Monday Night Pick week 15

Its another Monday night  and time for my Monday night pick for week 15.

Sunday picks of the week #15

Its week 15 and time for my Sunday picks of the week.My record against the spread this season is 29-25-2. These picks are for amusement only and I hope that you are laughing all the way to the bank.

Keys to Steeler victory Vs Jets

On Offense : The Steelers offense must play smart mistake free offense . They can not afford to have holding calls or turnovers against this tough Jets defense.

Grades and thoughts on Steelers win Vs. the Bengals

Offense... B-

  The Steelers offense once again made big plays but could not cash in and had to settle for field goals in the red zone. This continues to be a problem and needs to be fixed before the Steelers start a playoff run. The Offensive line continues to be called for holding and pre-snap penalties .

Monday Night Pick week 14

Its Monday Night and time for another Monday night pick. I picked a loser with the Jets last week and my record against the spread is no 7-7 . Time to get back on the winning track and as always these picks are for amusement only and I hope your laughing all the way to the bank.

If I was a betting man I would take...

The Texans + 3 over the Ravens ... Houston offense scores to many points for Flacco and the Ravens to match.

So there you have it and don't forget where you got it . Spread the word about the blog. Later Steeler Nation!

Sunday Picks of the week 14

   Its time once again for my Sunday picks of the week. Last week I went 2-2 and my record against the spread now stands at 28-23-1.

Keys to Steelers victory Vs. Bengals

On Offense : The Steelers offense needs more touchdowns and less field goals. They must score touchdowns in the red zone . The offensive line must continue to grind and fight. The injuries to the Steelers offensive line have been plenty but they continue to find a way to get it done.

Grades and thoughts on the Steeler win against the Ravens.

Offense...B

    QB Ben Roethlisberger may not of had his best game statistically ,but what he showed in heart, blood and guts on the football field was priceless . He was 22-38 for 253 yards 1 TD, 1 interception and QB rating of 75.9.

Keys to Steelers victory at the Ravens and picks of the week

On Offense : The Steelers have to win the battle in the trenches. The offensive line must take charge early and not make the mistakes of the past couple weeks. The Steelers can not afford the holding calls and false starts of the past.

The time is now ...Seize the moment .

  The Steelers have a huge game this Sunday . This is no doubt the biggest game of the season so far. A win puts the victor in the drivers seat for the division title. The stakes are high and it couldn't come against a more despised opponent , the Baltimore Ravens.

Monday Night Pick week 12

Its another Monday night and time for the Monday night pick

Grades and thoughts on the Steeler win against the Bills

Offense... B

The Steelers offense was good at times and then not so good at other times. QB Ben Roethlisberger had a pretty good game but far from his best. He went 20 for 33 passing for 246 yards and no Tds or Ints.

Keys to Steelers victory at Bills and picks of the week

On Offense: The Steelers offense must be able to run the ball against the Buffalo Bills. This starts with the offensive line . The Steelers O line must out physical the Bills defensive line.

List of things Steeler Nation is Thankful for this Thanksgiving

List of things Steeler Nation is Thankful for this Thanksgiving

Grades and thoughts on the Steeler win against the Raiders

Offense... A-

The Steelers offense played a very good game Sunday. It all started with QB Ben Roethlisberger. He completed 18 of 29 for 275 yards and 3 Tds and a QB rating of 127.8. Ben also ran for a 16 yard TD and had 55 total yards rushing.

Monday Night Pick

   Its another Monday night and time for another  Monday night pick. My Monday night pick record against the spread so far is 5-6 and I need another win to get to 500 so lets get this party started and as always these picks are for amusement only and I hope you are laughing all the way to the bank.

Keys to Steelers victory Vs. Raiders and picks of the week

On Offense: The Steelers offense must get in some kind of rhythm this week . The play calling has to be much better than last week. Ben Roethlisberger must start off the game fast and be careful with the football. The Steelers can not afford to start off slow on offense. The offensive line must protect Ben.

Adversity

Adversity … It can bring out the best in a person or the worst in a person . Adversity test one's metal. It can either make you or break you. You can either face it and become stronger from it and learn from its lessons or wilt and dwell forever on what could or should have been until it consume you.

The Pittsburgh Steelers have come to that point in the season where they will either face it and become stronger because of it or wilt and forever wonder what could have been .

Monday Night Football pick

Its time for my Monday Night Pick and as always these are for amusement only and I hope your laughing all the way to the bank.

If I was a betting man I would take....

Grades and thoughts on Steelers loss Vs. the Patriots

Offense... D-

The Steelers offense came into this game very flat. They seemed as though they could not get anything going until it was just too late. Ben Roethlisberger started off the game slow and his early passes seemed high and off the mark.

Keys to Steeler victory Vs New England and My Picks of the week.

On Offense: The Steelers should be able to move the ball well against the Patriots .The Patriots defense is not that good . They rank 29^th in yards allowed a game, allowing 386.5 yards a game. That's pretty bad. 29^th against the pass and 21^st against the run .

Grades and thoughts on the Steeler win against the Bengals

Offense ...B-

QB Ben Roethlisberger final stats were 17-27 for 163yds and 1 TD and 1 interception . He had a QB rating of 76.6 . The interception was just a bad throw and he must not make this kind of mistake with the lead . He has to be more careful in these crucial game situations.

