Well, another year has come and gone, and it's time to re-evaluate where Mondesi's House falls in the grand scheme of things.
Despite my best efforts, it's been quite a challenge to maintain a blog of this magnitude completely on my own. Over a million readers passed through the site in 2007, and I'd like to have more fresh, quality content available to you on a regular basis. So if you can read between the lines, one major change to the site in 2008 will be more voices beyond my own.
Who will these mystery writers be? All I can say for now is that "the team is in the development stages". I'm not going to pull a Bill Parcells and completely blow the thing up, but there are plenty of other major changes in store for the site. I'll just label those as a surprise for now.
Looking back, this year was a wild ride...
We said goodbye to Bill Cowher, Kevin McClatchy, Dave Littlefield, Jim Tracy, Jose Castillo, Salomon Torres, Jeff Long, Mark Recchi, Michel Oullet, Chris Gardocki and Joey Porter.
We said hello to Mike Tomlin, Frank Coonelly, Steve Peterson, Neal Huntington, Adam LaRoche, Matt Morris, Angelo Esposito, Gary Roberts, Georges Laraque, Petr Sykora, Daryl Sydor, Adam Hall, Ty Conklin, Daniel Moskos, Lawrence Timmons, Shady McCoy, Pat Bostick, Dejuan Blair, Missy Peregrym, and Steely McBeam.
And we said "you're still here?" to Jason Bay and Jack Wilson.
We had a bad Pirates season, a pretty good Steeler season, lots of great Penguin hockey, the ups and downs of Pitt football, and exciting Panther hoops.
Thanks for a great 2007, and here's to an even better 2008. Considering it's starting with the Winter Classic and a Steeler playoff game in the first week, I'd take that as a good sign.
The final Steeler game of the season was a perplexing one. In fact, it usually is. In past years, the game was either a glorified preseason event or a last gasp at respectability after a disappointing season. And since the Steelers are actually in the playoffs this year, the last game was a chance to catch up on some R&R. Glorified preseason event indeed.
There's nothing like Baltimore in December. And several Steelers got to take advantage of a free trip to Charm City as a spectator, most notably Ben Roethlisberger, Hines Ward, and Troy Polamalu.
Roethlisberger, nursing an injury presumably suffered when his teammates kicked him in the nuts by naming James Harrison as the MVP, led a squad of high-priced, unattractive and even bearded cheerleaders on this day.
It seemed like the Steelers couldn't decide if they cared or not in this game. They fell behind by deficits of 17-0 and 27-7, then mounted a ferocious comeback that would fall six points short. From a viewer's standpoint, it was as difficult to watch as I had imagined. And that was before I realized that we were getting the added bonus of Phil Simms in the booth.
I'm sure Simms is a smart guy, but he really didn't sound like it on Sunday. Don't get me wrong, he didn't sound as dumb as Bill Cowher asking if Chris Redman was the Falcons' QB of the future, but he was pretty close. Listening to Simms, you would think that Troy Smith was the crown jewel of the Ravens' organization. Of course, nowhere is it written that we have to listen to eem (eem of course being the Simms-to-English translation of the word "him").
To me, the Steelers are a total mystery going into the playoffs. Their quarterback is banged up. The running game is in the hands of the Dump Truck-Gary Russell-Verron Haynes Extra Value Meal, which accounted for an uninspiring 47 yards on 18 carries on Sunday. The offensive line remains a disaster zone. Their defense is the football equivalent of tooth decay, slowly breaking down over time. Nagging injuries linger for key players. Their head coach is venturing into unknown territory. And they just got manhandled by their first-round opponent weeks ago.
Could they win a game or two in the playoffs? Sure, why not. The last time I checked, the Jaguars organization is not synonymous with postseason success. But will they? That's debatable. The team they fielded on Sunday bears only a minor resemblance to the team that will face the Jaguars next week. Sadly, Charlie Batch will be back to holding a clipboard and not overthrowing Santonio Holmes by 10 yards. But fear not, Ike Taylor will still be in the lineup, challenging Nate Washington for the most balls dropped in one NFL season.
All in all, the Steeler game wrapped up what was a pretty disastrous weekend for sports in these parts. The Penguins won, but they lost Gary Roberts. At this point, they'll dress about 10 guys for the Winter Classic. And not only did Pitt get smoked by Dayton, but they lost Levance Fields, adding his name to the "Out For the Year" list founded by Mike Cook last week.
This city's teams have experienced a simply unbelievable rash of injuries this fall. Pitt football lost Bill Stull, Derek Kinder, Gus Mustakas, Chris Jacobson, Dan Matha, Kevin Collier, and Jason Pinkston. Heck, even Wannstache was hobbling around on crutches. The Steelers lost Willie Parker, Aaron Smith, Ryan Clark, Jerame Tuman and Dan Kreider for the season, plus extended absences for Troy Polamalu and Santonio Holmes. The Pens have endured injuries to Roberts, Marc-Andre Fleury, Ryan Malone, Mark Eaton, and Max Talbot. And now the Panthers hoop squad has already lost Cook and Fields. When it rains on Yinzers, it pours. Let's hope our athletes have some better luck in 2008.
Weekend notes:
--Pitt just missed another 3. And another one. And another one. And another one.
--That's five consecutive losses in Baltimore, for those of you scoring at home.
--Despite their best efforts for an apathetic, lifeless performance, injuries were sustained by James Harrison (shoulder), Max Starks (knee), Bryant McFadden (ankle), and Willie Reid (shoulder, butterfingers).
--Which fan base hates the Patriots the most: Steelers, Colts, Dolphins, Jets, or Bills?
--Has anyone at all mentioned that the defending champion Colts are in this year's playoffs?
--Larry Fitz on Sunday: 11 catches, 171 yards, 2 TDs vs. the Rams. Yowza.
--By my count, 13 NFL teams finished with seven, eight, or nine wins this year. Yet only two of them (Washington and Tampa) made the playoffs. 2007 was a very top-heavy year in the league.
--Speaking of 9-7 teams, I can't wait to not watch Washington at Seattle.
