Marvin Lewis, The Newest Member of NWA?

Lewis gave us his best NWA impression recently on ESPNRadio's "The Dan Patrick Show" (which is typically awesome by the way...) stating "I think there's profiling, no question." when asked if he thought events like Chris Henry getting pulled over for not signaling a right turn showed that the Cincinnati PD was "profiling." [To hear the interview, click here]

He then went on to temper this somewhat provocative statement by saying "We're [Cincinnati] a small place, our guys stand out, and they know that and you've got to do things the right way, but when you are arrested for, or you are pulled over for not putting on your turn signal, there's something wrong there."

Dude, I wish more people were pulled over for not using their turn signal. If I had a dime for everytime I was sitting behind someone who appeared to be slowing for a turn but could not pull their head out of their ass long enough to use said signal to indicate that I could go around them, I'd be a rich rich man. It's criminal (pun intended)!

And let's not forget the 16,000 other times Chris Henry was arrested in the last two years...

But alas, Lewis has apologized. Being the dignitary he is, he personally called the head of the Cincinnati PD to say he didn't mean to imply that they were a bunch of dicks or anything...he was just frustrated. Let's face it, his feelings are hurt...

I gotta say though, if Cincinnati's finest were really doing their jobs, the guy who suggested they put cinnamon in their chili would have been behind bars ages ago...but as of today, he remains at large. Get 'er done Cincy...get 'er done.

Proper Use of Beer Backwash...

See here.

Deadspin is worth it's weight in gold...

Najeh Davenport (S)Hit And Run...

Not sure how this nugget (pun intended) slipped through the cracks when the Steelers acquired Najeh Davenport last season (maybe it didn't and I just never heard), but apparently a while back (2002), Davenport snuck into a Barry University dorm room and shat in a woman's closet (see story here).

Boy do I wish we knew which woman's closet Najeh dropped his doozer in...

There's even an entire blog named after the incident. AND What's even better is that today they broke a story about a Cincinnati man and son tandem who discovered recently that their punching bag was filled with dirty laundry rather than the customary sand usually found in punching bags. Further reinforcing our theory that Ohio sucks and Cincinnati is a source for paranormal activity due to the fact that they put Cinnamon in their chili.

Either way, I never knew Najeh Davenport was a stealth bomber. Learn something new everyday, eh? Figures, since he's a product of "the U" (Miami aka Thug U). Class act that Najeh Davenport. My question is, where was Ray Lewis when Najeh got clipped?

Is This A Steelers Blog Or A Browns Blog?...

Actually, there's no question there, but I do find myself very often writing about the Browns...course, I don't know if I'd call it "writing" so much as dumping on them for being, well, the Browns. Today's no different.

So Charlie Frye says he'll be Cleveland's starter come September. Not that it matters, because whatever QB they put on the field September 9th is bound to get beaten every way imaginable, but it's interesting that no one is refuting his statements. By the powers of inference, I can only take this to assume that the Browns are actually doing the smart thing and letting Brady Quinn spend some time on the bench watching the game, developing at a more natural pace. Either way, both QBs apparently looked pretty rough in these initial practices, throwing picks-a-plenty and generally looking shaky. Nothing new here...

Man it's tough to find stuff to comment on in the off season...anyone got any pressing news they wanna contribute? (Or is it foolish to assume anyone besides me will read this?)

Bury Gardocki's Heart At Heinz Field...

Well, as you probably have heard by now, super veteran punter Chris Gardocki was released by the Steelers yesterday in a move that didn't surprise anyone. 16 years, four teams (though I don't know if we can count the Browns as a whole team, so maybe 3 1/2), one pro bowl, and one solid kicking leg. The guy did his job and did it well, even at the ripe ol' age(s) of 34-37. But I wouldn't retire him just yet. He's probably still got a couple good years left if there's a team out there who will have him and his $1 million+ salary.

The good news is, this paves the way nicely for much heralded(by me) rookie punter/rabid animal Daniel Sepulveda. Despite the fact that some think Mike Barr, a perrenial training camp fixture (for the last few years) who just can't seem to find his way onto the squad, I think the Steelers plan to give Sepulveda the proverbial trial-by-fire, and I think he can handle it. Too bad in the NFL, punters don't often run down the field as part of the containment contingent, because I'd really love to see Justin Miller or anyone like him get laid out by Sepulveda.

Oh well, a man can dream, right?

Who Dey Gon' Arrest Next?

Guess it won't be Chris Henry after all...sad, but true. Henry, in fact, did not fail a drug test despite earlier reports.

Doesn't change the fact that he'll probably be back in jail by Labor Day...just you watch.

Any votes as to what the next charge will be? Fighting Michael Vick's dogs? (I mean like Chris Henry fighting Vick's dogs, not like Henry's dogs doing the fighting...)

Guess I Ruined My Street Cred In Indy...

So I posted this "response" (I guess you could call it) to a post on the Indianapolis Colts fan blog, Stampede Blue last Friday, and admittedly, it was probably a bit unfair. Hence, I wasn't surprised to see that he had posted a further response this past Monday.

In doing so, he astutely noticed that Steeler fans (I being just the latest of many, apparently) are a little overprotective/touchy about our QB Big Ben (who wouldn't be), and reiterated that his assessment was really just that Roethlisberger is no Peyton Manning in the sense that he could run a no huddle offense like the Colts do. As much as it pains me to say, he's right (not that we want Ben to do this, because I for one, don't). What I should have said to the original post was that while Ben may not be the type of QB to take on a no-huddle like Manning, that doesn't mean he's stupid (although past events might suggest otherwise...and believe me BigBlueShoe, we know he's an idiot for not wearing a helmet).

As for the other points of contention -
Tampa/Patriots favoring run or pass in Super Bowl: I think you could make a case for the Pats favoring the pass, especially if you look at Super Bowl XXXVIII, but for the most part they actually looked pretty balanced so frankly, eh, whatev. Tampa, definitely more lopsided toward the run...but depends on how you look at it I suppose.

Putting words in the blogger's mouth: Certainly did not mean for it to seem that way, but that's how I interpreted what he had said(see post for reference). And let's face it, the beauty (term debatable) of writing one's own opinion is that you're never wrong (also debatable). So maybe I misinterpreted, who knows. Point is, perhaps my post was a bit rash. For that I respectfully apologize. Guy has a lot better following than this blog does, so must be doing something right...

Still can't figure out if, in referring to One For The Other Thumb's tagline, he is taking a shot or is encouraging people to visit the site...hope it's the latter - and if so, thanks dude.

Don't Look Now, But...

Chris Henry very well could be back in jail sooner than we all thought (ok, who had May 21 in the pool?).

While I pause for a moment from laughing hysterically, allow me to relate the latest in the saga of Chris Henry and the law. According to early reports, Henry failed a court-ordered drug test, revealing the presence of opiates in his system. An offense that carries a sentence of up to 88 days in jail.

Now, at the risk of getting too serious in this discussion, which by nature really should be out of bounds (good thing it's MY blog...I make the rules), this would probably be Henry's last stand. I can't imagine Commissioner Goodell would let Henry continue to be a black spot on the league's character...and if he did, it probably wouldn't be without at least a year, possibly two year's suspension. But, are there conflicting reports? And, please, tell me, what does Henry's agent have to say (like I really need to know...agents are always the most honest individuals, right?)?

Still...another day, another Bengal potentially arrested.

At what point do you look at your team and just clean house? Better yet, why don't we just disband the Bengals...even before they were a black spot on the league's character, they were just a black spot on the league in general...I mean they fielded Chris Collinsworth for christ's sake. I think even Browns fans would agree...

Although, on a brighter note for Cincinnati, the woman who first accused linebacker AJ Nicholson of fourth degree assault is now claiming she hit HERSELF with HER OWN cell phone...thus negating her earlier claims and potentially revoking blame from Nicholson.

Monday Morning Honesty...

Because, as Mean Rob astutely points out, it's never too early to hate on the Browns, here's a great joke Domski sent me over the weekend. I think it will bring a smile to most Steelers fans (and Pittsburghers in general) faces.

Without further ado ~
Two boys are playing hockey on a pond in Bethel Park when one is suddenly attacked by a rabid rottweiler. Thinking quickly, the other boy takes his stick and shoves it under the dogs collar, twists it breaking the dog's neck and saving his friend.

A reporter who was strolling by sees the incident. "Penguins Fan Saves Friend From Vicious Animal," he starts writing in his notebook.

"But I'm not a Penguins fan," the little hero replied.

