All Quiet On The Western PA Front...

I think it's pretty laughable that even though we jettisoned Joey Porter months ago, the mainstream media continues to write about him not being in Pittsburgh anymore like it's newsworthy (well ok, it's just one story but who's counting...certainly not me). I mean after all, it is training camp now. We've had plenty of time to think about it and most of us won't really mind not having to listen to Porter talk shit about everyone and their mothers. But who really cares what the fans think anyways, or at least that's how the Associated Press must feel...as I came across this story on SportingNews.com this morning, filed by the AP yesterday, about the difference between camp WITH Joey Porter and camp WITHOUT Joey Porter.

Cleverly titled "Joey Porter No Longer The Talk of Steelers Camp," the main thing they discuss is how Peezy will behave come November 26, when the Dolpins (and Joey) come to Pittsburgh. I think we all know that while Porter has maybe the loosest lips this side of Terrell Owens, he would never trash the Steelers. Even since he's been gone, the media have tried to push him into making negative statements about the way his tenure ended, but Joey has stood firm...and I actually applaud him for that. Maybe the first time in his life he's showed some self control.

Another point the article makes, more auxiliary to Porter's eventual return to the city, was that Clark Haggans will miss his former Colorado State and Steeler brethren now that he's departed from the 'Burgh for Miami. Frankly, this probably won't be a problem for Haggans much longer. Maybe he can even follow the Peezy Express down to Miami next offseason, when the Steelers are not likely to extend his stay in Pittsburgh. Though I should be fair, we don't really know what will happen with Haggans (despite the fact that I think I do), and truth be told I really do have a soft spot somewhere in me for Joey Porter. He's a giant pain in the ass, but I'll be damned if he isn't entertaining at times (Joey...Jerramy...Joey...Jerramy...see about 2:20 in). Plus, I don't really have a huge problem with Clark Haggans. He hasn't exactly been Greg Lloyd incarnate, but at least he's held his own better than most others might.

Regardless, kind of funny to see that this kind of storyline is still making headlines, and I do fully expect to see a media circus when Miami comes to town in November. Ought to be interesting.