Steelers Reaction: Quality play, or inferior competition?

By: Joe Smeltzer
There's nothing quite like writing about Pittsburgh Steeler football on a Tuesday. 

Photo creds to lockhaven.com

In case you are not up to date with "the great football team," The Steelers could be starting to turn the corner. After an ugly string of losses that lasted over a month, Pittsburgh won two games in a five- day stretch, defeating the Cleveland Brows and Indianapolis Colts, both on the road, by a combined score of 52-16. While the Steelers certainly warrant credit for doing their jobs well, should we heap that much praise on them? Or, does a lot of it have to do with their poor level of competition?

The Cleveland Browns are the Cleveland Browns. Only this year, they are slightly worse than the average Cleveland Browns are. I need not explain why a 0-12 football team is terrible, so I'll spend a little more time talking about the Indianapolis Colts and their situation.

The Colts are not an awful football team. Coming into Thursday Night's contest, Indy was 5-5. However, the Colts became a terrible football team when their prized quarterback, Andrew Luck, was ruled out for Turkey Day with a concussion. Scott Tolzien started, and the Colts were no better on Thursday than the Browns were on Sunday.

Although it's difficult to decipher how good the Steelers were over the past week, I think it was evident that their defense has improved tremendously. Sunday in Cleveland was a particularly impressive performance, as Pittsburgh posted eight sacks and allowed just 33 yards on the ground.

To me, the biggest reason to be encouraged by the Steelers defense is the youth. Artie Burns, Javon Hargrave, and Sean Davis are three rookies who have been getting significant playing time for Keith Butler. Burns and Hargrave are two players who have shown serious potential. Burns is an athletic corner who seems to be getting better and better as the season goes on. Hargrave is a beast, who can play anywhere he wishes on the defensive line.

Davis has been a little different. There have been times where the rookie from Maryland has played well, but as we saw in the final minute of that terrible Dallas loss, he still has to get better mentally.

The 3rd year defensive end from Notre Dame, Stephon Tuitt, is playing like a beast, lining up everywhere, punishing the quarterback, and earning AFC Defensive Player of the Week honors. While the Steelers defense is not championship material quite yet, with young players like Hargrave, Burns, Tuitt and Bud Dupree, who made his season debut on Sunday, I believe that they are on the right track.

Ironically, the Steelers celebrated offensive attack has been the worst part of their team over the past two games. All I need to say to back up that point is that this offense, which was supposedly the greatest in the history of the league coming into the season, score one- one! Touchdown against the Cleveland Browns. That is a problem, and it needs to be solved. The O has been inconsistent all season, and you never know what you're gonna get on Sunday. The best part of the Steelers offense recently has unquestionably been runningback Le'Veon Bell, and hopefully the rest of the boys can follow Bell's lead and put up 30+ consistenly like Big Ben talked about. 

So, how should Pittsburgh Steelers fans feel about their team right now? In my opinion, they should feel OK. Not great. Not awful. Just fine.

Steelers fans are very demanding, and they have good reasons to be upset about their immortal beloved right now. The Steelers are a 6-5 team that has 9-2 talent. They were a sexy Super Bowl pick coming into the season, and they have been average. That is unacceptable, and Pittsburgh should be better than what they are.

On the flip side; the Pittsburgh Steelers are going to win the AFC North.

That's not as much a compliment to the Steelers as it is an insult to the rest of this god awful division. The Steelers could conceivably go 3-2 the rest of the way and still skate away with a division crown. The only credible threat to the Black and Gold right now is the hated dirty birds. If Pittsburgh can take care of Joe Flacco and the boys at Heinz Field on Christmas Day, then they will for sure be the division champs. Although it would be somewhat misleading given the weakness of the AFC North in 2016, winning a division title is always a goal, and it would be lovely to accomplish this aim.

The Steelers are playing good football. Maybe it's a small sample size, maybe the competition was crap, but they are playing good football, and this is the type of year when playing good enough to get into the playoffs can get you places. There is one elite team in the AFC, and that is the almighty New England Patriots. In my mind, any team can make a run.

You know about the Kansas City Chiefs? The team that's 8-3 and on fire? Well, these Pittsburgh Steelers wrecked that team by a score of 43-14 less than two months ago. Sure, that magnificant performance seems like a long time ago, but it still shows how much damage this team can do.

The Steelers are what they are. They are not a consistently great football team the way they were in 2005, 2008 and even 2010. But when they get hot, they get hot. And the Steelers just might be getting hot at the right time. So, to answer my own question, I believe that the Steelers have been playing good football in addition to their recent opponents being terrible, and the stats, especially on defense, back up that statement. There's a lot of football left to be played, fans, and all we can do is sit back, relax, and enjoy the show.

Nfl Week 12 Preview/Predictions part II

We going old school (graphic creds to Brad W. Stewart

By: Joe Smeltzer

This is Part II

Fun cities, lousy football

Rams (4-6) at Saints (4-6)

*Disclaimer* all of our picks for the Bengals-Ravens games are for the Ravens, who were once the Browns. 

I would label this as my "who the hell cares?" game of the week, but that would be too much disrespect towards the great Drew Brees. The Rams are a trainwreck that gets uglier and harder to watch as the weeks go on. Jeff Fisher, bad news may be on the doorstep for you when this season is over. Brad is the only one who believes in Jeff Fisher, as you can see by the graphic above. Sorry, Jeff. Brad can't save your job.

Saints 27, Rams 17

Bring back the Oil

Tennesse (5-6) at Chicago (2-8)

Houston Oilers #1

Yuck. Well, this game is meaningless. But Marcus Mariota is very talented, while the Chicago Bears are very awful. I know it is in Chicago, but the combination of Mariota and DeMarco Murray will be deadly on this Sunday.

T.C. Williams Titans 30, Chicago Bears 14

Ayeeee

Arizona (4-5-1) at Atlanta Falcons (6-4) 

The Cardinals were a good football team in 2015. The Cardinals are not a good football team in 2016. Although the Falcons have been somewhat inconsistent, today will be a day in which the Birds will fly high in Dixie Land. Julio Jones will catch eight passes for 111 yards and reel in 2 TD's, and the Falcons will inch closer to that NFC South title. 

