*** 2024 Pittsburgh Steelers: Bengals Saturday Jan 4 @ 8:00 (17 Viewers)

[Leeroy Jenkins]

Wilson unlocks more from the offense, and I'm sure that's what Tomlin was hoping to see. He reads the game better than Fields and is unafraid to let it fly. This might lead to more turnovers down the line, but at least there's a deep threat which might back up the safeties more than usual. Fields is more content to not pull the trigger and run instead.

Pickens is a very average route runner and separator, but he does posses elite ball tracking and contested catch skills. Wilson gives him a far better chance to showcase those skills over Fields. Justin looks for an open man and is reluctant to throw into coverage, this is why he prefers a DJ Moore over a George Pickens. One gets open due to his route running and separating skillset, while the other doesn't and every other pass to him is basically contested, like last night.

Good analysis here.

I do think it is a bit unrealistic to expect these balls to Pickens to always go so well though. Will want to see more progression from Russ in other areas.

That is going to be the boom/bust issue with Pickens going forward. There are some DBs out there that will turn around and pick those passes off, and those bounces off DB shoulder pads won't always go your way.

If the guy could learn to be a better route runner and separator, the sky would be the limit for him. As of now, he's a ball tracking contested ball specialist. There will be dud games ahead for GP, and they'll need others in the room to pick up the slack.

They're lacking a reliable chain mover. Don't care if it's at TE or WR, but they've been lacking it all year, which I'm quite certain they're aware of. Them knowing it doesn't change the fact that they basically screwed themselves there by not being more aggressive in FA/the draft for those kind of a WRs, for the moment anyway.

Even if they thought Roman Wilson had the potential to be that sort of guy (and maybe he does...if he can ever learn plays/whatever. His odds don't look great for '24 though :-|), they needed to have more than a single rookie WR lined up as someone who could fill that kind of role.

What I don't see is anyone that really fits that bill who is a reasonable get right now. "Mike Williams types" sure ain't that guy.

Not sure how this week's games impact trade availability of Kupp, Kirk, and Mike Williams. But any of those guys would help . . . .

 

[Boone22]

Wilson unlocks more from the offense, and I'm sure that's what Tomlin was hoping to see. He reads the game better than Fields and is unafraid to let it fly. This might lead to more turnovers down the line, but at least there's a deep threat which might back up the safeties more than usual. Fields is more content to not pull the trigger and run instead.

Pickens is a very average route runner and separator, but he does posses elite ball tracking and contested catch skills. Wilson gives him a far better chance to showcase those skills over Fields. Justin looks for an open man and is reluctant to throw into coverage, this is why he prefers a DJ Moore over a George Pickens. One gets open due to his route running and separating skillset, while the other doesn't and every other pass to him is basically contested, like last night.

Good analysis here.

I do think it is a bit unrealistic to expect these balls to Pickens to always go so well though. Will want to see more progression from Russ in other areas.

That is going to be the boom/bust issue with Pickens going forward. There are some DBs out there that will turn around and pick those passes off, and those bounces off DB shoulder pads won't always go your way.

If the guy could learn to be a better route runner and separator, the sky would be the limit for him. As of now, he's a ball tracking contested ball specialist. There will be dud games ahead for GP, and they'll need others in the room to pick up the slack.

They're lacking a reliable chain mover. Don't care if it's at TE or WR, but they've been lacking it all year, which I'm quite certain they're aware of. Them knowing it doesn't change the fact that they basically screwed themselves there by not being more aggressive in FA/the draft for those kind of a WRs, for the moment anyway.

Even if they thought Roman Wilson had the potential to be that sort of guy (and maybe he does...if he can ever learn plays/whatever. His odds don't look great for '24 though :-|), they needed to have more than a single rookie WR lined up as someone who could fill that kind of role.

What I don't see is anyone that really fits that bill who is a reasonable get right now. "Mike Williams types" sure ain't that guy.

A savvy WR who can be a security blanket working underneath would be essential. Someone who knows when to sit in soft zones right at the sticks.

I agree with your assessment. Mike Williams does very little to improve the team. A Christian Kirk type working from the slot would improve this offense. There are other names out there for sure, but I think he could be had in a trade.

Thielen.

 

[fred_1_15301]

It took me until today to realize this wasn't the same Ryan Starr from the first season of American Idol

More Tomlin coaching malpractice. Up 15 with 2:42. Failed to get 1st down at Jets 19 and the clock is ticking.

