'm afraid that we aren't going to have any choice but to start Trai Essex at RT...and he was a below average RG last season). Any potential upgrade that Pouncey might give us over Essex at RG would be negated by the likely downgrade at RT from Colon to Essex (or Scott or Hills or whoever).

[steeler_fan_in_t.o.]

Actually I'm usually the most optimistic Steeler fan in the world.

I'm just worried about how Wallace will beat double teams and the lack of depth behind Mendy.

Free Fargas!!

Wallace beating double teams is going to be a big issue that has to be overcome. I'm more concerend with OT than another RB. If no one blocks it doesn't matter if we have 20 RBs.

I agree with this. I think the one thing that will hurt us the most this season...more than the Ben suspension or the Santonio trade...is the Colon injury. People have their biases against Colon, but he more than held his own at tackle, and we do not have any measurable depth behind him (we do have depth at QB and WR, which softens the blow without Ben and Tone, but I'm afraid that we aren't going to have any choice but to start Trai Essex at RT...and he was a below average RG last season). Any potential upgrade that Pouncey might give us over Essex at RG would be negated by the likely downgrade at RT from Colon to Essex (or Scott or Hills or whoever).

Essex is a lifelong T who just began working at G over the past few years. For years he sat behind Marvel - who was a good and very highly paid OT. It would not surprise me at all if he comes in and holds his own. He will have his share of blown plays, but it is not like he is replacing a pro bowler. IMO the decline will be minimal.

[Oviedo]

Actually I'm usually the most optimistic Steeler fan in the world.

I'm just worried about how Wallace will beat double teams and the lack of depth behind Mendy.

Free Fargas!!

Wallace beating double teams is going to be a big issue that has to be overcome. I'm more concerend with OT than another RB. If no one blocks it doesn't matter if we have 20 RBs.

I agree with this. I think the one thing that will hurt us the most this season...more than the Ben suspension or the Santonio trade...is the Colon injury. People have their biases against Colon, but he more than held his own at tackle, and we do not have any measurable depth behind him (we do have depth at QB and WR, which softens the blow without Ben and Tone, but I'm afraid that we aren't going to have any choice but to start Trai Essex at RT...and he was a below average RG last season). Any potential upgrade that Pouncey might give us over Essex at RG would be negated by the likely downgrade at RT from Colon to Essex (or Scott or Hills or whoever).

Essex is a lifelong T who just began working at G over the past few years. For years he sat behind Marvel - who was a good and very highly paid OT. It would not surprise me at all if he comes in and holds his own. He will have his share of blown plays, but it is not like he is replacing a pro bowler. IMO the decline will be minimal.

John Clayton was on ESPN1250 yesterday afternoon and they discussed Flozell Adams. Indicationbs were the Steelers want him but he wants $4M per year. Calyton indicated that from what he has heard the Steelers would be OK with Jonathon Scott at RT because of what he did with Sean Kugler in Buffalo last seson. Not sure I agree with that and I would prefer Flozell Adams over both Scott or Essex.

[JUST-PLAIN-NASTY]

"Number 10, Jonathan Dwyer falls from the 2nd round to the 6th for the Steelers."

A draft choice that people will be scratching their heads about in the next several years as they say "6th round?". He will keep Mendenhall fresh late into the year. I'm going to give you a name you should keep in your mind as you watch this kid grow. Remember...20 years old so it is very important to keep him going in the right direction and make him learn how to be a Pro. He will just be a "work horse" type of running back. Downhill...North & South kid that will move the chains, eat up the clock, and make defnders bi-ceps and pecs ache the next day running through arm tackles late in the game. Not a "homerun" kid but a chunk runner...ALA Terell Davis.

"Number 9, Worilds, Gibson, & Sylvester take a thin LB group to another level."

I liked Gibson before the draft and had him in my mock. Earlier than the 4th and can't believe he fell that far. Reminds me alot of Porter in the way he plays. Explosive tackler who showed some promise in coverage. Needs to learn a full compliment of pass rushing moves but I think he has the abilty to be a more complete LB than just a pass rush specialist. He & Worilds look like they could be every down players. Worilds looks more complete in pass rushing but needs to develop better in coverage. If Sylvester can bulk up and grow while he excels on special teams like he did in college...The Steelers will allow him to stick around and learn ILB. He has the skills but needs to get stronger.

[JUST-PLAIN-NASTY]

"Number 8, Lewis, Burnett, & Butler look ready for the challenge."

Going into camp based on shorts & helmets. However, reports say Lewis & Burnett are making strides and the rookie Butler mad an impression. Good news to a weak CB group from last year. I will take Gay, Lewis, Brunett, & Butler as 3-6 anyday.

