Pittsburgh Steelers

y time I’ll be over .500 all postseason.

 

(9-8) Denver Broncos 29
(12-5) Pittsburgh Steelers 23
Overtime

Steelers can’t get anything going, fumbling, turnovers from Big Ben, The Broncos got up 20-6 at halftime, leaving me aghast at the utter ridiculousness of the situation and prompting a note of “Oh hell” on my PC. The Broncos got after Ben today, sacking him five times and making him pay for extending plays in the pocket. Pittsburgh couldn’t get their offense going until the second half, getting their first TD on the board to close the gap. McGahee nearly fumbled the game away late, setting up a Roethlisberger pass to Cotchery to notch the score at 23-23. Though I’m surprised the Steelers pussed out at the end of regulation, opting to get Ben sacked instead of trying to kick a 66-yard field goal. And guess what? Those new OT rules didn’t even come into play. One Tim Tebow pass, one Demaryius Thomas run after catch and major stiff-arm led to a Broncos overtime victory and insanity in Denver. As a ton of tweeters pointed out, the two players involved on that score are both Josh McDaniels selections. He’ll feel good about himself today. But where were the Steeler safeties? Oh, COMPLETELY OUT OF POSITION? That's cool.

Continue reading "The Final Drive: 2012 Wildcard Weekend"

Shouldn’t be a pounding, but it should be more than three.
(12-4) Pittsburgh Steelers at
(8-8) Denver Broncos
4:30 PM ET, CBS

How much time do you want me to spend on this one? Okay, fine. Big Ben is still hurt with a high ankle sprain, but something tells me he’ll be out there with an occasional limp and yet miraculously and dramatically lead his team to a victory. Sound familiar? Veteran DB Champ Bailey will likely be matched up on speedster Mike Wallace, but with rookies at safety for the Broncos (no Brian Dawkins), there won’t be an effective top on their defense. Keep an eye on Wallace for big plays. Without Rashard Mendenhall, the Steelers are going to need a committee effort at running back just to keep some pressure off Roethlisberger. Safety Ryan Clark won’t be out there, but I’m not sure he needs to be against the Bronco offense. The Steelers have too many excellent pass-rushers to let this game get away from them.

Continue reading "The Opening Drive: 2012 Wildcard Sunday"

-round bye and (more importantly) a playoff home game for the first time in the Harbaugh era.(12-4) Pittsburgh Steelers 13
(4-12) Cleveland Browns 9

So… is anyone else oddly concerned that the Steelers only managed 13 points… against the Browns… in a game that Big Ben played? That’s… not encouraging. (7-9) Kansas City Chiefs 7

Continue reading "The Final Drive: Week 17, 2011-12"

Give me Eli and the inconsistent Giants in this one.(2-12) St. Louis Rams at
(10-4) Pittsburgh Steelers

This one would be almost not worth writing about except for Big Ben’s injury. Instead, the ancient Charlie Batch will get the start against the lowly Rams, a team that is now in the running for the first pick in April’s draft. I’m picking the Steeler defense in this match-up… because not much else excites me.(7-7) San Diego Chargers at

Continue reading "The Opening Drive: Week 16, 2011"

Have fun losing on the road again, slackers.

(11-3) San Francisco 49ers 20
(10-4) Pittsburgh Steelers 3
Amidst two power outages, subsequent delays and mind-numbing analysis of the delays (“Who does this delay favor?” SCREW YOU. They’re both f###ing delayed!), there was an actual game here. San Fran, you’re legitimate. I’m still not sure you can hang with an offense that has a fully healthy quarterback (because you still have Alex Smith, natch), but you’ve beaten the Steelers are their own game. (Playing great defense and controlling the ball.) Now try to hold off the Saints, yeah?  

Continue reading "The Final Drive: Week 15, 2011"

Baltimore wants that two-seed or the division title, and they need to win out to get either.(10-3) Pittsburgh Steelers at
(10-3) San Francisco 49ers

With no James Harrison on Monday night thanks to a suspension, the Niners might not give up nine sacks like they did against the Ravens on Thanksgiving. That is desperately needed for Alex Smith, who hasn’t proved he can get this team through the impending playoffs. San Fran needs to get a quality win for me to take them seriously and they just haven’t gotten it. I don’t see them finding it today either. 

Continue reading "The Opening Drive: Week 15, 2011"

(4-8) Cleveland Browns at
(9-3) Pittsburgh Steelers

Okay Cleveland fans, let’s talk some Browns. You’ve got Colt McCoy struggling to impress management, who are almost assuredly need to take a good hard look at drafting another signal-caller come April. Tonight, he gets front-and-center with James Harrison, who has been wrecking quarterbacks with reckless abandon since coming back from injury. Cleveland doesn’t have enough talent on offense to hang with the Steelers at all, especially if Peyton Hills can’t get on the field consistently. They have solid parts on the defensive side of the ball, but they’re not cohesive enough to put up much resistance against Big Ben.

Continue reading "Joe's 2011 Thursday Night Preview: ..."

two turnovers cost them this one, making their 21 fourth quarter points too little, too late.(9-3) Pittsburgh Steelers 35
(7-5) Cincinnati Bengals 7

Ow. That kinda hurt. After riding high with those “moral victories,” those pesky Bengals finally got put down by the cream of the AFC North. They might still get in for a wild card spot, but I don’t see them making much noise yet.(12-0) Green Bay Packers 38

Continue reading "The Final Drive: Week 13, 2011"

(7-4) Cincinnati Bengals at
(8-3) Pittsburgh Steelers

The Bengals have had two shots to make statements against the Ravens and Steelers but have failed to deliver. Round two against the AFC Champs takes place on Sunday as the Bengals try to hang onto their playoff hopes. Look for things to be different this time around as Andy Dalton should hopefully have A.J. Green for the entire game.(7-4) Atlanta Falcons at

Continue reading "The Opening Drive: Week 13, 2011"

(Besides to mention his nickname is now “Jebus and Teebs.”

(8-3) Pittsburgh Steelers 13
(4-7) Kansas City Chiefs 9
I’m stunned that the Chiefs were only down four… with two minutes to go… and a chance to win… with Tyler “Warming the Seat for Kyle Orton” Palko. The Steelers got the win and that’s what counts, but credit that KC defense for reaching down and giving one helluva performance Sunday night.

Continue reading "The Final Drive: Week 12, 2011"

Falcons at home? I like ‘em.(6-3) Pittsburgh Steelers at
(6-2) Cincinnati Bengals

It’s put-up or shut-up time for the Bengals, who after getting a favorable schedule in the first half of the season have four games against their divisional rival Ravens and Steelers. (Two each.) If they’re going to catch the Steelers napping… it probably won’t be this week. After losing to the Ravens last week, the Steelers will be out for orange-hued blood.

Continue reading "The Opening Drive: Week 10, 2011"

There’s something wrong there.

(6-2) Baltimore Ravens 23
(6-3) Pittsburgh Steelers 20

How freaking EPIC was this game? Joe Flacco finally shows up in crunch time, leading his team on a 92-yard drive in the final minutes to overcome Ben Roethlisberger’s go-ahead score. James Harrison was an absolute madman in his return from injury, but the defense had problems at corner thanks to penalties from Ike Taylor and William Gay. Do these teams get to go again come playoff time? I hope so. 