Should we
(a) let the play clock run down to 0:01, call time out, kick the field goal and make it a 3 score game or
(b) throw the challenge flag and stop the clock, lose the challenge and then go for it on 4th down?

Regardless of the outcome, it was stupid to do what he did.

What are you talking about?

3rd and 4 at the Jets 22, 3:28 left, Warren ran for 3 yards, Steelers challenged the spot and the play was upheld.

4 and 1, Russ QB sneak, 1st down. Good call to not risk a FG block and essentially end the game. Jets challenged the ruling and the play was upheld.

Did you happen to see Tomlin’s best call of the night to start Russ?

Tomlin haters wanted to kick so they could complain he's "too gutless to try to pick up the first down and end the game".

Nonsense. I've been one of Tomlin's staunchest defenders. But I'm not a simpering fanboy that won't call him out for making a terrible decision.

Let’s try this again. You’re batting zero.

1. Late in the game. 3rd and 4. Warren picks up 3 yards, Tomlin challenges the spot. Spot upheld. Good challenge by Tomlin to try and end the game there.

2. 4th and 1. Russ sneaks for 1st down to essentially end the game. Even if they don’t get it they’re up 2 scores with 2-3 minutes left. Attempting a FG is risking a block and TD return. Good call by Tomlin.

3. Tomlin decides to start Russ at QB. Great call by Tomlin.

On point # 2, I thought kicking the FG was the right play during the game. Going up 3 scores ends it and the Steelers have one of the best kickers in the game. Your scenario of a blocked kick returned for a TD—-According to ChatGPT, the odds of that are about 0.2-0.6%. No clue what the odds would be of a fumble by Wilson.

 

[Max55]

It took me until today to realize this wasn't the same Ryan Starr from the first season of American Idol

More Tomlin coaching malpractice. Up 15 with 2:42. Failed to get 1st down at Jets 19 and the clock is ticking.

Should we
(a) let the play clock run down to 0:01, call time out, kick the field goal and make it a 3 score game or
(b) throw the challenge flag and stop the clock, lose the challenge and then go for it on 4th down?

Regardless of the outcome, it was stupid to do what he did.

What are you talking about?

3rd and 4 at the Jets 22, 3:28 left, Warren ran for 3 yards, Steelers challenged the spot and the play was upheld.

4 and 1, Russ QB sneak, 1st down. Good call to not risk a FG block and essentially end the game. Jets challenged the ruling and the play was upheld.

Did you happen to see Tomlin’s best call of the night to start Russ?

Tomlin haters wanted to kick so they could complain he's "too gutless to try to pick up the first down and end the game".

Nonsense. I've been one of Tomlin's staunchest defenders. But I'm not a simpering fanboy that won't call him out for making a terrible decision.

Let’s try this again. You’re batting zero.

1. Late in the game. 3rd and 4. Warren picks up 3 yards, Tomlin challenges the spot. Spot upheld. Good challenge by Tomlin to try and end the game there.

2. 4th and 1. Russ sneaks for 1st down to essentially end the game. Even if they don’t get it they’re up 2 scores with 2-3 minutes left. Attempting a FG is risking a block and TD return. Good call by Tomlin.

3. Tomlin decides to start Russ at QB. Great call by Tomlin.

On point # 2, I thought kicking the FG was the right play during the game. Going up 3 scores ends it and the Steelers have one of the best kickers in the game. Your scenario of a blocked kick returned for a TD—-According to ChatGPT, the odds of that are about 0.2-0.6%. No clue what the odds would be of a fumble by Wilson.

I respect your opinion but IMO if you go for it on 4th and 1 the game is essentially over regardless of the result.

Blocked FG and TD return is low risk, but not no risk.

 

[fred_1_15301]

I was actually impressed by Wilson's ability to evade pressure. I thought for sure we would see more sacks. He also makes decisions quickly. His noodle arm is going to cost them at some point. Those deep throws from him have touch but they're also ducks. He kind of reminds me of Big Ben during the latter part of his career. The Jets were pretty much down to backups on the secondary yesterday so that helped a lot. With that said, Wilson knows exactly how to play to Picken's strengths. Still not feeling great about our QB situation but it was a slight improvement.

You are a tough one to impress. Weakened secondary or no, that was a tough Jets front 7 and took shots in Sauce's direction. When is the last time we saw the offense score 37 points?