"Sorry, since we are in Pittsburgh I just assumed you were," said the reporter and he starts writing again. "Steeler Fan Rescues Friend From Horrific Attack."

"I'm not a Steelers fan either," the boy said.

"Oh, I assumed everyone in Pittsburgh was either for the Penguins or the Steelers. What team do you root for?" the reporter asked.

"I'm a Browns fan," the child said.

The reporter starts a new sheet in his notebook and writes, "Little Bastard From Ohio Kills Beloved Family Pet."

Another One Bites The Dust...

Wow, even I'm surprised by the most recent NFL player arrest. Who knew the Bengals could continue their streak? You think they'll change their uniforms to prison jumpsuits next season? Might be a good idea, cut out some of that legwork in between. I mean, hey, they're already bright orange. Just slap a number on there and you're good to go.

Wow, Cincinnati, wow. Maybe if you guys didn't put Cinnamon in your chili you wouldn't have this problem. Cinnamon? Come on. Crazy Ohioans.

What Would The Colts Do?

So I read the blog "Stampede Blue" (a Colts blog) this morning, because one of their most recent posts titled, "Tossing Shoes: those Sissy Steelers", caught my eye (I can't imagine why). I must say, boy was I surprised by how overzealous this "BigBlueShoe" character is who authored the piece.

I'll try to give this guy the benefit of the doubt (not really though), but his basic argument is that the Steelers need to adopt a pass happy offense to have any success in the modern NFL. In fact, over the course of making his point he even goes so far as to say that Big Ben Roethlisberger, the youngest QB to win a Super Bowl and our personal version of Superman, is too STUPID to run "a no huddle offense and call his own plays"!

Wow, my mind is blown...who knew? I mean Peyton Manning is just so much better than everyone else that he had to finally rely on the run to win a Super Bowl. But the Steelers should pass more...That's the future...Every team that's won a championship since 2000 has been a pass first offense...

Think about it - Baltimore, Tampa Bay, New England, PITTSBURGH

And let's face it, Colts fans are just smarter too...god, how can we be more like Indianapolis?

** In case you're completely dense - I'm being uber-sarcastic here...

Honestly though, the guy contradicts himself by saying that the Colts won in the playoffs last year by favoring the run over the pass, so the whole post is pretty much moot. Still, I'd welcome any and all Steeler fans to see for themselves (click link above).

Happy Friday Steeler Nation

Glamour Shots...Brady Quinn Edition...

Here are some entertaining highlights from the life of Brady Quinn (see below), former Notre Dame QB, current Browns 1st rounder (2nd pick in first round...always have to point that out). I'll bet Joe Thomas is real excited to see the masculine exploits of the guy he's going to protect come next season (or the following, depending on how bad the Browns need him to start).

Seriously though, I'm interested to see how Quinn's skills translate in the NFL. Can't discount that he's a hard worker, strong, has decent size and leadership skills. Still, I think the real question marks (besides the large one on his sexual preference...raised by exhibits A, B C and D, herein) come into play when you start talking about accuracy, pocket presence and the ever-popular x-factor: clutchness (maybe that's not a word, but I think you get the idea).

But who really cares about that stuff. When you've you got boyish good looks like Brady, who needs football? Right ladies? You know what I'm saying...now if you'll excuse me I have to go find a Playboy or something to help me restore some of my own manhood after this post...enjoy the de facto photo gallery below.

THE EVIDENCE (if you will) ~
Brought to you by Deadspin, via Mondesi's House.

Ain't Nothin But a Casey Hampton Party...

This pic from DrunkAthletes(see links) just makes me love Casey Hampton more...

Nothing more entertaining than a 300+ pound Nose Tackle bringin sexy back and makin it rain on some hoe's.

Oh, and as for the DrunkAthletes blogger referring to Casey as "obscure"...dude, are you living in a cave? We're talking about a three-time pro bowler and as Wikipedia points out, a player who is tied for the best DT rating on Madden '07, a 97!

See post here for more

They Call Him The Wanderer...

Well, that's not entirely true. I think the technical term used was "Rover."

Anyways, for those of you who don't scan the Post-Gazette Steeler coverage regularly (and shame on you if you don't), it seems that Defensive mastermind Dick LeBeau has devised a new and improved role for Brett Keisel.

Due to the lack of effective pass rush last year, Keisel's first as starting right end, LeBeau thought the defense needed some retooling, including converting Keisel into the "Troy Polamalu" of the front 7.

In this new defensive scheme, dubbed the "99", according to LeBeau (via the Post-Gazette)- Keisel is "...just technically a roving linebacker...He's moving around, depending on where we put him and tell him where to end up. He won't always be just rushing as he is as a defensive lineman. We think he can cause some offenses some problems."

A+ on this one. LeBeau continues to innovate and throw out some of the nastiest defenses the world has ever seen (at least on paper).

Though I gotta say, maybe if we could just get an effective rush out of our base 3-4, we might not have this problem. Oh well, hope it works cause I love the thinking.

Plus I'm really digging the Keisel "mountain man" beard...dude, where can I get one of those?

Cheers and Happy Wednesday!

Give Me Faneca or Give Me Death...

Yeah, I don't really care about this whole Alan Faneca circus. I mean, look, I feel bad that after 9 years we're not willing to cordially sidestep the issue or something like that, but the fact is - he's a 30 year old Guard. Granted, multiple Pro Bowl Guard. But still, as it is he already gets $3.3 million at that position, which is decent (I won't say good, because I've seen the numbers guys like Steve Hutchinson can get), and if he really only cares about getting more money, then chances are he'd be well suited to look outside of Pittsburgh (consequently, I smell Arizona in his future...no comment).

I do think that if Cowher were still Head Coach we could have avoided all this public nastiness, but he's not. So whatever, I'm pretty much uninterested. I appreciate the immense contribution Alan Faneca has made to the Steeler organization, not withstanding, his part in the Super Bowl run. Nonetheless, we have guys waiting in the wings to take his spot and this frankly is just the Steeler way. We saw it with Joey Porter, we'll see it with Alan Faneca.

Gotta save money to sign Troy Polamalu et al. when the time comes (in the near future)...

Free Deshea Townsend...

Too late, they already did.

A report late yesterday afternoon stated that Deshea, who was being charged with punching a guy in the face (anyone know what that qualifies as under our legal system? Beuller? - I kid, it's simple assault, everyone knows that...), was exonerated of all charges (if you can use exonerated in such a benign case).

As the story was told in court, one of Deshea's "associates", if you will (perhaps part of his entourage or "crew" as they say in the streets) was accosted by the alleged victim who he then punched in the face while Deshea was in another part of the club.

So for the time being, Deshea is a free man...

The question still remains though...how long will Chris Henry be?

The Legend of Big Ben...

As we all know it is long, but short; celebrated, but now somewhat blemished; a tale of luck, both bad and good.

Much as I hate to relive that day last June when I found myself wondering how it could have possibly happened, there is a great story on ESPN.com this week detailing the whole affair as it evolved. Rather poetic actually.

The basic gist is this - While Rothlisberger makes no excuses and is determined to rebound from every injury in near-super-human speed, the chain of events in 2006 was just too much for the Man of Steel. Not like this is a new observation of course.

But I did like the narrative. Made it really seem like legend. Legend of a man some of us call "god send." Legend of a man who in only 3 full pro seasons has compiled a cumulative record of 34-12. A man who stepped in after only one game on the sidelines his rookie year and went on to a perfect 14-0 season. A man who only wanted one more shot at the playoffs the next year, knowing that was all he would need. A man who led the 6th seeded team through a formidable road playoff run that included the AFC powerhouses - Indianapolis Colts and Denver Broncos (but not the Bengals, no powerhouse there). The man who made the AFC Semi-Finals game-saving tackle after a Jerome Bettis fumble. The man who, despite a 22.6 passer rating in Super Bowl XL still made the plays he needed to make to win the big one. His passes may not always be as pretty as some others, but he has the grit, nerve, guts, balls and win-at-all-costs attitude that ensure a hall of fame career full of many other playoff and hopefully even Super Bowl runs.

So Ben, good luck this season. We'll all be watching as you lead us to victory. And no matter what happens, remember that Terry Bradshaw, who won 4 titles in Pittsburgh, was boo'd in his early years. In otherwords, no one is perfect, but you're damn close.

This Bud's for you!

More Rothlisberger Facts

If It Ain't Broke, Don't Fix It...

As a general rule to live by, I think this is some pretty good advice. But I would also apply the same words to athletes.