--Anyone else surprised by the all-around suckiness of the 2007 Broncos? I thought they would go deep in the '07 playoffs, for numerous reasons:
1. Jay Cutler a year older and wiser.
2. Signing what appeared to be a franchise back after years of failing to invest in the position.
3. The addition of Dre Bly to tag-team with Champ Bailey.
4. A "cause", playing for fallen teammates Darrent Williams and Damien Nash.
Like I always say, there's no such thing as a football prognosticator.
--On the topic of massive disappointments, I'd think the 49ers would have to be near the top of that list, too. Yeah, Alex Smith was a great fantasy sleeper this year.
--Speaking of fantasy disappointments (some through no fault of their own, and in no particular order)...
Ronnie Brown, Cadillac Williams, Matt Leinart, Steven Jackson, Larry Johnson, Thomas Jones, Cedric Benson, Reggie Bush, Deuce McAllister, Travis Henry, Javon Walker, Marvin Harrison, Vince Young, Shaun Alexander, Kevin Jones, Ahman Green, Trent Green, Jake Delhomme, Roy Williams (the receiver, not the horse-collar-tackling safety), Laveranues Coles, Lee Evans, Chris Chambers, and of course, Charlie Frye.
My condolences if you had any of those guys on your roster.
--Congrats to the Jets for winning the Herman Edwards Bowl against the Chefs on Sunday. That's something to build on for '08.
--Your 2007 NFL doormats, who will be rewarded with high picks in 2008:
--Great news! The Patriots PURSUIT OF PERFECTION is going to be televised on CBS and NBC! I'm sure the people who paid for the NFL Network package are thrilled!
--Jeffri Chadiha gives us his NFL MVPs, team by team. Unlike the Steelers players, he made the right choice in choosing Ben Roethlisberger.
--The Anthony Morelli Era is coming to an end. PSU fans, is 17-8 what you expected?
--Here's the complete college bowl schedule, with payouts. And as emailer Art pointed out, notice the $14 million difference between Kansas and Missouri. Looking back...that was kind of a big game they played a few weeks ago.
--The Marlins signed Jose Castillo, which more than likely means my final comparison of Castillo to Slowpoke Rodriguez. We'll miss both of you.
--New blog alert! Reader Jules, just started Here's What I'm Saying, a site with the eclectic mix of Pittsburgh sports, celebrity gossip, and Jacksonville pieces.
--Warrick Dunn will be back next season. Whew! I can't speak for you, but I was losing sleep over that one.
--Remember Kendrell Bell? Nope, me neither. Apparently he used to play for the Steelers. And he's still collecting NFL paychecks. But those days may soon be coming to an end, says AOL.
--Santas are all over the ice at a Penguins-Rangers game. One slams a fan into the boards. Hilarity ensues.
Was it everything you thought it would be? Yes, and then some. We could obnoxiously gloat over the fact that several of our teams enjoyed success simultaneously, but then that would make us Boston. And even they couldn't beat Pittsburgh last night.
I said yesterday that this could be the biggest Thursday night in Pittsburgh televised sports history. Looking back on it, here's what we got to see:
1. Sidney Crosby's first NHL fight, against former Penguin Andrew Ference.
2. Undefeated Pitt beats previously-undefeated Duke in overtime on a Levance Fields 3-pointer with four seconds. This in front of a sold-out Madison Square Garden.
3. The Penguins blow a 4-0 lead, then redeem themselves with a shootout win against the Boston Bruins.
4. The Steelers defeated the Rams and are on the verge of clinching a playoff spot with a Cleveland or Tennessee loss.
5. NFL rushing leader Willie Parker breaks his fibula and is out for the season. The Dump Truck steps in and goes for 167 yards of offense.
6. Pitt's Mike Cook will probably miss extended time if not the entire season with a knee injury.
7. Ben Roethlisberger had a perfect passer rating of 158.3.
8. Dejuan Blair had 15 points and 20 rebounds.
9. Sid finished with a "Gordie Howe Hat Trick".
10. Daniel Sepulveda ended up with a higher passer rating than Marc Bulger.
I don't know about you, but I was switching back and forth, up and down on the dial the entire evening. So there will be no full recap of any one game in particular, just some thoughts on this glorious occasion, dubbed by ESPN this morning as "Steel City SportsCenter":
--Huge win for the Panthers. HUGE. It was their first meeting with Duke in 28 years and it was in the familiar setting of MSG, the Panthers' home away from home.
I must admit, when the Panthers were down by 16 in the first half, I was not feeling good about the way this evening would go. They were turning the ball over like Ben Roethlisberger in 2006. They were down by 12 at the half, actually tying a school record for the largest halftime deficit overcome in a game. The Panthers also came back from 12 down at halftime to beat Saint Francis, Pa., in 1983, according to the PG.
But give credit where it's due: Jamie Dixon held this team together, gradually they cut down the defecit, and they were in a position to win the game at the end. Levance Fields poured in 21 points; Blair was off-the-charts good, with his 15 points and 20 boards; and Sam Young, with 17 and seven, rounded out the Panthers offense. In fact, outside of that trio, no other Panther scored more than four points.
It was a forgettable game for Ronald Ramon, with his anemic 1-7, four-point night. Pitt three-point-shooting in general was awful, unless you consider 3-for-19 (.158) acceptable. And oh, the turnovers. Before his horrendous injury, Mike Cook committed five of them, tying Fields for the team-high and narrowly edging the four TOs of Young and Blair. But the Panthers dominated the Dookies on the boards (49-31) and ultimately proved to be the tougher team. Not to sound cliched (is that phrase now consider a cliche?), but I believe Pitt just wanted it more.
Duke may have a roster full of McDonald's All-Americans, but Pitt has a nice mix of veterans and youth, experienced and fearless at the same time. Could this be the year they get over the hump? It's still early, but a game like last night gives us hope.
--The Steelers game was tough to watch, and I'm not just talking about that horrible announcing team of Gumbel, Faulk, and Deion. The offensive fireworks were nice, but the loss of Parker will probably put a fork in this year's squad. Losing Parker really limits the offense, especially on play-actions. The Dump Truck was impressive in relief (123 rushing, 44 receiving, 2 TDs), but the depth at that position is now very compromised. Behind Davenport sits only Carey Davis and Gary Russell. That's it. John Clayton is reporting that the Steelers may reach out to Verron Haynes (the probable choice) or Kevan Barlow (not a chance), but surprisingly makes no mention of the potential acquisition of T.J. Duckett.