"Number 7, Coach Koogs."

That is all that needs to be said. Pair that with Foster, Legursky, and Urbik look to be in tremendous shape and eager...Have to be excited. Colon injury hurts. However, I think Foster wins the job at RT and the Steelers might look long and hard at Colon's future here with his asking price. Excited to see how far Urbik comes along. His appearance shows he has been hard at work. Let's see how he does in pads.

[JUST-PLAIN-NASTY]

"Number 6, Sanders & Brown look to ease departure of Holmes."

Nobody can replace Holmes as of now. Wallace has the best shot but we won't know anything until the season unfolds. Going into camp, Sanders & Brown look like they will shake off the stereo type of "small school WRs" and show they belong. Both will have position value as well as returner value. Might have to carry 6 WRs. Even with the loss of Holmes, I think the position is stronger top to bottom. Being equal or stronger at the top depends on Wallace.

"Number 5, Pouncey makes his stand."

The addition of Pouncey comes right on time. It appear the C postion and the whole right side will be a new, young group who will need to grow together. Next generation starts in camp. I think Pouncey ends up starting...But where? If they don't want to give the reigns to a rookie at C...RG. Legursky's charge has already started. Hartwig is fighting for the starting position. Before Colon injury, I would have said roster spot. But now, I believe even if Hartwig ends up behind Legursky at C, He might survive another year. Game 1 starters will be Starks, Kemo, Legursky, Pouncey, & Foster. Hartwig & Essex active with Urbik & J Scott in street clothes. C Scott will be released and put on PS.

[Oviedo]

"Number 6, Sanders & Brown look to ease departure of Holmes."

Nobody can replace Holmes as of now. Wallace has the best shot but we won't know anything until the season unfolds. Going into camp, Sanders & Brown look like they will shake off the stereo type of "small school WRs" and show they belong. Both will have position value as well as returner value. Might have to carry 6 WRs. Even with the loss of Holmes, I think the position is stronger top to bottom. Being equal or stronger at the top depends on Wallace.

"Number 5, Pouncey makes his stand."

The addition of Pouncey comes right on time. It appear the C postion and the whole right side will be a new, young group who will need to grow together. Next generation starts in camp. I think Pouncey ends up starting...But where? If they don't want to give the reigns to a rookie at C...RG. Legursky's charge has already started. Hartwig is fighting for the starting position. Before Colon injury, I would have said roster spot. But now, I believe even if Hartwig ends up behind Legursky at C, He might survive another year. Game 1 starters will be Starks, Kemo, Legursky, Pouncey, & Foster. Hartwig & Essex active with Urbik & J Scott in street clothes. C Scott will be released and put on PS.

I hope you are right on both accounts. I think Sanders is the real deal and I hope that we get significant contribution from both him and Brown in the return game.

As far as your Game 1 prediction for the OL, I would feel better about Starks-Kemo-Legursky-Pouncey-Adams (or another FA) than , Kemo, Legursky, Pouncey, & Foster. I'd be ecstatic if Foster could prove he could handle RT because that would be the right step towards a great OL in 2011 or 12 of Starks-Kemo-Pouncey-Urbik-Foster.

Someone we are all ignoring who may still have a say in this is Tony Hills. Perhaps with Kugler's coaching and possibly some schematic adjustments he can live up to his potential. The guy's resume out of Texas was just too good for him to have fallen off the face of the earth, but it does happen in the NFL.

[JUST-PLAIN-NASTY]

"Number 4, Free Agents and trades solidify team."

Foote, El, & Allen are glue. Very nice FA pick-ups. Was ok with Battle before draft but now looks to be a "shoulder shrug". J Scott will push Hills and best Longhorn will win.

*It would not surprise me to see Foote starting. If Farrior continues his decline, it very well could happen. Foote would take Farrior's spot along side Timmons. If Farrior can recover, we might see a rotation of Timmons on passing down while Timmons spells both in base. This gives the Steelers the luxury of SB year ILB rotation. Just like OLB, very strong position. I'm excited to see what DL comes up with for his LBs.

*EL is back to his most productive spot at #3. His skill set creates match-up problems from #3. Never thought he was a great #2 but he should have a productive year. However, his game will be pushed by Sanders & Brown so it should make this group very competitive.

*Allen > Carter

McFadden & Lefty trades are big. Two starters for late round picks.

*McFadden changes the time table for the young CBs to progress and makes the position one of the weakest in 2009 to a possible strength for 2010.