I've been reading a lot lately about guys like Daisuke Matsuzaka and Adrian Peterson, who either have an unorthodox style (Dice-K, Guilty) or just one that could conceivably lead them to injuries (both, but more so AD, you know, All Day Peterson). And from what I can tell, there are mixed feelings on whether to correct a guy's bad tendencies or to leave him be.

My feeling is - Look, these guys are athletes and have been their entire lives. You can tinker with their styles, but if the guy himself doesn't want to change how he plays, he won't. It's up to them, by their own volition to consciously guide their development. So what if they don't want to? Well, who cares. Who's to say if Dice-K didn't throw 120 pitches a night consistently, or if Adrian Peterson didn't pound the ball right at defenders, they wouldn't be total duds. Of course, either way I think they'd be perennial all star/all pros but that's besides the point.

If a guy does something a certain way, and is as dominating as these two guys, let him do it. Maybe offer some council otherwise, but don't try and force anything on them, as some teams/managers/coaches/executives often want to do.

Just my two cents...any opinions?

Things I've Been Neglecting, May 2 Edition...

With all the draft analysis, and the lack of free time to blog recently, I've been neglecting some key pieces of Steeler news. This is my attempt to catch up (bear with me, it might be short).

First order of business - the Steelers have a new mascot, and he needs a name. I don't even know where to begin with this guy. A lot of people have been saying that he bears a striking resemblance to our recently departed coach, affectionately referred to as "The Chin". And this guy sure has a mountain of a chin, but somehow I don't think naming him Bill Cowher will quite do. Anyone have any ideas? I keep drawing a blank. It's probably going to end up being something stupid that rhymmes anyway (Ten Bucks says it's like "Steel Mill Will").

But I digress. Next, despite some less than impressive play last year (but plenty of Chunky Chilli commercial appearances), Max Starks got a one year contract extension worth 1.85 million last Friday. Chances are (as the article indicates), this was a move designed to force any team who might want to trade for him (Arizona Poaching Cardinals, ahem ahem) to give up their first round pick to get him. Nonetheless, it gives Starks one more year to either put up or shut up. He's got all the tools, but like Plaxico Burress, we're just waiting for him to use them. If not, after the season, sayonara Maxwell (though deep down I want to see him kick ass and re-up the contract next season).

Last but not least on my hit parade - we are now (not that we ever ceded this title) once again "Linebacker Paradise." The Steelers staff showed their love for the position by drafting two of the top prospects in the first two rounds of this past weekend's draft. Those individuals being Lawrence Timmons and Lamar Woodley (see this entry for more). Who will assume the role of Joey Porter incarnate? After watching the Post-Gazette's video of Timmons' first Steeler press conference, it seems like the media wants him to be the guy (but with a little more tact of course). He's a soft spoken guy, but was probed about being a leader on defense. Seemed like their was a lack of confidence in him saying what needed to be said. As for Woodley, from what I'm getting, it sounds like he might be the heir apparent to Peezy's swagger. Can't fault a guy who "hates to lose," though I'm curious to know what this so-called "attitude" he has looks like...

There you have it, certainly wasn't short. What can I say, I'm a long winded type of guy...

Drink the Kool-Aid, Seriously...

This video speaks for itself, but all I can say is if you were on the fence about the newest Steelers Punter Daniel Sepulveda, watch this clip of a 2004 game against North Texas. You'll see him launch a booming punt, then truck downfield and absolutely crush the North Texas returner, Linebacker style (fitting since he came to Baylor as a Linebacker).

Bottom Line: Don't mess with Daniel Sepulveda, leg of steel and rock solid nerves...

I think Ed Bouchette puts it best - "He punts like Ray Guy, tackles like Jack Lambert, heals like Rod Woodson. If you're going to throw away two draft picks for a punter, make it a good one."

Today's Sign of The Apocalypse...

Nothing to do with the Steelers or football, but you know something's amiss with the world when the guy handing out free Metro Newspapers in the 23rd St. Subway station has a Blackberry and I do not. Not that I need one, because I don't. The more appropriate question, however, would be, why does he?

Searching For The Next Willie Parker...

Not exactly a move to quell the masses, but yesterday the Steelers signed 11 undrafted free agents, most important of which were 3 running backs. Of course, this speaks to the issue raised over the past couple of days regarding the Steelers neglect for the position during the draft.

I guess the rationale was, "hey, it worked once, look at what Willie Parker has done." I mean I suppose I commend them for actually doing SOMETHING, but bringing undrafted free agents to training camp with the hopes that one will pan out hardly makes me confident in our depth at the position.

Most notable of the 3 RBs was former Minnesota back Gary Russel, who Ed Bouchette points out in his article this morning (see link above), wracked up 1,274 yards and 18 touchdowns two years ago as the thunder to Lawrence Maroney's lightning (but not in the traditional sense...if you catch my drift). Backup RB in college wracks up big numbers in one season then gets signed as undrafted free agent....Sounds familiar, right? Anyways, Russel ended up being left off of Minnesota's 2006 and 2007 roster due to academic problems, instead transferring to junior college in the hopes that he could get by and still play ball.

I agree that this raises some red flags regarding his ability to learn an NFL offense. But honestly, he's not being brought in for the featured back role, so maybe he'll work out.

PLUS, they got this 6'3", 235 Paul Mosley from Baylor, who ran a 4.59 at the combine. Not exactly a burner, but he has some size, so may be a fit for that "thunder" role Fast Willie will need behind him.

So Much Action, So Little Time...

for blogging that is.

But I do want to discuss one thing, hit on by the Post-Gazette's Ed Bouchette in this morning's paper - The Steelers traded up in the 4th round to get a punter but made no attempts to add depth at Running Back. Now, Ed's column seems to suggest this was a mistake, but as tough as it is for me to disagree with such a football savaant, I have to think that the Steelers know what they're doing.

In his column, Bouchette mentions that Head Coach Mike Tomlin said they "considered some backs in this draft but the value just was not there." Michael, I wholeheartedly agree. After you got through the top 3 or 4 backs, there really wasn't a super impressive lineup to choose from, especially bigger backs that would complement Fast Willie's finesse running style. The guys I thought would have made sense were Tony Hunt and Michael Bush, who went in the 3rd and 4th rounds respectively - positions we obviously weren't comfortable drafting a running back in vs. other positions which we needed more (Punter, ahem ahem).

The value of a good punter cannot be understated. Gardocki has been the best for a long time, but after 16 years in the league, his leg is bound to have lost some power. Sepulveda was the top guy in this draft at the position, a two-time Ray Guy award winner, and although one really can't tell how good a guy will be until he's put in the situation, I think he'll be a good fit.

Plus, Punter is definitely a more pressing need than tailback. We resigned Najeh, and his job really should be to complement Willie. That doesn't mean I wasn't underwhelmed by his play last year, because I was. It's just that Punter was a more immediate need for us - let's face it, Mike Barr ain't exactly Gardocki incarnate.

So I like it, I know it's a high spot to draft that position and we gave up a 6th round pick to get him, but as usual, I gotta think the Steelers know what they're doing.

PS - why do I get the feeling I'll be talking about the draft for at least the next week?

Closing The Books...aka 2007 NFL Draft Retrospective Part IX

At 5:30 on Sunday, April 29, that about wraps it up for the Steelers 2007 NFL draft.

After our 4th round pickups, we also acquired Cameron Stephenson, OG Rutgers; William Gay, CB Louisville; and Dallas Baker, WR Florida.

I'll admit, out of those three the only one I'm remotely familiar with is Dallas Baker, whom I think is a good receiver pick for us. I think the hope is that if he made the team, and could show us something over the next year, two years, we would groom him to be a backup to Hines Ward. He's not a super fast guy, more of a posession receiver. The only thing that worries me is that according to Scouts Inc, he doesn't like to work the middle and does not block well. So Hines Ward he surely is not. I think the first obstacle for Baker will be making the team, then we'll see where he goes from there.

Cameron Stephenson - After doing a little light reading on Stephenson, I understand he has both size and athletic ability, but is a little on the light side at 6'4 1/2" and 306 pounds. Plus, his technique is lacking and his durability is "questionable". So as many of our later round picks, Stephenson will be a wait and see how he does in camp type of guy. Sounds like he doesn't get much drive off of his initial step, so might not be a great run blocker, but again, we shall see.