When you're describing a team lacking Parker, Aaron Smith, and Ryan Clark, with an iffy offensive line and a shakier-than-ever defense, that doesn't sound like a recipe for a championship. I'm not saying it's not possible, but the odds are now severely stacked against the Steelers.
Ben Roethlisberger was his usual self, with a perfect passer rating, 261 yards, and three touchdowns. All that without any starlets in the stands, artificially boosting his persona and making people believe he's better than he actually is. How does he do it? (P.S. - if you haven't noticed, since my last crusade of preaching that Ben is better than Carson Palmer seems to have paid off, now I'm taking on Tony Romo. The guy has never won a playoff game - in fact, he cost the team a playoff game - and he's absolutely killed his team in two games this year: the five INTs in Buffalo and the disaster on Sunday against the Eagles. But sure, he's the third-best QB in the league. Funny how everyone knocked Peyton Manning for not winning in the postseason but Romo gets a free pass.)
It was nice to have San Antonio back in good health, with four catches for 133 yards. Even Nate Washington got into the mix, catching two touchdowns. That's a welcome change from Washington's usual performance of not catching two touchdowns. Heath Miller was nearly invisible from the ledger, but Hines added 6-59, and all in all I'd say it was a solid night from the pass catchers. Unless they dropped some passes while I was flipping between games.
Was anyone else tired of hearing the announcers call the Steelers the league's #1 defense? When the Steelers were nursing a seven-point fourth-quarter lead over another lowly team, I was really tired of hearing about it. I'm glad to see the Steelers finally intercept some passes, because I thought a rule was passed in which they were no longer allowed to catch a ball thrown by the other team. The Steelers have 11 interceptions on the year. 11! For comparison, Antonio Cromartie of San Diego has 10. Celebrated playmaker/Pro Bowler Troy Aumua Polamalu has ZERO.
It was nice to get a win, which puts the Steelers on the verge of the playoffs, but it was an extremely costly evening.
--The Penguins win was extremely rewarding, mostly because Boston teams don't seem to lose at anything these days. It was also rewarding because if the Pens would have lost, there would probably be some fans on suicide watch after squandering that 4-0 lead.
The Crosby fight was simply surreal. Finally, FINALLY, Crosby dropped the gloves. And of all people, it was former Pen Andrew Ference that ultimately became Sid's first victim. The teams will meet once again on Sunday in Pittsburgh. However, I don't think Sid and Ference will meet in a rematch.
Ty Conklin stopped 37 of 41 shots, but most importantly stoned two Bruins in the shootout. As first career starts go, it could have been worse. It was nice to get him in the W column. On the offensive side, Geno lit the lamp twice, Sid had the aforementioned Howe Hat Trick, and Colby Armstrong added three assists.
The Pens next road game has a little bit of fanfare. Luckily, there's no Pitt or Steeler game going on at the same time.
Random notes from the trifecta:
--Pretty good month for the ol' Pitt athletic department, no?
--I felt horrible for Mike Cook last night. I'm guessing that last night will be the final time he plays in a college game, and that's a sad way to end a college career. Don't think that Cook going down didn't inspire Levance Fields (Cook's best friend) in the OT.
--Every time I watch a Mike Tomlin press conference, I feel like I'm watching a guy playing a football coach in a movie. Every word sounds so thought-out, every phrase so intricately crafted...is he secretly auditioning for Remember the Titans II?
--I was on the NHL's web page for the Ice Bowl, and through a few clicks eventually got back to this AMAZING video from the 2000 NHL All Star Game. It's Lemieux, Gretzky, Howe, Jagr, Lindros, Kariya, and Bure in the Emmy-nominated "Pond of Dreams". It gets the rare Mondesi's House five-star recommendation.
--By the way, if you didn't understand the "two losses" in the title, I was referring to Fast Willie and Mike Cook. Thought I'd throw that in before I got emails on it.
BONUS COVERAGE:
An in-person recap of Pitt-Duke from "Cecil from Cecil":
"Mondesi: I have no pictures to present to you and your readers. This is an old-fashioned kind of recap. Not unlike the one you'll read in the PG on Friday. Just know that this was the best Pitt Hoops game since Brandin Knight & Co. thumped UConn in the 2003 Big East Final......and I was there.
The place was packed. 75/25 Duke fans. My seats were very good, about 20 rows up across from the Duke bench. There were a fair number of people rooting for Pitt around me (read: Duke-haters who went to G'Town, Maryland, or wherever), but very few Pitt fans.
Pessimistic Pitt fan that I've grown to be over the years, I was convinced that the 8 minute sabbatical our guys took late in the first half would ultimately cost them the game. But that wasn't the case. Then I was positive that the absence of Dejuan Blair, after his fouling out, would all but guarantee a Pitt loss. Again - I was wrong about these Panthers.
Simply put, this is a different team. Blair, as a true frosh, is a more dominant force than Aaron Gray ever was, and the 2007-08 Sam Young is one of the best players in the country, as evidenced by his new jump shot.
Pitt fans, when that 3-ball from Fields went through the net, I jumped up and down with fervor unseen since Antwaan Randle El threw that famous pass to Hines Ward on that special day. This victory was worthy of such a celebration!
From the get-go, the young players seemed intimidated by the MSG setting and the older players seemed to be intimidated by the Dookies. All of that meant nothing in the 2nd half and our Panthers won a game for the ages (thereby setting in motion the Pittsburgh Tri-Fecta, with the Pens and Steelers also winning later in the night!). All in all, it was a night for the ages. Hail to PITT!!!!
Cecil From Cecil
P.S. Mondesi, when do you begin to cover the Penn State hoops team? Fair and balanced, right??? LOL...."
BONUS COVERAGE II:
10 Reasons the Steelers Season is NOT Over from Jason in Pullman, Washington:
1. Davenport has a higher yards per carry average. His average has never been below 3.5 yards per carry. As a Steelers, it has never been below 4.6. Yes, this is partially due to limited carries and specialty situations. Remember, many of those are on 3rd or 4th and one, where he is going straight up the middle. That’s a good average considering his role.
2. Davenport is not as good a receiver as Parker: this is true. But, as a big guy, he is a better blocker. With the holes in the offensive line this season, a bigger back on passing downs might be a godsend for Ben. He could be put on hit and release routes, or screens for big games.
