Archive for September, 2024

Steelers mistakes doom comeback v. Colts

September 29th, 2024

A dominant win against a high caliber team, a big rivalry home primetime game against the forever glamour team of the NFL coming in the following week and then a game against a tough but questionable opponent in the middle and you have the makings of the all too familiar “Tomlin Special”.

The Steelers were runover in the first quarter and spent all game, trying to dig out of a huge hole. They have consistently started slow and this time there would be no effective chance to recover.

Making one mistake after the other and getting penalized on several controversial calls. It was a game of inches, and the Steelers gave up every inch they could.

Here is the mistake recap:

-Missed pick on 1st play of the game

-Patrick Queen couldn’t recover a fumble

-Another missed pick in endzone

-Did not attempt 59 yarder/ then couldn’t convert 4th & inches

-Pickens fumble in the red zone

-Fields fumble, lost the ball

-Missed snap on the last potential game winning drive to win the game

-Najee Harris failing to get out of bounds

-Last time out?

That being written the Steelers almost pulled it off. The other thing there was never that sense of doom in this game. You felt like they could pull it off.

Justin Fields delivered his best statistical performance as a Steeler, but costly mistakes and slow starts hindered the team’s efforts. Despite accumulating 312 passing yards and 55 rushing yards with two rushing touchdowns, Fields took a 22-yard sack, fumbled in field goal range, and was partially responsible for a botched final-play snap. He did a very good job, but there is definitely room to improve.

George Pickens’s seven catches for 113 yards were overshadowed by a back breaking fumble in the red zone. While his aggressive play style is admirable, the offense lacks a reliable secondary receiver to complement him. The Steelers’ receiving corps, outside of Pickens, has been largely ineffective. Darnell Washington’s impact when targeted suggests he deserves more opportunities.

The offensive line’s injury woes continued, with Fields sacked four times due to the absence of Isaac Seumalo and James Daniels. Daniels looks to be lost for the season, a crushing blow for the improving live. Rookie Mason McCormick and Spencer Anderson struggled to fill the void, with the latter being the one most likely responsible for the miscue snap at the end of the game.

Defensively, the Steelers struggled to contain the Colts’ rushing attack, even after Jonathan Taylor’s injury. The pass rush also lacked effectiveness, with T.J. Watt and Nick Herbig failing to make a significant impact. Watt was held all-game and never got the call. DeMarvin Leal’s performance was largely ineffective. The Steelers need Alex Highsmith back.

The secondary, led by Joey Porter Jr., struggled to contain Michael Pittman Jr. and Josh Downs. Porter’s dropped interception and the team’s overall coverage issues contributed to the Colts’ success. There were so many missed opportunities.

Special teams saw mixed results as usual. First the coverage units played well, the return game had a few flashes but of course were marred by penalties. Calvin Austin’s big return was overshadowed by a Justin Field’s fumble. After two very good weeks Corliss Waitman’s punting was inconsistent at best. Chris Boswell remained reliable on field goals converting his tries.

Mike Tomlin’s questionable decisions contributed significantly to the Steelers’ first-half deficit. His reluctance to attempt a 59-yard field goal, combined with the defense’s struggles against the Colts’ offense, allowed the Colts to establish a 17-0 lead. Additionally, the Steelers’ conservative offensive approach, including a failed quarterback draw on 4th-and-inches, made them predictable and vulnerable.

The Steelers’ adjustments against Joe Flacco were awful. While Tomlin cited a desire to maintain coverage, the lack of pressure allowed Flacco to operate comfortably. Tomlin’s decision to leave a timeout on the clock during the final seconds of the game was a costly oversight.

The only thing positive you can say about the officiating it was almost equally lousy to both teams. There were so many missed calls and so many ticky-tacky calls. It just hurts the flow of the game.

My “GAME BEER” goes to: Despite his mistakes, we are going with Justin Fields. He had a monster game on the stat sheet and if he can clean up the mistakes, the Steelers have their franchise quarterback. Also Considered: Not really anyone else.

Beer of the Game: Went to the Sam Adams Fall Pack, both KGB and I shared it, She leaned on the Pumpkin with was solid, I had the Pumpkin, the Boston Lager and the Octoberfest. All were the usual Sam quality.

“Steel the Snacks”: We didn’t go the traditional Indianapolis Pork combination. We went with an Italian Sandwich toasted with Olive oil. It had four kinds of Italian meats and provolone cheese. The Steelers scored when the snacks came out.