Falcons 35, Cardinals 24

Will the Browns win?

Ha. No. 

Talking Proud 

Jags (2-8) at Bills (5-5) 

I once thought that Jacksonville was a potential sleeper. Alas, I did. But they are what they are. Blake Bortles still has an attractive wife, but he also loses. A lot. Buffalo, on the other hand, talks proud and has LeSean McCoy, who will not be stopped by a little thing like an injured thumb hold him back. Sammy Watkins also makes his return, and frankly, my dear, I just don't give a damn about that. Jeff has the Jags pulling an upset because Buffalo doesn't have "a good offense". Sorry, Jeffery. Jacksonville doesn't have a good franchise

Bills 30, Jags 22

The AFC South is garbish 

San Diego (4-6) at Houston (6-4) 

Does that look out of bounds to you?

The AFC South stinks. While the Texans are, at least in my opinion, a pretty solid football team, I don't think that they are good enough to be considered a lock to win their division. But they are, and San Diego is in the cellar of the competitive AFC West. The Texans have a right to feel a little cheated with the way things went down in Oakland on Monday Night, and they will avenge that loss against another team from Cali that does not have Derek Carr (sorry, Phillip Rivers. The kid runs the state). My cousin Jeff has the Chargers winning because his "gut" tells him so. Well Jeff, your gut is not wise. 

Texans 33, Chargers 22

Who the Hell Cares?

Bengals (3-6-1) at Ravens (5-5) 

The AFC North stinks. Both of these teams are meh. Not that I'm complaining as a Steelers fan, but yuck. This division has fallen on hard times, and so has my interest for both of these teams.

Ravens some points, Bengals less points

Castro is dead!

Castro is dead! Kaepernick is a scrub, and the Dolphins are playing great football. Miami's already great weekend will just continue to get better.

Dolphins 33, 49ers 17

Upset city?

Seattle (7-2-1) at Tampa (5-5)

These Bucs will be no cakewalk for the Legion of Boom. Tampa is a tough football team that is still fighting for supremacy in the NFC South, and they are at home. However, I have a feeling that this is just one of those games where the favorite is on the ropes before the underdog runs out of gas. Seattle will be clinging to a 19-14 lead in the dying seconds, with Jameis Winston leading the Bucs on a potential game-winning drive. Winston will falter, throwing a pick to, guess who? #25 Richard Sherman, in the Endzone, to thwart an upset bid. Believe that.

Seahawks 19, Bucs 14

Will the Patriots lose?

Negative 

AC/DC strikes again
Panthers (4-6) at Raiders (8-2) 

Cam Newton was once thought to be the future of the National Football League. That was yesterday. Derek Carr IS the future of the National Football League. That is today. Carr and Cooper will club Carolina. How's that for alliteration?

Raiders 33, Panthers 27 (always has to be close with Oakland)

The AFC West is pretty good

Chiefs (7-3) at Broncos (7-3)

If this contest were at Arrowhead Stadium, I would see things a little differently. However, it is at Mile High. The Broncos don't have a quarterback, but they do have a world class defense, and life will not be fun for Alex Smith on Sunday Night. It will be close, but I see Denver's pass rush getting to Smith enough to make a big difference. Kansas City will score but 10 points on this night, and Denver will score more than that. My cousin Brad is the only one of us who picks Kansas City. Therefore, he is the only one of us who will be wrong. 

Broncos 17, Chiefs 10. 

Going against logic

Packers (4-6) at Eagles (5-5)

However, I just don't see the Green Bay Packers, who Curley Lambeau built, Vince Lombardi ruled, and Mike Holmgren resurrected before leaving for more money, going down without a fight. Do I believe Green Bay is still in the hunt for the NFC North? No, I don't. But do I see them temporarily stopping the bleeding? Yes.

Packers 20, Eagles 14

Ohio State-Michigan: Preview/Prediction

It's the best rivalry in college sports. It's just that simple. No rivalries are as long, as historical, and as meaningful as Ohio State-Michigan. From Fielding Yost and Chic Harley to Paul Brown and Tom Harmon, to Woody and Bo, Tressel and Carr, and finally, Meyer and Harbaugh. Since these teams first met in 1897, we've seen Michigan pummel the Buckeyes so badly that it inspired an alma mater from the other side. These two empires have combined for 19 National Titles, 77 Big 10 Titles, and 10 Heisman winners. We've seen fights, snow, a Heisman pose, and a "Ten Year War" filled with legends, paranoia, and damn good football.

College Football has plenty of rivalries, sure. But on Saturday, November 26th, on 411 Woody Hayes Dr., only one game matters. It's #2 vs. #3. It's a chance to stay alive in the chase for a national championship. It's "The Game."

Now, let's talk matchups.

Ohio States O-Line vs. Michigan's D-Line

Add caption

While the Buckeyes offensive line has been holding its own over the past few weeks, I still think that Michigans D-Line will cause some problems. Chirs Wormley, Ryan Glasgow, and Taco Charlton are all very talented, and Michigan's three-man front is as good as any in the land. It will be interesting to see how the at times shaky Buckeye O-Line can handle them. Oh, and #5 Jabril Peppers plays linebacker. He's pretty good.

Edge: Michigan 

Michigan's O-Line vs. Ohio State's D-Line 

The rivalry was dominated by Michigan, until Chic Harley came along. (Photo creds to The Columbous Dispatch)

Michigan's offensive line has done well for most of this season, but recently, they have lagged. Ohio State's defensive line, led by Sam Hubbard, will need to neutralize Michigan's various weapons in the ground game. It's a tough battle, but because of Michigan's uncertain QB situation (we will get to that), the Wolverines may have to run the ball more than usual. I don't think the Wolverines run game can carry the load enough to roll up the points the way they usually do. If Michigan's offense was at full strength, I might give them the edge. But because they may not be, I think the lack of variety in Michigan's play calling created by Wilton Speight's injury will hurt them, and the Buckeye front seven will take advantage.

Edge: Ohio State

Ohio State's Secondary vs. Michigan's Receivers

"They're tearing down Michigan's coveted M Club banner!" Wolvarines announcer Bob Ufer screamed in horror before he 1973 contest. (Photo creds to Pick Six Previews).