Keys to Steelers victory at Cincinnati and my Monday night pick

On Offense : The Steelers must win the battle in the trenches and be able to run the ball against the Bengals .Rashard Mendenhal  must

Picks of the week for week 9

Time for my Sunday picks of the week. After a tough weekend last Sunday 1-3 against the spread its time to get back on that winning streak . My record for the year is now 18-14 that's still not too bad .

Every cloud has a silver lining

In life a lot of times its much easier to see the negative, bad, or whats wrong in your life. Some times we focus so hard on our problems and what we think is going wrong , that we lose track of the good things we have, and whats going right. So Today at Steelers N Stuff I have decided to give us all a reminder that It can always be worse and may not be as bad as it seems so try to focus more on the good you have in your life and whats going right

The Steelers lost a big game against the Saints Sunday night . It was on national TV against the Super Bowl champs in New Orleans on Halloween night . A big stage for sure ,a playoff like atmosphere. Some players said the noise reminded them of game in Indianapolis against the Colts in 2005. That was a Monday night game and the Steelers lost the game 26 -7 and Colts won the game handily.

Grades and thoughts on the Steelers loss against the Saints

Offense ...C-

The Steelers offense was below average most of the night. QB Ben Roethlisberger was pressured most of the time and seemed off most of the game. His final stats 17 of 28 no Tds and a interception and a QB rating of 66.8 .

Monday Night Football pick week 8

 Well I hope everyone had a great football weekend  even though the Steelers loss. Its time for another Monday night pick and lately I have been on a hot streak on Monday night picks  hitting the last three in a row.

Keys to Steeler victory at Saints and My Picks of the week.

On Offense : The Steelers running game has to show up big time this week. The Super-dome will be loud and the Steelers might have a hard time with pass protection at first so it will be essential that they can run the ball. Establishing the run will help keep

Grades and thoughts on the Steeler win at the Dolphins

Offense....B-

Ben Roethlisberger continued to impress in the passing game completing 19 of 27 for 302 yds 2 Tds passing and a QB rating of 132.00 but he also had three fumbles and one that nearly cost the Steelers the ball game. Rashard Mendenhall had a rough time getting yards particularly after offensive line man

Monday Night Football pick week 7

Monday...Monday can"t forget that day... Hope every one had a great weekend and let me ask  are you ready for some Monday night football? After last weeks win

Keys to Steeler victory Vs Dolphins and My Picks of the week.

 

On Offense : The Steeler offense must continue to stay balanced . They have to keep the Miami defense guessing with a good mix of pass and run. Ben Roethlisberger has to continue his sharp play and be careful not to try to do to much ,and don't be afraid to rely on Rashard Mendenhall and the running game. As usual the Steelers offense can not afford costly turn overs against a pretty good Dolphin defense . The Dolphins defense is ranked 9^th giving up an average of 311 yards a game. 12^th against the pass giving up 202 yards passing and 16^th against the run giving up 109 yards rushing a game. Defensive back Jason Allen has three interceptions so far for the season .The Steelers should be able to run against this defense. I expect Mendenhall to have another good game .Lets hope Ben and the Steelers can take the home crowd out of this one early.

On Defense : The Steelers defense will have a pretty good test this week on the road in Miami . Miami has the 12^th ranked offense averaging 348 total yards a game .They have a pretty balance attack ,with running back Ronnie Brown running the wild cat and wide outs Brandon Marshall and Devone Bess .

Bess is fast becoming one of the best slot wide receivers in the league and the Steelers need to keep an eye on him. I think the Steelers secondary really must step it up. I look for Troy Polamalu to have a good game . I think the two main keys will be to shut down the wild cat and put pressure on Qb Chad Henne . He is prone to mistakes if he is pressured and I feel the Steelers will have very little problems pressuring him.

So there you have it ...The Steelers should have a good test on the road this week ...One I feel they will pass with flying colors !

Now for my Sunday picks of the week . Last week I went 2-2 to put my record against the spread for the season at 16-8 not bad at all ...So lets keep this party going and remember as usual these picks are for amusement only but don't be afraid to tip me if you win some cash .

If I was a betting man I would take......

The Steelers -3 over the Dolphins …..Steelers too talented for Henne and the Dolphins! $$$$

The Bears -3 over the Washington....Cutler and Bears cut right through Washington's soft pass D! $$$

The Eagles + 3 over the Titans …...Eagles soar with Kolb over banged up Titans! $$

The Rams + 3 over Tampa ...Battle of the young Qbs ,Rams D too much for Freeman!$

Wow that's a lot of 3s!!!

Well there you have it, my picks of the week ...and Don't forget where you got it spread the word about the blog and as always have a Great Steeler Sunday ! HERE WE GO STEELERS!

Grades and thoughts on the Steeler win against the Browns

Offense ….B+

What can you say about Ben Roethlisberger's performance . After an early interception and a little nerves ,he came back to throw 3 Tds going 16 of 27 for 257 and just the one interception. He had a QB rating of 112.7 . He had

Monday Night Football pick

Its another Monday night and time for my Monday night pick for week six .

Keys to Steeler victory Vs Browns and My Picks of the week.