My Stat of the week:  Picking a silly one, we are 0-5 on my birthday “weekend” and 4-6 over the last 10 years

My Thoughts on next week: Here come the ‘Boys. There is something very special about the Steelers v. the Cowboys and we will be in attendance next week. BIG Game

Jersey of the Week:  Went with my vanity jersey in honor of my Birthday, Pomara #50. It was a gift last year!

 

 

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Steelers dominate second half to remain unbeaten!

September 23rd, 2024

Justin Fields Shines as Steelers Dominate Chargers

In his third consecutive start for the Steelers, Justin Fields continued his stellar play, guiding the team to a decisive victory over the Chargers. His performance was highlighted by a 55-yard touchdown pass to Calvin Austin III in the fourth quarter, extending the Steelers’ lead and solidifying the victory.

What  was most impressive was Fields’ ability to bounce back from his first turnover of the season. After a forced pass to Cordarrelle Patterson was intercepted, Fields responded with a near-perfect final quarter and a half, completing 7 of 8 passes for 94 yards.

The Steelers’ running game also played a crucial role in the victory. Najee Harris and Cordarrelle Patterson combined for 97 yards and a touchdown in the second half, effectively wearing down the Chargers defense.

On the defensive side, the Steelers’ front seven dominated the Chargers’ rushing attack. Cam Heyward, Larry Ogunjobi, and Keeanu Benton controlled the line of scrimmage, limiting J.K. Dobbins to just 44 yards on 15 carries. T.J. Watt was quiet…until he wasn’t and continued his dominant season, adding another sack to his tally and making two tackles for loss.

Nick Herbig, a key contributor off the bench, stepped in for the injured Alex Highsmith and delivered a strong performance with two sacks.  Inside linebacker Patrick Queen made a significant impact early in the game with a powerful hit on Dobbins and finished as the team’s leading tackler with eight. Elandon Roberts also played a crucial role, contributing four tackles and recording his first sack of the season.  

The Steelers’ secondary also played a key role in the win, shutting down the Chargers’ passing game. Joey Porter Jr. and Donte Jackson combined to limit the Chargers to just 24 yards through the air in the second half.

With their victory over the Chargers, the Steelers improved to 3-0 and solidified their position as one of the top teams in the NFL. Fields’ continued development, combined with the strong performances of the running game and defense, make the Steelers a formidable force to be reckoned with.

BEER WE GO STEELERS, BEER WE GO!

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Steelers pull out the ugly win over the Denver Broncos

September 16th, 2024

Once again it was not pretty, but the Steelers secured a victory over the Broncos 13-6. The offense struggled to gain momentum but did enough to get the win. The defense was dominant and held off a late surge by the Broncos.

Justin Fields got the start again and managed the game effectively, avoiding turnovers and throwing his first touchdown of the season, a quick strike to Mt. Washington. His numbers were paltry passing for only 117 yards and rushing for 27. He had a couple of big plays overturned on questionable holding calls.

Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren provided a solid ground game and began to wear out the stout Denver defense. They gained 141 yards with Harris carrying the majority share with 69 bruising yards.

The offensive line was inconsistent and struggled. Brodrick Jones had a tough day, getting nabbed for a whopping 25 yards on one series. One of the holding calls was questionable at best but it negated the biggest play of the day. The line is still finding its’ rhythm.

The defensive line was a bright spot, generating pressure and stopping the run. Cam Heyward had a big day and was in the backfield on nearly every snap he played. T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith continued their strong play, contributing for two sacks and four tackles for a loss. Watt’s sack looked like he hit Bo Nix with an RKO.

The secondary had a strong game, with Cory Trice Jr. securing his first interception, which crushed any momentum Denver had. DeShon Elliott and Damontae Kazee made key plays in the run defense and Bo Nix could never really get the passing game going.

The special teams unit performed well, with Chris Boswell making both his field goals and Corliss Waitman punted effectively coming off the street this week. Ben Skowronek’s contributions on special teams were valuable. The return games both struggled and once again were hit costly penalties.

The officiating was almost as awful as the first week and way too intrusive in the game. Too many ticky tacky calls that slowed down both teams.

It is pretty clear what the game plan is going to be this year. It is Mike Tomlin’s signature keep the ball away from the other team and punish them when they have it. The team will need to adjust their offensive approach to compete against stronger opponents, especially in the upcoming game against the Chargers.

The Steelers sit at 2-0

BEER WE GO STEELERS, BEER WE GO!

 

My “GAME BEER” goes to: T.J. Watt, he such a disruptive force on the edge. The stats don’t even come close to telling his story. His sack looked like Bo Nix didn’t know what hit him. Also Considered: Corliss Waitman who came off the street and did a good job punting. The Defensive line led by Cam was just devastating.