3. Davenport will never break a big run: I hate to throw Bettis into the mix, since Parker is constantly criticized for not being Jerome Bettis. But seriously, the strength of the Steelers on their last Super Bowl run was that they kept their defense off the field. Thus, the defense played better because they had fresh legs, and the offense played well because they kept opposing defenses off the field. Opposing offenses scored less points because it is harder to get into a rhythm when you don’t get the ball much. Davenport will force the Steelers to become more methodical; if successful, they will control the clock and grind their way downfield. It helps to have a fresh pair of legs this late in the season. Big backs also tend to do well in December and January.
4. Pittsburgh now throws the ball to set up the running game. The talking heads have observed this, and it seems to be true. Parker needs room to run the ball; as a bigger back, the Dump Truck might not.
5. Without Parker, Pittsburgh will probably throw shorter passes to augment the running game. This will result in fewer turnovers, more ball control, and feature Ward/Miller more often. I can’t think of better people to give the ball to if you want them to hang on to it.
6. Polamalu is healthy, and Smith the Prophet finally got benched. The Hallelujah chorus comes to mind.
7. Though not perfect, our defense played a little better against the Rams. DE Smith’s replacements are getting some time on the field, and will improve. We’ve faced some great running backs lately, with a lot of injuries on defense. The holes on defense might not be as bad as the media thinks.
8. Big Ben is having a great year. He finally has Holmes and Ward at the same time; Spaeth and Miller are both in the lineup as well. He won’t have to throw to Dwight Stone’s heir apparent, Nate Washington.
9. Dick Lebeau is our defensive coordinator. If he can’t find a way to fix our run defense, then it can’t be done. Since we’re always good against the run, it must be possible. Therefore, our run defense will get fixed.
10. If we lose in the playoffs, Davenport can always defecate in the opposing teams locker room. That will ensure the 2007 Steelers place in history.
Tonight is potentially the greatest Thursday night in the history of televised Pittsburgh sports. At 7 on ESPN, the long-awaited Pitt vs. Duke matchup comes to fruition. At 7:08 on FSN, the Penguins drop the puck against the Bruins. And at 8:15 on the NFLN and KDKA, the Steelers battle the Rams. Remotes will explode. Pittsburgh sports writers' heads will be spinning. It's going to be crazy.
The year is 2002. The Boston Red Sox have a vacant General Manager position that they want to fill. And who did they consider as the man to ultimately build a curse-ending team?
Yes, according to this recently-unearthed 2002 article from the Pittsburgh Post Gazette, the then-newly-hired Littlefield was considered by the Red Sox as a possible candidate for their vacant job. Fortunately for them, Littlefield was under contract to the Buccos for years and years to come, and as the article points out, "The Red Sox, however, have not contacted the Pirates for permission to interview Littlefield, and permission likely would be denied if they did".
--My two favorite Steelers, Ben Roethlisberger and Willie Parker, were both named to the Pro Bowl. They join first-timer James Harrison, Free Agent Faneca, and a bearded, long-haired fellow who occasionally plays safety.
--It looks like Bill Parcells is coming back to take over the Falcons. In totally unrelated news, look for the Falcons to sign Curtis Martin, Keyshawn Johnson, and Richie Anderson very soon.
--SURPRISE! Big Ben is ranked as the #5 QB in the NFL by ESPN. Finally, he's ahead of Carson Palmer, but he's still behind Tony Underwood-Simpson, who, to the best of my knowledge, has never won a playoff game.
--Here's another surprise: Men's Health has a feature on America's Drunkest Cities, and Pittsburgh ranks a lowly #52, with an embarrassing #88 in binge drinking. A drinking town with a football problem? Surely you jest.
--Pity Dick Groat for having to choose sides in the big Pitt-Duke game tomorrow.
--Britney Spears' 16-year-old sister, Jamie-Lynn Spears, is with child.
--Update on my Pirates franchise in the Sporting News 1986 simulation: we're 15-21, a full 10 games behind Baba Booey's Mets. And our own Mike Diaz is leading the league with 38 RBI.
That was the title of quite possibly the longest email I've ever received from a reader named Mike yesterday. Mike thinks that I'm too protective of Ben Roethlisberger, Willie Parker, and Mike Tomlin, and too critical of Hines Ward.
Mike is a longtime reader and obviously put a lot of time into this email. I started writing a response, and then I figured I'd just share it with all of you. I'm always up for a little level-headed debating.
So here's Mike's unedited email:
I read your recap of the Steelers/Jags game and I'm a little concerned that you are falling into a pattern, most famous in these parts via Mark Madden, of praising your favorite players no matter how they perform, and being over-the-top critical of your not-so-favorite players, regardless of their play. Four examples come to mind:
Ben Roethlisberger Ben was not sharp yesterday. The PG's report cards was very accurate. No he didn't lose the game for us. And truthfully, looking at his season as a whole, he's the reason we are 9-5 and not 5-9. But he did not play well yesterday. The passes that were dropped were balanced against the at least half-dozen passes that he sailed way over the heads of open receivers. Maybe Santonio should have strangled him after a few of those. He is holding onto the ball way too long and taking sacks when he should throw the ball away. I know, the one time yesterday he held the ball long and, while he was in the process of being sacked, managed to get it to Willie Parker for a nice gain. But one of those a game is not enough to offset taking 5+ drive-killing sacks a game looking for those kind of plays. There were at least 2 occasions where he had running room and chose not to run and threw incomplete. Plus, on that last offensive play for the team, he would have been better off throwing a jump ball to Ward or someone downfield, rather than throw a pass to big and slow Heath Miller, who was 4 yards shy of a first down when he caught it, with a defender bearing down on him. To Miller's credit, he made it closer to the first down than what should have been expected.
Willie Parker You mock the "#1 defense in the league" (rightfully so after the past 2 games) but continue to give exaggerated praise for the "#1 running back in the league.". Willie's a good back, but he doesn't control the game with his running. Too many times getting dropped in the backfield, or stuffed at the line. The next tackle he breaks will be his first of the year. For a team that revolves around a strong running game, its obvious that the running game isn't there, late in the game, when we need it. And ripping off 1 or 2 long gainers a game (maybe) does not offset all the 3rd and 1's and 3rd and 2's that he doesn't convert in the game. Look no further than the fact that we needed a trick play to make that 2 point conversion yesterday. We had the #1 running back in the league, but you can't count on him to get those needed yards. Same thing in New England last week when we had 3rd and short close to their goal line and ran a Ward reverse. Again, no Willie because he can't make those tough yards.