On paper, this should be the best matchup of the day. Ohio State's secondary is loaded, as Malik Hooker, Gareon Connley, and Marshon Lattimer are elite performers. Michigan's receivers are also charged, as Jehu Chesson, Amara Darboah, and tight end Jake Butt are all fantastic in their right. If I were sure that Speight was ready to go and hit his receivers consistently, I would call this a push. But since we don't know what we will see at quarterback for the Maize and Blue, I'll give the ballers in the Buckeye defensive backfield a slight edge.

Edge: Ohio State 

Michigan's Secondary vs. Ohio State's Receivers

"Hello Heisman"!

Here, Michigan has the Buckeyes beat. Jourdan Lewis is one of the best corners in the country, and he spearheads a secondary that may be the very best in the country. Ohio State is not known as a passing team, so don't expect the Bucks to test the UM defensive backfield frequently.

Edge: Michigan

Special Teams 

Bo Schembechler's biggest win over Ohio State was his first one, when the Maize and Blue stunned the #1 ranked Buckeyes, 24-12, on November 22nd, 1969 (Photo creds to SI.com)

According to http://www.footballoutsiders.com/stats/feist, Michigan has the second best special teams unit in America, while Ohio State has the 31st. I think that solves this issue. Oh, and that Jabril Peppers guy is pretty good.

Edge: Michigan 

Quarterbacks 

Troy Smith defeated the #2 Wolvarines in 2006, and precedded to win that years Heisman. (Photo creds to OhioStateBuckeyes.com)

A healthy Wilton Speight vs. J.T. Barrett? Push. A questionable Wilton Speight and/or John O'Korn, who was piss poor last week against Indiana? I'm going to give the edge to Barrett.

He may not be quite what he was in 2014, but the junior Buckeye quarterback is established, and he knows what to do in big games. This is the biggest game of J.T. Barrett's life to this point, and I think he will be up to the task.

Edge: Ohio State

Runningbacks

Tom Harmon is the only opposing player to get a standing ovation in the Horseshoe (or at least the most important one). 

This category is a tough call. For the Buckeyes, Mike Weber, Curtis Samuel, and J.T. Barrett are all big running threats, while for Michigan, Devon Smith, Chris Evans, Jabril Peppers and Eddie McDoom can all run the football. Michigan has a deeper core of running backs, while Ohio State has a more talented group. So, I think it's only fair to call this a push.

Edge: Michigan

Final Prediction
I am expecting a defensive battle that could go either way. However, as with all sporting events that I predict, there are a few deciding factors.

The first factor is that Ohio State is at home. It's a classic sports cliche, but it's true; Homefield advantage is import, especially when it's a place as loud and proud as Ohio Stadium is. The second factor is current form. Michigan is two weeks removed from a crushing defeat in Iowa city, and they did not look overly impressive last week in their win over 20-10 win over Indiana (albeit weather was a factor). The third and final factor, and what is the true tiebreaker in my eyes, is Wilton Speight.

Will he start? Will O'Korn start? How healthy will Speight be? Is Speight not big enough to handle this moment anyway? There are just too many question marks at the quarterback position for me to feel comfortable about picking Michigan to win. Therefore, after doing my homework and thinking things through, I feel that Ohio State is the safe pick, and they are the right pick. As a Nittany Lions lifer who wants to see his team play in the Big 10 title game, they better be the right pick.

Ohio State 19, Michigan 13

Steelers-Colts: 3 Keys to victory

The face of a champion (Photo creds to NFL.Com)

Hello, all. I am back with my "3 keys to victory" for the Pittsburgh Steelers. Pittsburgh has a turkey day tilt with the Indianapolis Colts tonight, and things got a little easier when we found out that Andrew, son of Oliver, would be out with a concussion. The Steelers should win this one, and here are three things that they can do to ensure victory.

Key #1: Score some points 

Photo creds to CBS Sports

Sure, the Steelers beat the Cleveland Browns last Sunday. But they scored one- yes, 1, offensive touchdown against that garbish defense and football team. Right now, this offense is not living up to its reputation, and that needs to change starting tonight. Luckily, the Colts defense is not very good, either. Therefore, I expect the O to bounce back and put up some quality numbers.

Odds of execution: Solid

Key #2: Stop Frank Gore

Yes, Andrew Luck is out, and yes, that significantly limits the Colts passing attack. But make no mistake, the Steelers run defense without Cam Heyward has not been good. The Colts have a future Hall of Famer named Frank Gore in the backfield, and Frank Gore knows how to run the football. Gore can also catch passes out of the backfield, so don't be surprised if Scott Tolzien throws several short passes to #23. In a nutshell, Gore can hurt the Steelers both in the air and on the ground, and if the Colts have a productive night offensively, he will be the main reason why.

Odds of execution: Moderate 

Key #3: Don't follow the script 

The Steelers should win this game. We all know what tends to happen in games the Steelers SHOULD win. If the Steelers play their game, against an inconsistent Colts team with a backup QB, they should be okay. But if they play down to their competition as they often do, they will be in trouble

Prediction
Scott Tolzien had a good career as a Wisconsin Badger. Unfourtanly for Tolzien, I don't think tonight's game is going to outweigh taking Bucky to the Rose Bowl in 2010. If the Steelers pass rush looks anything like they did on Sunday, then they will win this football game. The Steelers have lost 4 of 5. But they are playing against an inferior team with a backup QB and a weak offensive line. If the Steelers lose this football game, then lots and lots of worry should follow.
Steelers 32, Colts 17 

NFL Week 12 Preview Part I

We going old school (graphic creds to Brad W. Stewart

Happy Thanksgiving everybody! I have a lot in my life to be thankful for, but the only one that would apply to this post is the game of football. Although our graphic has our picks for every game this week, in the spirit of Turkey Day, I will only be talking about the Turkey Day games on Turkey Day. Let's get into it. 

12:30

Vikings (6-4) at Lions (6-4) 

This is the NFC North title game. Whoever wins this game will win the NFC North, as Green Bay is down for the count. Because it is Thanksgiving and because the game is in Motown, I got the Lions. Minnesota is too inconsistent, Detriot is too hot, the turkey is too good, and Matt Stafford is better than Sam Bradford. 