Russ knows as most of us do, Pickens is "open" when covered 1-1 deep even against the best corners in the league.

Negatives - Russ had some real bad throws early going 2 of 9, but killed it from late 2nd Q on. Backpedal was scary a couple times, though he managed to avoid the sacks.

I don’t really think I’m being hard to impress. I’m simply posting what I observed. There were plays that he made that impressed me and things that concerned me as well. We will see how it shakes out but I will say that I’m happy Tomlin made the move to Russ. I questioned it at the time but it turned out to be the right decision.

 

[fred_1_15301]

It took me until today to realize this wasn't the same Ryan Starr from the first season of American Idol

More Tomlin coaching malpractice. Up 15 with 2:42. Failed to get 1st down at Jets 19 and the clock is ticking.

Should we
(a) let the play clock run down to 0:01, call time out, kick the field goal and make it a 3 score game or
(b) throw the challenge flag and stop the clock, lose the challenge and then go for it on 4th down?

Regardless of the outcome, it was stupid to do what he did.

What are you talking about?

3rd and 4 at the Jets 22, 3:28 left, Warren ran for 3 yards, Steelers challenged the spot and the play was upheld.

4 and 1, Russ QB sneak, 1st down. Good call to not risk a FG block and essentially end the game. Jets challenged the ruling and the play was upheld.

Did you happen to see Tomlin’s best call of the night to start Russ?

Tomlin haters wanted to kick so they could complain he's "too gutless to try to pick up the first down and end the game".

Nonsense. I've been one of Tomlin's staunchest defenders. But I'm not a simpering fanboy that won't call him out for making a terrible decision.

Let’s try this again. You’re batting zero.

1. Late in the game. 3rd and 4. Warren picks up 3 yards, Tomlin challenges the spot. Spot upheld. Good challenge by Tomlin to try and end the game there.

2. 4th and 1. Russ sneaks for 1st down to essentially end the game. Even if they don’t get it they’re up 2 scores with 2-3 minutes left. Attempting a FG is risking a block and TD return. Good call by Tomlin.

3. Tomlin decides to start Russ at QB. Great call by Tomlin.

On point # 2, I thought kicking the FG was the right play during the game. Going up 3 scores ends it and the Steelers have one of the best kickers in the game. Your scenario of a blocked kick returned for a TD—-According to ChatGPT, the odds of that are about 0.2-0.6%. No clue what the odds would be of a fumble by Wilson.

I respect your opinion but IMO if you go for it on 4th and 1 the game is essentially over regardless of the result.

Blocked FG and TD return is low risk, but not no risk.

Oh yeah and I didn’t feel super strongly either way. And as a Najee fantasy owner, I’m very happy with the decision!

 

[kupcho1]

Let’s try this again. You’re batting zero.

1. Late in the game. 3rd and 4. Warren picks up 3 yards, Tomlin challenges the spot. Spot upheld. Good challenge by Tomlin to try and end the game there.

2. 4th and 1. Russ sneaks for 1st down to essentially end the game. Even if they don’t get it they’re up 2 scores with 2-3 minutes left. Attempting a FG is risking a block and TD return. Good call by Tomlin.

Now you're just being deliberately obtuse. Saying a "try" to end the game with a challenge versus simply ending the game with a field goal is a good decision is absurd.

3rd & 4 at NYJ 22
(3:28 - 4th) (Shotgun) J.Warren left guard to NYJ 19 for 3 yards (J.Sherwood; L.Taylor). Pittsburgh challenged the short of the line to gain ruling, and the play was Upheld. The ruling on the field stands. (Timeout #2.)
4th & 1 at NYJ 19
(2:44 - 4th) R.Wilson up the middle to NYJ 18 for 1 yard (J.Kinlaw). New York Jets challenged the first down ruling, and the play was Upheld. The ruling on the field stands. (Timeout #3.)

The clock - which was running - is stopped by Tomlin's challenge. Challenging the play and stopping the clock, REGARDLESS OF WHETHER OR NOT IT IS SUCCESSFUL (Spoiler: it wasn't) is a coaching mistake when your team is up 15 points with 2:44 left in the game. Even if you like his decision, he could have waited until the play clock was at 0:01 to throw the flag. If my memory is correct there were 12 seconds left on the play clock.