On Offense : The Steelers key on offense will be to take what the Browns defense gives and don't try and do too much. This will be Ben Roethlisberger's first game back and he may have to warm up a quarter or two before he gets the timing of playing in a live game back. I expect Heath Miller and Hines Ward to be prominent in the passing game as Ben's go-to guys . The Browns defense is ranked 21^st in the league giving up 343 yards a game. They are ranked 18^th against the pass giving up 223 yards a game ,so once Ben gets his groove back the Steelers should be able to jump out to a big lead and let Rashard Mendenhall and the offensive line take over from there. The Steelers need to just take it to the Browns and not let up, and show they are the superior team from beginning to end.

One for the good guys

With all the off the field drama and trouble that a lot of NFL players seem to be getting into lately ,its very easy to forget the good guys of the NFL that not only shine on the field ,but also off the field. In today's media ,good deeds seem to get a small amount of air time ,while Brett Favre texting mess or the big Ben mess goes on and on for what seems to be months. I guess its just human nature but it seems people would much rather harp on the bad, while the good gets a small mention here or there.

So here at Steelers N Stuff I have decided to give a shout out to just a few of the good guys on the Pittsburgh Steelers that not only shine on the field but also off. Let me start off by saying that there are many of these type of players on the Steelers and through out the NFL too many to name all here, but I will name just a few and in no particular order...To all not mentioned know that your work is greatly appreciated and please keep it up. So here is my shout out to a few of many good guys on the Pittsburgh Steelers:

Monday Night Football pick

Well its Monday night and the Jets take on the Vikings

My picks for Sunday week 5

Had a rough week of picks last week ,going 1-3 Vs the spread on Sunday ...but still have an overall record of 12-4 Vs the spread so far this season ..Looking for redemption this
week

Steeler Chat at http://profootballhotline.blogspot.com/

Hey Steeler fans just got done doing a chat with Brandon Sweeney over at http://profootballhotline.blogspot.com/  He ask some great questions and has all the NFL news you need check it out .. great NFL news site

Grades and thoughts on the Steelers loss against the Ravens

Offense ….C -

Overall I feel the Steelers offense played well enough to win but had way too many penalties ,especially the last drive from their own 2 yard line ,when a first down could have won the game. A false start by guard Chris Kemoeatu and another by tight end Matt Spaeth forced the Steelers to have to punt from deep in their own end zone after failing to get a first down .Charlie Batch came back down to earth after his stellar

Monday Night Football pick

Well here it is another Monday night ...Are you ready for some football..after a rough Sunday I know that I am ...Last week I had the Bears and the points

Keys to Steeler`s victory Vs Baltimore and My Picks of the week.

On Offense : The Steelers must win the battle at the line of scrimmage .The offensive line must out physical the Ravens defense. It will all start with rookie center Maurkice Pouncey . The Ravens will put him to the test with nose tackle Kelly Gregg . That match up should be a good one and will tell us what Pouncey is really made of. He has passed every test with

A lesson in Perseverance

  PERSEVERANCE ...If you look up the word you may find a definition that goes something like this  ...   perseverance : Steady persistence in a course of action , a purpose, a state etc., continuance in spite of difficulties, obstacles, or discouragement... and then you may see a picture of the 2010 Pittsburgh Steelers.

  The Steelers have continued to persevere no matter the obstacle or difficulty despite the many doubters at the beginning of the season . Despite the whole Ben Roethlisberger mess in the off season. Despite trading talented but problematic wide receiver Santonio Holmes . Despite losing starting Offensive right tackle Willie Colon for the year before training camp even started . The Steelers have not only weathered the many storms but have became a stronger team through it all.

  The defense has used all of this to fuel the fire . Playing with a chip on their shoulder already due to the way last season ended and the way many may have thought a few of the older veterans may have lost a step or should be on their way out. People just failed to realize what the loss of Troy Polamalu and Aaron Smith meant to the Steelers last season and what the return of these two would mean to the team this year. All the talk about can the Steelers win without QB Ben Roethlisberger ? Well that just fired up this talented defense even more ...The other team has to score to win right ? The Pittsburgh Steelers have always been known for their physical Defense and this is probably the most talented and deepest team they have had in many years and they have had some great defensive teams. There is a good mix of young and seasoned veteran players and make no mistake about it they are on a mission .

  All off season the media has talked about how great the Jets and the Ravens defenses are . The Steelers defense is a prideful bunch ... with the main core of its players having won 2 Super Bowls.

Let me ask you this ….What have the Jets D won??? When was the last time the Ravens won a game of any meaning ? Ray Lewis won one in 2000 ...James Farrior has won 2 Super Bowls since 2005 and the Steelers have beaten the ravens in every meaningful game they played in about the last decade. So I can see where they may feel like they have been slighted and have something yet to prove.

Baring major injuries the Steelers are the best defense in the NFL bar none.

  The offense has really came around considering the QB situation and all the changes on the offensive line. You want to talk about perseverance? Lets talk about the QB situation for the Steelers . With the suspension of Ben it looked like Byron Leftwich was the sure starter but then a knee injury in the last preseason game put a stop to that and probably saved Charlie Batch from being cut from the team. In comes Dennis Dixon to open the season with a win only to hurt his knee in the second game of the season . Now Charlie Batch was an after thought in training camp..He barely played the preseason and was a blink of an eye from getting cut from the team and probably retiring ...through all of this he kept his mouth shut ,did not whine . He just continued to work hard and was the ultimate professional.