*Lefty will be the starter for at least the first 4 games. When Ben returns, gives the Steelers a luxury the majority of the league would love to have. Best QB threesome in the NFL. (minus Batch after release)

"Number 3, Steelers scribble on blue print and retain valuable 30+ vets "

Retaining Hampton & Clark stopped what could have been a cut that bleed the Steelers out. They picked a good time to stop "rocking the boat".

[Oviedo]

"Number 4, Free Agents and trades solidify team."

Foote, El, & Allen are glue. Very nice FA pick-ups. Was ok with Battle before draft but now looks to be a "shoulder shrug". J Scott will push Hills and best Longhorn will win.

*It would not surprise me to see Foote starting. If Farrior continues his decline, it very well could happen. Foote would take Farrior's spot along side Timmons. If Farrior can recover, we might see a rotation of Timmons on passing down while Timmons spells both in base. This gives the Steelers the luxury of SB year ILB rotation. Just like OLB, very strong position. I'm excited to see what DL comes up with for his LBs.

*EL is back to his most productive spot at #3. His skill set creates match-up problems from #3. Never thought he was a great #2 but he should have a productive year. However, his game will be pushed by Sanders & Brown so it should make this group very competitive.

*Allen > Carter


Why does everyone still want to take a playmaker like Timmons off the field for a player like Foote. I don't care what down it is, Timmons needs to be on the field. Our run defense did not suffer at all last year. Our pass defense was atrocious so why would anyone take the best coverage LB we have and the #3 sack producer off the field for a player who just plugs a gap and gets in the way.

I will never understand the on going criticisms of Timmons. Totally unfounded and not supported by facts.

[JUST-PLAIN-NASTY]

"Number 6, Sanders & Brown look to ease departure of Holmes."

Nobody can replace Holmes as of now. Wallace has the best shot but we won't know anything until the season unfolds. Going into camp, Sanders & Brown look like they will shake off the stereo type of "small school WRs" and show they belong. Both will have position value as well as returner value. Might have to carry 6 WRs. Even with the loss of Holmes, I think the position is stronger top to bottom. Being equal or stronger at the top depends on Wallace.

"Number 5, Pouncey makes his stand."

The addition of Pouncey comes right on time. It appear the C postion and the whole right side will be a new, young group who will need to grow together. Next generation starts in camp. I think Pouncey ends up starting...But where? If they don't want to give the reigns to a rookie at C...RG. Legursky's charge has already started. Hartwig is fighting for the starting position. Before Colon injury, I would have said roster spot. But now, I believe even if Hartwig ends up behind Legursky at C, He might survive another year. Game 1 starters will be Starks, Kemo, Legursky, Pouncey, & Foster. Hartwig & Essex active with Urbik & J Scott in street clothes. C Scott will be released and put on PS.

I hope you are right on both accounts. I think Sanders is the real deal and I hope that we get significant contribution from both him and Brown in the return game.

As far as your Game 1 prediction for the OL, I would feel better about Starks-Kemo-Legursky-Pouncey-Adams (or another FA) than , Kemo, Legursky, Pouncey, & Foster. I'd be ecstatic if Foster could prove he could handle RT because that would be the right step towards a great OL in 2011 or 12 of Starks-Kemo-Pouncey-Urbik-Foster.

Someone we are all ignoring who may still have a say in this is Tony Hills. Perhaps with Kugler's coaching and possibly some schematic adjustments he can live up to his potential. The guy's resume out of Texas was just too good for him to have fallen off the face of the earth, but it does happen in the NFL.

There are many Urbik haters (I'm a fan), but I am excited to see what he could do. He looks like a different person in camp and he could be the wild card. If he lives up to his billing, he could push at RG. I think Pouncey will perform the best at C against the "vanilla" defenses in pre-season. I just don't know if the coaches are ready to give the C spot to him. I do believe Legursky will out perfom Hartwig and the coaches will be confident Legursky can run the OL.

As to Hills, he has good feet and a quick step with a good punch. But he is average at best in the run game because he isn't a bender. That doesn't sit well for a RT and he needs to play both sides. He looks liked he added some bulk so we will see in the preseason. Just watch what Orakpo did to him in the preseason. Hills was quick enough to set up and get in front of him...But Orakpo made him look like a TE when he sent Hills 3 yards backwards on impact. on running plays Hills lost ground. He is athletic enough to play LT but he is weak at the point of attack. You would expect this to be the year where he grew enough to make the impression.

[Oviedo]

[quote="JUST-PLAIN-NASTY":3sc3ooap]"Number 6, Sanders & Brown look to ease departure of Holmes."