Mike Tomlin I like Mike Tomlin too, but I think you are glossing over his faults as well. The Steelers have been flat in losing to 3 lousy teams this year. That maybe is on the players, but the head coach bears some responsibility as well. I assume he had a say in minimizing Dan Kreider's fullback role, which I think is a big reason why Willie can't convert those short yardage situations (see above). He failed to muzzle his team before the New England game leading to the "Guarantee". While Day One of the Guarantee was not really Tomlin's fault, Day Two surely was, since he obviously didn't think it was a problem because Smith came right back the next day and reiterated the guarantee. He should have clunked heads in the locker room after day one of the guarantee, thereby "guaranteeing" that nothing more was to be said about it afterwards. He hasn't been good at challenging calls on the field. He bears some responsibility for one of the worst drafts in recent Steeler history. And for a coach who made special teams play such a big deal in training camp, he seems incapable of finding any answers to our lousy special teams play. Wasn't it his idea to bring Allan "run 7 yards straight ahead and fall down" Rossum to the team because of his excellent kick/punt return ability? Again, I like Coach Tomlin and better days are ahead, but he is a rookie coach and has much, much to improve upon.
Hines Ward Finally, on the other end of things, I think you have a grudge against Hines Ward (no doubt stemming from the autograph incident last year) and are being a little unfair. If Ben is the team MVP (and he is this year, no doubt about it), Hines is the runner-up. He's saved Ben's bacon many times by pulling in difficult or poorly thrown passes all year. He's been outstanding every year and provides great leadership for the team. Like Ben, he didn't play very well yesterday. The 2 dropped passes were killers. It was part of what cost us the game. His poor play against the Jags is fair game. But as far as dumping on him because of his always present smile on the field, you can't say that he just puts that on for show. Hines smiles all game long, all the time, no matter winning or losing, no matter whether he delivers a big block or gets creamed after making a catch (or dropping one). It's part of who he is as a player. If we can accept players trash-talking all game long, or doing chest-thumps after they "hold" a RB to a 3 yard gain, " or high-fiving because the other teams receiver dropped an easy 20 yard pass, then we should have no problem accepting a player who seems to enjoy every minute of his playing career in the NFL.
OK, that was long. So if you're still reading, now it's my turn to apologize for being an apologist and explain where I'm coming from.
Do I defend Ben and Willie too much for some folks' taste? Possibly. That would be in the eye of the beholder, and it's not something that's quantitative. But I'm not going to be overly critical of anyone who has to play behind that joke of an offensive line.
Mike points out the fact that Parker gets hit for too many losses. But when you're handed the ball and your opponent is already waiting for you, I'm sorry, but there's not much you can do at that point. That's happened waaay too many times this year.
Same thing with Ben. When he drops back and has a defender immediately in his face, what's a quarterback to do? Most of the time, he makes the right decision. But I agree that he holds the ball too long at times. Fortunately, there are some benefits of his style, most notably the plays that he elongates and makes something out of nothing. He also has drastically reduced his interceptions this season, no? But he certainly has room to upgrade his game in taking the sack. He needs to get better at getting rid of the ball. I'm down with you there.
So why am I defensive of Ben and Willie? Other than the fact that I don't think they're the problem, they are known commodities. They're Super Bowl champions and two big reasons why this team has won so many games in the recent past. You know what you're getting out of those two for the most part. On the other hand, this is not the same offensive line that won the Super Bowl. That line would never have been pushed around like they were against Jacksonville.
I'm not going to crush Tomlin yet, because all things considered, I think he's done a good job, and because as I pointed out last week (and contrary to Roethlisberger and Parker), he still is greatly an unknown commodity. Like I said on Monday, we'll have a better idea of who Mike Tomlin is as a coach in a few weeks.
Has he been perfect? Absolutely not. He's made plenty of mistakes. And contrary to what you may think, I have pointed out in the past that he's been atrocious with challenges (I believe the phrase I used was "someone cut him off"). I agree that the special teams have not improved under his watch, as it was implied when he arrived. But I have a hard time completely writing off this year's draft as one of the worst in team history. Have the rookies contributed much? Not at all. And the early returns have not been promising. Remember this, though: Troy Polamalu was considered by some as a bust after his rookie season. In three years, if Lawrence Timmons, Lamarr Woodley and company are still riding the pine, then I'll say that Mike Tomlin contributes nothing to the draft day war room. But I think now is too early to make that call.
I ask you collectively, in all seriousness: what do you think the Steelers' record would be this season with Bill Cowher and his entire coaching staff returning after that disaster of 2006?
Finally, we come to Hines. Some of you won't believe this, but he's one of my all-time favorite Steelers. So some marketing rep popped off at me about my one-sentence, totally factual link about a Hines public appearance in 2006. Big deal. I may not have a soft spot in my heart for that guy, but as for Hines, I hold no ill will. He's one of the toughest men to ever put on a Steeler uniform. I think he's a Hall of Famer. And I am a fan of his style of play.
His smiling after that drop on Sunday just seemed to agitate me. Probably the way it agitates an opponent after Hines smiles after he's leveled by a big hit. And it was such a horrible drop...
It was the perfect storm of frustration from a tough loss, culminating in a huffy day-after post. I realize what Hines has meant and still means to the Steelers. Will I be accused of hating Hines every time I write something borderline-negative about him? I hope not, but hey, I can't tell someone how to think.
And that's the point of this whole post. There's no such thing as a football expert. In August, I sat at an ESPN event and listened to John Clayton give me 1,000 reasons why the Cleveland Browns would suck this season. And here they are, tied with the Steelers (chosen by many to finish 3rd) for first place. Again, that was John Clayton, regarded by many as one of the top football minds in the media, completely whiffing.
What's great about sports is that many times, there is no right answer. Mike is entitled to his opinion, I'm entitled to mine, and you're entitled to yours. I'm just giving thoughts and observations each week from my point of view, and in the grand scheme of things, it means absolutely nothing. But it sure is fun.