Then he compounds the mistake by going for it on 4th and not kicking the automatic field goal and going up 18. To say the field goal was risky but ignoring the pitches to Najeh (not handoffs) is also disingenuous, but that seems to be the game you're playing. I'm not playing anymore.

 

[Max55]

Let’s try this again. You’re batting zero.

1. Late in the game. 3rd and 4. Warren picks up 3 yards, Tomlin challenges the spot. Spot upheld. Good challenge by Tomlin to try and end the game there.

2. 4th and 1. Russ sneaks for 1st down to essentially end the game. Even if they don’t get it they’re up 2 scores with 2-3 minutes left. Attempting a FG is risking a block and TD return. Good call by Tomlin.

Now you're just being deliberately obtuse. Saying a "try" to end the game with a challenge versus simply ending the game with a field goal is a good decision is absurd.

3rd & 4 at NYJ 22
(3:28 - 4th) (Shotgun) J.Warren left guard to NYJ 19 for 3 yards (J.Sherwood; L.Taylor). Pittsburgh challenged the short of the line to gain ruling, and the play was Upheld. The ruling on the field stands. (Timeout #2.)
4th & 1 at NYJ 19
(2:44 - 4th) R.Wilson up the middle to NYJ 18 for 1 yard (J.Kinlaw). New York Jets challenged the first down ruling, and the play was Upheld. The ruling on the field stands. (Timeout #3.)

The clock - which was running - is stopped by Tomlin's challenge. Challenging the play and stopping the clock, REGARDLESS OF WHETHER OR NOT IT IS SUCCESSFUL (Spoiler: it wasn't) is a coaching mistake when your team is up 15 points with 2:44 left in the game. Even if you like his decision, he could have waited until the play clock was at 0:01 to throw the flag. If my memory is correct there were 12 seconds left on the play clock.

Then he compounds the mistake by going for it on 4th and not kicking the automatic field goal and going up 18. To say the field goal was risky but ignoring the pitches to Najeh (not handoffs) is also disingenuous, but that seems to be the game you're playing. I'm not play anymore.

Lmao.

1. If the 3rd and 4 challenge is favorable for the Steelers and they get a 1st down the game is over. I didn’t think that would be a hard concept for you, but here we are.

2. Did you notice the Steelers blocked two kicks in this very game? Yes, one didn’t count as Minkah received a BS penalty. But you keep dismissing that it’s riskier to attempt FG and have it blocked/returned for a TD vs going on 4th and 1. You’re flat out wrong here. Tomlin made the right call and then Najee pounds in a signature TD to help build confidence for the offense.

And what a great decision by Tomlin to start Russ even with a banged up line. Russ’s play action, decision making, and passing ability adds a whole new dimension to this team. Tomlin had a great night of decision making.

 

[Grid71]

1. If the 3rd and 4 challenge is favorable for the Steelers and they get a 1st down the game is over. I didn’t think that would be a hard concept for you, but here we are.

2. Did you notice the Steelers blocked two kicks in this very game? Yes, one didn’t count as Minkah received a BS penalty. But you keep dismissing that it’s riskier to attempt FG and have it blocked/returned for a TD vs going on 4th and 1. You’re flat out wrong here. Tomlin made the right call and then Najee pounds in a signature TD to help build confidence for the offense.

Pretty silly to be arguing vehemently about a win-win situation for Tomlin up 15 late in the game. Both 4th and 1 options were good choices. I'll make one attempt to inject some common sense then let you fish for an argument.

1. Argument here is how much time Tomlin left on the clock by throwing the flag when he did, not if it was a good play to challenge. So, you are correct 100% Max55 it was worth challenging the spot, but being rude doesn't make sense because the argument was clearly about time management which is something you failed to acknowledge. Full disclosure, I don't know how much time was left on the play clock when the challenge was made. Ideally, he waits till 1 second on the play clock to challenge.

2. You are reaching DEEP here saying he is flat out wrong. Technically the FG was the correct call going by percentages. Playoffs, I'd rather see Boswell kick a short FG going up 3 scores over going for it on 4th and 1. Guessing it's a 96% chance of making the FG sealing the W. Those odds are better than converting 4th and 1 plus subsequent plays without turning the ball over. End of day, either choice was a good one with a high probability of success.

2b. I agree with you about going for it being the better call to test Russ and the offense here in week 7. Think your comment about being "flat out wrong" to kick a FG is absurd. Both were good options. Hell, ol Bill Cowher probably would have taken a knee in that situation and handed the ball back to the Jets right there with a 15 point lead. Everyone knew the game was over.

