Thoughts on First Game

[steelsnis]

Re: Thoughts on First Game

Did we watch the same game as far as Mendenhall is concerned? I thought he hit all the holes but his holes were minimal and his legs were driving the entire time.

Snatch, I agree w/you about Mendenhall. Some seem to be looking for him to do something wrong (Like watching for Sweed to drop a ball) rather than looking at what he's doing right.

Last night's game was just the first step in a productive season for the kid (and i emphasize kid because he's only 22).

I thought Redman looked great too last night but he got the ball in nice situations on the goaline. If Mendy got those carries and and plowed it in to the end zone we wouldn't even be having this conversation.

[feltdizz]

Re: Thoughts on First Game

Did we watch the same game as far as Mendenhall is concerned? I thought he hit all the holes but his holes were minimal and his legs were driving the entire time.

Snatch, I agree w/you about Mendenhall. Some seem to be looking for him to do something wrong (Like watching for Sweed to drop a ball) rather than looking at what he's doing right.

Last night's game was just the first step in a productive season for the kid (and i emphasize kid because he's only 22).

I thought Redman looked great too last night but he got the ball in nice situations on the goaline. If Mendy got those carries and and plowed it in to the end zone we wouldn't even be having this conversation.

I disagree... Redman got the ball in the dreaded GL and I know we were all thiinking it would be 4 down territory...

I wanted to see Mendy run for 4 yards like Redman did.. not even for a TD.. just a hard 4 where some guys bounced off of him..

I fear the expectations for Mendy may be unrealistic.. he isn't a power runner.. never was.. he is a finesse back like FWP with a little more size.. I think he will show his skills on sweeps and screens and delayed routes out of the backfield...

no matter how hard he hits the hole.. he isn't moving the pile.. at least not yet.

[pittpete]

Re: Thoughts on First Game

Might be late to the party, but
Madison looked very slow
Shipley has a motor that doesnt stop
Starks looked lethargic on a few plays
Limas looked like a muscular Burress

[Steelerphile]

Re: Thoughts on First Game

My thoughts?

Limas Sweed has a year under his belt and looks improved and ready to be a weapon but I don't think his tall frame and his abilities lend him to being that effective as an inside receiver. I think he will make most of his plays on the sidelines or downfield. That is why I think Wallace, or McDonald may take some receptions when the Steelers are looking for a slot receiver to work the inside.

I really like Joe Burnett. I am not holding the fumble against him. He was surprised with unexpected contact. Overall, he caught the punts well. He had one nice punt return. Made a good block on a return near the goalline to let the ball get to the endzone. Had a pass defense and beautifully deked St. Pierre into thinking the receiver was open. Broke on the ball, caught it cleanly and dashed for the goalline, almost scoring. The Steeler's defensive backfield is thirsting for players who do that.

I would be fine with Dixon as the No. 2 QB. He showed poise, and threw an accurate spiral. He does look somewhat frail though. I wonder whether he would snap if he were blindsided by a large defensive player who came free.

Right now I am not seeing Trai Essex as an upgrade.

I thought Hills looked good. I see what the coaches are saying about Urbik. In one to one drills, he is unimpressive but I thought he looked pretty good playing with the line as a member of the group.

Of the three Carey Davis, Summers and Redman. I think Redman has the most running ability and looks to be slightly ahead.

I am optimistic that Mendenhall will have a good season. He looks like he is good shape. He just needs more openings.