William Gay - My initial reaction is that I like pretty much any pick out of Louisville who was coached by Bobby Petrino. Though I don't remember much about Gay, I did see a few Louisville games this year and as a defensive unit they seemed pretty good. So I would hope that Gay could be a viable backup to our decent corps of defensive backs. I couldn't find a whole lot of objective analysis on him, but he's a little short, at 5'10" (a problem I have with DeShea Townsend), and only weighs 187. For a guy that light, running a 4.56 40 isn't super impressive (especially as a DB), but like the other two, I can only speculate as to how successful he could be in the NFL.

So there you have it, the last of the Steelers 2007 NFL Draft crop. It's been a long two days, and frankly, I've seen about all I need to see of this business.

Look forward to comments...if you've got 'em, bring 'em on.

4th Round Paydirt?...aka 2007 NFL Draft Retrospective Part VIII

Steelers just selected Punter Daniel Sepulveda out of Baylor and Defensive Tackle Ryan McBean out of Oklahoma State as their two 4th round guys.

Love the Sepulveda pick. I joked with Domski yesterday about the Steelers taking Sepulveda with our first round pick (JOKED = operative word), but I'm glad to see we got what we needed. Always nice to get a guy who's 6'2 1/2", 228 at PUNTER! (He's a former High School Linebacker)

McBean? I guess this is because Tomlin wants to transition to a 4-3, but I can't say I'm completely psyched about this. McBean is a smaller DT, at just under 6'5" and only 277 pounds, which is part of the reason I think the Steelers are looking at him for the 4-3. Still, he's quick and with that 6'5" frame has the potential to get bigger and bulkier. Plus, I hear he hits hard and with a "mean streak", so I like that rabid attitude.

Overall, good picks, but I guess this means we're going to leave the RB position alone? No second backup for Willie?

Tony Hunt, Tony Hunt, Whereartthou, Tony Hunt?...aka 2007 NFL Draft Retrospective VII

Just a couple quick points about the Eagles drafting -

1. I'm super jealous that they picked up Tony Hunt. He was one of the two backs I thought the Steelers MIGHT take to back up Willie (Najeh at 3) - the other being Michael Bush. He's definitely the yin to Westbrook's yang, but I fear he'll be under utilized in the Eagles' West Coast offense. Good luck Tony, wish we could've gotten you into some Black n' Gold.

2. Eagles fans boo'd their first selection, Kevin Kolb, QB from Houston...and with good reason (though I don't think I'd ever boo my team's selection). This obviously means what I've said all along, the Eagles aren't convinced McNabb is their best option to win in the future. They probably think that because of his recent injury problems, whereas I think it because of that plus a general opinion that McNabb isn't "clutch" enough. Whatever. Anyways, they had their pick of QBs beyond JaMarcus Russel/Brady Quinn and they took Kolb?

Iggles are perplexing.

"Fishing" For Success...aka 2007 NFL Draft Retrospective Part VI

Now I know I wasn't the only one to go, "WHAT???", when the Dolphins selected Ted Ginn Jr. with their overall #9 first round pick yesterday, but I'm looking at the overall crop for the Fish this year and frankly, I'm finding myself thinking the same thing again.

How you pass on QB Brady Quinn at 9 for Ted Ginn Jr. is beyond me. I heard Cam Cameron say "we drafted the Ginn family," talking about how good of a kid Ted is and how great Cameron thinks he will be, but for all that enthusiasm the fact of the matter is Ginn is undersized and probably a better kick returner (ala Willie Reid) than a receiver. You just can't waste the #9 pick on a guy like Ginn. If they wanted Ted Ginn, they should've traded down (WAY down). But of course, I am but one man and this is nothing more than my opinion.

So aside from Ginn, here's what Miami's picks have been:

Round 2 - John Beck, QB BYU: I agree with ESPN on this one, at 40 they should have gone with Drew Stanton. Again, opinion here, but Stanton is just a better overall QB. Just as further reinforcement, Beck was ranked 7 out of this years QB crop by Scouts Inc, not projected to go until the 5th round!!! They also at this spot had the option of drafting Trent Edwards - overall a better graded QB, not that "grades" matter much. Here's the thing - If Miami doesn't get Trent Green in this deal that seems like it's been in the works for like three weeks, they are forced to use either Daunte Culpepper, Cleo Lemon (?) or, now, Beck. Beck is 25, just under 6'2" and only 215 pounds. Plus, they say his deep ball isn't his best asset. So, the Dolphins really should have been thinking about who can be a starter for them in the next couple of years. Instead it seems like they drafted a backup.

Round 2 - Samson Satele, C Hawaii: Compared to Kevin Mawae, he was the best center prospect available and probably right behind Ryan Kalil on Miami's wish list (who was coincidentally picked by Carolina right before the Dolphins' selection). He's said to be a great pass protector, but as a run blocker needs some work. His Hawaii training ground was a pass first offensive scheme, so this may be a case of him just not having enough exposure to the run, and really I can't find too much wrong with this pick.

Round 3 - Lorenzo Booker, RB Florida State: Boy is he a little guy. Booker is 5'10", 188, but he does run a 4.4 40, so he's a good scat back to complement Ronnie Browns North-South running style. Still, I was waiting for them to address their WR vacancies, plus D-line and D-back needs (course D-line you can get in the later rounds).

Round 4 - Paul Soliai, DT Utah: A former OG at Utah, Soliai's biggest asset is his 319 pounds. He's also 6'3 1/2". So he's a good fit for the 3-4 Miami should be running this year (with Jason Taylor moving to OLB opposite Joey Porter) in that he can tie up guys on the line. But the concern with Soliai is his durability. It is said that he cannot be an every down tackle because of endurance and agility issues. Also, he was suspended from his team's bowl game due to a violation of team rules. Not much detail there, but character issues are always a red flag. Plus, frankly the Dolphins had a lot of choices here that were better than Soliai. But, I am not a scout, so I can't accurately say that I know he wasn't the best pick for them.

Well anyways, so Miami, here's my big question - Where was your head in round 1??? If I was a Phins fan, I could live with the latter four (not so much Beck but fine), but Ginn at 9? I still can't get over that...

Heir Apparent to Cowher?...aka 2007 NFL Draft Retrospective Part V

Holy Bill Cowher Batman! Ken Whisenhunt, newly minted Arizona Cardinals coach and former Steelers offensive guru, had himself quite a day yesterday and further, quite a draft thus far.

Let's review the picks:

Round 1 - Levi Brown, OT Penn State: Man, I'll be damned if I didn't wish Brown slipped down to 15. Talk about a guy who could replace Faneca (not that Faneca is gone yet or anything...maybe just in his mind). Think about this - Levi Brown throws defenders to the wayside like they were feather-light and Willie Parker breaks a 75-yard touchdown run...AGAIN. Ugh, but alas, I knew he wouldn't drop out of the top ten. When will we draft a Penn Stater???

Round 2 - Alan Branch, DT Michigan: This guy was 1st round talent for sure. Obviously Whis recognized that the Cardinals could have the best offense in the world but without a defensive upgrade, they were never going to scare anyone. That all could change with Branch and Arizona's other picks. While his work ethic has been questioned, have no doubt in your mind that if he shows any kind of lackadaisical attitude around Ken Whisenhunt, he will soon either be whipped into shape or be shipped off.

Round 3 - Buster Davis, LB Florida State: Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, or so they say. Weird that the Steelers selected a FSU backer, then Arizona did two rounds later. Nonetheless, as far as ILB prospects go, this guy was ranked in the top 5, compared to London Fletcher. While he's a bit undersized, he plays with the fire of ten Ray Lewis's. Another great pick for the Cardinals D.

Ken Whisenhunt, this Bud's for you! We will see you on September 30...

Why The Browns Draft Success This Year Won't Really Matter...aka 2007 NFL Draft Retrospective Part IV

In short, it's Cleveland.

In all seriousness, and putting my obvious bias aside, Cleveland is like Arizona (though I have my reservations about continuing to doubt Arizona after Whis's draft crop...see above post). It's a black hole. They can draft all the top prospects they want, and they're still going to assume the basement position in the AFC North. I don't know what it is, call it the Paul Brown curse, but Cleveland has had chance after chance for top picks to come in and "save" the hapless franchise, and none have really panned out thus far.

Although, out of a journalistic responsibility to be moderately fair - Braylon Edwards and Kellen Winslow have actually produced some pretty good stats for the Browns the past couple years (when Winslow wasn't hurting himself riding his motorcycle...no comment for obvious reasons...).

Nothing like making the divisional rivalry interesting...and at least Quinn didn't end up in Baltimore! God, can you imagine the Ravens with Brady Quinn? I'd actually be somewhat scared.

