At 9:35 of the first quarter Sunday, the Pittsburgh Steelers finally appeared. For the better part of four weeks the Steelers were AWOL. Then it happened, two consecutive plays reminded all the fans of BWG nation what we were missing. Lamar Woodley blew up the Titans pass protection and recorded a very important sack, that left Matt Hasselbeck looking through his ear hole. Then Troy Polamalu blew up a well set up screen, showing that he still is a dominant player and all was right in Steeler Nation.
After getting pushed around the week before in Houston, Chris Johnson was effectively shut down after a good opening drive. Despite missing, two thirds of the defensive line and Silverback, the defense stepped it up big time. Lamar Woodley lead the way. In the first half, he surpassed four weeks of futility with his breakout game. Also making a cameo appearance was James Farrior who had his best game this season as well. Farrior, who has been getting killed by the media, banged in 13 tackles and made several key stops. Adding to the effort was the defenseive line play of Steelhead Heyward, who recorded his first career sack. It was the statement game that Coach Tomlin has been waiting for.
After the defense shored up its leaky performance, Big Ben proved why he is considered one of the best quarterback’s in the NFL. He led a 10 play, 39 yard drive that resulted in a Steeler Touchdown. Considering the severity of his foot injury it was a heck of a day! When the smoke cleared and all was said and done, he threw for 228 yards and FIVE touchdowns. Not bad for a guy who was playing on one foot, behind a severely patched offensive line. The more Ben is banged up, the better he plays.
The offensive line had its best day of the season. Max Starks, who last week was watching the Steelers game on his couch, was out on the field after only three practices. He was just what the doctor ordered. He was up to the challenge against a solid Titan pass rush and did a great job protecting his friend Ben. Doug Legursky had his best game since becoming a starter. His athleticism was apparent as he threw the key block on Jonathon Dwyer’s huge run.
Jonathon Dwyer played a great game, spelling Ike Redman and he will get a long look for playing time. He racked up an astounding 107 yards on 11 carries. Redman put together a workmanlike effort for 49 yards. The receivers continued their hot season! Eight players caught passes with Hine Ward leading the way with 7.
The best pass of the day was not thrown by Ben or caught by one of the receivers, it was a trick play as Ryan Mundy caught a 33 yard pass from punter Dan Sepulveda. It was a gutsy call and it helped put the Titans on their heels for the rest of the day.
It was a great all around game for the Black and Gold.
BEER WE GO STEELERS, BEER WE GO!
My “GAME BEER” goes to: I am giving out two. First has to go to Big Ben. He threw 5 TD’s on one good foot. That is the stuff of legend. I honestly can say, that if I could have any Quarterback I would want Ben. No kidding, others may be better, NONE are tougher. My second game Beer goes to Max Starks. Max came off the couch literally to solidify the offensive line. He had a great game and protected Ben’s blind side. Also considered: Jon Dwyer for his 100 plus performance and Ryan Mundy for his 33 yard catch.
Where I watched the game: With my two best friends and teammates at KGB’s house. It was a ridiculous spread that included wings, pizza, chinese dumplings and meatballs. KGB made cinnamon buns for dessert. We drank Miller Lite (Old Reliable) and Sam Adams Octoberfest. The Captain was at the game and before he walked in texted me,”…it’s gonna be a good day bro”… as usual, he was on the money!
My thoughts on Next Week: The Steelers should win this one pretty handily. The Jags blew a lead against Cincy and are on the ropes. Look for the Steelers to open it up early on the Jags, taking MJ Drew out of the game.