  So here it is the third game of the season ,The Steelers are down to their 4^th string QB in Charlie Batch and he has not started a game in years so whats he do? He goes out and throws three touchdowns goes 12of 17 passing with 186 yards and QB rating of 106.5. Now if that's not a lesson in perseverance what is?Not to mention Rashard Mendenhall and the offensive line have really stepped it up . Mendenhall has really turned out to be a top notch running back and he still has potential to get even better. The offensive line has really came through despite all the changes and injuries and did I mention they are playing with a rookie center that thus far has played outstanding. Maurkice Pouncey looks like the real deal and should be an ALL PRO for years to come.

  The fact that the Steelers are 3-0 and on top of the AFC north after all this is a testament of the fortitude and perseverance of coach Mike Tomlin ,his coaching staff ,the Steelers players,team leaders

and the whole Steelers Organization …. As coach Tomlin likes to say the standard is the standard no matter who is in there and the standard is winning and we embrace that and expect it no matter who is starting.

  So there you have it ...A lesson in perseverance . I think we should all apply this to our own lives and should remember no matter what the odds are ..no matter the obstacles ,difficulties ,or discouragement Keep your head up ,keep believing ,keep fighting and working hard and set your standard high and Persevere.  Only good can come from it .   

With ordinary talent and extraordinary perseverance, all things are attainable.          ~Thomas Foxwell Buxton

Our greatest glory is not in never failing, but in rising up every time we fail.                       ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

Perseverance is a great element of success. If you only knock long enough and loud enough at the gate, you are sure to wake up somebody

  ~ Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

Grades and thoughts on the Steelers win against the Buccaneers

Offense … A-

Well lets start this weeks grades and thoughts off with the offense and Charlie Batch...You have to feel good for the guy...Think about it... He was an after thought in training camp getting little if any meaningful reps with the starters or second string for that matter. He never once complained ...never had a real shot in the preseason... If Byron Leftwich does not get hurt in the last preseason game during what was going to be his last playing time of the night ..Batch would have been cut from the team ..Then he takes a back seat to Dennis Dixon being that Batch did not get much work with the team in camp or preseason and Dixon did have a pretty good preseason ...but then Dixon hurts his knee and Batch goes from the last in line to the man in command ...He comes out against the Buccaneers and throws an interception right off the start ...A younger less seasoned QB may have went into the tank at that point not Batch though ...the very next drive he throws a bomb to WR Mike Wallace for a 46 yard TD ...and then another 41yard TD to Wallace ...and a nine yard TD to WR Hines Ward in the end zone to end the half with 3 TD passes and by the time the Steelers ended the half they were up 28 to 6 and Steelers Nation took over Tampa as the Terrible towels filled the air ...it then became like a home game..Batch ended the game with a passers rating of 106.5 ...12 of 17 passing for 186 yards and 3 Tds and 2 Ints The offensive line did great protecting Batch not giving up any sacks and opening up the running game for Rashard Mendenhall who had another great game rushing for 143 yards on 19 attempts and a TD ...He averaged 7.5 yards a carry that's a great average, Mendenhall is really turning into a good back if he keeps this up he has to be mentioned as a top 5 Rb in the league!

DEFENSE...A-

The Defense played another outstanding game ...Only giving up a TD late in the fourth when the game was already well in hand and the back ups where in ...This Defense is something special ...They came out after the very first Batch interception and set the tone causing the Buccaneers to go 3 and out and kick the field goal...Ryan Clark had a fumble recovery ….Brett Keisel had his first interception and returned it 79 yards for a TD...The Steelers D sacked the QB 4 times and Lawrence Timmons led the team in tackles again ... the coaches called another brilliant game... Every one on the defense continued to play to the high standard they have set this year and barring a lot of injuries this may be the best defense that the league has seen in awhile...They are so physical and have so many play makers that you have a hard time praising them all....they held another team under 14 points giving up just 13...This Defense can be summed up in one word and that's AWESOME !!!

Special teams ...B+

Daniel Sepulveda only punted one time but it was a beauty going 62 yards and getting the steelers out of a field position jam...He is becoming one of the best ...Jeff Reed was 5 for 5 on extra points and had a 24 yard field goal ...The coverage teams never let anything major get pass them and the return team did OK but I would of like to seen them break more long ones .

The Good ...

Charlie Batch and the offense as a whole

The Bad...

Not much bad but the interceptions

The Ugly...
Not much ugly when you win 38 to 13

Don`t forget to leave comments and spread the word about the blog.

Monday Night Football pick

Well Its time for another Monday night ...I`ve been on a cold streak on Mondays 0-3 but tonight will try and pick my first Monday winner of the year ...by the way my record against the spread  on  Sunday`s games is 11-1 so I hope to bring some of that mojo to my pick tonight...and remember these picks are for amusement only so don`t blame me if you owe your bookie and he breaks your knee caps ... now without further ado here's my pick for tonight....

If I was a betting man I would take ...

The Chicago Bears + 3 at home against the Green Bay Packers...I just have a feeling that the bears will play the packers tough at home and Jay Cutler will have the offense putting up points under new offensive coordinator Mike Martz...I also think the packers will miss Ryan Grant in their running game so the bears will focus on defending the pass...and the bears are playing at home...so there you have it and don`t forget where you got it...
spread the word about the blog and feel free to leave comments

Keys to Steeler`s victory at Tampa Bay and My Picks of the week.