Lions 33, Vikings 17

4:30

Redskins (6-3-1) at Cowboys (9-1)

The Redskins are a good football team, and I expect them to give Dallas all they can handle. However, Washington's defense is not up to par with Kirk Cousins, Pierre Garcon, and their offense, and because of that, while I expect the Redskins to score some points, I expect them to give up some more. We are all united on this pick, because we believe in the Dak attack. How bout them Cowboys?

Cowboys 33, Redskins 24

Steelers at Colts

Ehhhhhh. Seperate post. 

CFB Playoff Picture Week 4: Reaction

Hello, all. The 4th addition of the College Football Playoff poll is out. Let's see where the committe got things right, and where they got things wrong. I won't be giving too much of my opinion on the rankings in general, as I don't really disagree with anything. Clemson has less losses than Wisconsin and a better resume than Washington, so they deserve to be in the top 4. Alabama is #1 without much argument, and Ohio State and Michigan are Ohio State and Michigan. As for the rest of the playoff contenders, well, we will see if they are worthy, now won't we?

#1 Alabama 

Photo creds to Saturday Down South

Well for one, the Tide are the only team from a power five conference with an unblemished record. But aside from that, Alabama is the best team in college football. I don't need to insult anybody's CFB intelligence, as Bama is drooled on enough by sportswriters/sportscasters everywhere, but they are the best. Nick Saban wakes up in the morning, and he pisses excellence. The Tide are a semi-pro team that is playing college football, and no team in the country has given me any reason to believe that Bama won't skate away with their 5th national title in the eight years.

#2 Ohio State 

Photo creds to The Lantern

When my Nittany Lions beat the Buckeyes on that glorious night a month ago, I thought it would severely hinder Ohio State's playoff hopes. Nope. Instead, the Bucks are right back where they were at #2. However, not only am I tolerant of this ranking, I'm rooting for Ohio State. If Penn State beats Michigan State and Ohio State beats Michigan, boom. My Nittany Lions are in the Big 10 championship game. Crazy. Also, Ohio State losing to the Nittany Lions was probably the best thing that could have happened to Urban Meyer, as since that night, the Buckeyes have outscored their opponents 165-42 in four games. Needless to say, the Bucks are back, and they control their destiny.



#3 Michigan 

Rowdy fans go both ways.

Michigan is #3. There isn't a whole lot to say here. If Michigan beats Ohio State and wins the Big 10 title game, they are in. But that is a mighty big "if".

#4 Clemson 

#42 Chirstian Wilkins is a large man (photo creds to Hartford Courant)

Aside from Alabama, Clemson is the team that has the easiest path to the playoff. They have one regular season game remaining at 6-5 South Carolina, and that will, in all likelihood, lead to an ACC title tilt with Virginia Tech. Clemson should win both of those games, and if they do, they are in.

#5 Washington 

When #1 John Ross turns on the Jets, it's over. (Photo creds to WTOP.Com

I don't understand why Washington would be dead in the water as far as playoff hopes go. The Huskies are #5 in the current playoff rankings. However, they are #6 in the AP poll, behind a two-loss Wisconsin team. There is no one-loss team out there, aside from the ones I mentioned earlier, that would be deserving of the #5 spot ahead of the Huskies. Washington has taken a step back, but they are still very dangerous, and the Huskies are not done yet in their chase for a national championship.

#6 Wisconsion 

#6 Corey Clement leads the way for the #6 team in America (photo creds to Fox Sports)

As with Washington, don't sleep on Bucky as a playoff team. Yes, a lot has to go right. But if Wisconsin wins their regular season finale against Minnesota, (which they should), and then the Big 10 title game (which will be a little more tricky), it will be interesting to see if they will be a playoff team. Wisconsin making it to the playoff would be a remarkable feat considering the Badger's offensive shortcomings and brutal strength of schedule. A Wisconsin playoff appearance still requires a lot to go right, but it could happen.


#7 Penn State 
I've heard plenty of people complain about Penn State's high ranking. The question that I have is; who in the top 15 deserves to be ahead of Penn State?

Of teams ranked 7-15, none have less than 2 losses. It is true that without that win Ohio State win, Penn State would be not be in the top ten. But guess what? They did beat Ohio State. In addition, they have defeated a Minnesota team that is 7-3, mulled the same Iowa squad that recently upset Michigan, and, according to teamrankings, the Nittany Lions have the 13th best strength of schedule in the country. Penn State has been very good, and in some cases, they've been dominant. That is why they are in the top 10.

#8 Oklahoma
Houston Cougars. Those are the two words that will end up defining Oklahoma's season. Had Oklahoma taken care of Houston in Week 1, they'd be 10-1, with their only loss being to Ohio State. Furthermore, that loss to Ohio State came in Week 3, and given that the Sooners were ranked #3 coming into the season (also important), they still would have maintained a respectable ranking after that loss. So putting it all into perspective, if Oklahoma were 10-1 with their only blemish being to the #2 team in the land, even with the weakness of the Big 12, the Sooners would be right in the thick of things. But Houston happened, and now the OU is all but finished as far as the chase for a National Title goes.

#9 Colorodo

Yes! The mighty Buffs. They are back and don't you forget it. As they proved in their win over Washington State on Saturday, CU is for real. They won't make the playoff, but Mike MacIntyre has done one hell of a job of turning this sinking ship around, and if you haven't seen the Buffalo's running back, Phillip Lindsay, look at the picture above.

#10 Oklahoma State 
Central Michigan Chippewas. Those are the three words that will end up defining Oklahoma State's season. Had Oklahoma state taken care of CMU in Week 2, they'd be 10-1, with their only loss being to Baylor. Furthermore, that loss to Baylor came in Week 4, and given that the Cowboys were ranked #21 coming into the season (also necessary to point out), they still would have maintained a national ranking after the loss. So putting it all into perspective, if Oklahoma State was 10-1, even with the weakness of the Big 12, the Cowboys could be right in the thick of things. But Central Michigan happened, and now the Cowboys are finished as far as the chase of a national title goes.