Beer of the Game: Stuck with Miller Lite, was at a great bar in Florida called, Hap and Hooch and stuck with Miller Lite. KGB drank Old Fashions for the game.

“Steel the Snacks”: We had to punt on this and had two types of Wings at Hap and Hooch. Wings were outstanding and the service and people were great, despite being a Packers bar.

My Stat of the week:  The Steelers defense only have given up one touchdown this season, on a controversial call against Atlanta. They held the Broncos under 300 yards and stuffed their run game for 64 yards. Those are championship caliber stats.

My Thoughts on next week: A very tough home opener against a fellow undefeated team in the Los Angeles Chargers. This will be the first real test of the defense as the Chargers have demolished everyone they faced so far.

Jersey of the Week: No Jersey this week, I went with a BWGSteelers baseball jersey and BWG shirt. NEW SHIRTS WILL BE OUT WITHIN THE NEXT TWO WEEKS.

 

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Steelers beat the Falcons!

September 8th, 2024

Steelers Edge the Atlanta Falcons

They did not score a touchdown, lost their starting quarterback right before game time and the refs were horrible, but somehow there is a renewed feeling of excitement and hope as the Steelers up ended the Falcons and won their season opener 18-10 behind a masterful performance by Chris Boswell.

Justin Fields showcased his potential in a resilient performance, leading the Steelers to a victory after being called upon Sunday morning. Despite early struggles, Fields made key plays throughout the game, including two long passes to George Pickens and several crucial runs. While his performance might not guarantee him another start if Russell Wilson is healthy, it demonstrated that the Steelers could rely on him in the future. He is a dangerous weapon, and he will only get better. Fields finished 17-23 for 156 yards. He also rushed for 57 yards.

The Steelers’ running game was effective if not spectacular, with Najee Harris leading the charge. Harris grinded it out and played old fashion smash mouth Steelers football. Despite Jaylen Warren’s absence, Harris consistently gained yards and wore down the Falcons defense. He finished with a workman 20 carries for 70 yards. The offensive line which was playing without two starters did a good job protecting Fields and opening up the running game.

The receiving corps was highlighted by George Pickens’ impressive performance, as he capitalized on single-coverage opportunities to make big plays. Even after a monster play was called back on a ticky-tacky call. Despite eight different players catching passes, the rest of the receivers were quiet on the day.

Defensively, the Steelers absolutely dominated the Falcons’ offense after the first series. Cam Heyward, Larry Ogunjobi and Montravius Adams led the defensive line with strong performances. Bijan Robinson, one of the best young running backs in the game was held to 68 yards on the ground and the Falcons never got the running game going.

T.J. Watt continued to be a destructive force. Watt was absolutely ripped off on a strip sack that would have negated the Falcons only touchdown. Watt also recovered a fumble on a botched gadget play. The secondary played well, limiting the Falcons’ talented receivers, and Donte Jackson and DeShon Elliott grabbed two interceptions, the latter which all but sealed the game.

Chris Boswell had an exceptional game, tying a franchise-record of six field goals, three of which were absolute bombs of 50 plus, and even punted when  Cameron Johnson, was crushed by the Falcons Special teams and looks to be done for the year. The play resulted in a penalty…for the Steelers, another in a series of AWFUL calls by the officials. The new kickoff rule never really played a role and of course the coverage and return units need to clean up the penalties.

By no means was it a perfect victory, but overall, the victory was a positive start to the season. The offense is a work in progress but for the first time in a long time, their looks like a solid plan. The defense will only get better.

BEER WE GO STEELERS, BEER WE GO!

My “GAME BEER” goes to: Little Bos is all “growns” up… Chris Boswell banging out SIX field goals, three of which were 50+ is just impressive. We have been very blessed to have the Bos and he saved the day yesterday, with a good punt as well. Also Considered: Scotty Miller, how hard do you think it is to come off the street and have to hold for an NFL kicker with the game pretty much on the line. T.J. Watt who is just an absolute monster. Cam Heyward with a big day.

Beer of the Game: Called an audible and went with old faithful Miller Lite, never disappoints and I did the aluminum bottles which were ice cold. KGB and Little Miss Tailgate went with Corona Light.

“Steel the Snacks”: Fried Chicken and Waffles a southern staple and Perogies a Pittsburgh staple. Eating the leftovers as I type this blog. PHENOMENAL and something they drew rave reviews on Social Media.

My Stat of the week: SIX Field goals for 18 points tying a Steelers record and three of those were for 57, 51 and 56. The 56 was with one second left. It was an outstanding performance.