On Offense : The Steeler`s Offense must improve by great strides this week especially in the passing game. Charlie Batch must make some plays through the air and his receivers need to help make these plays and cut down on the drop passes . Batch has to play a smart game and take what the defense gives him and not try and force things . The last thing the Steelers need is to turn the ball over with bad decisions by Batch . The Steelers need to pass to keep Tampa honest on defense other wise they with just stack up their defense against the run. It should help the Steelers that Batch had a whole week to practice with the starters and he knows the playbook as well as anyone. It should also help that starting safety for The Buccaneers Tanard Jackson is out for the rest of the year with a suspension . The offensive line will be helped with the return of Max Starks at left tackle but may be hindered by the loss of Trai Essex at right guard we shall see if Doug Legursky can fill in for him with out a problem...I think he is more then capable...That being said its very important that the offensive line protects Batch no matter what combination is in there as the coaches will probably be sending in a bunch of different players to help fight the heat and keep everyone as fresh as possible in the 90 degree

Tampa heat... The running game needs to remain strong and I feel they should have no problem running the ball on Tampa Bay. The Buccaneers have given up a 4 yard average per run this season so far, so Mendenhall and the running game should have another big game.

On Defense : This ones easy just continue playing the smash mouth ,lights out football that they have been playing . The defense should even be fresher and more stout with nose tackle Casey Hampton back in the line up. Keep the turn overs and sacks coming! Tampa is starting a young inexperienced Qb and the Steelers defense and coach LeBeau have a pretty good record against inexperienced Qbs...They need to confuse him and hit him hard and often and force him to make mistakes and you know they will...The Buccaneers have only averaged 3.3 yards a run so the Steelers should have no problems shutting down any running threat of the Buccaneers.

The Steelers should be fine this week as long as they don't overlook the Buccaneers and stay focused .

Now for my picks of the week ...Last Sunday I went 4-0 so I hope you took my advice ...that makes me 7-1 for the season so far ...lets keep this hot streak going! Remember these picks are for amusement only so don't bet the kids college savings on them!

If I was a betting man I would take :

Titans +3 over the Giants...Titans defense and Chris Johnson come back strong on Giants and their soft

defense $$$$

Steelers -3 over the Buccaneers ...Do I really need to give a reason $$$

Eagles -3 over Jacksonville …. Vick too much for weak Jag Defense $$

Minnesota -11.5 over the Lions....Vikings go back to the running game against lousy Lions$

Well that's the picks for week 3 and as always have a great STEELERS Sunday and HERE WE GO STEELERS! Spread the word about the blog and leave comments .

Grades and thoughts on the Steelers win against the Titans

DEFENSE! DEFENSE! DEFENSE! DEFENSE! DEFENSE!     A+

Wow! What a Defensive performance the Steelers put on Sunday. The job they did collectively as a group shutting down Chris Johnson and the Titans was one of the best I have ever seen. So many players played great ,that many could make a case for defensive player of the NFL this week. I mean do you pick James Harrison ,who had a great game with 11 tackles ...2 sacks...2 forced fumbles and 1 fumble recovery … Troy Polamalu who had another outstanding game with 6 tackles ...3 for a loss ... another interception to stop a scoring drive ...and a leaping tackle over the Titans o-line at the snap of the ball that was beyond belief … was it Lamarr Woodley ...he had 4 tackles ...a sack ...interception and a forced fumble... was it Lawrence Timmons with 15 total tackles ...1 for a loss ...and a forced fumble...

Timmons is really living up to the All Pro caliber player the Steelers coaches thought he would become and more...The list of players that had outstanding play for the Steelers D Sunday goes on and on ...they force 7 turn overs ...3 interceptions ...4 fumbles... 4 sacks and only gave up 11 points not to mention held Chris Johnson to 16 carries for a total of 34 yards and his longest run was 11 yards... that's no small feat against a back like Johnson . The whole Defense gets player of the game if you ask me with too many great efforts to mention ...LeBeau and company called another great game .Did I mention that they forced Vince Young to the bench ...you just got to love The Steeler defense!

Offense  D-

I'm going to try to make this as short as possible ...The passing game was just pathetic with 43 total passing yards between the two Qbs ...and the few good passes they made were dropped or nullified by penalties ...the offensive line gave a good effort considering the circumstances but could not play with any togetherness due to the many line up changes there was at so many positions...Mendenhall may not of had his best game but gave a workman's effort and earned every yard he got with 69 total yards ...The Steelers offense can't go anywhere but up from here . The offense kept the turnovers and major mistakes to a minimum so I wont give them an F

Special Teams  B+

The reverse kickoff return to Antonio Brown at the start of the game worked like a charm and went for an 89 yard TD and help take the crowd out of the game early... great call by the coaches ...It would end up being the only TD of the game for the Steelers so that makes it even more crustal....Jeff Reed went 4 of 4 for field goals and Sepulveda had a pretty good day punting although I thought he could have had less touch backs into the end-zone and more inside the 10 … I really like the way the return teams are coming and S.Sylvester may be the Steelers new special teams ace if he keeps it up.

The Good

The Whole Steelers defense ...Beating up on Chris Johnson and the Titans all day long.

The Bad

The Steelers offense....Its got to get much better than this.

The Ugly

The Steelers Passing game ...43 total passing yards...Wow that's ugly!!!

Well another week and another win lets keep it going! 2-0 and headed to Tampa Bay!