Not a lot happened this week to shake up the rankings, but nonetheless, it should excite every college football fan on planet earth to see what will go down over the next few weeks. For Ohio State, Michigan and Clemson, the ball is in your court. For Penn State, Washington and Wisconsin, a lot needs to happen. For the fans, all we can do is sit back and enjoy the show. 

Assessing Mike Tomlin's time with the Pittsburgh Steelers

Photo creds to Behind The Steel Curtian 

47 Years. Three head coaches. Needless to say, it takes a lot to get fired by the Pittsburgh Steelers. However, Mike Tomlin just might manage to pull that off if his football team doesn't get their head out of the sand, and fast. But before I get to my assessment of the current state of Michael Pettaway Tomlin and the Pittsburgh Steelers, I think it is appropriate to go through Tomlin's time in the Steel City.

It started on January 5th, 2007. On this day, Bill Cowher stepped down after 15 seasons as the Steelers head coach. For just the second time since 1969, the head coaching job in the Steel City was vacant. There were a few legitimate candidates to replace Bill Cowher, including Ken Whisenhunt, who was Cowher's offensive coordinator, and Ron Rivera, who was then the defensive coordinator of the NFC Champion Chicago Bears. But Whisenhunt decided to become the head man in Arizona, and Rivera moved to San Diego for the next four seasons before taking over the Carolina Panthers in 2011. Enter, Mike Tomlin.

Tomlin was a curious choice for the job. He was only 35 years old, with just six seasons of NFL coaching experience under his belt, and only one of those seasons was as a cooridnator. All of these were reasons to be skeptical. However, there were plenty of pluses to hiring a guy like Mike Tomlin.

Tomlin did play a role in the Tampa Bay Buccaneers SuperBowl season of 2002 as the team's defensive backs coach. He was a young guy who had a lot of energy, and, maybe most importantly, he was the first African-American head coach in the 75-year history of the Pittsburgh Pirates/Steelers. Although that last point says nothing positive or negative about Tomlin's abilities as a head coach, it was a historic occasion and one of great pride for the franchise.

Now, here's what Tomlin was getting himself into. The Steelers went 26-6 over the regular seasons of 2004 and 2005, went to the AFC title game twice, and were victorious over the Seattle Seahawks in Superbowl XL, finally getting a well-deserved ring for Cowher. However, in 2006, things fell backward. The Steelers went 8-8 and had to win 6 of their last 8 games just to be an average football team. Their young quarterback, Ben Roethlisberger, had a bad season on the field, on top of his off-the-field struggles (motorcycle accident). So, what Tomlin was inherting was a mediocre football team with a potential problem child at quarterback, as well as a dissatisfied offensive guard in Allan Faneca. So, Tomlin did not walk himself into an ideal situation, contrary to what many in the Steel City believe.

The first season was a successful one. The Steelers went 10-6 and won the AFC North, before losing to Jacksonville in the AFC Wildcard round. We all know what happened in Tomlin's second season. The Steelers go 12-4 in spite of a brutal regular season schedule. They defeat San Diego and Baltimore in the AFC playoffs to get to the Super Bowl. The Super Bowl happens. Santiono Holmes makes the catch. The Steelers get their 6th, and everything is perfect.

"He won with Cowher's players!" You mean the same guys that went 8-8 the year before Tomlin was hired? Those players?

The next season was a typical Super Bowl hangover year. The Steelers lost 5 out of 8 down the stretch and missed out on the playoffs with a 9-7 record. The next season would turn out to be, at least in my mind, Mike Tomlin's finest coaching job.

Before the 2010 season started, the Pittsburgh Steelers were in turmoil. Ben Roethlisberger was accused of sexual assault and suspended for 4 games. #1 receiver Santiono Holmes was accused of  throwing a glass in a woman's face, and was subsequently traded away to the New York Jets. So the team that was just 9-7 the previous season was now without its top receiver and had a quarterback who could be a distraction. Somehow, the Steelers won 3 of 4 games in which Ben was suspended, and went on to finish the season 12-4 and atop the AFC North. After a thrilling win over Baltimore in the Divisional round, the Steelers snuffed out a late comeback attempt from Rex Ryan's New York Jets to advance to their 3rd Superbowl in 6 seasons. Although Pittsburgh would fall to Green Bay in Superbowl XLV, it was an admirable and successful season.

The next season was slightly less sucessful, as, in spite of finishing with a 12-4 record, the Steelers finished 2nd in the AFC North to the hated Dirty Birds. This earned them a date in the Mile High City with Tim Tebow. We thought it was going to be a romp, but instead, "Tebowmania" peaked via DeMarius Thomas running past Ike Taylor in overtime. After this was two years of mediocrity.

A lot of things contributed to back to back 8-8 seasons in 2012 and 2013. The young stars on offense that helped the Steelers get to the Superbowl in 2010 could not keep the momentum, while the againg stars on defense continued to age. The 2012 season, in particular, was a trainwreck, as the Black and Gold lost five of its last seven to miss the playoffs in spectacular fashion. Although the 2013 season also ended without a playoff berth, the Steelers did show signs of the explosive offensive personal that would be their guiding light in the coming years.

To me, the Steelers became what they are today in 2013; a one-dimensional football team. Over the next two years, the Steelers made the playoffs twice and won the AFC North in 2014. That brings us to the present day.

The modern day Steelers are of the "if only" variety. "If only Martavis Bryant wouldn't smoke dope." "If only Le'Veon Bell could stay healthy." "If only we had a defense." It seems that these days, whenever the Steelers look like they are just about to get it together, something goes wrong. That was the story of the 2015 season, and so far, 2016 hasn't been much different. The Steelers are far and away the most talented team in the AFC North, and yet they are 5-5 and tied for 1st.

Have injuries been a problem? Yes. But there is no denying that these Pittsburgh Steelers, who were picked by some to go to the Super Bowl and win it before the season started, are not playing to their potential. They can't play defense; the decorated offense has been hit-or-miss, and worst of all, at least from a coaching standpoint, is that they lack discipline.