Fred Taylor is old. Real old. He's so ancient, I think he qualifies for that retired players fund that Mike Ditka always talks about. But somehow, some way, he's always had the Steelers' number. I remember sitting in the upper levels of Three Rivers Stadium about seven years ago watching Taylor rack up an impressive "30-234-4 TD" line. And Sunday nearly topped that.
The Steelers' defense, statistically speaking, has had an impressive year up until last week or so. But the last time I checked, a Lombardi Trophy was more impressive than the trophy they hand out for the fewest yards allowed. The way the Steelers are playing these days, they won't have to worry about making room in their trophy case for either one.
On Sunday, Taylor sliced and diced the "vaunted" Steeler defense, on their own turf, no less, for 147 yards on 25 carries. I didn't know what was more unbelievable: the fact that this happened on a snowy day at Heinz Field, the fact that this happened against the Steelers (who usually are quite stout against the run), or the fact that this was done to the Steelers by a 31-year-old running back that is usually on crutches this time of year.
So why are the Steelers in a freefall? Is it the loss of Aaron Smith? Is it the continued absence of Ryan Clark, which is now being used as an excuse in some circles? How about the receivers, who seem to get worse as the season goes on? Maybe the offensive line? It's impossible to give a definitive answer, but I know one thing: if the Steelers even get into the playoffs, they probably won't go very far. Not playing like this. It's been a total team collapse, and you can't point the finger in any one direction.
I think Big Ben gave a noble effort yesterday, as he was in obvious pain. The PG gave him a C+, which I thought was WAY too critical. While he did not win the game, he certainly gave his best, and with little to no help from the professionals who are paid to catch footballs. The drops were just killers. Killers. And I know it's cute when Hines Ward does his little smile on the field, but there's a time to do that and a time to not do that. The ball hits him between the 8 and the 6, he drops it, and flashes a huge grin, like he just got a new puppy. Sorry, but that was annoying.
I've never seen Roethlisberger look like he wanted to literally choke a receiver, but I think Santonio Holmes was really testing him yesterday. Hines dropped two. Heath even dropped one in the end zone. As frustrated as we were watching the game, imagine being the quarterback in that situation. You've got an injured shoulder, it's freezing cold, and you're getting no help. I couldn't blame the guy if he did lose his cool.
At this point, the Steelers are in a dogfight (no Vick reference intended) to merely win the division. If they can't stop Steven Jackson on Thursday night, things could get interesting. Scarily interesting. And then the season ends with Baltimore, currently on an 8-game losing streak but surely planning some sort of ill-advised revenge, as ne'er-do-wells usually do. The Steelers could go 2-0, 1-1, or 0-2. Nothing would surprise me anymore.
If you're looking at the AFC playoff teams, it's pretty safe to say that as they currently stand, one wouldn't expect the Steelers to win against New England, Indianapolis, San Diego, or Jacksonville. It's certainly possible, but not probable. I'd still give them a shot against Cleveland. But that's not saying much.
The coming days and weeks will be a true test for Mike Tomlin. A man is defined by how he reacts to adversity, and there's certainly plenty of that with this team. We'll all get a lesson as to who Mike Tomlin really is in just a few short days.
Game News and Thoughts:
--Yeah, all those loyal Pittsburgh fans were taking the early exit when their beloved Steelers were down by 2 TDs. Sorry, but that's a real pet peeve of mine. They have no problem sitting in the parking lot from 6 AM-1 PM, but they can't sit still for a three-hour football game, which ultimately was tied up with 5 minutes remaining? Come on, Steeler fans. I thought you were better than that.
--Nice to see some contributions from Troy Polamalu yesterday, seeing how he was named to Don Banks' 2007 All Bust Team.
--Anyone notice how the announcers pointed out that Ernest Wilford had 36 catches and no TDs, only to watch him score his first against the Steelers shortly thereafter? Yep, yesterday really was an enjoyable game.
"The Jaguars rushed for 224 yards on 42 carries, the most in seven years against the Steelers, and averaged 5.3 yards per attempt. Fred Taylor was the second back in five games to rush for more than 100 yards (147 on 25 carries, a Heinz Field record for an opponent)."
--I really don't like this trend of not scoring TDs in the first quarter. What are we at now, five games in a row?
--Smart move by Mr. Bill not taking the Atlanta job. Let's see: a horrible team that averages 13 points per game, no quarterback, no stud running back, few options at receiver, mouthy vested veterans like Lawyer Milloy and Deangelo Hall, a horrible GM...need I go on?
--Watching all of those Dolphins celebrating their first victory yesterday, I had to wonder: how pathetic. Imagine how sad it is to be a Miami fan. How far your standards have dropped. You're down to celebrating one win as if you just won the Super Bowl.
After that Atlanta rant, Miami looks to be neck-and-neck as to a similarly pathetic situation. Look at their recent run: Ricky Williams; Nick Saban; the trading of all the draft picks for QBs (Culpepper, Lemon, Green, Feely, Harrington, etc., etc., etc.); getting rid of Wes Welker, Donald Lee, and Chris Chambers; signing Joey Porter to that ridiculous contract; an injury bug second to none. That's a franchise due for some good luck.
--Class act by Rich Rodriguez to tell Terrelle Pryor of his move to Michigan before telling his own Mountaineers. I'm sure they really appreciated that for all the hours and hours of hard work they gave "Coach Rod", which enabled him to get said Michigan job.
--It's the New York Giants Annual Collapse! Catch it while you can!
--Speaking of collapses, how bout them Lions? That almost takes a concentrated effort to fall that hard and fast.
--Hmm...Tony Romo...distracted? As Colin Cowherd said today, the Dallas game looked like high school football with all of the Romo-Simpson sideshow nonsense, and added that Cowboy fans have to decide whether they would rather be in the purple section of USA Today or the red section.
Well, the Mitchell Report is out, so I guess congratulations are in order for those who paid in cash. Also, congrats to the Astros on that Miguel Tejada trade. I'm sure that will really go over well with the fans. And finally, congrats to Jose Canseco for being right on all of these guys.