So while I'm not that worried about the Browns good fortune - kudos to Phil Savage! You really nailed it by taking Joe Thomas first, then getting back in the mix just in time to get Quinn. I won't go into semantics, but this shows some draft smarts right here.

Oh, but if you guys think you're getting the Chin - forget it. If Cowher coaches in Cleveland, I'm gonna become a Patriots fan.

10 Reasons Why I Don't Want To Face The AFC East This Season...aka 2007 NFL Draft Retrospective Part III...

Wow, so did anyone else notice how well some(operative word) of the AFC East teams drafted? And by SOME, I mean the Pats and the Bills.

First things first, in case you hadn't heard yet, the Patriots showed their personnel expertise yet again today, making a deal (hasn't been finalized yet) to get Randy Moss from the Raiders!! Aside from Moss, not to mention their beautiful crop of free agency acquisitions, the Pats have also had a pretty good draft thus far - picking Brandon Merriweather, Safety from FSU, with the first of their 1st round picks, then trading the second of those picks to San Francisco for additional picks in the later rounds (adding to their 11 total picks!!). Looks like New England is well-poised to make another Super Bowl run...what a game it will be Sunday, December 9 in Foxboro.

Next, how about the Buffalo Bills? Maybe they didn't get Patrick Willis like they wanted (who didn't want Willis??), but Marshawn Lynch is actually probably just as good of a pick for them as Willis would have been (coincidentally he will be competing with the A-train to replace another Willis, that is MacGahee). Then, they got my boy Posluszny. I can't fault them for that one. But even better still, they get Trent Edwards, the QB out of Stanford! Edwards was ranked as being about the 6th best QB out of this year's crop, and has drawn some comparisons to Seattle's Matt Hasslebeck. Not too shabby for a 3rd round pick to come in and stand behind JP Losman (who I'm told the Bills absolutely love and think will really perform this year).

The Jets you ask? Well, after stealing our hearts by picking Darelle Revis, they went on to get David Harris, LB from Michigan -- a guy who was among the top ILB prospects.

Aside from Miami's perplexing selections (see post above), I think the AFC East made out the best this year...of course things are far from over with 4 rounds to go.

More to come later...

Don't Cry for Me Patrick Willis...aka 2007 NFL Draft Retrospective Part II

I guess that subject should probably read "Don't Cry Over The Steelers Not Getting Patrick Willis", but who's gonna split hairs?

For the sake of appropriateness, let's talk Steelers draft picks first. Going into the day, I was a little worried that we would draft a CB with our first pick (at #15), and further that we would be so microcosmically (probably just invented a word there) considering Pitt's Darelle Revis (nothing personal Darelle). So as things unfolded in the first round, and Patrick Willis/Adam Carriker came off the board just a few picks before 15, I was really worried Revis would fall right into our laps and we'd abandon what I thought was the best use of our Round 1 pick - Linebacker. As it were, the Jets traded up to get Revis right before we were on the clock, and I felt somewhat relieved.

Then we picked OLB Lawrence Timmons. Again, nothing personal to Timmons, but the more I thought about it, the more I wished we had taken Revis. Timmons is a great pickup, but Revis is a top prospect at CB and has great pro potential. So while I don't think we should have had to pick a CB (since Ike Taylor, DeShea Townsend and Bryant McFadden really are good enough in my opinion), when a guy like Revis is available to you (though he wasn't due to a daft Jets move), you kind of have to take him.

Oh well, what's done is done. Timmons, no doubt, will be a great OLB for us and hopefully will be a force on Special Teams until he's ready to step into a starting role.

But let's talk about the other Steelers picks - so far we've gotten LaMar Woodley, DE out of Michigan with the 2nd round pick and Matt Spaeth, TE out of Minnesota with the 3rd round pick. As far as Woodley goes, I think its a great pick up. We were looking to get an end this year, and I trust the Steelers draft prowess enough to know that Woodley must have been a great value in the 2nd round. Plus I'm sure Tomlin is happy because he got his "tweener" - a guy who can play DE or OLB (though after picking Timmons, I gotta think...what?) Here's what I don't quite get - why would we draft ANOTHER TE with the 3rd round pick? We've got Heath Miller, who obviously is among the leagues best TEs, and for blocking purposes (mostly), we've still got Jerame Tuman. So I'm not sure why we'd pass up drafting maybe a backup RB, or O-lineman for a third TE prospect???

I suppose I will have to put my faith in the Steelers on this one and trust that they know what they're doing (not exactly a proverbial "leap" of faith, so I am overall happy with our progress thus far).

On a seperate note - kudos to the Steelers for looking at the Big Ten big-time(pun intended) when analyzing talent...now if only we could've found a role for Paul Posluszny!

Hopefully more to come as the Steelers continue to select...

Ok Miami, We Need to Talk...aka 2007 NFL Draft Retrospective Part I

Well, you might have noticed I didn't get to post anything yesterday, the first day of the 2007 NFL Draft, despite the fact that I was in attendance. Apparently, blogging about the Steelers on BlogSpot doesn't exactly qualify one for press credentials...who knew?

Anyways, as I said, I was there for all the festivities, including the 3 hour wait from 5:20 (when I arrived with friends) to 8:20 (when we finally secured tickets - along the way almost getting into a fight with some disgruntled fellow linewaiters who accused us of cutting -- I promise we did not). Consequently, if you are ever considering going to a draft and are not doing so for any type of editorial purposes, don't. Overall it was an experience, but getting up at 3:30AM and not getting home until 7PM (left at pick 28 of the extremely long 1st round), wasn't exactly a party.

So with that, I bring you a few posts (forthcoming...see above)with my thoughts on this year's picks - the good, the bad, and the bizarre (see subject line).

Hope you enjoy.

Tell Me Something I Don't Know...

Just thought I'd share this exercise in stating the obvious with you:

Following link is a story from the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review discussing how the Steelers have "ruled out drafting a quarterback or tight end"...read it

Just so you know...

I'm not dead...just had to take a few days off from writing. I was on vacation down in Gator country last week and since I've been back, actual work has amassed that I have to tackle before I can wax philosophical about all the latest Steeler news (which ironically there has been a decent amount of).

But the good news is, I will be at the draft on Saturday and plan on trying to keep things up to date as the news unfolds. Of course, you could probably just watch it on TV, but what would be the fun in that?

Here's some links in case you crave light reading -

• Big Ben and Cowher's Star Crossed Relationship...
• Post-Gazette Guru Ed Bouchette's Steeler Draft Assessment ie- how we can win more than 8 games next year and who will help us win them...
• Tomlin Will Reach Out to (and hopefully touch) Alan Faneca regarding his absence from team activities...
• John Clayton's Take on Alan "Just Call me Diva" Faneca's "Message"...
• Coincidentally, Matt Williamson's Column from the 17th, discussing how the Cardinals need O-line help...like the subtle hint there? Thought you would...
Post-Gazette Columnist Bob Smizik's Best Grinch Impression...
• Ravens Re-Sign Rex Ryan for two more years...in other news, he's still no Dick LeBeau!

That's all for now...hopefully my head will surface once or twice more this week and I can spend some quality time with my thoughts on these stories and all the latest Steeler news.

Cheers and enjoy the links (for now)!

PS - no more chili for Max Starks...maybe we should use Campbell's Chunky as a motivator...?

Appendicitis Strikes Again...

at least this time it hit a Brown!

ESPN.com reported this morning that recent "big name" free agency acquisition OG Eric Steinbach had to have surgery to remove his appendix Wednesday, though he won't even miss any minicamp time.

Well, yeah, I don't really care either...at least it didn't happen to him like two days before the first game of the season.

Still, nice to see the old Browns curse is still flexing it's considerable muscle...anyone want to take bets on how many games Kellen Winslow Jr. will miss in 07-08?

Impressive Showing from Steeler Nation...

Of course, I'm just referencing the number of Steeler fans who have "put themselves on One for The Other Thumb's map" (bottom of the page, hint hint).

You guys have no idea how excited, enthused and proud it makes me to see the Steeler brotherhood supporting my humble musings here.

Thanks to - Keith from DC, Jim Marquis from Austin (TX), Big Ed from [my neck of the woods] Howell, NJ, Tim from Natrona, NY, Joe A. from Salem, WI, Tyrone from Salt Lake City, Imraan from Chi-town and all of my great friends who could probably either care less about the Steelers (including some Eagle fans...try not to laugh) and/or football but love me enough to represent Steeler nation on this blog.

What's even better is most of you guys are Pittsburgh born and raised, so rock on!