Continue reading "The Final Drive: Week 9, 2011"

nd won’t get any help from a blitz-crazy Packers defense.(5-2) Baltimore Ravens at
(6-2) Pittsburgh Steelers

The rematch is on! After being whupped in week one and supposedly falling out of the AFC North race, the Steelers are back in control and ready to return the favor against a flailing Ravens. I’ll be at the ready for the Sunday nighter.  

Continue reading "The Opening Drive: Week 9, 2011"

Nice guy? Sure. Good quarterback? Probably not.(6-2) Pittsburgh Steelers 25
(5-2) New England Patriots 17

Whoah. That New England secondary has major issues. Like, Kim Kardashian-sized issues. They cut Leigh Bodden three days before this game when they already had a thin defensive backfield! I don’t get it. How does Belichick let his defense get away with performances like this?(3-4) Philadelphia Eagles 34

Continue reading "The Final Drive: Week 8, 2011"

I’ll get back to you on that one.(5-1) New England Patriots at
(5-2) Pittsburgh Steelers

In easily the best game of the week (on paper), the Patriots head back to Pittsburgh, where Tom Brady has absolutely owned the Steelers. It hasn’t even been close. Pittsburgh still looks headed towards a two seed in the AFC, but they could claim top dog with a win today. I’ll be glued to this one.(3-3) Dallas Cowboys at

Continue reading "The Opening Drive, Week 8, 2011"

Let’s get into the games!

(3-1) Tennessee Titans at
(2-2) Pittsburgh Steelers
This seems like a pretty even match-up… which is really odd to say. But the Steelers defensive line will be missing tackle Casey Hampton and end Justin Smith, so look for the Titans to get Chris Johnson going early and often. I’m not all-in with the Titans, but Matt Hasselbeck could find weaknesses in this Pittsburgh secondary. With Ben Roethlisberger in a boot and Rashard Mendenhall set for limited action, the Steelers could be bent over for the kicking.

Continue reading "The Opening Drive: Week 5, 2011"

(3-1) Houston Texans 17
(2-2) Pittsburgh Steelers 10

I wouldn’t have been sure the Texans would have been able to stave off the Steelers in a close game, but these Steelers are clearly not the same as we’ve seen in years past. Ditto for the Texans.  Houston will likely continue aggravating and confusing experts everywhere in the next few weeks.

Continue reading "The Final Drive: Week 4, 2011"

At least one of these lousy teams will avoid 0-4. I’m betting on the Vikes.(2-1) Pittsburgh Steelers at
(2-1) Houston Texans

I’m… not sure what’ll happen here. The Pittsburgh run defense has been…crappy this season? That means the returning (and hopefully finally healthy) Arian Foster could be in for a superb day getting hand-offs from Matt Schaub. I’m still not on the Texans bandwagon, but the Steelers are vulnerable and inconsistent. (2-1) San Francisco 49ers at

Continue reading "The Opening Drive: Week 4, 2011"

Detroit has to lose today… they HAVE to.

(1-1) Pittsburgh Steelers at
(0-2) Indianapolis Colts 

HAHAHAHAHAHA. Thanks to NBC for essentially giving me a night off. This game should be that one-sided.

Continue reading "The Opening Drive: Week 3, 2011"

Good for them. For Tampa… yeah they still bore me. (1-0) Baltimore Ravens 35
(0-1) Pittsburgh Steelers 7

Pittsburgh has as many turnovers as they had points. Not exactly a winning statistic. The Raven offense physically overpowered the Steelers from the first snap, setting the tone for the eventual rematch. Looks like the Steelers got soft after getting all that money.

Continue reading "The Final Drive: Week 1, 2011"

quo;s secondary is ripe for the picking.(0-0)          Pittsburgh Steelers at
(0-0)          Baltimore Ravens

Continue reading "The Opening Drive: Week 1, 2011"

So WTF was the point of spending all that money?

Pittsburgh Steelers

My prediction: 9-7
What actually happened: 12-4
My result: ***

I thought they’d struggle a bit more during Ben’s suspension. That was obviously not the case as they got out to a 3-1 start and went on to the Super Bowl, thanks in large part to that defense that never seems to slip. Though Big Ben lost the Big One, so I was happy.

Continue reading "How Much I Effed Up: The 2010 AFC Edition"

Let’s break it down!

Super Bowl XLV
(14-6) Green Bay Packers 31
(14-5) Pittsburgh Steelers 25 

 

It may have taken 12 minutes, but the Green Bay Packers found a way to get on the board first against the vaunted

Continue reading "The Final Drive: Super Bowl XLV"

The Pittsburgh Steelers and Green Bay Packers are set to kick off later tonight with the Lombardi Trophy on the line. If you missed them, here are my takes on the rosters of the Steelers and Packers. Now let’s get to some analysis!

Continue reading "The Opening Drive: Super Bowl XLV"

Oh prop pets. How I love thee. Honestly, could there be any more inane and luck-filled practice than the time-honored tradition of Super Bowl prop bets?

For those of you who aren’t familiar, proposition bets (or prop bets, batch) are simply side bets. So instead of betting on the outcome, you’ll bet on which team scores first, who is the game’s MVP, or even what color the Gatorade dumped on a coach will be. Here are some of my favorite prop bets I’ve seen for Super Bowl XLV.How long will it take Christina Aguilera to sing the National Anthem?

Continue reading "Super Bowl XLV: The Prop Bets"

With the strain Ben Roethlisberger’s escapades put on the Pittsburgh Steeler organization in the offseason, many thought they would barely be able to even make it to the playoffs, much less make it all the way back to a seventh Super Bowl. Yet after all the drama, the inconsistency on offense and injuries to key positions, the Steelers went 12-4 are back in the big one. With a rough loss to the Patriots and a failed comeback against the Jets in the regular season, the Steelers didn’t look as reliable as usual. After huge wins over the Ravens and Jets in the playoffs, the Steelers have scrapped their way to Dallas. Let’s break down the roster.

Continue reading "Joe's Super Bowl XLV Preview: Pittsburgh Steelers"

th analysis of this game.

AFC CHampionship: 5:30 PM ET, CBS

(13-5) New York Jets at
(13-4) Pittsburgh Steelers

The Breakdown:

Call me crazy, but something tells me this won't be a shoot-out. Just a gut feeling I have. When the Jets won in Pittsburgh during the regular season, the Steelers were without Troy Polamalu and tight end Heath Miller. This time around, Pittsburgh has those cogs back and functional as the less talkative than usual Jets come in after knocking Peyton Manning and Tom Brady out of the playoffs. Pittsburgh's offense has been erratic this season, so today they'll need to keep it steady with regular doses of Rashard Mendenhall and Heath Miller. With the Jet corners playing so well lately, it's hard to imagine Hines Ward or Mike Wallace finding too many openings. Wallace is fast enough that he could separate from Cromartie on occasion, but Ben's going to need to recognize that as it happens. The big plays could be there, but they'll be hard to find. They should try to push around the Jet front seven in order to get a win today. Try to avoid letting Ben take too many unnecessary hits (though he will anyway, despite their efforts).

Continue reading "Joe's 2011 NFL Opening Drive: Conference ..."

Before that, let's take a look at how this weekend's games went down.