Having said all that, and having looked at Mike Tomlin's time in the steel city year-by-year, I can safley say that I only consider 2 of his 9 seasons to be true failures; 2009 and 2012. Every other season was either a sucessful one with a disappointing ending, or one of rebuilding (2013). Even the past two years have been successful ones, as when you consider the combinition of injuries and lack of defensive talent (which is partly Tomlin's fault, but equally Kevin Colbert's fault that the Steelers haven't drafted better defensive players), a combined record of 21-11 and two playoff berths isn't too shabby. This season could be on its way to being one of disappointment, but going back to my breakdown, would 3 bad seasons in a decade justify firing a man who only 6 current NFL coaches have won more games than? I say no.

So, what is my overall opinion of Mike Tomlin's standing with the Pittsburgh Steelers? Unless this team can't win the AFC North (and there still is no reason why they shouldn't), Mike Tomlin isn't going anywhere. As I mentioned at the beginning of this article, it would take a lot to get fired by the Pittsburgh Steelers. That's why Chuck Noll was able to stick around about seven years longer than he should have. That's why Bill Cowher was able to go 1-4 in AFC Title games without getting the boot.

Regardless of what you think of Mike Tomlin, he hasn't been too bad. Through 9 seasons (soon to be 10), Tomlin has won 4 AFC North Titles (soon to be 5), has gotten to 2 AFC Title games and won both, has a 97-57 lifetime record and has qualified for the playoffs six times (soon to be 7).

The only way Tomlin could be/should be fired is if the Steelers somehow do not win the AFC North this season. Even then, I still will never believe a Pittsburgh Steelers head coach could get the boot until I see it. For all the Mike Tomlin haters out there, I'm sorry. Unless something goes catastrophically wrong, he's not going anywhere.

NFL Week 11 Preview/Predictions

Creds to Bradly W. Stewart

By: Joe Smeltzer 
Hello, all.  Week 11 is here, and as you can see, Joseph Arthur Smeltzer is ahead by a considerable margin. Let's see how much further behind everybody else will be by the end of this week. This is a special week, as although he has not made it onto our graphic yet, one of my pals from Pittsburgh, Connor Roese will be picking some games. Let's get into it.

1:00
"Paul Allen is goofy" game of the week 
Vikings (5-4) vs. Cardinals (4-4-1)

Logic tells me that Arizona should win this game. They are the more talented team. However, I just have a feeling that Minnesota is due. They have lost four in a row, and are too talented to keep up the disappointment much longer. Sam Bradford will have his best game as a Viking, leading a game-winning drive in the process, and the twin cities will be pleased once again. Among those who disagree is my cousin Brad, who stated that the Vikings "are falling off the face of the earth." Well, sometimes the face of the earth is overrated. Connor agrees with me, saying that he "has faith in the old Vikings". Atta boi.

Vikings 23, Cardinals 20

What actually happened: Vikings 30, Cardinals 24 (close enough)
Smeltz: 1-0


"Aliteration" game of the week
Buffalo Bills Cinniciniti Bengals 

This guy is good (photo creds to Yahoo Sports)

Buffalo is a decent football team. They are. But they have lost three in a row, and I feel that as badly as we want them to, the Bungles can't suck forever. They are still a talented club, and A.J. Green is magnificent. Green will have 130 yards receiving on seven catches, and the Bungles will get the W. Brad's twin brother, Jeff, agreed with yours truly, adding that the "Bengals are just the better team." I concur.

Bungles 28, Bills 20
What Actually Happened: Bills 16, Bungles 12, and A.J. Green got hurt. So #smeltzgotitwrong

Bears (2-7) at Giants (6-3) 
Jeff picked the Bears
Why? Because "Jay Cutler is gonna play great again." Yeah, no. Mr. Roese sees Eli Manning pounding Jay. Atta boi again.

Giants 33, Bears 14
What Actually Happened: Giants 22, Bears 16. Closer than it should have been, but Smeltz was right. 2-1.

Will the Browns win?
God, I hope not. Otherwise, Mike Tomlin may have some bad news on the doorstep when this season is done.

Good Jameis or Bad Jameis?
Tampa (4-5) at Kansas City (7-2)

Photo creds to Grantland

Probably the latter. As good as Jameis Winston can be, he can also be pretty damn bad. If you mesh Winston's habit of throwing picks with the Chiefs secondaries habit of creating them, that is one dangerous combination for Tampa. Winston will throw three picks, and Spencer Ware will have 100 yards rushing on the dot. Believe that.

KC 34, Tampa Bay 14
What actually happened: Bucs 19, Chiefs 17. Dude, we were way off. 

Bye Bye Birdies 
Ravens (5-4) at Cowboys (8-1) 

Big D is on fire. I don't believe that Joe Flacco and his band of scrubs will be able to halt that eight-game win streak. How bout them Cowboys, and how bout them Steelers (hopefully) tied for first? Brad made the tragic mistake of disagreeing with me, stating that the Cowboys "are in for a letdown this week." It is Brad who is in for a letdown. Not Dak Prescott. Connor is praying for a Cowboys victory. Well, you'll get your wish.

Cowboys 24, Ravens 13
What actually happened: Cowboys 27, Ravens 17. Close enough. Smeltz moves to 3-2.  I said welcome to Detriot City 
Jags (2-7) at Lions (5-4) 

What a story in Detriot. On November 1st of the year of our Lord, 2015, the Lions were 1-7. Although they finished with six wins in their last eight games, things looked bleak once again when the face of the franchise, Calvin Johnson, decided to hang up his cleats at the age of 30. But through Jim Caldwell's leadership, Matthew Stafford's arm, and Marvin Jones looking more like Marvin Harrison than Marvin Jones for a brief period of time, the Lions have a legit shot at an NFC North crown. Jacksonville, on the other hand, well, they suck. I am also happy to report that Bradley William Stewart has given up on his dream of seeing the Jags in the Super Bowl. Wise decision. The only one who sees Jacksonville winning is big old boi Connor Roese. Well, it's not happening.
Lions 35, Jags 14
What actually happened: Lions 26, Jags 19. Closer than we thought, but still got dat W.