Thanks again for visiting (hopefully you will be back!) and feel free to leave me comments, I love to hear your opinions on Steeler Football (or how much the Browns suck...you know, one way or another).

People Who Might Be Crazy, Part I...

I just want to point out that contrary to my personal belief (and probably a lot of other Steeler fans beliefs), "jcm412" on Steelers Live thinks that 2007-2008 SHOULD be a rebuilding year?!?! Puzzles the hell out of me (and I think Post-Gazette's Blog n' Gold might agree with me) how anyone can think we need a "rebuilding year." What, prey tell, would you have us rebuild? The only vulnerabilities the Steelers have now are LB, OL (technically only one side), and one could make a case for either Defensive Back and/or Running Back. But frankly, we're a pretty solid football team, which is more than I can say for a lot of the teams desperately snatching up sub-par or mediocre free agents this offseason. Who are we? The Browns? Nonetheless, "jcm412, you are entitled to your opinion, and despite the rebuilding part, the guy drops plenty of good knowledge. I especially like how he slips in a hope to see Tony Hunt and Paul Posluszny in Black and Gold (go State!).

Next, we've got "DR U Fantasy Football", who included WR among the Steelers draft needs this April. I mean I guess I understand the argument that Hines Ward is getting long in the tooth, but come on, he's not that old. We JUST drafted a first round WR last year, and with Cedric Wilson and Nate Washington I think we can stretch the field pretty well (or at least should be able to, in theory). But maybe he meant for the 4th or 5th round, in which case, eh, maybe I agree a little bit.

I just think it's a testament to my point Monday - draft speculation is really not even worth our effort because first and foremost, the Steelers have always had success in the draft, and have given us no reason to believe they wouldn't continue this tradition on April 28. Plus, I could throw out a million names, but it's all pretty cut and dry - we know what we need and we'll get it. No sense in spending hours writing about it.

Wow, that sounded kind of negative, huh? Weird, 'cause I'm in a really good mood. Oh well.

As Steeler Nation Turns...

By the looks of it, draft pundits have a new prediction for the Steelers first round selection - Patrick Willis, Inside Linebacker out of Ole' Miss.

There's been a lot of speculation around the Steelers draft needs, mainly focused on three areas - Offensive Line, Linebacker and Cornerback (although it's widely acknowledged that a third running back could also be a possibility), with Linebacker popping up most often. As I've mentioned before, we've heard a lot of Jarvis Moss, Lawrence Timmons, due to their versatility, but Willis (at least as far as I know) is a new name to pop up.

After looking over some of the information available about the 6'1", 242 pound LB coming off of a Butkus Award-winning Senior season, I think in terms of attitude/character he's a great fit. The only concern I have, also shared by other speculators, is his size. But frankly, I'm a big Paul Posluzsny fan, and he ain't any bigger. Plus, Willis has the best 40 time out of all top linebacker prospects, and is said by many a top LB available in next months draft.

But like I said above, here's what could speak volumes for the guy -

"Has overcome a lot in his life to get where he is...Is heavily involved in community service...Is a great person and player who will be an asset to a team both on and off the field...Is simply one of the best linebackers available this year."

If Willis is as responsible and mature as it sounds, he could be not only a great player, but could grow into a great leader, filling the void of charismatic defensive leader vacated when the Steelers unloaded Joey Porter on the Dolphins (call it whatever you want).

You know what though? I actually hate speculating on what the Steelers will do in the draft because honestly, I have plenty of faith in the organization. We have almost always made great drafting decisions and whoever we end up selecting I am sure will be an asset. Too bad that's the only thing there is to discuss right now, so I'll continue to do my best to speculate with a smile.

Read Patrick Willis Official Bio here

"Rebuilding Year"? Let That Term Be Stricken From All Dictionaries in Pittsburgh...

Perhaps you, as Steeler fans (or at least as I assume you are), had already been thinking this. But lest ye have any doubt that the media feels the same way, never you fear.

Today, ESPN.com and Scouts Inc. posted a feature of the Steelers as part of their individual team previews leading up to April 28's draft, the crux of which was that the Steelers have the talent to win NOW. Despite what some might say (but who listens to Browns, Bengals or Ravens fans anyway?), the losses we suffered in Cowher, Whisenhunt, Grimm, Porter, and Hartings were not catastrophic. In fact, the team that went 8-8 last year, theoretically should have been at least 10-6 and made the playoffs, if not registered an even better record and won the division. I'll try not to cry too much about it.

But I digress...As pointed out by ESPN.com, Big Ben is an outstanding starting QB with great instincts, and Tomlin is a charismatic, smart young coach to whom the players can relate and could enjoy instant success in Pittsburgh. After all, we're only one season removed from an historic Super Bowl run (you might remember we were a #6 seed and won every playoff game on the road to make it to the big one - perhaps we've heard the story too many times...).

As for their draft predictions - it was pretty much more of the same - Jarvis Moss or Lawrence Timmons (IE guys who are versatile enough to play in a 3-4 or a 4-3). Smart picks, but I'd like to see the Steelers seriously consider Levi Brown (who coincidentally visited with the team today...wink wink). If we could build up the left side of our line we could open up a whole world of offensive opportunities, and I for one am partial to guys out of Ol' Penn State (showing some personal bias here, but who cares, it's my blog, right?). Course, if we could get Joe Thomas...I might throw personal bias out the window. Frankly if either drops down to the number 15 spot I'd be pleasantly surprised...

Brown, Thomas, Moss...I'm happy with any of them.

Either way, don't you think Mike Tomlin bears a striking resemblance to the black doctor on Fox's show, "House"? Yeah, me too. I've been thinking that for a while...good thing I finally stumbled on the post from Deadspin.

Baby 'Cause Joey Porter's a Thug...

Yes, it saddens me that all I have to write about this morning is again Joey Porter (at least he's someone else's problem though).

Still, it's quite humorous how this whole Levi Jones - Porter spat has unfurled. Apparently now (a couple weeks later...god knows what caused that lag), Jones is claiming that six of Porter's proverbial "boys" jumped him first, before Porter hit him in the face. **Note: "Boys" does not equate with Joey Porter's "Dogs". The latter term refers to the "Most Feared Dogs in the NFL" who happened to be owned by Joey.

Anyways, this whole thing is completely ridiculous. Jones' most recent account includes Joey verbally inciting him and only "getting near him" once his "boys" had "jumped" Jones. Sounds like a pack of wolves if you ask me.

Two possibilities regarding this:
1. Jones is telling the truth and Porter is a little girl (for lack of a more colorful term) for not facing Jones like a man.
2. Jones is lying to try and save some face. I wouldn't be too quick to discount this one, since Jones is 6'5" and a beefy 307 pounds, while Porter is a "meager" 6'3" 250 pounds.

Two truths and a lie, which one is it?

DayDream Fodder for a Monday Morning...

So I logged into my gmail this morning and to my surprise (pleasantly) I noticed that a few bloggers out there are talking about a possible trade with Arizona that would send Max Starks back to Russ Grimm's open arms and the Steelers the Cardinals number 5 selection overall in the forthcoming draft. Kudos to to my handy google alerts (nudge nudge google...) for this one.

If this is true, it'd be the best news I've heard for the Steelers in a while. Look, Max Starks is not as bad as his play last year might suggest (well ok, I don't know that for sure but it's my hunch), but if the Steelers have a chance to move that far up in the draft, I say we should do it. This is why we build through the draft, stockpiling talent - depth at those positions opens up a world of opportunity for us.

So Kevin Colbert/Mike Tomlin, if you guys are reading this - do us all a favor, dump Starks on Whis and Grimm, give Willie Colon a chance and draft at the number 5 spot. You can't lose.

Here's what worries me though - why are people talking about getting pass rushing DEs Gaines Adams and Jarvis Moss? Alright, I know why. But seriously, the 4-3? Come on guys, 3-4 is Steeler football. If you're drafting at the 5 spot, don't mess with a good thing. We can get good DEs undrafted, let alone in the first round. Then again, I am but a humble fan. What do I know anyway?

Now back to smacking myself back to consciousness...give me two more cups of coffee and maybe I'll be ready to write another post...maybe, but don't count on it.

Music to My Ears...

I am happy to report, via AOL's NFL Blog (Post-Gazette, Tribune-Review, etc.), that the Steelers will be sticking with the 3-4 for at least one more year (and hopefully more).

Since Mike Tomlin took over as head coach, there has been a lot of speculation about whether or not the team would morph into the 4-3 (Tampa Cover 2) that Tomlin employed in Minnesota and in theory favors over the 3-4.