My Thoughts on next week: This is the CLASSIC Steelers trap game that has plagued Mike Tomlin throughout his career. Houston pulled the upset yesterday with a big win over Jacksonville and the Steelers have the Ravens looming the following week. On paper this should be a big win, they need the offense to perform like it did yesterday and they will make quick work of the Texans.

Jersey of the Week: Went with Cam “Steelhead” Heyward #97 Away, he just signed a long-term deal with the team, and he will go down as one of the greatest players in Steelers history.

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We are back and this is your Steelers 24 Team…for now.

September 3rd, 2024

We are back, this is our 2024 review of the current roster. Look for more changes as players get released and moved around. We will be doing the weekly game report.

 

 

 

OFFENSE
Name Number POS Age HT WT Exp BWG TAKE
Kyle Allen 4 QB 28 6′ 3″ 210 lbs 6 Uninspiring pre-season
Justin Fields 2 QB 25 6′ 3″ 227 lbs 4 Will absolutely see the field this year
Russell Wilson 3 QB 35 5′ 11″ 206 lbs 13 Rebound year for a top veteran
Najee Harris 22 RB 26 6′ 1″ 242 lbs 4 Will be playing for a new contract
Cordarrelle Patterson 84 RB 33 6′ 2″ 220 lbs 12 Excited versatile player
Jaylen Warren 30 RB 25 5′ 8″ 215 lbs 3 Solid second option RB
Calvin Austin III 19 WR 25 5′ 9″ 162 lbs 3 Playmaker who will start
Van Jefferson 11 WR 28 6′ 1″ 200 lbs 5 Solid veteran addition
Scotty Miller 13 WR 27 5′ 9″ 174 lbs 6 Depth player/special teamer
George Pickens 14 WR 23 6′ 3″ 200 lbs 3 Dynamic playmaker who must breakout
Roman Wilson 10 WR 23 5′ 10″ 186 lbs R Exciting prospect, who needs to beat injury bug
Pat Freiermuth 88 TE 25 6′ 5″ 258 lbs 4 Could be a huge force for the offense
Connor Heyward 83 TE 25 6′ 0″ 230 lbs 3 Versatile player who will see time at TE and RB
MyCole Pruitt 81 TE 32 6′ 2″ 258 lbs 9 Long term veteran who won’t last
Darnell Washington 80 TE 23 6′ 7″ 264 lbs 2 Looking for a breakout year
Zach Frazier 54 C 23 6′ 3″ 310 lbs R Tough rookie who will start
Ryan McCollum 62 C 26 6′ 5″ 300 lbs 2 Backup C
Spencer Anderson 74 G 24 6′ 5″ 305 lbs 2 Will start with Isaac’s injury
James Daniels 78 G 26 6′ 4″ 327 lbs 7 String veteran who is looking to improve
Mason McCormick 66 G 24 6′ 5″ 315 lbs R Interesting depth prospect
Isaac Seumalo 73 G 30 6′ 4″ 303 lbs 9 Injury will slow him to start
Troy Fautanu 76 OT 23 6′ 4″ 317 lbs R Will be the starter at LT
Broderick Jones 77 OT 23 6′ 5″ 311 lbs 2 Ferocious mauler who needs to develop
Dan Moore Jr. 65 OT 25 6′ 5″ 315 lbs 4 Serviceable veteran who is unspectacular
DEFENSE
Name Number POS Age HT WT Exp BWG TAKE
DeMarvin Leal 98 DE 24 6′ 4″ 290 lbs 3 Continuing to improve
Montravius Adams 57 DT 29 6′ 4″ 304 lbs 8 Has been a good middle of the defense player
Keeanu Benton 95 DT 23 6′ 4″ 309 lbs 2 Had a very solid rookie campaign
Cameron Heyward 97 DT 35 6′ 5″ 295 lbs 14 One of the greatest players in franchise history
Logan Lee 74 DT 24 6′ 5″ 286 lbs R Interesting 3-4 prospect
Isaiahh Loudermilk 92 DT 26 6′ 7″ 293 lbs 4 “Wreck it Ralph” needs to be more consistent
Dean Lowry 94 DT 30 6′ 6″ 296 lbs 9 Good depth guy, with nice speed
Larry Ogunjobi 99 DT 30 6′ 3″ 305 lbs 8 Veteran did a good job anchoring the team