Remember to leave comments and spread the word about the blog

Monday Night Football pick

Well after a bad first Monday night of picks 0-2 I`m looking to rebound with a big Saints win against the 49ers ...I just don`t think the 49ers can put up the points the Saints high powered offense can...so my pick is take the Saints -6 over the niners ... Brees VS Smith enough said...I should have my thoughts on the Steelers game sometime  tomorrow and remember these picks are for amusement only ...but of course if you win I do expect a tip ...

Keys to Steeler`s victory Vs. Titans and My Picks of the week.

 
On Offense:The coaches must let Dixon play a little more his style and not so tight and safe...I think they have to roll him out and let him do his thing...Try play action and take off if need be...Dixon must still play smart and especially in the red zone...but its time to turn him loose a little bit. The offensive line must control the line of scrimmage and give Dixon time in the pocket and open some holes for the running game...Mendenhall must start off where he left off last week and continue to be a big play RB ...The Steelers must not turn over the ball and should try for a big play early to take the crowd out of the game...If they get an early lead that will make it much rougher on the titans.

On Defense: The Steelers must stop Chris Johnson and that's easier said then done ...but they have done it before ...holding him under 100 yards both times they have played him... Everyone must stay in their gaps and not over run the play and  be sure not to get caught up in the play when he uses his cut back moves...they all have to play very discipline . The Steelers must shut down the run and force Vince Young to try and win the game...If this happens Young will surely blow up under the pressure and make more then a few mistakes ....that's  when the defense can turn up the heat and cause some turnovers ...the steelers will need to win the battle of turnovers on the road to win.

Now for my picks of the week ...Last Sunday I went 3-1 against the spread not bad for opening weekend ... Remember my picks are for amusement only so don't blame me if you bet the house and lose.


If I was a betting man I would take:

Cincinnati + 2.5 over the Ravens ...Cincy comes back strong at home and exposes Ravens weak secondary and proves that if the Jets had half an offense Baltimore would be 0-2.$$$$

The Colts - 5 over the Giants ...Peyton schools Eli once again $$$

The Steelers +5 over Titans ... you know i can`t pass up the Steelers getting points Steeler D shows up big time$$ dog of the week

Houston-2.5 over the Redskins  ...Houston shows everyone they are the real deal.$

Well there you have week #2 picks and remember  Amusement Only .


Don't Forget to spread the word about my blog and leave comments .


HERE WE GO STEELERS AND HAVE A GREAT STEELER SUNDAY!

Grades and thoughts on the Steelers win vs falcons

Here are some of my general thoughts and grades of week ones win against the Falcons….

  Offense C+

Dennis Dixon started out a little rough …it seemed as though he may have had a case of the nerves the first few drives. Some of his passes where low and short…and he did have an interception that stopped a key drive and could of had a couple more if they had not been dropped…I think the Steelers coaches played it a little too safe with him at the beginning and could have rolled him out more and used the play action pass more…That being said I feel he had a much better second half hitting some key passes to Hines Ward and Mike Wallace

 The Steelers offensive line seemed much more physical then last years and I think a lot of that has to do with new offensive line coach Sean Kugler and his style of coaching. Maurkice Pouncey was impressive in his first start at center and you could really tell the difference. He seems to be even better then anyone could have expected.

    The Steelers running game was led by Rashard Mendenhall who had 22 carries for 120 yards including the 50 yard TD run in overtime. Mendenhall really stepped up and looks to becoming a top all pro running back  .I really liked the way the Steelers used both Mendenhall and Redman in the backfield.

What else can you say about Hines Ward …the guy just never slows down. He continues to be a clutch WR in his 13^th season and had a key block on Mendenhall`s game winning TD…Not to mention he had 6 catches for 108 and helped Dixon calm down and showed what a true leader he really is …that’s why I have to say he was the player of the game.

The offensive grade would have been higher if they would have came away with more TDs instead of having to settle for field goals.

DEFENSE A-

 Overall I felt the Defense played a great game.  They held the falcons to a 2.3yard average per rush…25 rushes for 58 yards that’s a very good game and not many teams are going to win against them if they keep that up. Lawrence Timmons seems to becoming a all pro LB. He had 9 tackles and 2 assists. Lamarr Woodley and James Harrison each had a sack. Troy Polamalu made another great interception for the ages . I m telling you, at the game it seemed as though no one was covering the wide out …Troy was at least 10 Yards from the play …I was yelling someone better get on the wr, there’s no one covering him…No wonder Ryan thought he was wide open when he threw it…Then here comes Polamalu out of no where and makes a spectacular catch for the interception and drags his feet to stay in bounds. Troy has unbelievable closing speed  …Truly the best I have ever seen… he fools QBs all the time because there seems like theres no way he can make the play from where he is on the field and yet he makes the play most of the time. Like a cartoon or video game his skills seem out of this world…He is truly a once in a lifetime player so lets enjoy him while we can…because there will never be another like him.

 I was a little concerned with how many catches they let White have 13 for 111 but in the end it meant little and the Dbs seem improved from last season. Overall Defensive coordinator Dick LeBeau called another good game ...The defense never gave up a TD and gave up only 9 points total and that’s always a good thing

Special teams B-

Jeff Reed was 3 of 5 including a 52 yard make but also had a 55 yard miss and a potential game winner of 40 yards missed…His kick offs seemed much improved but you have to make a 40 yard field goal   that being said he usually makes that automatic

Daniel Sepulveda punted 5 times for a net average of 46.8 net average. He had a good game and got the steelers out of a deep hole late in the game with a perfect punt of 54 yards with no return at the falcons 21 There was no big returns on the steelers so that is an improvement from last year and their return team was average and had no major mishaps.