"Amazingly pointless" game of the week
Titans (4-5) at Colts (5-5)

Andrew, son of Oliver (Photo creds to New Arena)

The AFC South is garbish. That's a nice way of putting it. That said, the starting quarterbacks in this AFC South matchup are not garbish. They are excellent, and because of that, I expect to see an exciting football game between two mediocre teams. The Colts have shown flashes of being an excellent football team, and this will be one of those games that will make us wonder if Indy can't raise a little hell in the AFC playoff picture. On the other side, Marcus Mariotta will fight valiantly, but at the end of the day, Indy's superior offensive talent will come out on the cool side of the pillow. Jeffery agrees, predicting that Andrew, Son of Oliver,  and his top receiver, T.Y. Hilton, will have "magical games." I think magical might be a bit of a stretch, but both men will do their jobs well.

Colts 34, Titans 26
What actually happened: Cols 24, Titans 17. Almost nailed the exact margin of victory. 

4:05
Dolphins (5-4) at Rams (4-5) 
It was tough to tag this one with the notorious "who the hell cares" label, but I just think that of all the matchups around the league this week (not counting the Thursday night game), this one has the least going on. Jarred Goff is making his NFL debut, and that certainly is noteworthy, but I'll be surprised if Goff is anything better than average coming out of the gates. The Rams defense will get them dat W. Not that I really care.

Rams 17, Dolphins 10

4:25
Will the Patriots lose?
Ha. No.


The "Battle of the Birds" 
Eagles (5-4) at Sehawks (6-2-1)

Should Seattle be on upset alert? Perhaps. After all, Philly has developed somewhat of a reputation as giant killers over this season, with wins over Pittsburgh, Minnesota and Atlanta, all as the underdog. However, I can never bet against Seattle at home, especially considering the matchup of Philly's rotten core of receivers against Richard Sherman, Kam Chancellor, and Earl Thomas. Yikes. We all picked the Seahawks, and Brad made to revelation to me that he "is not a fan of the Eagles at all." Double yikes. Connor foresees a blowout. He may be right.

Seahawks 31, Eagles 19
What actually happened: Seahawks 26, Eagles 15. Again, almost the exact margin of victory

Sunday Night
Aaron Rodgers has lost my trust. 
Packers (4-5) at Redskins (5-3-1) 
Aaron Rodgers has lost my trust.

Photo creds to CBS Sports

What actually happened: Aaron Rodgers has not regained my trust. 
Monday Night Carr
Mexico City, meet Derek Carr.
Texans (6-3) at Raiders (7-2) 

Let's not kid ourselves. The Texas may be 6-3, but they are not a threat to get to the Super Bowl. Oakland is. Oh, and they have Derek Carr on their team. I kind of like Derek Carr. He's pretty good at this game called football. He throws the ball well.

Raiders 27, Texans 17
What actually happened: Raiders 27, Texans 20. Close enough.

So, to recap, here is how we all did for Week 11

Joe: 11-3
Ryan: 11-3
Brad: 7-7
Jeff: 10-4
Rutz: 11-3
Roese: 

Happy days are here again

Photo creds to The Daily Collegian

If the 2016 Penn State Nittany Lions crash and burn, then by all means, go back to this article as the point where it all started. 

As a die-hard PSU football supporter, I have been through a lot over the past five years. Forget ''We Are'' for a second. The key phrase for this article will be ''we have''.

Ever since the scandal broke, ''we have'' been mocked. In some cases, as fans, ''we have'' been scolded for something that we had no involvement in. ''We have'' been punished by the NCAA, and because of that, ''we have'' a football program with a big handicap. Lastly ''we have'' been too mediocre on the field to do anything about it.

 This article is not a sob story. What this it  is is an opportunity for me to finally write something good about the Penn State Nittany Lions.

If you would like, you can go back through the archives of this sports blog, and try to find one article I've written about Penn State football that was positive. The most praise that I have given this football program was when they defeated Indiana at home last season. That's it. Granted, I have not written about Penn State or College Football in general as much as I would like, but at the end of the day, I haven't been able to show my ''Lion Pride'', until now.

Let's go back to the last time I was overly optimistic about Penn State football. That was January of 2014 when Penn State hired James Franklin to be their 16th head football coach. This man had it all. He was lively, he was charismatic, and he managed to turn Vanderbilt into a respectable football program. This guy was the man. Surely, he would fix everything. Then the first two seasons happened.

Mediocrity, mediocrity, and more mediocrity. A 14-12 record over two seasons is not acceptable in Happy Valley, and James Franklins' ''dominate the state'' line from his introductory press conference was becoming notorious for all the wrong reasons. 2016 looked like it would be the same old song, as the Lions started out 2-2, losing to *blah* Pitt and getting humiliated by Michigan.

Then a funny thing happened. Penn State started winning. First came a come from behind OT thriller over Minnesota. Next was a 38-14 demolition over previously unbeaten Maryland. Then came that win over Ohio State that was a big deal. After that was consecutive demolitions over the disgrace that is Purdue and the respectable Iowa Hawkeyes. Finally, the Nittany Lions survived a scare at Indiana, and that is how they got to where they are today.

Now, if my Nittany Lions can finish out the year strong and end up building on their success in the coming years, one date that I want every Nittany Lion fan to remember is October 1st, 2016.

Two people, in particular, might not be getting the credit that they deserve for this fabulous turnaround. The first is Joe Moorehead. Over the past two seasons, Penn State's offense was garbage. It was awful, and in 2015, it ranked among the worst in all of college football. Thankfully,  Franklin came to his senses and fired the offensive coordinator, his ole Vanderbilt buddy, John Donavan. Enter, Moorehead. The man who had resurrected the football program as the head man at Fordham university now was asked to do the same with the Penn State offense. Boy has he ever.

Penn State was 11th in the Big 10 in total offense in 2014. They were 9th in that category in 2015. Now, they are 4th in the Big 10 and climbing fast. It's because Moorehead knows what he is doing. Under Donavan, Penn State ran a pro style offense, filled with short passes that didn't get anything accomplished. Under Moorehead, Penn State runs a spread, filled with a creative variety of deep balls, sweeps, and several QB runs to keep the defense on their toes. In my book, nobody associated with Penn State football is more important than Joe Moorehead. He has been a godsend.