 

[5-ish Finkle]

Wilson unlocks more from the offense, and I'm sure that's what Tomlin was hoping to see. He reads the game better than Fields and is unafraid to let it fly. This might lead to more turnovers down the line, but at least there's a deep threat which might back up the safeties more than usual. Fields is more content to not pull the trigger and run instead.

Pickens is a very average route runner and separator, but he does posses elite ball tracking and contested catch skills. Wilson gives him a far better chance to showcase those skills over Fields. Justin looks for an open man and is reluctant to throw into coverage, this is why he prefers a DJ Moore over a George Pickens. One gets open due to his route running and separating skillset, while the other doesn't and every other pass to him is basically contested, like last night.

Good analysis here.

I do think it is a bit unrealistic to expect these balls to Pickens to always go so well though. Will want to see more progression from Russ in other areas.

That is going to be the boom/bust issue with Pickens going forward. There are some DBs out there that will turn around and pick those passes off, and those bounces off DB shoulder pads won't always go your way.

If the guy could learn to be a better route runner and separator, the sky would be the limit for him. As of now, he's a ball tracking contested ball specialist. There will be dud games ahead for GP, and they'll need others in the room to pick up the slack.

They're lacking a reliable chain mover. Don't care if it's at TE or WR, but they've been lacking it all year, which I'm quite certain they're aware of. Them knowing it doesn't change the fact that they basically screwed themselves there by not being more aggressive in FA/the draft for those kind of a WRs, for the moment anyway.

Even if they thought Roman Wilson had the potential to be that sort of guy (and maybe he does...if he can ever learn plays/whatever. His odds don't look great for '24 though :-|), they needed to have more than a single rookie WR lined up as someone who could fill that kind of role.

What I don't see is anyone that really fits that bill who is a reasonable get right now. "Mike Williams types" sure ain't that guy.

A savvy WR who can be a security blanket working underneath would be essential. Someone who knows when to sit in soft zones right at the sticks.

I agree with your assessment. Mike Williams does very little to improve the team. A Christian Kirk type working from the slot would improve this offense. There are other names out there for sure, but I think he could be had in a trade.

Thielen.

Hmmm....not the worst idea.

I assume he'd be cheap to acquire due to age, but I have no idea what his contract status is.

 

[5-ish Finkle]

Looks like he's signed through 2025 at an average of 8.3 million per season.

 

[crushedspirit]

Thielen is 34 and can't stay healthy any longer.

 

[Steelers4Life]

I was actually impressed by Wilson's ability to evade pressure. I thought for sure we would see more sacks. He also makes decisions quickly. His noodle arm is going to cost them at some point. Those deep throws from him have touch but they're also ducks. He kind of reminds me of Big Ben during the latter part of his career. The Jets were pretty much down to backups on the secondary yesterday so that helped a lot. With that said, Wilson knows exactly how to play to Picken's strengths. Still not feeling great about our QB situation but it was a slight improvement.

You are a tough one to impress. Weakened secondary or no, that was a tough Jets front 7 and took shots in Sauce's direction. When is the last time we saw the offense score 37 points?

Russ knows as most of us do, Pickens is "open" when covered 1-1 deep even against the best corners in the league.

Negatives - Russ had some real bad throws early going 2 of 9, but killed it from late 2nd Q on. Backpedal was scary a couple times, though he managed to avoid the sacks.

I don’t really think I’m being hard to impress. I’m simply posting what I observed. There were plays that he made that impressed me and things that concerned me as well. We will see how it shakes out but I will say that I’m happy Tomlin made the move to Russ. I questioned it at the time but it turned out to be the right decision.

I also think Russ was somewhat fortunate to have the performance he did. He seemed kind of limited on the types of throws he could make, and while he did a solid job of avoiding the rush, he didn't make them pay with his legs at all despite having multiple opportunities to.

His deep balls have more air under them, so a WR like Pickens has time to adjust. But the biggest passing plays of the game aside from Freirmuth's catch were all underthrows that Pickens adjusted to, and the coverage on the plays was suspect because they were thrown against backup CBs. Against better corners, I'm not so sure it'd be quite that easy. The big plays didn't come against Sauce.