The Good …

   Hines Ward 6 Catches for 108 Mr. Reliable… the ageless wonder.

   Maurkice Pouncey, a rookie playing like a future all-pro.   

   Troy Polamalu making a super interception in clutch situation of the game

   Daniel Sepulveda clutch punt at the end of the 4^th quarter

   Lawrence Timmons 11 tackles and playing his best football yet

The Bad…

  Jeff Reed missing 40-yard field goal at the end of regulation

 

The Ugly…

  The Steelers only converted 4 of 14 on 3^rd down that must be better in the future if they want to be a Championship caliber team.

Monday Night Football picks

On slate for tonights action  are two Monday night games ...So with out further ado here they are

If I was a betting man I would take :

 The NY Jets - 1 over Baltimore ...The jets open their new home tonight and the crowd and the weather may be a factor...I think the Jets D may shake up Flacco and Baltimores D may show some age.

The Chargers - 4.5 over KC .... The Chargers are a far better team then the KC not much more to say..

and as always these picks are for amusement  only so don`t blame me if you lose your house...

I should have my thoughts on the Steelers win Sunday up soon!

Keep reading and spreading word of my blog and don`t forget to comment.

Keys to Steeler victory Vs. Falcons and My Picks of the week.

On Offense :  The Steelers must walk a fine line with the play calling...be careful but don't play too conservative that they become predictable.

The Steelers must eliminate turn overs. They can not afford to give the ball up to the Falcons . Dixon must make smart decisions with the ball and not make the same mistakes that he made in the preseason in Denver,especial in the red zone...throw the ball away if need be ,and live to fight another day.

Mendenhall needs to step up and carry the load... The Steelers need him to show he is the big time RB they drafted him to be and by all means hold on to the ball. I feel Mendenhall will be just fine this season and really show he is an every down back if need be.

On Defense:   The Steelers must shut down the falcons run game and RB Michael Turner. I feel the Steelers will be up to the task on this phase of the game. They also must shut down TE Tony Gonzalez So a good game by Lb Lawrence Timmons is a must.
If the Defense does these two things that will put pressure on Qb Matt Ryan and  then Defensive coordinator
Dick LeBeau can work his magic and start to turn up the heat on the young Qb and that's when we must get the turnovers on defense...I think the defense will be more then ready to accomplish all these things.

With that being said remember I am a die hard Steeler fan and think that they will win every week !!!
And remember my picks are for amusement only so don't blame me if you bet the house and lose.



If I was a betting man I would take:


The Steelers + 1.5 Steelers home underdogs cant pass that up! Pick of the week$$$$

The Giants – 6 The G men too much for the Panthers to handle $$$

Miami -3 Dolphins should have no problem with the Bills and banged up offense $$

Bangals + 5 Cincys D too tough for aging Patriots upset of the week $ Hope IM WRONG ABOUT THIS ONE !!!



Well there you have it and remember folks Amusement Only .



Don't Forget to spread the word about my blog and leave comments .



HERE WE GO STEELERS !!! and have a great Steeler Sunday!

Can you feel it?

The summer days get a little shorter and you can feel it...As August fades into September the air gets a little crisper ...You take a deep breath and you can smell it flowing through the changing leaves...As you exhale you smile...Football season is in the air!


With every new football season comes a fresh clean slate...A new beginning ...Everyone is a contender once again. Last season means nothing. The off season is in the rear view mirror and we are driving forward on a new journey...destination unknown .

Optimism fills the air and even the worst team from last year has high hopes and big dreams and who's to say any different...Who would have thought that the New Orleans saints would be Super bowl champs last season. For every NFL fan hope springs eternal and anything is possible at this time of year.

Enjoy this part of the season while it last because the slate does not stay clean long. The journey is long and you never know what exactly lies in the road ahead...Will the ride be smooth ? Will the road be full of unexpected turns and pot holes? Do we have enough good spare tires in case of flats?
Do we have enough gas in the tank to get where we need to be ? Time will tell and just like any journey our destination  will become clearer as we go .

As for now though the glass is half full ...the car has a full tank and we are on our way and anything is possible...Lets hope that Mike Tomlin and the Pittsburgh Steelers keep their eyes on the road and their hands upon the wheel and our next destination is another Super bowl championship!

Now let me give you my prediction for the record of the 2010 Pittsburgh Steelers . I believe the Steelers will weather the storm of Big Ben and his four game suspension and finish the season as AFC north division champs with a 12 - 4 record and will make the playoffs and be in the hunt for another Super Bowl...Now remember optimism fills the air this time of year and anything is possible....and did I mention hope springs eternal... Lets all enjoy the ride of the Pittsburgh Steelers 2010 season!

Don't forget to leave a comment or give your prediction on the Steelers record and vote on the new poll I have up!!! Spread the word about my blog and thanks for visiting !