Nick Herbig 51 LB 22 6′ 2″ 240 lbs 2 Great third option pass rusher
Alex Highsmith 56 LB 27 6′ 4″ 242 lbs 5 Devastating half of a great one two punch
Tyler Matakevich 44 LB 31 6′ 1″ 235 lbs 9 Big Red returns to anchor special teams and provide depth
Patrick Queen 6 LB 25 6′ 0″ 232 lbs 5 The best LB addition since James Farrior
Elandon Roberts 50 LB 30 6′ 1″ 238 lbs 9 Veteran presence in the middle
Mark Robinson 93 LB 25 5′ 11″ 235 lbs 3 Running out of chances, has the tools
T.J. Watt 90 LB 29 6′ 4″ 252 lbs 8 Dominant player who is a needle mover
Payton Wilson 41 LB 24 6′ 4″ 242 lbs R Will be a fan favorite, if he is healthy
Beanie Bishop Jr. 30 CB 24 5′ 9″ 182 lbs R Was the talk of every press conference
Donte Jackson 26 CB 28 5′ 10″ 180 lbs 6 Veteran CB who will bolster the secondary
Joey Porter Jr. 24 CB 24 6′ 2″ 193 lbs 2 Emerging as a perenial pro-bowler
Darius Rush 21 CB 24 6′ 2″ 198 lbs 2 Special Teamer who needs to develop
Cameron Sutton 20 CB 29 5′ 11″ 188 lbs 8 Off field problems brought him back to the ‘Burgh
Cory Trice Jr. 27 CB 24 6′ 3″ 206 lbs 2 Interesting physical prospect
DeShon Elliott 25 S 27 6′ 0″ 210 lbs 7 Going to push to start and might be a break out star
Jalen Elliott 34 S 26 6′ 1″ 205 lbs 4 Very good depth guy
Minkah Fitzpatrick 39 S 27 6′ 1″ 207 lbs 7 Looking for a big season
Damontae Kazee 23 S 31 5′ 11″ 174 lbs 8 Played well last season
Miles Killebrew 28 S 31 6′ 2″ 222 lbs 9 Special teams ace
Name Number POS Age HT WT Exp BWG TAKE
Chris Boswell 9 PK 33 6′ 2″ 185 lbs 10 Been a consistent weapon
Cameron Johnston 5 P 32 5′ 11″ 194 lbs 7 Should be a major improvement
Christian Kuntz 46 LS 30 6′ 1″ 228 lbs 4 Consistent performer
Injured players
Name Number POS Age HT WT Exp BWG TAKE
Nate Herbig 71 G 26 6′ 4″ 334 lbs 6 Tough Loss for the season
Dylan Cook 60 OT 26 6′ 6″ 305 lbs 2 Big upside guy
Cole Holcomb 55 LB 28 6′ 1″ 240 lbs 6 Was becoming a folk hero
Jeremiah Moon 49 LB 26 6′ 5″ 247 lbs 2 High character guy
David Perales 33 LB 25 6′ 3″ 255 lbs 1 Impressed when he was available
Ryan Watts 29 CB 22 6′ 3″ 212 lbs R Has the tools, needs to develop
Practice Squad
Name Number POS Age HT WT Exp BWG TAKE
Boston Scott   RB 29 5′ 6″ 204 lbs 6 Scat Back
Jonathan Ward 35 RB 26 6′ 0″ 202 lbs 5 Very good depth guy
Jack Colletto 45 FB 25 6′ 3″ 237 lbs 1 Traditional Fullback
Brandon Johnson   WR 26 6′ 2″ 195 lbs 3 Practice Squad floater
Ben Skowronek   WR 27 6′ 3″ 224 lbs 4 Intriguing chess piece
Quez Watkins 16 WR 26 6′ 0″ 193 lbs 5 Had a very good camp
Rodney Williams 87 TE 26 6′ 4″ 235 lbs 2 Will be up at some point
Doug Nester   G 24 6′ 6″ 306 lbs R “Nasty Nester” needs to develop
John Leglue   OT 28 6′ 7″ 310 lbs 2 Played very well when called upon last season
Jacob Slade 79 DT 24 6′ 4″ 305 lbs 1 Good middle depth guy
Devin Harper   LB 26 6′ 0″ 238 lbs 3 Special Teamer
Marcus Haynes   LB 26 6′ 4″ 240 lbs 1 Been bouncing between practice squads
Ade Ogundeji   LB 25 6′ 4″ 268 lbs 4 Might shift to D-line
Anthony Averett 18 CB 29 5′ 11″ 185 lbs 6 Trying to stay healthy and get a chance
Zyon Gilbert 30 CB 25 6′ 0″ 193 lbs 1 Athletic but narrow-based guy
Thomas Graham Jr. 37 CB 25 5′ 10″ 196 lbs 3 Will get a look
Ayo Oyelola   S 25 5′ 11″ 213 lbs 1 International pathway guy

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