YinzPitt

I’m sure I’m not the only one reeling after the Pittsburgh Steelers lost to the Cincinnati Bengals yesterday, and about the only bright spot was our beloved receiver Hines Ward reaching the 10,000 yards plateau for receiving.  It was very frustrating yesterday to see the Steelers play so poorly on all fronts.  I also think it’s about time we get a few things settled in the coaching categories.

Where was the rush on the defensive side of the ball yesterday?  Too many times Carson Palmer was able to get a throw off without even a hint of pressure coming at him.   I also think it’s about time to wonder what are teams doing to James Harrison that he can’t get pressure on the quarterback.  Holding has always been obvious, but yesterday it was getting to the point of being blatant.  Either way, it’s not an excuse, and it was time for someone else to step up in the rush to free Harrison up.   I also think yesterday was the first time, I’ve seen the Steelers really concerned with the Bengals passing attack, and it got them out of their bread and butter blitzing style packages.  Have no fear though.  If it’s one thing I have faith in, it’s the Steelers ability to figure out the situation and correct their mistakes.  Also, Troy, get better soon, because it’s very evident that we need you this year.

The offense for sure has had me a little perplexed in past, but this week was certainly the worst I’ve ever been frustrated with the Offense as I can remember.  Bruce Arians offense doesn’t come with a fullback right?  Well, it’s time to get one instead of using the 3rd tight end on the depth chart.  If you want to use a fullback, get one.  Sure the passing attack is great, and in fact it’s refreshing to see it, and yes we won with basically the same team, minus an offensive lineman(who played great yesterday), and a wide-out(Washington).  This year however, it’s just not clicking.  We need some semblance of balance and control within the offense.

Which brings me to the running game.  Parker played half decent yesterday, he found holes, got where he needed to be and played great out of the backfield.  I figured Mendenhall was hurt yesterday with his lack of playing time.  Turns out, he’s just dumb as a rock and can’t figure out the play-book.  This is mega alarming, if the guy can’t get the play-book right, the Steelers are certainly trying to figure out a situation in order help their cause as best as possible.  Can the words Draft and Bust be put together yet?  I’m willing to give him the benefit of the doubt, but the evidence is starting to pile up.

Limas Sweed, catch the ball.  Do whatever you have to do to make your hands hold that ball, but please.  Just catch the ball.

Mike Wallace, great game.  102 yards receiving.  Your speed is evidence and proof enough that your turning into the real deal, and welcome to the 3rd receiver spot while your at it.  BTW, way to catch a ball.

Stefen Logan – great runs, finally good to see an electric returner play for the Steelers.

Jeff Reed – you missed another field goal.  It’s ok, it was apparently out of your range(per Mike Tomlin).

All in all, it was a rough game.  We couldn’t put our hands on their throat and choke the life out of them.  The way it sits now, the Bengals are second in the division and are starting to look like their 2005 counterparts.  They won’t touch the Baltimore Ravens though, those guys are real this year.

It’s time for the Pittsburgh Steelers to step up.  They will though, they always do.