The first big move to keep the 3-4 came when Tomlin retained Dick LeBeau as Defensive Coordinator (a much heralded move as well). Nonetheless, glad to see we have confirmation that Tomlin subscribes to the "if it ain't broke, don't fix it" philosophy.

A man after my own heart.

Cheers Mike!

Sincerely,
Christopher S. Cotter, Steeler Fan Extraodinaire and Blip on the Steeler Blogosphere

Speaking of Compensatory Draft Picks...and Stacking the Deck....

Does anyone realize how ridiculous New England should be (on paper) going into next season? Not only did they pretty much trump all in the offseason player moves department, securing Adalius Thomas, Donte Stallworth, Kelly Washington, Sammy Morris, and Wes Welker, but they are also the only team with TWO first round draft picks, and now they've been awarded FOUR more compensatory draft picks. FOUR. That's like 100 in dog years...er picks...you know what I mean.

This amounts to a hefty 12 total draft picks for the Pats on April 28, the most of any team. How much more do they need? I mean with all that talent they just brought in, coupled with the fact that they made it all the way to the AFC Championship game (which they almost won mind you) last season, the Patriots should be a lock for the Super Bowl next year...then again, just because somebody looks good on paper NOW, doesn't mean that things won't change in the 6 months or so between now and the season kickoff.

Oh yeah, and Baltimore got 4 compensatory picks too...good news for the Steelers...probably not. At least with our 2 compensatory picks we'll have 9 total picks...not too shabby.

Dynamite Idea for New Reality Show - The Life and Times of Chris Henry

What can I say, the man's comic genius in an America's Funniest Home Videos kind of way...or maybe more like Cops. Either way, Chris Henry has landed himself in trouble with the law yet again.

The 24 year old Henry, who's seen more than his fair share of handcuffs over the past two years, was cited this week for driving with a suspended license, an improper turn and a seatbelt violation. Hardly felonious offenses. But for a guy with a rap sheet like Henry's, this could spell bad news.

Distributing alcohol to minors - 2 days in jail
Three minor traffic violations - ???
Getting arrested 14 times in 14 months - Priceless

Thanks for giving me something else to muse about dude...

Compensatory Draft Picks, Yea!!

Imagine Crank Yanker's Special Ed reading that subject and it's a whole lot more appropriate.

Anyways, today's big Steeler news is that the NFL awarded the team two additional compensatory draft picks in this year's April 28 draft. And yes, for those of you who doubt the relevancy of this news, it is big. Since the Steelers consistently rely on the draft to feed their ever-successful talent pool, getting an extra 4th and 5th round pick is huge.

So you know what? My earlier statement about wanting the Steelers to show more of an active role in free agency was probably a bit of an over reaction. I'm not rescinding that it's tough to sit by and watch the Browns/Ravens make moves as if they were trading cards (not people), but the Steelers don't like to throw money around like that, and this year was one characterized by tons of money(disgustingly). So, as the story goes, 1+1=2, and the Steelers were relatively non-existent in this year's free agency "arms race".

Who am I to mess with the Steeler way.

In Kevin Colbert we trust!

Things We Have Been Saying for Months for $1000 Please Alex?

Well alright, so I took a few days off. I need to do that from time to time, you know, recharge the batteries so to speak (or recover from minor alcoholic stress). But never you fear, I'm back and raring to go...well I'm back at least.

So according to a report in this morning's Post-Gazette, new Steelers head honcho Mike Tomlin believes that former LB Joey Porter is replaceable. While I'm sure this isn't really news to any avid Steeler fan (IE - you and your buddies had probably been foreboding this for months, maybe even the last year), I do think it's pretty humorous that he has the balls to come right out and say it.

The good news is throughout the story, Tomlin's quotes show wisdom beyond his years. I particularly liked his closing comment - "It's all a rerun to me, it really is, and the reactions that go with it. Yes, I'm the head coach now but it's nothing I haven't seen before. Change is part of this business, it's going to happen. Sometimes it's going to be more unpleasant than others, but it's the nature of what we do."

Remember folks, change is a constant, but as Steeler fans, we're lucky to be blessed with a pretty capable replacement already in James Harrison (aka Silverback...if you haven't noticed Cowher calling Harrison "Silverback" go watch your Steelers Super Bowl XL DVD again, it's in there).

Big Ben Enjoys the Sagacity of Marino and Kelly...

As is probably being blogged about in all 52 states and beyond right now, yesterday Big Ben talked with the media about his struggles this past season. The long and short of it was - Ben said what's done is done (more or less). Some people wanted to offer "alibis" for him, but Ben noted, "You know what? I might have still had the same year," if there had been no trauma." Also positive was - Ben talked about how he went golfing with Dan Marino and Jim Kelly, two former NFL star QBs from the Western PA area, about being just that in the NFL, a star QB. Ben said Marino and Kelly told him, "hey, you had a bad year. You're going to have more bad years, but don't let it get to you." Good advice boys.

Anyways, Ben's comments and attitude are business as usual for the calm, cool and collected 4th year Super Bowl champion. I am certainly encouraged by Mr. Rothlisberger's optimistic demeanor going into next year, but not surprised. This is one of the things that makes Ben so great.

Nonetheless, here's some promise in what was said -
1. Big Ben is calling new offensive coordinator Bruce Arians "BA"...Ah brotherly bonding...makes you wonder, does Arians do a really good Mr. T impression?

2. Ben will be calling the pass protections from the line next season and not the O-line as it was previously. What a novel idea...the guy who is reading the defense and masterminding the offensive attack calling an offensive protection scheme...GOOD! He's the one needing protection so maybe he will know best exactly what to call...or I guess hopefully he would know.

Big Ben godsend...remember that!

Tomlin All Business, Wilson a Locker Room Voice, Ward and Faneca Still Skeptical...

Those are the best descriptors I can offer after reading reports on Mike Tomlin's team meetings yesterday.

So apparently Tomlin laid down the law, or so we hear through Cedric Wilson(?)

Astutely recognizing the drop off in play last year from the prior Super Bowl year, Tomlin called for players to train in Pittsburgh this year. That is, with the team, rather than in Florida or Arizona, or anywhere else that isn't with the majority of their teammates. And supposedly about 85% of the team has already heeded this call, surfacing in Pittsburgh. Among the most notable - Big Ben. Also important to note was that Tomlin said every man at every position will be competing for a starting job. The rest was just more of the same.

From my perspective, I really don't know that Tomlin has to be so authoritative. While I appreciate the sentiment of Steeler-bonding, the Steelers were/are already founded on hard work - blood, sweat and tears. So I don't see too many of the players being lackadaisical about their off season training or their potential starting jobs next season. Then again, you can never be too careful -- too many off seasons spent doing their own thing and the Steelers could become the next Bengals...

Anyways, the other rather significant happenings were - Alan Faneca still bitter over the so-called Russ Grimm "snub", and Hines Wards still bitter over the recent jettisoning of emotional leader Joey Porter. A lot more bitterness than I expected actually...

So alright, Faneca's not quite gotten to Pittsburgh yet. To me that doesn't really say anything. And as for his saltiness about Grimm, eh, what are you gonna do. Get over it Alan. I don't think this is a huge deal though. In time, Tomlin will earn Faneca's respect/trust, or Faneca will follow Grimm and former Offensive Coordinator Ken Whisenhunt to the desert. It would be unfortunate if it came down to the latter, but sometimes things are better for the team.

Moving on, Hines Ward came right out and said he didn't understand the release of Joey Porter. Come on Hines, you know exactly what's going on. New coach, new regime, new leaders. It's about time Big Ben stepped up and said "this is my team." The Bus was great, and Peezy though at times brash and unncessary, provided great leadership for the Steelers. But this is now Ben's time to shine. All those voices are gone. He needs to be the guy. Plus, Joey's a 9th year Linebacker who's play declined significantly last year, the year before a potential contract extension/new contract. Again though, I think this is a case where you just let him cry about it for a few days and by the time the week is over, Tomlin will have earned Hines' respect...of that I have little doubt.

Man that was a long post...I'm exhausted...

Good Times with Joey Porter Part I...

Even I'm amazed. It only took Joey Porter a matter of like two weeks to get himself back into the headlines for something stupid.

According to a wire report this morning, Peezy was cited for misdemeanor battery resulting from a fight with the Cincinnati Bengals OT Levi Jones.