(13-4) Pittsburgh Steelers 31
(13-5) Baltimore Ravens 24

So for a Baltimore team that went out and snagged top wide receivers in order to take the next step in the playoffs, they certainly managed to completely ignore them in the playoffs. After a first half where the Steelers shot themselves in the foot, the Ravens fell apart in the second half, unable to mount ANY sort of offense aside from a late field goal. While the Steelers committed two turnovers early on (including a crazy fumble picked up by Cory Redding), the Ravens returned the favor and threw away their shots at the AFC title. Joe Flacco once again showed his inexperience, only completing 16 of his 30 attempts for 125 yards. Baltimore never found or committed to its running game, which handicapped them as they tried to control the clock. (It didn’t help that Ray Rice fumbled for the first time this entire year either.)

Continue reading "Joe's 2011 NFL Final Drive: Divisional Round"

o;s delve into some football!

Saturday

4:30 PM ET, CBS

(13-4) Baltimore Ravens at
(12-4) Pittsburgh Steelers

The Breakdown:

Who’s ready for some football? And I don’t mean this offense-infused game we’ve been seeing the past few years. I’m talking about the vicious, hard-hitting and low scoring brand of football we always manage to see whenever this rivalry renews. Pittsburgh’s week off let them rest up for this smash-mouth affair while the Ravens pummeled the Chiefs in Arrowhead last week. Baltimore has reloaded on the offensive side of the ball, bringing in three name receivers in Anquan Boldin, T.J. Houshmandzadeh and Donte Stallworth to play next to Derrick Mason. When you add them to Todd Heap and running back Ray Rice, the Ravens are surprisingly loaded on offense. Their victory lies in Joe Flacco’s hands. If Flacco avoids costly mistakes as he has most of the year (unlike that fumble in the last game these teams met), they’ll keep this road show going.

Continue reading "Joe's 2011 NFL Opening Drive: Divisional Round"

There shouldn’t be any drama at the top today.(11-4) Pittsburgh Steelers at
(5-10) Cleveland Browns

Now this game has the trappings of an upset to me. Cleveland has been competitive all year, getting huge wins over the Patriots and Saints in back-to-back weeks. They haven’t been able to mount enough points lately, which could prove troublesome against one of the league’s top defenses, which will have Troy Polamalu back at safety. Still, Ben Roethlisberger and the Steeler offense haven’t exactly lit it up as of late. Keep an eye on this one. It will be physical. (Don’t you hate when someone says that? I mean, it’s FOOTBALL! Of course it’s going to be physical!)(9-6) Tampa Bay Buccaneers at

Continue reading "Joe's 2010 NFL Opening Drive: Week 17"

would be a good game? Oh who cares? It’s football!

(2-12) Carolina Panthers at
(10-4) Pittsburgh Steelers

So… is this game even worth discussing? It’s the worst te

Continue reading "Joe's 2010 NFL Thursday Night Quickie: ..."

Hilarious. In other news, the Falcons are still legit.(10-4) New York Jets 22
(10-4) Pittsburgh Steelers 17

Figure this out: the Steelers lost, but still managed to secure a playoff spot. Lame. Meanwhile, the swaggerific Jets managed to sorta back up their talk for a week, locking down at the last second against Big Ben on a near touchdown-scoring drive. Ten wins gets them in the wildcard discussion, but they can’t slip up if they want to stay there.

Continue reading "Joe's 2010 NFL Final Drive: Week 15"

Detroit gutted out a close win, which is something they never do. Well played boys.

(10-3) Pittsburgh Steelers 23
(2-11) Cincinnati Bengals 7

This was one ugly game. Pittsburgh only scored nine offensive points on the day but still dominated their division “rivals” thanks to fantastic play from Troy Polamalu and the defense. They look ready to secure the number two seed in the AFC. For Cincy, losing ten straight is unacceptable. Blow this team up.

Continue reading "Joe's 2010 NFL Final Drive: Week 14"

Look out NFC.

(9-3) Pittsburgh Steelers 13
(8-4) Baltimore Ravens 10

Slug. Fest. These contests are always hard-hitting and low scoring. I don’t know why I thought anyone would get to 20 points. All it took was one missed block of Troy Polamalu and the Ravens likely blow their chance at a first round bye or a home game in the playoffs. One missed block. (And an odd sequence as they were driving to tie it up. Why go for it on fourth and call THAT play? So confusing.)

Continue reading "Joe's 2010 Final Drive: Week 13"

Snap.

Getty Images

(8-3) Pittsburgh Steelers 19
(2-9) Buffalo Bills 16

This should have been a loss for the Steelers… if only Stevie Johnson didn’t find a way to drop an easy touchdown in overtime. But that’s why they’re the Bills. Instead, Pittsburgh keeps pace with the Ravens, setting up a division showdown next week on Sunday night. They haven’t been overly impressive since Big Ben’s return, but they’re quietly staying in the AFC hunt.

Continue reading "Joe's Final Drive: Week 12"

(Who are pretty good.) Still, 8-2 in that division means quite a bit.

(7-3) Pittsburgh Steelers 35
(5-5) Oakland Raiders 3

Only hit worth talking about in this game is the one Richard Seymour put on Ben Roethlisberger. You rock Richard. You’re my new favorite player. That $25,000 fine was SO worth it. Raiders still suck.

Continue reading "Joe's Final Drive: Week 11"

they get a win at home today, but I'm not expecting it.

(6-2) New England Patriots at
(6-2) Pittsburgh Steelers

This game should be a dandy. Two of the best teams in the NFL face off tonight with interesting match-ups to watch for. The Steeler defense is phenomenal, but the Patriots' short passing scheme could be the best way to attack it. The Patriot D is playing hard and the Pittsburgh offensive line is injured and struggling. I wouldn't hesitate a guess on the outcome, but Heinz Field is an awfully tough place to play. That could be all the difference.

Continue reading "Joe's 2010 NFL Opening Drive: Week 10"

Pats will be difficult to slow down.

Getty Images

(5-3) New Orleans Saints 20
(5-2) Pittsburgh Steelers 10

It took eight weeks, but we finally saw the ball-hawking Saint defense to which we've become so accustomed. The Steelers were drained after a tough win over the Dolphins last week on the road, so a let-down could have been anticipated. (Not that I saw it coming AT ALL.) Despite their troubles, the Saints are in good standing in the NFC and are right behind the Falcons and Buccaneers in their division.

Continue reading "Joe's Final Drive: Week 8"

I'd avoid watching this one. It might not be very good.

(5-1) Pittsburgh Steelers at
(4-3) New Orleans Saints

Halloween night in New Orleans! It's hard to believe the Saints could be 4-4 after tonight's match-up, but Drew Brees has not taken care of the ball as of late, tossing too many costly interceptions. Troy Polamalu and the Steelers will be all over those errant throws tonight, so keeping them at a minimum should be Drew's top priority. If not, Big Ben could leave Louisiana with a  big win.

Continue reading "Joe's 2010 NFL Opening Drive: Week 8"

Now they have a receiver to go with CJ out of the backfield. Look out for the Titans.

(5-1) Pittsburgh Steelers 23
(3-3) Miami Dolphins 22

Was it as obvious a fumble to you as it was to me? Ben didn't even get close to crossing the plane before losing that ball into the end zone. The ref signaled the score too soon and the ensuing scrum for the ball was not officiated properly. Miami fans should be upset, but they should be more upset at the red zone opportunities their team squandered. Every NFL team should be afraid of Pittsburgh. If they have luck on their side too, then their opponents are in for trouble.

Continue reading "Joe's Final Drive: Week 7"

Yippee.

