The season is long and with the schedule stacked against us, it will be even longer. We all are aware that we were not going to come out of this season undefeated. Does it hurt that we lost at home in a game that we were winning? Absolutely.
Positives: Shutting down the league's number two rated offense. To shut down the most bruising RB in the league and letting him yield <50 yards. Our number one rated defense did their job and that's all we could of hoped for. We continue to make plays on both sides of the ball regardless of missing depth in all areas. We are still atop of our division and last I checked that's all we need and worry about to make it to the playoffs.
Negatives: More injuries compiled after last night loss. Poor play calling be the OC (we are all aware of BA's ineptitude). Long snap very costly. Continued 7 step drops being called when our line wasn't able to contain their rush. Ben's unfortunate but occasional malady of "stick hands" decided to flair up last night.
Ben does his best work from the shot gun and 3 step drops within the no-huddle. It not only helps his line and provides rhythm, which Ben really needs. I know he likes chucking the deep ball, but I truly believe he doesn't have the arm strength to keep up with the speedsters he has at WR. If you look at most of his long throws, the WR almost always has to come back to the ball, never does the ball make it in stride. Some of you may not agree, but it is fact, and if you doubt it, look at the throws 40 yards or greater, the ball has to have great heighth to make it to the receiver and this gives the DB time to adjst for the INT.
We have beaten quality teams, regardless of record. The Ravens, Browns and Jags are big bruising clubs and if you disagree, look at the teams they've beaten. We are a quality team, but a collective of miscues did us in last night. When we lose, our negatives are augmented and the fan base goes balistic, myself included. We of the The Nation, are not used to mediocrity and demand/expect great football, especially on our homefield. But we can't win them all and if we are to lose, I'll take solice in losing to the SuperBowl Champs, who apparently aren't having the typical SB hangover. We got beat, we need to focus on Washington. One game at a time, one win at a time.
BTW, I absolutely hate Bruce Arians. I think our chances of reaching the SB promise land is hampered by his inept ability to do his job. But this will not fix itself during the midseason. This should be addressed in the offseason. For the record, I think Tomlin is the right man for the job. Some may not agree, but when you look at what other rookie/sophomore coaches have done in their careers, we have a diamond in the rough. I know patience isn't high on our collective traits of Steeler Fans, but it will have to be. We have the talent and I truly believe we are one OC short of the SB. Can this be overcomed... I think so... but will it?
The season is long, let's have some faith.
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Originally Posted by frankthetank1
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