The second person I'd like to thank may come as more of a surprise. He is a man who no longer is associated with Penn State football. In fact, he's not related to College Football at all. He was only here for less than 24 months, but his impact on this program will last forever. He was Penn State's football coach from 2012-13. He is Bill O'Brien.

Gone, but not forgotten

Some may still be bitter about the way BOB left for the pros. But had he not taken the job that nobody wanted, had he not gotten new recruits while keeping the ones that were there, had he not kept Penn State respectable when most were foreseeing PSU becoming SMU 2.0, then happy days would not be here again.

Penn State is on fire, and I had to write something about it. Let's hope this euphoric feeling won't be temporary.

NFL Week 10 Preview/Predictions

 

Hello, all. The boys are back. You know the drill by now. Let's get into it.  Connor’s pick is brought to you from Connor Roese.

1:00
Jacksonville Sucks
Texans at Jags 
I'm done believing in Jacksonville. You guys suck.

Texans 34, Jags 17

Connor’s Pick: Jacksonville over Houston.  Jags and Texans are pretty bad,  Gotta go with Bortles over Schaub or whoever they have at QB.
Quite the contrast of styles Broncos (6-3) at Saints (4-4)
Denver has been a disappointment. Their offense is putrid. However, the Saints defense is also putrid, and Trevor Siemian could  put together a decent game I think the great Denver defense can keep Drew Brees and Brandon Cooks at bay just enough for a close, and much-needed victory.

Broncos 24, Saints 20
Denver has been a disappointment. Their offense is putrid. However, the Saints defense is also putrid, and Trevor Siemian could  put together a decent game I think the great Denver defense can keep Drew Brees and Brandon Cooks at bay just enough for a close, and much-needed victory.

Connor’s Pick: “Denver raping the shit out of NO.  Saints got their big win.  Won’t happen again.”

Bryce Petty????????
Rams (3-5) at Jets (3-6) 

Ryan Fitzpatrick back in his heyday. Now he is benched

Both of these teams are dreadful. However, New York has some momentum, as they have won their past two games. The Rams, on the other hand, have lost 4 in a row and are falling fast. Being away from LA does not help, and the Jets will use their home field advantage to keep the momentum going. As for Bryce Petty starting at quarterback... well, we will see.

Jets 20, Rams 10

Connor’s Pick: LA over Jets.  Jets are smelly yuck.
Falcons (6-3) at Eagles (4-4)

Ah, the battle of the birdies. Matt Ryan is an excellent quarterback. Julio Jones is a fantastic wide receiver. However, the fact that the Eagles are such an inconsistent team should worry Atlanta fans. Philly has lost two tough games in a row, and they are due for a W. I expect Carson Wentz and the Eagles defense to play well, and since Atlanta is inconsistent themselves, it should not come as a surprise if the lay an egg in the City of Brotherly Love.

Eagles 30, Falcons 21

Connor’s Pick: Philly over Atlanta.  Maybe NFC game of the week?  Eagles have the edge at home.

Kansas City (6-2) at Carolina (3-5)

Carolina has won 2 in a row. Maybe they've dug themselves too deep to make the playoffs again, but that does not mean that they can't keep the momentum going for another week. Kansas City is due for a little cool down, and Cammy Cam will douse them with the water.

Panthers 23, Chiefs 13

Connor’s Pick: Kansas City over Carolina.  AFC West is fire.  Panthers are not

Bears at Bucs 

Both teams stink. Bucs win. Meh.

Connor’s Pick: Chicago over TB.  Too close to call but Bears are a bit better.

The slide continues 
Vikings (5-3) at Redskins (4-3-1)

I've lost my faith in the Vikings. I am now convinced that their 5-0 start was a fluke, and that they are a slightly above average football team at best. Kirk Cousins will have one of his good days, and the Redskins will add to Mike Zimmer's misery #youlikethat

Redskins 27, Vikings 17

Connor’s Pick: Minnesota over Washington.  Viks D is too big for Kirk Cousins.

Packers (4-4) at Titans (4-5)

Aaron Rodgers has lost two in a row. Aaron Rodgers does not lose three in a row.

Connor’s Pick: Green Bay over Tennessee.  Obvious.

4:25

Dolphins at Chargers
Yuck. I don't even remember who I picked. Look at the graphic above.

Connor’s Pick:  SD over Miami.  Miami on the road is bad.  Hell Miami at home is bad.

49ers (1-7) at Cardinals (3-4-1)

It's truly sad when a team that is 3-4-1 is favored by 13.5 points, and that's  what has happened here. Colin Kaepernick will continue to slip into irrelevance, and the 9ers defense will make Carson Palmer look like a varsity QB going against a JV squad. Maybe this beating will inspire Kaepernick to do something crazy. Like, vote in an election or something.

Connor’s Pick: Arizona smacking the hell out of SF.  Good lord have mercy on the anthem kneelers.

The Steelers might win one!!!!!
Dallas (7-1) at Pittsburgh (4-4)
I would do a ''3 keys'' article on this one, but I have bigger fish to fry. In short, the Steelers will win this game because they are not supposed to win this game. They are at home against a good football team, and for whatever reason, this is when the Steelers are at their best. Please, whatever you do, don't get on your high horse after today's win.

Steelers 28, Cowboys 20

Connor’s Pick: Steelers over Dallas.  This could go either way.  Steelers are ready to pull together this season at home against a rookie QB.  I believe that the Steelers have no choice but to win and they are dangerous in that situation.

Sunday Night
Marshawn Lynch is still waiting 
Seahawks (5-2-1) vs. Patriots (7-1)

One of the only games this week that is worth watching. The Sehawks are a tough team, and I respect them. But playing against the king inside of the kings castle? Not a recipe for victory.

Pats 31, Seahawks 23

Connor’s Pick:New England over Seattle.  Pats won’t lose again.

Monday Night
Bye Bye Bungals Bengals at Giants
The Bungals have been massive disappointments this season. The Giants are the definition of an OK football team. Yep, sounds like a normal Monday Night matchup to me. The Giants are at home, and the Manning-to-Beckham connection has been on fire. The Bungels defense gives me no reason to believe that anything will change this week.

Giants 34, Bengals 22

Connor’s Pick: NYG over Cincy.  AFC North. Poo. Especially on the road.