(4-1) Pittsburgh Steelers at
(3-2) Miami Dolphins

As good as the Dolphins seem to be, I just can't see them knocking off Ben Roethlisberger and the Steelers today. They're just not good enough. Their secondary is average and their offense can't put up enough points on this Steeler defense to keep it close. Chad Henne will likely throw a poor interception or two.

Continue reading "Joe's Opening Drive: Week 7"

There's no dominant team in the NFC.

(4-1) Pittsburgh Steelers 28
(1-5) Cleveland Browns 10

Speaking of dominant, look what happens when Big Ben Roethlisberger gets back in the starting line-up. With Charlie Batch, this would have been a 14-10 or 13-10 win. With Ben, the defense can take more chances because they know the points are coming on offense. This team is now frighteningly good. In sorrowful Cleveland, Colt McCoy actually looked better than I expected. Two interceptions and several sacks sounds about right against the Steeler defense, but he was fairly accurate and poised in the pocket. Something to look forward to in the Cleveland future?

Continue reading "Joe's Final Drive: Week 6"

Eagles are going to have problems finding ways to stop them.

(1-4) Cleveland Browns at
(3-1) Pittsburgh Steelers

This game is all about the quarterbacks. Ben Roethlisberger makes his return to the Steelers while Colt McCoy is forced to start for the Browns after injuries to Seneca Wallace and Jake Delhomme. Good luck Colt. You'll need it.

Continue reading "Joe's 2010 NFL Opening Drive: Week 6"

less Panther squad won't make anyone shake in their booties.

(3-1) Baltimore Ravens 17
(3-1) Pittsburgh Steelers 14

FINALLY someone had the stones to knock off the freaking Steelers from the undefeated ranks. Joe Flacco, I heart you. (Well, I actually love Jay Cutler, but you get the idea.) Hitting stride on their final drive, Flacco hit the Housh in the endzone for the game-winning TD and Ray Lewis followed up with the game-sealing INT of Charlie Batch on the next series. When Big Ben makes his return in week six, this Steeler team is going to be scary good if the defense keeps playing like this. Mike Tomlin would win coach of the year... if it was awarded after four games.

Continue reading "Joe's Final Drive: Week 4"

friend this week against a severely lacking Lions secondary.

(2-1) Baltimore Ravens at
(3-0) Pittsburgh Steelers

Yep, they're 3-0 without Ben Roethlisberger. I still can't believe it. They'll get their final test today from the Ravens, who won't be able to live with losing to their division rival that's missing their star. Pittsburgh's defense is head and shoulders the best in the NFL right now, but their offense might not be explosive enough to take advantage of the Ravens' secondary. Charlie Batch is going to throw some picks today, I promise you.

Continue reading "Joe's 2010 NFL Opening Drive: Week 4"

Eli Manning is the best QB they've faced so far.

(2-0) Pittsburgh Steelers at
(2-0) Tampa Bay Buccaneers

So I didn't quite expect either of these teams to be undefeated, much less the lowly Bucs. Pittsburgh proved they could still win in spite of a putrid offensive performance last week. Charlie Batch will be steady (if he lasts in the pocket) and move the ball well enough, but the Steeler defense will shut down Josh Freeman and the Buccaneer offense and drop them from the undefeateds.

Continue reading "Joe's NFL Opening Drive: Week 3"

nbsp;What teams surprisingly fell to 0-2 and which ones made the 2-0 leap! Let's get it on!

(2-0) Pittsburgh Steelers 19
(1-1) Tennessee Titans 11

Even after passing for only 21 freaking yards, gaining only 127 in total and losing starting QB Dennis Dixon, the Steeler offense played good enough to win, especially since the Titans decided to hand out seven turnovers. Seven! Jeff Fisher had no choice but to put Kerry Collins in the game to try and spark his offense, but Collins was almost just as horrific. The real trouble for Tennessee was the lack of a running game as Chris Johnson gained a paltry 34 yards. With 3rd QB Dixon out three weeks, Charlie Batch or the newly re-signed Byron Leftwich is the man for the job... until he gets hurt.

Continue reading "Joe's Final Drive: Week 2"

Here are the games story-lines you should keep an eye on as the NFL kicks off! (1-0) Pittsburgh Steelers at
(1-0) Tennessee Titans Tennessee and Pittsburgh are remarkably similar in this week 2 match-up. Both teams work to establish their ground attack while playing tough defense and will start quarterbacks that have the ability to make plays with their legs at any given moment but aren't the most prolific of passers. Chris Johnson may only get one or two opportunities to break long runs against the always-highly ranked Steeler D, so he needs to make the most of them. This just screams low-scoring.  (1-0) Miami Dolphins at

Continue reading "Joe's NFL Opening Drive: Week 2"

Catching three touchdowns out of only four receptions proves it. 

(1-0) Pittsburgh Steelers 15
(0-1) Atlanta Falcons 9

It has to be extremely disappointing that the Falcons couldn't take advantage of Big Ben's absence on Sunday. Keeping up with the Saints will be no easy task. While the Falcons were one-dimensional through the air, the Steelers found great balance on offense, throwing 26 times and rushing 31. Dennis Dixon only threw one interception on the day, instilling Mike Tomlin with a bit of confidence in the young quarterback's ability and decision-making. They just need to go 2-2 in these first four games, and Dixon has them halfway to happy hour.

Continue reading "Joe's Final Drive: Week 1"

t be surprised if the Panthers sneak out of the Big Apple with a victory.

Atlanta Falcons at
Pittsburgh Steelers

A month without Big Ben begins today as the Falcons come to town. Dennis Dixon has more mobility but can't win games on his own. Rashard Mendenhall will see a ton of carries as Mike Tomlin avoids putting too much pressure on his quarterback. His defense is good enough to slow down the Falcon offense, so ATL QB Matt Ryan has to ensure that his team scores touchdowns and doesn't just settle for field goals.

Continue reading "Joe's NFL Opening Drive: Week 1"

8-8 in 2013! Yippee?

My heart breaks for you, Dawg Pound Mike. 

Pittsburgh Steelers

Coming off a disappointing season (don't you hate it when 9-7 is disappointing?), Mike Tomlin's Steelers are raring for Lombardi Trophy number 7! One problem: their franchise QB Ben Roethlisberger won't be joining the fight until week six, suspended the first four games because of his publicized problems. That means Dennis Dixon starts in his place with inconsistency sure to follow. He can make big plays with his legs, but he doesn't have the acquired intelligence to be a QB in the league yet. Still, he can definitely keep them at .500 during Big Ben's absence. Rashard Mendenhall officially claimed the starting RB role, with the trust Mewelde Moore coming in for third-down duty. Hines Ward is still around after all these seasons, still constantly smiling as be lays out corners with wicked blocks. Mike Wallace counters with speed on the outside and tight end Heath Miller is a big red zone target. Rookie Maurkice Pouncey came in and laid claim to the starting center spot, leading to Justin Hartwig's release. While it's not the same mauling line as years past, the Steeler line will get the job done. Unfortunately Ben will get sacked a ton when he gets back.

Continue reading "Joe's NFL 2010 Season Preview: AFC North"

t waste time, here's the Opening Drive of week 17 in the NFL! *sniffle* It goes by so fast!