The links are flowing in fast and furious, so here we go:
"In a July 1996 article in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, Ron Cook analyzed the possible explanations for the season of dramatic power hitting. Among other possible reasons, Cook wrote: "There are other factors, to be sure. Hitters are bigger and stronger. (Can you say steroids, ladies and gentlemen)." He quoted Jim Leyland, then the manager of the Pittsburgh Pirates, as saying: "I'd swear on a stack of bibles we don't have steroids on this team . . . butI wouldn't know about the rest of baseball." The article also reported estimates that as many as 35% of major-league players were using steroids and noted that Jose Canseco and Lenny Dykstra had been taunted by fans for their alleged steroid use."
--I've had many an email about the Steelers and a perceived lack of motivation on Sunday. So let me address it. We've been weaned on a spitting, screaming, borderline-maniac roaming the sidelines for the past 15 seasons, and since he's now employed by CBS, we have to deal with the fact that Mike Tomlin is not Bill Cowher.
When taking the entire season into consideration, it's hard for anyone to be critical of Tomlin. He's 9-4 in his rookie campaign and has his team sitting in first place in the AFC North. Sure, the Steelers should have won a few more, they could have adjusted better for the second half on Sunday, and they could've been a little classier in defeat. But given the injuries and the fact that this was a big transition, I'll take 9-4 any day. Remember, it's not a given that coaching changes will work out as nicely as Tomlin has. Ask Atlanta or Miami what they think of their head men. Or should I say head man.
Tomlin clearly has his own style, and Steeler fans have to eventually come to grips with the fact that he can be successful without simultaneously behaving like a raving lunatic when things go awry. Steeler fans seem to have a sense of history/entitlement at certain positions within the organization. For instance, as I've pointed out about 100 times and contrary to popular belief, the Steelers are not entitled to have a bruising, 250-pound Hall of Fame running back on their roster each season. They are not entitled to have a sensible team of front-office decision makers and an owner that doesn't make himself the sideshow. And they are not entitled to have the best defense in the NFL (except when they play the Patriots). Of course, we live in a town where we're also spoiled by having the best player in the NHL for the last 20-odd years, so I can see where we fall into that trap.
Looking at the situation as a whole, we're lucky to have what looks like a good coach, a young, superstar-in-the-making running back, a tough defense, great decision makers, and a legendary owner. We're not going to win with Bill Cowher or Jerome Bettis again. We have men like Mike Tomlin and Willie Parker at those positions, and I'll take my shots with them anytime.
You can criticize the Steelers for a lot of things they did or didn't do on Sunday, but don't pin the loss on Tomlin for not kicking and screaming. That wouldn't have stopped Randy Moss either.
For more on the players' relationship with Tomlin, I highly encourage you to read this article. And wonder what that souped-up ride that Tomlin rides around in looks like.
--Just when the Pens get a little momentum, MAF goes down for 6-8 weeks and Maxime Talbot for 2-4. Is it the Curse of Mark Recchi?
--Who wins a fast-talker face-off: Nick Saban or Bobby Petrino? Don't forget about darkhorse participant Les Miles!
Q: After the game, Bill Belichick had some less-than-complimentary things to say about your safeties. What’s your reaction to that?
Tomlin: I don’t care what Coach Belichick has to say after the games, regarding our performance. I compliment them for a great game and we move forward. His opinions are irrelevant to us, because we focus on what it is we do and how we prepare in moving forward.
There's a portion of you that would probably be excited about that headline if it were another player, but it was revealed today that it is actually Aaron Smith who is out for the season with torn biceps.
The injury was suffered during the Patriots game, which looking back on it turned out to be a crappier day than anyone could've ever imagined. A combo meal of Travis Kirschke, Nick Eason and Chris Hoke are expected to fill the now gaping hole at defensive end.
Combined with the nagging injuries to Santonio Holmes and Troy Polamalu, this could really continue the slide the Steelers have been on for the past month or so.
And to clear up any confusion, Anthony Smith, nursing a bruised ego, is not listed on the injury report.
--Lester Munson analyzes the Michael Vick sentencing. Know what a good idea would be? To sit around and talk endlessly about if and when Vick will play again, not knowing what the next two years of incarceration will bring. Wait, that was done on Mike and Mike today.
Surprise! Anthony Smith is not Nostradamus. I know, I'm surprised too. Maybe next week Smith and his secondary cronies will talk about how they held Tom Brady under 400 yards passing, because that's pretty much the only thing they accomplished in a demoralizing, embarrassing 34-13 defeat at the hands of the New England Patriots.
Yes, the Steelers defense stunk on Sunday. How bad was the stench? I believe it was in the film Anchorman that the phrase "like a turd wrapped in burned hair" was coined. If you can possibly imagine it, the defense stunk worse than that.
I like to throw stats around about how high the Steelers' defense is ranked, but unfortunately this is not a game played on paper. It's played by highly-paid professionals. Some shoot their mouths off; some embarrass their team with shenanigans after the whistle. The Steelers had players doing both yesterday.
I/we are constantly on the war path against players and teams that are classless in defeat. I certainly called out the Mountaineers and their maniacal fans more than a time or two last week. But the Steelers were no better. I realize what a frustrating loss this must have been. We're fans and we're taking it hard. But these guys were completely out of control. Late hits. Trash talk. Pushing and shoving. I think I even saw a punch thrown. By the end of the contest, they were bringing back memories of Baltimore's end-of-the-game meltdown against New England a week earlier. Is that what "Steeler Football" has devolved to? I mean, we have no problem calling out thuggery when Cincinnati or the Ravens pull similar acts. It's time to call out our own guys. That's not the way to lose. Frankly, I expected more from a Mike Tomlin team.
Unfortunately, unruly behavior was the least of this team's problems on Sunday. On offense, they were "OK", but not great, and OK doesn't beat New England, at least not when your defense is letting Randy Moss have free reign in your secondary. It's a team loss, and the Steelers did not get it done on either side of the ball on Sunday. They couldn't score enough points to win, and they couldn't stop the bleeding from the Patriots' numerous body blows. The coaches never had an answer for Brady, Moss, or Welker, if one even exists. And the special teams, as usual, was of little help. But hey, we only gave up 22 yards rushing.