Nobody can replace Holmes as of now. Wallace has the best shot but we won't know anything until the season unfolds. Going into camp, Sanders & Brown look like they will shake off the stereo type of "small school WRs" and show they belong. Both will have position value as well as returner value. Might have to carry 6 WRs. Even with the loss of Holmes, I think the position is stronger top to bottom. Being equal or stronger at the top depends on Wallace.

"Number 5, Pouncey makes his stand."

The addition of Pouncey comes right on time. It appear the C postion and the whole right side will be a new, young group who will need to grow together. Next generation starts in camp. I think Pouncey ends up starting...But where? If they don't want to give the reigns to a rookie at C...RG. Legursky's charge has already started. Hartwig is fighting for the starting position. Before Colon injury, I would have said roster spot. But now, I believe even if Hartwig ends up behind Legursky at C, He might survive another year. Game 1 starters will be Starks, Kemo, Legursky, Pouncey, & Foster. Hartwig & Essex active with Urbik & J Scott in street clothes. C Scott will be released and put on PS.

I hope you are right on both accounts. I think Sanders is the real deal and I hope that we get significant contribution from both him and Brown in the return game.

As far as your Game 1 prediction for the OL, I would feel better about Starks-Kemo-Legursky-Pouncey-Adams (or another FA) than , Kemo, Legursky, Pouncey, & Foster. I'd be ecstatic if Foster could prove he could handle RT because that would be the right step towards a great OL in 2011 or 12 of Starks-Kemo-Pouncey-Urbik-Foster.

Someone we are all ignoring who may still have a say in this is Tony Hills. Perhaps with Kugler's coaching and possibly some schematic adjustments he can live up to his potential. The guy's resume out of Texas was just too good for him to have fallen off the face of the earth, but it does happen in the NFL.

There are many Urbik haters (I'm a fan), but I am excited to see what he could do. He looks like a different person in camp and he could be the wild card. If he lives up to his billing, he could push at RG. I think Pouncey will perform the best at C against the "vanilla" defenses in pre-season. I just don't know if the coaches are ready to give the C spot to him. I do believe Legursky will out perfom Hartwig and the coaches will be confident Legursky can run the OL.

As to Hills, he has good feet and a quick step with a good punch. But he is average at best in the run game because he isn't a bender. That doesn't sit well for a RT and he needs to play both sides. He looks liked he added some bulk so we will see in the preseason. Just watch what Orakpo did to him in the preseason. Hills was quick enough to set up and get in front of him...But Orakpo made him look like a TE when he sent Hills 3 yards backwards on impact. on running plays Hills lost ground. He is athletic enough to play LT but he is weak at the point of attack. You would expect this to be the year where he grew enough to make the impression.[/quote:3sc3ooap]

I'm also an Urbik fan and I think he will prove to be a better Guard longterm than anyone we have on the roster.

[JUST-PLAIN-NASTY]

"Number 4, Free Agents and trades solidify team."

Foote, El, & Allen are glue. Very nice FA pick-ups. Was ok with Battle before draft but now looks to be a "shoulder shrug". J Scott will push Hills and best Longhorn will win.

*It would not surprise me to see Foote starting. If Farrior continues his decline, it very well could happen. Foote would take Farrior's spot along side Timmons. If Farrior can recover, we might see a rotation of Timmons on passing down while Timmons spells both in base. This gives the Steelers the luxury of SB year ILB rotation. Just like OLB, very strong position. I'm excited to see what DL comes up with for his LBs.

*EL is back to his most productive spot at #3. His skill set creates match-up problems from #3. Never thought he was a great #2 but he should have a productive year. However, his game will be pushed by Sanders & Brown so it should make this group very competitive.

*Allen > Carter


Why does everyone still want to take a playmaker like Timmons off the field for a player like Foote. I don't care what down it is, Timmons needs to be on the field. Our run defense did not suffer at all last year. Our pass defense was atrocious so why would anyone take the best coverage LB we have and the #3 sack producer off the field for a player who just plugs a gap and gets in the way.

I will never understand the on going criticisms of Timmons. Totally unfounded and not supported by facts.
I'm a Timmons fan. But our run defense did suffer last year. I put alot of that on Farrior's decline & Smith being hurt. I actually think the ILB should be Foote & Timmons with Farrior spelling them in base. Timmons is a playmaker but he makes plays in space. So if I have 3 starting ILBs, the "in space" guy is my rotation guy and my nickel & dime backer. He doesn't get the honor of starting, but if you take notice, on a winning team he gets the most defensive plays. Timmons & Foote could be the starters from day 1 if Farrior plays like he did last year.