(8-7) Pittsburgh Steelers at (7-8) Miami Dolphins

Well they need help, but the Steelers aren't eliminated from post-season play yet. However, every scenario that finds the Steelers defending their title requires at least two teams in front of them to fall plus an obvious Pittsburgh win. After a late rally against the Texans last week, the Dolphins will be focused on getting to 8-8 but will need Chad Henne to play near-perfect along with a large dose of Ricky Williams (who may not play). Even on the road without Troy Polamalu, I like Pittsburgh to win. Though any Steeler (lookin' at you LaMarr Woodley) or Steeler fan who thinks the Colts or Patriots are resting players because they don't want to see the Steelers in the playoffs is delirious. Maybe you shouldn't have lost five straight?

Continue reading "Joe's Opening Drive: Week 17"

Let's wrap up week 16!

(8-7) Pittsburgh Steelers 23
(8-7) Baltimore Ravens 20

The Steelers took advantage of Raven penalties and missed opportunities to win a physical game and stay alive in the playoff hunt. Unfortunately for them, Baltimore still has the inside track to the post-season, only needing to beat Oakland next week in order to advance. The Steelers may have dug themselves too big a hole of which to climb out.

Continue reading "Joe's Final Drive: Week 16"

Let's get to the Opening Drive of week 16! 

(8-6) Baltimore Ravens at (7-7) Pittsburgh Steelers

After a string of poor losses, the Steelers are back and in command of their playoff lives. Beating the Ravens would pull them back into the mix while simultaneously putting the Ravens on the outs. Without Troy Polamalu, the Steelers must rely on another big game from Big Ben Roethlisberger. With their week twelve meeting ending with an overtime field goal, this rematch is up for grabs. On Heinz Field, I'll give a slight edge to Pittsburgh.

Continue reading "Joe's Opening Drive: Week 16"

s are going to have enough in the tank to head out west and win.

(9-4) Green Bay Packers at (6-7) Pittsburgh Steelers 

At this point, Mike Tomlin's Steelers are just looking to salvage their season and avoid falling further below .500. They'll get a tough challenge from the Packers, who are hoping to lock down a wildcard slot. Aaron Rodgers will likely tear apart a struggling Steelers secondary that will probably be without Troy Polamalu for another week. Big Ben will need more time in the pocket and a better running game to beat this far superior opponent.

Continue reading "Joe's Opening Drive: Week 15"

Keep an eye on these Jags; they’re right in line for a wildcard slot.

Pittsburgh Steelers (6-4) at Baltimore Ravens (5-5)

Well, we just heard Big Ben Roethlisberger will be sitting this one out as a precaution. Since back-up Charlie Batch was lost for the season last weekend, Dennis Dixon will get his first career start in the NFL. Unfortunately for him it’s against the Baltimore Ravens defense, which is undoubtedly frothing at the mouth at the prospect of a first-time signal caller. Mike Tomlin will call a run-heavy offense to keep the Raven defenders away from his quarterback and his team in the playoff hunt. I honestly see the Ravens getting this win.

Continue reading "Joe's Opening Drive: week 12"

I get it. 

(7-2) Cincinnati Bengals 18
(6-3) Pittsburgh Steelers 12 Okay, we all have to start accepting the Bengals as a legitimate AFC contender. Any team that beats Pittsburgh and Baltimore twice in one season thanks to their defense should be treated likewise. Have you noticed they’ve turned into a power-running team? That added to their defense a conference champion makes.

Continue reading "Joe's Final Drive: Week 10"

ty of drama for the week 10 edition of the Opening Drive! 

(6-2) Cincinnati Bengals at (6-2) Pittsburgh Steelers 

Ready for an AFC North slugfest? Well, that’s what you’re going to get today in a noon start. If you remember, the Bengals shocked the NFL with a come-from behind win over the Super Bowl Champs in their earlier meeting. Carson Palmer and will be trying to finish the season sweep when they visit Heinz Field. Unfortunately for them, Troy Polamalu will be back on the field for the Steelers defense. I have a hard time believing Mike Tomlin’s squad will drop this home game.

Continue reading "Joe's Opening Drive: Week 10"

(6-2) Pittsburgh Steelers 28
(6-2) Denver Broncos 10

That’s what happens when you run into the champs. In spite of Denver’s playmakers on offense, Kyle “King of the Checkdown” Orton can’t put up enough points to hang with the better teams in the league, especially when he throws three interceptions. He’s not good enough to bring a team back from a steep deficit because his deep throw can’t be trusted. Also, Champ Bailey got straight-up abused by Santonio Holmes. The chinks in Denver’s armor are beginning to show. For the Steelers, this sets up an AFC North showdown with the also 6-2 Bengals next week at Heinz Field. You can bet that game will be in the Opening Drive. Their 173 rushing yards harkened back to their power running days, an aspect of their game that was lacking early this season.

Continue reading "Joe's Final Drive: Week 9"

(6-2) Pittsburgh Steelers 28
(6-2) Denver Broncos 10

That’s what happens when you run into the champs. In spite of Denver’s playmakers on offense, Kyle “King of the Checkdown” Orton can’t put up enough points to hang with the better teams in the league, especially when he throws three interceptions. He’s not good enough to bring a team back from a steep deficit because his deep throw can’t be trusted. Also, Champ Bailey got straight-up abused by Santonio Holmes. The chinks in Denver’s armor are beginning to show. For the Steelers, this sets up an AFC North showdown with the also 6-2 Bengals next week at Heinz Field. You can bet that game will be in the Opening Drive. Their 173 rushing yards harkened back to their power running days, an aspect of their game that was lacking early this season.

Continue reading "Joe's Final Drive: Week 9"

s the game to recover from his concussion two week ago, LeSean McCoy can pick up the slack.

(5-2) Pittsburgh Steelers at (6-1) Denver Broncos

Ooo… AFC Showdown! Monday’s night’s contest between the Broncos and Steelers won’t completely decide home field advantage in the playoffs (the Colts and Pats will have something to say I’m sure), but it will go a long way. Pittsburgh has regained their championship swagger after some early troubles, and I don’t think it’s a coincidence that Troy Polamalu and the Steeler running game returned as well. Rashard Mendenhall has taken over for Willie Parker and is running away (pun SO intended) with the opportunity. Now Big Ben Roethlisberger isn't as pressured in the pocket.Denver’s defense will be hoping to rebound after being embarrassed by Baltimore last week, but the offense will have to put up points if they have any hope of stymieing the Steelers.

Continue reading "Joe's Opening Drive: Week 9"

* Here’s the best of week seven in my Opening Drive! 

(6-0) Minnesota Vikings at (4-2) Pittsburgh Steelers 

So in spite of their early problems while without Troy Polamalu, the Steelers have emerged 4-2, trailing a half game behind the Bengals for the division lead. They welcome in the still streaking Vikings, who are making the rounds on the Brett Favre victory tour. Polamalu practiced this week and is expected to play, which should healthily improve the Steelers’ run and pass defense. Against Favre and Adrian Peterson, they’ll need Troy at his best. With Ben Roethlisberger coming off a 400-yard passing game of his own and Vikings Pro Bowl corner Antoine Winfield doubtful with a foot injury, this has potential to turn into a shoot-out. 

Continue reading "Joe's Opening Drive: Week 7"

ers and Flacco might have the best long ball in the league. 