Was it the right move to start WIlson? I get why he did and it's hard to say it wasn't because they put up 37 points, but I don't think Russ did a lot other than giving Pickens chances down the field and that turned out great in this matchup against that secondary. Taking shots with lobbed passes will at least keep the defense from stacking the line quite as much.

It was a nice game, really just a nice half, against a severely depleted secondary. I'm still reserving judgement on what that means for later in the season, but it was nice to put up some points for sure.

There were also a bunch of times when Russ threw incompletions when there was a ton of room to run that I'd bet Fields would've taken full advantage of. It works both ways.

 

[Boone22]

Thielen is 34 and can't stay healthy any longer.

Are you referring to the current injury? Because before this current injury, he’s played in every game the last 2 seasons. Not sure where the “can’t stay healthy any longer” is coming from.

 

[crushedspirit]

Thielen is 34 and can't stay healthy any longer.

Are you referring to the current injury? Because before this current injury, he’s played in every game the last 2 seasons. Not sure where the “can’t stay healthy any longer” is coming from.

Father time catches up fast, and at 34 once the soft tissue injuries start, then good luck.

 

[Leeroy Jenkins]

Play action under center looked pretty last night.

 

[infantsam]

The sidearm flip to Muth may have been his most impressive pass to me from last night. Under duress, still saw the play, put it out there where only Pat could catch it however he could before getting creamed. Fields isn't making that throw. He probably isn't even seeing that possibility.

Not expecting that this changes the needle all that much over the course of the year, but I'm giving credit where its' due. Russ looked like at least "75% of his old self" last night. Is that enough to win playoff games (cuz that's all I really care about, honestly)? Remains to be seen. Good result in game 1 though, regardless.

Really hope they find ways to use both QBs in the red zone. The goal line stuff shrieked for a Fields package. It'll make them a tougher offense to defend.

The sidearm to Muth, 100% won/kept the job. The fade to Pickens, the deep sideline to Muth and the rub route to VJ was icing. I was wrong af.

Hopefully Fields can embrace his new role. I don’t think he has a choice to get that next contract but he has to realize the Steelers starting job is while pushed out still in reach.

 

[5-ish Finkle]

There were also a bunch of times when Russ threw incompletions when there was a ton of room to run that I'd bet Fields would've taken full advantage of. It works both ways.

Totally. He McNabb'd a sure TD to I think Pickens on that one play. Couple others that would have extended drives that he turfed in the first half as well.

Still, he took advantage of the situation and did what he needed to do. I thought he'd fall flat on his face, so maybe there's at least just a little more there than I anticipated?

We may not know for sure until after the bye. The Giants are not a good team and either QB should roll them if the D doesn't drop a deuce in their drawahs.

 

[Leeroy Jenkins]

There were also a bunch of times when Russ threw incompletions when there was a ton of room to run that I'd bet Fields would've taken full advantage of. It works both ways.

Totally. He McNabb'd a sure TD to I think Pickens on that one play. Couple others that would have extended drives that he turfed in the first half as well.

Still, he took advantage of the situation and did what he needed to do. I thought he'd fall flat on his face, so maybe there's at least just a little more there than I anticipated?

We may not know for sure until after the bye. The Giants are not a good team and either QB should roll them if the D doesn't drop a deuce in their drawahs.

I worry the Giants is a classic trap game before the BYE. The o-line still is a little iffy. But if we can be 6-2 and get healthy for the home stretch, plus adding Sutton. This could get interesting.

 

[fred_1_15301]

There were also a bunch of times when Russ threw incompletions when there was a ton of room to run that I'd bet Fields would've taken full advantage of. It works both ways.

Totally. He McNabb'd a sure TD to I think Pickens on that one play. Couple others that would have extended drives that he turfed in the first half as well.

Still, he took advantage of the situation and did what he needed to do. I thought he'd fall flat on his face, so maybe there's at least just a little more there than I anticipated?

We may not know for sure until after the bye. The Giants are not a good team and either QB should roll them if the D doesn't drop a deuce in their drawahs.

I worry the Giants is a classic trap game before the BYE. The o-line still is a little iffy. But if we can be 6-2 and get healthy for the home stretch, plus adding Sutton. This could get interesting.

The Giants are good at terrorizing QBs. This will not be an easy matchup for Wilson. Hopefully they follow an Eagles like game plan (yes I know Najee/Warren <<<<<< Saquon). If Russ does well against the Giants, I’m all in.