I thought Ben played a "B to B-" game - not his best, not his worst. Fast Willie had a productive afternoon, racking up 124 yards on 21 carries. And Hines Ward contributed on a minor level (would've been nice if he could have cashed in that TD). On the other hand, it was clear that Santonio Holmes was not himself. Further down the depth chart, Nate Washington showed why he's Nate Washington, with some exquisite non-catches in the second half. At least he's consistent in his awful play. Maybe he'll guarantee a victory against Jacksonville next week.
I'll spare you a paragraph lauding the Patriots, because frankly I'm sick of hearing about them, no matter how fantastic they are. Phil Simms was taunting me the entire game to turn down the sound, as he rambled on and on about Patriot stories that had neither a point nor any comedic value. The Pats are a tough team, they've earned their record, and they definitely have a shot at going undefeated. They are hated because they are successful, because fans of opposing teams are jealous, and because the media has gone above and beyond the necessary means of saturation (newest examples: 1. ESPN's Bottom Line scroll on Friday reading...NFL...NBA...PATRIOTS... and 2. ESPN officially titling all Patriot stories "Pursuing Perfection").
They're also hated because they too are a group of classless and smug individuals. Tom Brady enjoys sitting on his high horse with his cute "Well done is better than well said" quote; but where was he when teammate Rodney Harrison was fined 5 G's for taunting the Ravens last week? Is that the same Rodney Harrison that was suspended for using HGH? Yeah, I thought so.
The Patriots are no band of choir boys. From their cheating coach on down, they're an organization that's liked only within the geographical territory known as New England. And even there, they're not top banana. Most residents of that area are more concerned about which Cy Young Award winner they're going to buy before they call the Yankees the Evil Empire in the next breath. But that's a different soapbox for a different season. I acknowledge the Patriots' greatness and their accomplishments, but my dislike for them has never been greater.
Now, on to some bullet points on the game and Sunday's action around the league:
--CBS walked a real tightrope. While watching the dramatic end of regulation in San Diego-Tennessee, we got the "contractual agreements..." message from the network, warning us that they would be leaving that game for the Steelers game very soon. Luckily, we got to see San Diego score the TD that would ultimately send the game into overtime, although we were already into Commercial Land when the PAT went up.
Can you imagine if we would've missed the beginning of the Steelers-Patriots, though? Yinzers would've probably burned down KDKA. Pomps would have surely feared for his life.
--The game opened with that Kill Bill instrumental. Is it me or is that song a bit played out by now?
--I'm convinced that wasn't really Troy Polamalu on the sidelines. It was either a body double or Tom Hanks reprising his Castaway role.
--Speaking of Tom Hanks, I see in today's commercials that he has a new movie coming out, featuring Philip Seymour Hoffman, also known as the long-lost brother of ESPN Radio 1250's Eddy Crow.
--Unintentional Comedy Highlight of the Day: Jim Nantz proclaiming that "Santonio was grimacing in pain", later brought up in the game when I asked where Santonio was and my brother reminded me that he was probably still grimacing. When he said that, who else out there thought of this guy?
--My Phil Simms disgust hit its pinnacle when Brady's sure TD pass went right through the hands of The Best Receiver in Football. Simms literally said that Brady through it too perfectly. Of course, minutes later, in a trademark Simms gay innuendo line, he said that Moss "couldn't handle the high, hard one". Apparently, neither can Nate Washington.
--From the fashion file: no sunglasses for Coach Cool, and no hoody for Coach Homeless Man.
--The Steeler D clearly had no answer for the Patriots passing attack. Was I the only one who thought Lawrence Timmons should be inserted into the game to step on Tom Brady?
--It's around this time of the NFL season that the commercials really start to get to me. In the past, it's been "Viva, Viagra!" or "This is ouuuuuur countrrrry". This year, I'm being gradually worn down by those way-too-intense people driving their Cadillacs (Does your car turn YOU on?). And a new favorite is the Citi commercial with the kid who looks like Adam Morrison. His big Christmas gift to his mom? Buying himself a suit. Real thoughtful, jerk. Go back to Gonzaga and take your outside shot with you.
And while I'm at it, can the PA Lottery please spring for a new commercial? That "Best Wishes From the Lottery" spot featuring the carolers is ancient. I'm sure the old, bearded newsstand owner wearing a Belichickian hoody is long dead. Don't know what I'm talking about? Watch any Pittsburgh TV station and you'll probably see it in the next 30 seconds.
--My condolences to all the angry 60 Minutes fans who had to endure the final 6:46 of the Steeler game. I like how the Steelers were literally playing ball-control down 21 points, clearly to avoid any further embarrassment that the Patriots surely would have attempted.
"Towing a banner in its wake, a small plane circled Gillette Stadium in the pre-game hours before the Steelers-Patriots. The banner read:
Bonds: 756*Belichick: 3 Super Bowl Wins*
Best I could tell, Don Shula wasn't piloting the plane. But who knows, the Hall of Famer might have paid for it."
--Two quick "seperated at births" for you:
1. The Jacksonville Jaguars are the Pitt Panthers basketball team. They're both really good year-in and year-out, but they never seem to get to the next level. For Pitt, they can't break through the Sweet 16. For the Jags, they're a perennial 2nd place team in the AFC South. And as long as things stay the same, we can continue to make that analogy.
2. Donte Stallworth = Alfonso Soriano. Both of these young men are individuals with loads of talent. So why do they move from team to team to team? If you're a great, young player, teams usually find a way to hold on to you, especially in Soriano's case, when he was on the Yankees. There has to be more to the story in both cases.
--Detroit lost again, and you know what that means: they can only win nine games at the most, crushing Jon Kitna's prediction of at least 10. So that's two guarantees that went by the wayside on Sunday.
--Is there an NFL by-law that says Green Bay's defensive backs must always wear dreadlocks?
-Other than Pats-Steelers, there were some real blowouts on Sunday:
Indianapolis 44, Baltimore 20
Denver 41, KC 7
Minny 27, San Fran 7
Seattle 42, Arizona 21
Buffalo 38, Dolphins 17
Jacksonville 37, Carolina 6
Packers 38, Oakland 7
Yep, it looks like some teams have already closed the books on 2007.
--So the Steelers take on the aforementioned NFL version of the Pitt Panthers hoops team next week. Anyone care to offer a guarantee on the outcome?