(1-4) Cleveland Browns at (3-2) Pittsburgh Steelers 

Is Brady Quinn being traded? Is that why his house is up for sale? Who cares? The Browns suck and will continue to be awful as long as Eric Mangini keeps trading away their best players. “I want to run a ball control offense, so I’ll have Derek Anderson as my starter! Going 2 for 17 is efficient enough for me!” He needs to stop, just like Cleveland’s winning streak will on Sunday. Pittsburgh should lay the wood to these streaking Browns.  

Continue reading "Joe's Opening Drive: Week 6"

Let’s see where Josh McDaniels, Kyle Orton and 4-0 go from here. 

(2-2) Pittsburgh Steelers 38
(2-2) San Diego Chargers 28 

With 28 points in the final 17 minutes of play, I think the Chargers can rest a little easier about this loss. They definitely struggled for most of the game, but they ignited under Philip Rivers. Big Ben and the Steelers needed to avoid a 1-3 start to keep the AFC North race close. Maybe Rashard Mendenhall earned a few more carries for himself? 

Continue reading "Joe's Final Drive: Week 4"

enver’s D, or there will be another crisis week in Big D. 

San Diego Chargers (2-1) at Pittsburgh Steelers (1-2) 

Could you have seen a legitimate chance the Super Bowl Champs would be 1-3 after the first quarter of the season? Well see it now, because the Chargers are equipped to take advantage of Troy Polamalu’s continued absence in the Steeler secondary. Philip Rivers excels in throwing the deep ball, which is where a safety’s coverage skills are tested. While San Diego’s defense isn’t at full speed, Pittsburgh’s running game will struggle for another week. Mike Tomlin will have to rely on Big Ben’s arm to get a second victory. 

Continue reading "Joe's Opening Drive: Week 4"

Now that’s impressive. 

(2-1) Cincinnati Bengals 23
(1-2) Pittsburgh Steelers 20 

Easily the biggest surprise of the weekend. Carson Palmer led a comeback drive late to put his Bengals at 2-1. Without that freaky play in week one, they would be 3-0. Think about it. It’s painfully obvious that the Steelers are not the same without Troy Polamalu and can’t simply rely on Ben Roethlisberger to drop back all day. 

Continue reading "Joe's Final Drive: Week 3"

Critics be silenced! The Chicago Bears have defeated the Super Bowl Champion Pittsburgh Steelers!

A week after his less-than-stellar outing against the Green Bay Packers, Jay Cutler came home to Chicago and proved to be worth the king’s ransom that was paid for his services. Though there is certainly room for improvement, this is a win the Bears desperately needed.

Continue reading "Bears Shock Steelers with Late Field Goal"

Unfortunately their mountain to climb is steep, as the Super Bowl Champion Pittsburgh Steelers are coming to town.

Thankfully, Chicago’s offense won’t have to worry about the ball-hawking Steeler safety Troy Polamalu adding to Cutler’s interception total for the season. Out with an MCL injury, Polamalu may be the heart of Pittsburgh’s defense, but they certainly aren’t to just roll over for Cutler. Tyrone Carter will be filling in at free safety, and the Steeler linebackers will be anxious to get after the quarterback.

Continue reading "Joe's Gameday Preview: Steelers at Bears"

It's time for the return of the Opening Drive!

Tennessee Titans at Pittsburgh Steelers

In the Thursday night season opener, we get what should have been last season’s AFC Championship match-up. The eventual Super Bowl winner

Continue reading "Joe's Opening Drive: Week 1"

n three-time NFL MVP Peyton Manning and Brett Favre and two-time MVP Kurt Warner. 

When the Pittsburgh Steelers lost to the Philadelphia Eagles earlier this season, I threw my hands up and cursed the day the Steelers made Roethlisberger their franchise quarterback.

Continue reading "BIG BEN'S LEGEND GROWS"

That was 35 seconds more than the Pittsburgh Steelers needed to drive 78 yards to the end zone, regaining the lead and winning the forty-third Super Bowl. I won’t waste your time recapping plays like James Harrison’s 100-yard interception return or Larry Fitzgerald’s 64-yard catch and run. You watched those on Sunday. Instead, I’ll try to hit the nuances and little snippets you may have missed as you stuffed down wings and left the room during gameplay so you wouldn’t have to miss a commercial.

Continue reading "Joey A's Final Drive: Super Bowl XLIII"

Superbowl XLIII is over and the Pittsburgh Steelers now have their 6th championship. They defeated the Arizona Cardinals by a score of 27-23. Both teams put up a solid effort but in the end the fans from Pittsburgh got to waive their Terrible Towels and watch their beloved team "win one for the other thumb."

Continue reading "Superbowl Aftermath"

 

           Each week, I will look into my (never wrong, just misinformed) crystal ball and give my predictions for that weekend’s games.  I will prognosticate on all the playoff games each week.  Keep in mind, that this is for entertainment purposes only, and that I do not endorse any sort of legal or illegal gambling.  That being said…let’s see what’s in my crystal ball!   

Continue reading "Predictions Super Bowl XLIII"

I’m Not Picking the Winner 

By now everyone in the country who is on TV, writes for a newspaper, blogs, or breathes has made their Super Bowl pick.  I’m not going to do that.  I will not succumb.   

Continue reading "I'm Not Picking the Winner"

stage is set: The flashy Arizona Cardinals (yes the Arizona Cardinals!) take on the tough and rigid Pittsburgh Steelers defense (ranked first in the National Football League). They say 'Defense Wins Championships' which has proven correct a lot in the past, but I have a little hunch. The best defense or the best team doesn't always win the big game. Just check last year's Super Bowl. The undefeated New England Patriots were upset by the New York Giants. How? By one VERY lucky catch by Giants' receiver David Tyree. The whole Patriots season without a single loss faded without any gold due to a single catch. You can't script that. You also can't script a 8-7 Arizona Cardinals team looking putrid losing 47-7 in the ice and snow in Foxboro and then winning every week after that (including the post season) to get to the grandest stage in the NFL (maybe in all of sports). I've said it before on this blog and I'll probably say it again next season, you just can't predict what will happen in the NFL nowadays from week to week.

Continue reading "Super Bowl XLIII Prediction"

eryone does) I’ll go on the limb and take the emotional favorite:

Arizona Cardinals 27
Pittsburgh Steelers 23

Enjoy the big game!

Continue reading "Joey A's Super Bowl Opening Drive: Game Preview"

When the NFL’s regular season match-ups were announced, the Pittsburgh Steelers were already at a disadvantage. They were handed the league’s toughest schedule, which included meetings with the NFC East and AFC South, along with the always competitive AFC North of which the Steelers are a part.  When you factor that in with the injuries they sustained during the season, particularly in the running game with Willie Parker missing an extended amount of time, first rounder Rashard Mendenhall put on IR after week four, the same as guard Kendall Simmons, it’s astonishing the Steelers made it to Tampa.

Continue reading "Joey A's Super Bowl Opening Drive: ..."

You and your buddies have been planning your Super Bowl party for months.  Deep down inside, you know the party with its canned beer, half-eaten bag of stale chips and a couch that seats three will suck, but at least you’ll be around your boys for the most hallowed of all sports days.

Continue reading "How To Host A Successful Super Bowl Party"

Now it is time to see if their storybook season has a perfect ending.