Actually, I kind of love how Joey is still fighting Bengals even though he's no longer a part of the illustrious AFC North! But still, it makes me kind of laugh to myself...the Dolphins have no idea how much of a pain in the ass Joey Porter can be...especially when you give him the impression that he's super important to your defense as the Dolphins did by sending their head coach and others via private jet to Peezy's ranch to lure him towards Miami (as one Steeler exec called "excessive" and gratuitous use of team money).

So that's 60 career sacks, 10 interceptions and 2 citations (or is it 3?) for Joey.

Joey Porter aka Someone Else's Problem...

Pennsylvania Knows It's Stuff, True Story...

Not like it hasn't been said before by self-proclaimed football experts, but today's ESPN.com "The Talk" column basically solidifies it -- Pennsylvania football fans are both the craziest and most knowledgeable.

Two out of the four "experts" weighing in came right out and said hands down, Steelers fans are the most knowledgeable out of all NFL fans. What I thought was even more telling was that two out of the four experts were also Pittsburgh natives! Even better, a third was a member of the Eagles for most of his career.

So, if you didn't take my word for it before, believe me now! People from Pennsylvania may not know much about anything that isn't related to Nascar, Hunting, the Amish, chewing tobacco, and assorted meat products, but they do know Football. And let's face it, if you gotta know something, why shouldn't it be that?

Take that Ohio!

Are the Steelers Making the Right Decisions this Offseason??

I think it's a fair question. After reading about personnel moves, major and minor alike in Cleveland and Baltimore, I really got to thinking this morning.

The fact is, we have a brand new, 32-year old coach in Mike Tomlin who has never been a head coach in the NFL. Not only that, but we seem to be trusting him with too much too quickly. This may be the result of Cowher's success when placed in a similar situation in 1992. However, maybe it's possible that with the departure of the great Bill Cowher, the Steelers organization and Steeler fans alike want Mike Tomlin to be something great right out of the gate. Believe me, I'm not saying he won't be. But here's what worries me:

Tomlin prefers a 4-3 (Tampa Cover 2) defensive scheme. Contrastingly, the Steelers have quite successfully run a 3-4 for a while now. The good news is, Tomlin kept 3-4 proponent and guru Dick LeBeau as Defensive Coorinator. The potential bad news is there is talk now, with Joey Porter gone, of drafting a Defensive End such as Jarvis Moss and moving into a 4-3. And look, I'm not saying the 4-3 wouldn't be a success in Pittsburgh, but coming off a Super Bowl win just a two years ago, I hardly want to see the Steelers changing too quickly at the risk of sacricing their competitive edge.

Perhaps this is just one isolated issue, and there isn't as much change as I think there is, but I guess my question is - are the Steelers trusting Mike Tomlin with too much too quickly or is all this appropriate?

Whispers About Randy Moss More Like Declarations...

Don't be fooled by headlines implying the subtlety of a possible deal between Oakland and Green Bay for Randy Moss. There is nothing subtle about a deal for Randy Moss, and frankly, really nothing subtle about Randy Moss in general.

Nonetheless, it has been reported that Packers GM Ted Thompson has in fact already had discussions with Raiders owner/tsar/stegosaurus (see, because he's old, and so are dinosaurs...) Al Davis regarding Moss. And what's more, not that this has any bearing on an actual deal (despite what Packers fans may think), apparently there has been an outpouring of both positive and negative feedback from fans to Packers management regarding the trade. I thought it was pretty funny how in the corresponding ESPN.com report, they actually mention specific individual comments, such as one man's assertions - "Moody. Excess baggage. Disruptive. Do any of these words sound like alarm bells to you?"

Anyways, I'm sure there are plenty of proponents of both sides of the "is Randy Moss worth the headache?" debate, but I, for one, say give him a try. He has surprised me in Oakland. I mean he hasn't exactly been mum, but he definitely could be making much more of an issue out of the fact that they couldn't get a pass off last year, let alone put the ball in his hands.

To put it into a Yogiism ~ For all the Randy Moss he brings to the table, he still brings Randy Moss. If you catch my drift...

I wouldn't mind watching Brett Favre throw bombs to Moss...this could be interesting, plus I hope he grows back the sick afro, like he's sporting in the inset image.

Lance Briggs on the Open Market???

I think I just peed my pants....You mean Briggs wants out of Chicago to be a long term defensive leader on another team? Joey Porter's gone? Steelers need a Linebacker?

You couldn't find a better match on eHarmony...except for the fact that Briggs was upset at how "little money" the Bears offered him and the Steelers are notoriously tight with their wallets...

But maybe, just maybe theres a snowball's chance in hell we could lure him in. The only other impediment beyond $$ would be if part of Tomlin/Colbert's decision to let Joey go was that they wanted Big Ben to become the one and only leader of the team. In that case, it would only hurt us to have such a strong spiritual presence in the locker room.

Nonetheless, let's do it man! Go get em Colbert!

Who the Hell is Ryan Fowler and...

Why would any team offer him $10.5 million as a restricted free agent?

I mean, maybe if he was a top tier player I could understand it. But the fact is he's only started in three games for the Dallas Cowboys (his current team)and has really only been a presence on special teams!

Hey Sports Illustrated --
Sign of the Apocalypse ~ Restricted free agent LB Ryan Fowler signs 4-year, $10.5 million offer sheet with Tennessee Titans after rebuking a similar deal from the Philadelphia Eagles. Ryan Fowler, primarily a special teamer for the Cowboys, has only started a total of three games in three NFL seaons, let alone qualifying/playing in a pro bowl or any other meaningful game. Contextually, the $4 million he would be paid next year as part of the Titans offer, matches what the Steelers were scheduled to pay former 3-time pro-bowl LB Joey Porter next season...wait, did I mention he was an undrafted rookie free agent signing out of Duke? (not that there's anything wrong with that...)

Kevin Colbert is right man, this free agency thing is getting ridiculous!

Steelers Register Miniscule Signs of Life in 2007 Free Agent Market...

In what might be viewed as something of a moral victory, at least more so than anything else, the Steelers signed Offensive Lineman Sean Mahan to a 5-year deal yesterday, worth approximately $17 million.

In the Post-Gazette's report of this acquisition, they note that Mahan has been brought in to potentially compete for the starting Center position, which of late has been linked to Chukky Okobi and Kendall Simmons as well. All jesting aside (is jesting a word?), this actually is a really good pick up for us. Even if Mahan does not end up competing for/being next year's Center, we could certainly use his 6'3" 301 pounds of muscle on the O line next year, especially if he can play right tackle!...PS he played right guard for Tampa in 2005...so maybe there's hope.

Anyways, hopefully this has somewhat appeased the militant Steeler fans who were hoping to see more intiative out of the Black n' Gold in the face of highly active free agency movement from Cleveland and Baltimore (myself included).

Raising Arizona??

The Arizona Cardinals. The first thing that comes to mind when I think about the Cardinals is their status as a perrenial doormat in possibly the weakest division the entire NFL has to offer. This team, in a 20-year Arizona history, has finished last 9 times and only made the playoffs once - 1998 - the same season in which the Cardinals posted their only winning record.

But yet, that doesn't keep some NFL beat writers from touting them consistently in recent years as "up and comers." The latest being Len Pasquarelli of ESPN.com.

As a disclaimer - I think Len always has a lot of good insight and being that he is a guy from Pittsburgh, I pretty much automatically respect his opinion. So I was a little alarmed by his headline "Cardinals a team on the Rise," although to his credit, he tempers his enthusiasm for their new "situation" with the necessary amount of "but still, they're the Cardinals."

Anyways, in his recent story on ESPN.com, Pasquarelli writes "With a new and inspiring coach, a state-of-the-art stadium, a young quarterback around whom to build for the future, an oasis of proven playmakers on offense and a defense with legitimate potential for improvement, Arizona might be ready for a change." Implying that Matt Leinart's success towards the end of last year coupled with The Whiz calling plays and Russ Grimm's instruction on run blocking (something that offensive line needs more than anything in the world) means the Cardinals might actually not finish in the NFC West's basement next season.

I think there's almost a 100% chance the Cardinals will improve, however to say they are up and comers, I'll reserve judgement. The NFC West, aside from Seattle, hasn't exactly wow'd anyone lately. But that didn't stop San Francisco from significantly upgrading it's roster this off season. And don't count St. Louis out completely either. Bulger's a good QB who can hit just about any receiver (and he's got a bevy to choose from now - Holt, Bruce, Bennett) and Stephen Jackson can run with the best of them, amassing over 1500 yards and 13 TDs last season.

All in all I guess you could say I'm skeptical...