Here are your training camp quick hits for this week:
-The Steelers defense is being underestimated by most of the National Media. SURPRISE. Lindy’s picked the Steelers to finish in 3rd, Sporting News picked the Steelers 2nd. The strength of schedule is scary, no question. The Steelers usually rise up to the competition.
-Senquez Golson, the long awaited DB draft pick, looks like he is headed for season ending surgery. That is a terrible blow for the season, but not something that can’t be overcome.
-….because the Steelers had a great pickup in Brandon Boykin! Boykin is outspoken, has the right attitude and should push to start.
-I was honored that Jerome Bettis, The Bus, retweeted one of my tweets about the Steelers defense. It’s pretty simple, I like the defense and think we are going to be excellent this year. The secondary is still a huge question mark, but the front seven could be one of the best we have ever had.
-The Steelers most likely will start FOUR number 1 picks at LB this season; Jarvis Jones, who will breakout this season, Bud Dupree who looks like he has been playing here for years, the speedy Ryan Shazier, who can be a huge difference maker and the Pro Bowl veteran Laurence Timmons. With the backups being Sean Spence, Vince Williams, Arthur Moats, possibly Howard Jones and the very scary and dangerous Silverback James Harrison in the wings. They are deep, fast and nasty. Look for the bounce back we have been waiting for.
-The D-Line will compliment them nicely. Look for a breakout season from Stephon Tuitt and the continue excellence of SteelHead Heyward. Mt. McCullers will have a second season to show his stuff. We need steady play from Steve McLendon.
-Mike Adams, might be at the end of the line. Look for Alejandro Villanueva to push him. The Steelers are dreadfully thin at Tackle so keep an eye on the waiver wire or an undrafted free agent.
-The WR will again be downright scary for opposing teams.
Sunday’s game:
-Starters should get one series maybe two.
-Players who are most on the spot: Dri Archer, who looked outstanding in the first preseason game last year, but was a disappointment overall. Landry Jones, who is running out of some days. With Gradkowski getting out of the gate slow this may be Jones’ last and best chance. Cortez Allen who is looking good early on in camp. He is a big piece of the puzzle.
-Most important is NO ONE GET HURT!!!