QUOTES

It doesn't hurt to be optimistic. You can always cry later. ~Lucimar Santos de Lima


When the world says, "Give up,"

Hope whispers, "Try it one more time."
~Author Unknown

Hope is faith holding out its hand in the dark.  ~George Iles
 
A pessimist is one who makes difficulties of his opportunities and an optimist is one who makes opportunities of his difficulties. ~Harry Truman

Decisions...Decisions...Decisions..! Who to keep? and who to cut?

The Pittsburgh Steelers have a lot of tough decisions and choices to make by the start of the 2010 season. It all starts September 4th ,that's the date all teams must have their game day rosters cut down to 53. Who to keep and who to cut? Decisions and choices are never as simple as they seem and even the simplest ones can effect the future and destiny of yourself and others...(just look at Big Ben's bad choices and decisions this off season if you need an example) So they should be made thoughtfully and with an eye on the effects they have on  the future of yourself and others . The steelers decisions and choices September 4th will directly effect the future of the 2010 steelers season and beyond. You never know who the next star may be...James Harrison now an NFL star and Defensive MVP of the league in 2008, was cut by the steelers a number of times and may have not  gotten another chance had it not been for a weight lifting accident by then starter Clark Haggans in 2004.  The steelers called Harrison back... weeks before that call he had almost decided to give up his dream of the NFL and get a job as a truck driver like his father...sure glad he didn't make that Choice! He made the right Decision trying one more time with the steelers... I think his100 yard interception return in Super bowl XLIII win is just a little proof..Think about if the steelers would have cut fast Willie Parker a virtual unknown player who never even started in college and  not only made the team but made the Pro Bowl ...he also made the longest run from scrimmage in a super bowl with his 75 yard TD to help win in super bowl XL. So you just never know what your choices and decisions may bring so try to think things through and lets hope we all make the right choices and decisions and the future is bright.... Here are just a few decisions the steelers may have to make along with a few quotes on decision and choices....tell me what you think and dont be afraid to leave a comment or follow my blog


Who do the steelers keep on the O line? Do we  start Pouncey and let Hartwig go?

I say start Pouncey and let Hartwig go or trade him ...That way Pouncey does not have to worry about looking over his shoulder and none of Hartwig`s friends will have much to say ...let Legursky be the back up. I keep Adams at right tackle for now. Tony Hills makes the team this year.

Do the steelers keep the young wide receivers Brown and Sanders?
Will Logan make the team as a re-tuner?

I keep these two on the roster if Battles must go so be it. Logan I cut...Brown or Sanders can be re turners.

Do You Keep Dwyer?
Yes at this point I don't think he makes it to the practice squad  ...he`s shown to much good stuff.

Do you try and fit Worilds ,Gibson,and Sylvester on the 53 man roster.?
Yes I think they are all too good to let slide


QUOTES:

The roads we take are more important than the goals we announce. Decisions determine destiny
~ Frederick Speakman

 Life is the sum of all your choices. ~Albert Camus

Choices are the hinges of destiny. ~Attributed to both Edwin Markham and Pythagoras

It is in your moments of decision that your destiny is shaped. ~Tony Robbins


You are the person who has to decide. Whether you'll do it or toss it aside; you are the person who makes up your mind. Whether you'll lead or will linger behind. Whether you'll try for the goal that's afar. Or just be contented to stay where you are ~Edgar A. Guest

To QB or To not QB ...that is the question!

The great QB debate may or may not have gotten clearer Sunday night … Many Steeler fans have been calling for Dennis Dixon to start the season . He has had a good preseason and many think he gives the steelers a better chance to win during Ben's suspension .


Dixon is fleet of foot and can make big plays out of nothing....but with that comes his youth and inexperience ..So you have what you had against Denver Sunday night...the two interceptions was not all Dixon...The young wide outs can share the blame. Although they are well ahead of most rookies ,they still are learning new positions and the speed of the game in the NFL is a big adjustment from college ...But a good QB has got to realize you must be careful once you reach the red zone and under no circumstance do you give the ball up to the defense.

Many think Byron Leftwich the seasoned vet may be the best option. He has plenty of game day experience and a cannon for an arm. Leftwich has had an OK preseason thus far ….but at times seems to be getting killed back there with the lack of a good pocket or plenty of time to wind up that release of his...He can really fire the football but shows very little touch most of the time ….With the questions on the Steeler`s offensive line Leftwich lack of mobility and wind up release may be big problems. ...Only time will tell...Charlie Batch does not even seem to be in the running ,though he did show he may have something left Sunday night in Denver.

The saddest part of this whole thing is that Ben Roethlisberger has really looked great in training camp and in the preseason and seems to be in prime shape and form …. Lets hope that he has learned a valuable lesson from all this and becomes a better person from it...If this experience does not wake him up nothing will...and time will tell.

My thoughts on the QB situation is that they should play a combination of Leftwich and Dixon..not really naming a true starter ...I'm not saying to use both every other series but to kinda play it by ear so to speak...or have situations where Dixon takes over... depending on the defense and the situations...
this would give defenses and defensive coordinators a lot more to game plan for and why show your hand if you don't have to?...I don't think this would work for a whole season but may be the best solution
during Ben's time off... The Steelers need to use every edge they can find during this time...Whats your thoughts???

Hope you like the blog

Hey Steeler Nation and the world wide web join me here at my new  blog Steelers N Stuff to read my thoughts  and info on the Steelers and any other stuff that may be on my mind...I'm new to all this blogging so hang in there and  have fun joining in on all the topics and  discussions!  My first topic will be coming soon !