Pittsburgh Steelers 23, Baltimore Ravens 14

Even though Baltimore closed the gap to 16-14 in the fourth quarter, this one never felt in doubt. The Steelers jumped out to a 13-0 lead early in the second and never looked back on their way to Tampa. The Ravens were not their usual selves, turning it over four times. The most debilitating mistake was Joe Flacco’s third and final interception, taken back 40 yards to the house by Troy Polamalu to stave off a possible Raven comeback. Flacco and the offense had only turned it over once in the two prior playoff contests while forcing nine from their opponents. Flacco finally faltered in his third post-season outing, completing only 13 passes to five different receivers. The Steelers took a page out of Baltimore’s playbook, never letting the Ravens get easy field position due to a turnover. Ben Roethlisberger may only have completed 16 of his 33 pass attempts, but he made plays when it mattered, hitting Hines Ward and Santonio Holmes for big yardage. As anemic as Pittsburgh’s offense was, Baltimore had even more trouble moving the ball. Flacco may be the long term answer, but he still has a way to go before he is capable of winning games on his own. The Steelers defense brought the pressure, sacking Flacco three times en route to the victory. John Harbaugh should be proud of his team’s turnaround in his first season as head coach but will now have to worry about Ray Lewis’ impending free agency. Losing Lewis could be disastrous to that defense’s morale. Running back Willis McGahee took what can only be called a “wicked shot” from Steeler safety Ryan Clark in the fourth quarter and was carted off the field, but he is expected to make a full recovery. Pittsburgh gets to play one more time, only it will be on neutral ground versus a warm-weather team in the Cardinals. It will be Pittsburgh’s defense against Arizona’s offense in the final game (of any significance that is, silly Pro Bowl) of the year. 

Continue reading "Joey A's Final Drive: Conference ..."

The Arizona Cardinals and the Pittsburgh Steelers both jumped over their last hurdles to go to the big dance. But don't ask either coach if they'll be satisfied with just making it. They want to win it! I'll bring you a in-depth 7 part preview of the big game as I'll give my prediction on the game on the 7th and final post. So let's get to it! This is the 'intro' post to the 7 part series.

Continue reading "Setting the Stage: Arizona Cardinals"

 

           Each week, I will look into my (never wrong, just misinformed) crystal ball and give my predictions for that weekend’s games.  I will prognosticate on all the playoff games each week.  Keep in mind, that this is for entertainment purposes only, and that I do not endorse any sort of legal or illegal gambling.  That being said…let’s see what’s in my crystal ball!  

Continue reading "Predictions Conference Championships"

Well here we are again ! One game away from the main event. If you would have asked me around mid-season  for my Conference Championship finalists , I would have never anticipated these match-ups

Continue reading "NFL Championship Match-Ups : "Unlikely ..."

For personal reasons, I really want to pick the Cardinals and Ravens to win this weekend. 

I have many friends who are Ravens fans including my younger brother who was a member of the Baltimore Ravens’ marching band (and he may be a part of them again in the near future.)  He was, even if it was somewhat obliquely, a “Raven.”   He and I spend just about every Raven’s game texting back and forth.  He’s too young to really remember the Raven’s success of the early 2000’s.  He had just turned 9 when the Raven’s won the Super Bowl and all he really remembers about it is me (a lifelong Giants fan) fuming for most of the game and storming out when it was over.  So for his sake, I like to see the Ravens win. 

Continue reading "Heads or Hearts on Championship Weekend"

Obviously, going from an abysmal 1-15 to 11-6 and AFC East Champions was quite the storybook turnaround. But, it wasn't enough, and the team still has a long way to go before it can compete with the AFC powerhouses like the Steelers and the Ravens. 

Continue reading "Dolphins 2009-10 needs — what do you think?"

Baltimore Ravens at Pittsburgh Steelers, CBS, 6:30 PM (ET)

For John Harbaugh’s Baltimore Ravens, the third time better be the charm. When they kick off Sunday evening for the AFC Championship, it will be the third time these division rivals have faced-off this season. The Steelers won both of the previous meetings by a combined seven points, so expect another close one at Heinz Field. “Big Ben” Roethlisberger and “Fast” Willie Parker (totally creative nicknames, right?) will lead the offensive charge against the second ranked defense in the NFL, second only to, you guessed it, the Steelers. Points will be a premium with these great defenses, and turnovers will be the best way to set up scores. Each team places a strong emphasis on establishing the run, so whatever offense line can impose their will on the opposing front seven will aid their title aspirations tremendously. However, in this writer’s humble opinion, it will be a play or two downfield to a wide receiver that ultimately decides what team continues their march. Each defense is tremendously aggressive because they have ball-hawking safeties to protect against the deep ball. Baltimore’s Ed Reed and Pittsburgh’s Troy Polamalu are the best safeties in the league, but even they are susceptible to a deep throw one or twice a game. Reed led the league in interceptions, so accuracy will be integral to any throw in his area, as will the pre-snap reads to determine where he’ll be. Polamalu, on the other hand, may not be his quickest with a strained calf muscle. Beating him deep with a double move or a speedy fly route could put seven points on the board if it begins with a play action fake. Rookie Joe Flacco has a big enough arm, but he’ll need one of his receivers to make it happen. Flacco hasn’t been asked to do much in the playoffs, despite Baltimore-loyal proclaiming his greatness. I suspect he’ll be kept under 20 attempts if the game is kept close on the scoreboard. Roethlisberger will get more of a chance to dissect the Ravens secondary, but only if he’s protected sufficiently by his offensive line. An upright and mobile Roethlisberger has the ability to win any game at any time, so Tomlin better keep him that way. Watch for a field goal in the last few minutes of regulation to decide who heads to Tampa.

Continue reading "Joey A's Opening Drive: Conference ..."

e Ravenstahl is reportedly in the process of legally changing his name to Luke Steelerstahl for the Pittsburgh Steelers AFC Championship game Sunday versus the Baltimore Ravens.

Talk about a bold move. Talk about team pride. It's one thing for some of us to devote our e-mail addresses, screennames, or even tattoos to our favorite sports teams/players, but this is taking a huge next step.

Continue reading "Pittsburgh Mayor Luke Ravenstahl ..."

If they can’t acquire another target for Manning, they might not have a choice.

Pittsburgh Steelers 35, San Diego Chargers 24

Pittsburgh was the only home team to win in the divisiona

Continue reading "Joey A's Final Drive: Divisional Round"

 

The crystal ball had a dreadful performance this past week, posting a woeful 1-3 record.  This is playoff time, so that is totally unacceptable!  The crystal ball started off 1-0, but then dropped its last three for the weekend!  Anyway, that puts the crystal ball at 3-5 for the post-season, and 36-31-1 overall.  That’s five games over .500 (.537 to be exact).  Hopefully the crystal ball will perform better this coming week, as the pressure mounts in the Championship games!  Let’s take a look back, and review what happened last week.    

Continue reading "Divisional Round Review"

ng defense, pass defense and total defense during the regular season will be all for nothing if the Pittsburgh Steelers do not win the Super Bowl. To a man, the Steelers know that in order for them to be considered the best defense in NFL history, they need to win the Super Bowl.

Continue reading "WINNING SUPER BOWL SHOULD BE ONLY ..."

That’s playoff football at its finest.