[JUST-PLAIN-NASTY]

[quote="JUST-PLAIN-NASTY":3ddufgev]"Number 6, Sanders & Brown look to ease departure of Holmes."

Nobody can replace Holmes as of now. Wallace has the best shot but we won't know anything until the season unfolds. Going into camp, Sanders & Brown look like they will shake off the stereo type of "small school WRs" and show they belong. Both will have position value as well as returner value. Might have to carry 6 WRs. Even with the loss of Holmes, I think the position is stronger top to bottom. Being equal or stronger at the top depends on Wallace.

"Number 5, Pouncey makes his stand."

The addition of Pouncey comes right on time. It appear the C postion and the whole right side will be a new, young group who will need to grow together. Next generation starts in camp. I think Pouncey ends up starting...But where? If they don't want to give the reigns to a rookie at C...RG. Legursky's charge has already started. Hartwig is fighting for the starting position. Before Colon injury, I would have said roster spot. But now, I believe even if Hartwig ends up behind Legursky at C, He might survive another year. Game 1 starters will be Starks, Kemo, Legursky, Pouncey, & Foster. Hartwig & Essex active with Urbik & J Scott in street clothes. C Scott will be released and put on PS.

I hope you are right on both accounts. I think Sanders is the real deal and I hope that we get significant contribution from both him and Brown in the return game.

As far as your Game 1 prediction for the OL, I would feel better about Starks-Kemo-Legursky-Pouncey-Adams (or another FA) than , Kemo, Legursky, Pouncey, & Foster. I'd be ecstatic if Foster could prove he could handle RT because that would be the right step towards a great OL in 2011 or 12 of Starks-Kemo-Pouncey-Urbik-Foster.

Someone we are all ignoring who may still have a say in this is Tony Hills. Perhaps with Kugler's coaching and possibly some schematic adjustments he can live up to his potential. The guy's resume out of Texas was just too good for him to have fallen off the face of the earth, but it does happen in the NFL.

There are many Urbik haters (I'm a fan), but I am excited to see what he could do. He looks like a different person in camp and he could be the wild card. If he lives up to his billing, he could push at RG. I think Pouncey will perform the best at C against the "vanilla" defenses in pre-season. I just don't know if the coaches are ready to give the C spot to him. I do believe Legursky will out perfom Hartwig and the coaches will be confident Legursky can run the OL.

As to Hills, he has good feet and a quick step with a good punch. But he is average at best in the run game because he isn't a bender. That doesn't sit well for a RT and he needs to play both sides. He looks liked he added some bulk so we will see in the preseason. Just watch what Orakpo did to him in the preseason. Hills was quick enough to set up and get in front of him...But Orakpo made him look like a TE when he sent Hills 3 yards backwards on impact. on running plays Hills lost ground. He is athletic enough to play LT but he is weak at the point of attack. You would expect this to be the year where he grew enough to make the impression.

I'm also an Urbik fan and I think he will prove to be a better Guard longterm than anyone we have on the roster.[/quote:3ddufgev]
You and I believe the same.

[cruzer8]

Timmons should only come off the field if he needs a break.

[JUST-PLAIN-NASTY]

"Number 2, A healthy Smith & Polamalu makes the defense top tier."

Say what you want, Troy being injured was huge and easy to notice for the light fan. Having him back improves the defense as a whole. But having a healthy Smith is even a bigger impact. His injury couldn't be seen on TV to the light fan, but believe me, the rewind button was worn off in the coaches meetings. Both returns will be felt. On the field, in the lockeroom, in the opposing team's offensive meetings, and on the scoreboard.


"Number 1, Ben Roethlisberger doesn't have a criminal trial."

Regardless of how you feel about Ben or the events details...Ben will be playing for the Steelers this year sometime after game 4. As long as #7 is on the field...Don't count us out!

[Oviedo]

Timmons should only come off the field if he needs a break.

:Agree

[RuthlessBurgher]

Timmons should only come off the field if he needs a break.

I disagree. I think he should also come off the field when we are on offense. :wink: :P

[Oviedo]

Timmons should only come off the field if he needs a break.

I disagree. I think he should also come off the field when we are on offense. :wink: :P

He would be intriguing in the role as an H-back. Probably catches the ball significantly better than david Johnson. :stirpot

[JUST-PLAIN-NASTY]

Timmons should only come off the field if he needs a break.

:Agree

Timmons is an every down LB. So hopefully Foote & Timmons end up starting and Farrior is the guy who rotates in. Unless Farrior had an undisclosed injury, there is only one explaination for his play. He is in regression and it only goes downhill from here.