San Diego Chargers at Pittsburgh Steelers, CBS, Sunday 4:45 PM (ET)

Hopefully, for the fans’ sake the conditions at Heinz Field will be more playable than during week 11, when these teams met in an ugly 11-10 Steelers victory. However, the Steelers’ number one rated defense wont care, they like any weather conditions that slow down the opposing offense. With LaDainian Tomlinson’s confirmation of a torn tendon in his groin, stand-out return man Darren Sproles will again be called on to carry the load at running back. Pro Bowl tight end Antonio Gates was still having toe and ankle problems, so Philip Rivers may be lacking the explosive weaponry to which he’s accustomed. On the opposite sideline, Ben Roethlisberger will have a full complement as Willie Parker is healthy and ready to be the feature back. It is perfect timing for Big Ben, as no one knows how well he’ll perform following the mild concussion he suffered in the regular season finale. Obviously Pittsburgh wouldn’t risk their franchise quarterback, but they’ll have to keep an eye on Ben’s tendency to hold onto the football too long. San Diego’s defense may be lacking sack machine Shawne Merriman, but coordinator Ron Rivera will still bring the blitzes to put Roethlisberger on his back. This one may not be football at it’s prettiest, but it will be as physical a match-up as you’ll see all weekend (okay, maybe not as much as Ravens v. Titans, but it’ll be close).

Continue reading "Joey A's Opening Drive: Divisional Round"

 

           Each week, I will look into my (never wrong, just misinformed) crystal ball and give my predictions for that weekend’s games.  I will prognosticate on all the playoff games each week.  Keep in mind, that this is for entertainment purposes only, and that I do not endorse any sort of legal or illegal gambling.  That being said…let’s see what’s in my crystal ball!  

Continue reading "Predictions Divisional Round"

  Drew Brees won the AP Offensive Player of the Year award.  I can’t argue with that pick.  Anytime you come within a deep out route of Dan Marino’s single season passing record, you can be the Offensive POY.Mike Smith was Coach of the Year.  I can’t argue there either.  Any of the successful rookie head coaches, Smith, Sparano, and Harbaugh, could have won this award.  Smith had the toughest situation before the season started and led the Falcons to the playoffs.  The Patriots franchised Matt Cassell.  That was a no-brainer.  Sure, on the surface, $29 million next year for two quarterbacks seems steep.  But the salary cap is going up about $28 million next year.  Take away the $14 million they are giving Cassell and this still have about $14 million more to spend next year than they did this year.  They sure up the most important position on the offense.  Plus, if they trade him they get a 1st and 3rd round pick.  Who knows, there may be a team out there that is only a good QB away from going to the next level.  Hello Buffalo? (And if you think the Pats won’t let Cassell go to Buffalo talk to Lawyer Milloy or Drew Bledsoe.)Did you see Lil’ Wayne on 1st and 10 on ESPN2?  When I heard he was going to be on I set-up the DVR because I had to watch.  Get this….he was really good.  He knows his sports.  His points were lucid and made lots of sense.  He made some statements that were bold and polarizing, which is what you want out of a talking-head.  I must say this though.  Skip Bayless said he loves Lil’ Wayne’s music and thinks Tha Carter III is Weezy’s Purple Rain.  Am I to believe Bayless really listens to hip-hop?  No offense Skip, but you are probably most buttoned up lily white person on ESPN’s roster.  If you’re not, you are in the team photo with Woody Paige and Marty Smith. 

Continue reading "Quick Hits and Playoff Week 2 Picks"

  

           Each week I will answer questions submitted by my loyal readers.  I personally read every single email I receive.  I will pick out the best five or so to use for the weekly post, as I won’t be able to answer all of them.  I will also answer one or two questions on my daily posts as well.  Now it’s time to open the mail!  

Continue reading "Reality Mail Bag - 01/08/09"

When I was a sophomore in high school playing on the JV basketball team, we went into our Christmas break undefeated and feeling pretty good about ourselves. Over the break we were scheduled to play one game against a team from the division below us. We practiced a few times, nothing too serious, and went into the game feeling good. But the week and a half layoff killed us and we lost by four, our only loss of the season.

Continue reading "Picks for the NFL weekend"

in the last game played at Texas Stadium.

Winners - Dallas Cowboys

3) Pittsburgh Steelers @ Tennessee Titans

With a win in this game, the Pittsburgh Steelers

Continue reading "NFL Week 16 Predictions"

ve much room for error, as their offense will not explode against a stout Dallas defensive front.

Pittsburgh Steelers (11-3) at Tennessee Titans (12-2)

In the first battle for conference supremacy, Pittsburgh and Tennessee are going to bring the pain and leave the noise at home. Pittsburgh has won five in a row thanks mostly to Roethlisberger’s late-game heroics. If they can pull out the victory over the Titans, they face Cleveland in their season finale, making it a strong possibility that they will claim home field advantage throughout the AFC playoffs. With Tennessee losing two of their last four, a win would propel them right back to the top of the heap, dispelling all of the problems of the past few weeks. Kerry Collins requires a solid running game behind him in order to lead his team to victory and the number one seed.

Continue reading "Joey A's Opening Drive: Week 16"

It was a necessary victory to stay ahead of the Chicago Bears who won on Thursday.

Pittsburgh Steelers 13, Baltimore Ravens 9

In such an important match-up where a division title is on the line, it’s such a shame it was decided by instant replay. Santonio Holmes’ catch at the goal line was initially ruled down at the 3 inch line or so, but was subject to a booth review where it was apparently clear enough to be called a touchdown. The replays are inconclusive at best, and are not even close to providing the “indisputable evidence” that NFL rules state are needed to overturn a field ruling. Pittsburgh would have faced a fourth down had the original call stood, forcing a key decision by Mike Tomlin to either go for the win or the tie. Joe Flacco completed only 11 of his 28 pass attempts and threw two interceptions, proving why the Steeler defense is ranked number one in the NFL. Baltimore still has a good shot at the post-season, but they’re behind Indianapolis and tied with the three 9-5 teams in the AFC East. They’ll need to win out and get some help.

Continue reading "Joey A's Final Drive: Week 15"

I have to give where credit is due. I have made no secret about my unyielding criticism of Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger. I have pointed out time and time again, Roethlisberger is not playing "up to snuff" this season and has not earned his $100 million paycheck. I've called him out more than a few occasions and even labeled him "Big Bend" for his propensity to hold onto the ball too long and expose himself to countless sacks.

Continue reading "BIG BEN LEADS NOTORIOUS STEELERS COMEBACK"

 

The crystal ball was brought back down to Earth this past week by going 2-2.  That puts the crystal ball at 25-22-1 for the season.  That’s three games over .500 (.531 to be exact).  The Cowboys and the Jets let the crystal ball down this past week.  The crystal ball assures me it will rebound this coming weekend.  Let’s review and see what happened last week.    

Continue reading "Week 14 Review"

ut only lost one, proving that a few lucky bounces can go a long way in this league.   

Pittsburgh Steelers 20, Dallas Cowboys 13

The Cowboys held a double-digit lead for three quarters over the imposing Steelers, despite four first half turnovers. A final fifth turnover late in the form of a third Tony Romo interception was returned by cornerback Deshea Townsend 25 yards for a touchdown to seal the Pittsburgh comeback. Ben Roethlisberger was sacked five times and was responsible for one of Pittsburgh’s two fumbles, but he still had a better day than Romo. The normally reliable Steeler ground game was stifled by the Cowboys’ defense, only picking up 70 yards and averaging 2.7 yards a carry, but when your defense can pick up five turnovers, you don’t need outstanding offensive output. (Unless you turn it over five times as well, but you get my drift.)

Continue reading "Joey A's Final Drive: Week 14"