 

[karl.Racki]

Apparently, and this is according to blowhards on the FAN.. Steelers have interest in Cooper Kupp, Steelers are offering a 4th which could be a 3rd, if Rams pick up a percentage of his salary remaining, but Rams want a second, and Steelers would only offer that if Rams pickup a large portion of his contact.

I don't see it getting done.. I feel if Steelers go after a big hame WR it will be D.K Metcalfe with the connection he had with Wilson and that is if he becomes available which most likely would be a pre-draft trade.

I think Steelers will try to add a WR, but think it will be a #2/#3 type guy like Mike Williams or someone..

 

[karl.Racki]

There were also a bunch of times when Russ threw incompletions when there was a ton of room to run that I'd bet Fields would've taken full advantage of. It works both ways.

Totally. He McNabb'd a sure TD to I think Pickens on that one play. Couple others that would have extended drives that he turfed in the first half as well.

Still, he took advantage of the situation and did what he needed to do. I thought he'd fall flat on his face, so maybe there's at least just a little more there than I anticipated?

We may not know for sure until after the bye. The Giants are not a good team and either QB should roll them if the D doesn't drop a deuce in their drawahs.

I worry the Giants is a classic trap game before the BYE. The o-line still is a little iffy. But if we can be 6-2 and get healthy for the home stretch, plus adding Sutton. This could get interesting.

The Giants are good at terrorizing QBs. This will not be an easy matchup for Wilson. Hopefully they follow an Eagles like game plan (yes I know Najee/Warren <<<<<< Saquon). If Russ does well against the Giants, I’m all in.

Anything can happen, but the Giants are a mess.. Their high paying QB is mad he got benched.. Dabol has pretty much lost the team, and is on borrowed time.

That said, Steelers should roll, but these are the games that they usually play like crap and keep their opponents around.

I expect Harris will have a huge game, as they will be all about the run after what Barkley did.

 

[sm8680]

Arthur Smith, the offensive coordinator for the Pittsburgh Steelers, does not frequently utilize slot receivers. In fact, in most of his seasons as either an offensive coordinator or head coach, his offenses have ranked either last or near the bottom in the use of three-receiver sets. Guess what Cooper specializes in.

The slot receiver position in the NFL is a special breed of wide receiver. Unlike the traditional wideout lined up on the edge, slot receivers take their spot closer to the line, typically between the offensive tackle and the nearest wideout. They thrive on quick routes, elusive moves, and creating mismatches against defenders. Think of them as the Swiss army knives of the passing game, adept at finding soft spots in defenses and converting crucial third downs.

Some slot receiver greats? Wes Welker, Julian Edelman, and more recently, Cooper Kupp.

So I was off Cooper is primarily a Z receiver also known as an X receiver. He does play the slot as well.

 

[sm8680]

Oh, and good luck ever seeing a 4 WR set with an Arthur Smith offense. The Rams, Chiefs, and Packers are among the teams that utilize 4 WR sets, and two of them have won the Super Bowl in the past five years. However, Arthur Smith might be unlocking the potential of Darnell Washington, who is built like a tackle but runs the 40-yard dash in 4.64 seconds. In comparison, it's hard to believe that Pat Freiermuth's 40-yard dash was 4.77 seconds. I would have lost money if someone bet me that Darnell is faster than Pat.

 

[sm8680]

Karl I agree the Giants are a mess. The GM should have been told to clear out his desk after Saquon Barkley went to town on his stout defense.

 

[3C's]

Missed in all the Wilson talk is that the actual stud Wilson was out there killing it.

x.com

x.com

 

[sm8680]

Missed in all the Wilson talk is that the actual stud Wilson was out there killing it.

x.com

x.com

I'm expecting more likes coming your way

 

[fred_1_15301]

Karl I agree the Giants are a mess. The GM should have been told to clear out his desk after Saquon Barkley went to town on his stout defense.

I agree the Giants are a mess but the one thing they’re great at is getting pressure on the QB. They lead the league in sacks. If we make this a run heavy game, no reason we lose. With that said you know we have a clunker or 2 every year against bad teams. Just a matter of time.

 

[karl.Racki]

wow.. Tomlin apparently shredded Roman Wilson and his work ethic in his presser, by saying until Roman Wilson works for him, he won't consider him..

x.com

x.com

Is Wilson a head case already? I bet he doesn't see the field this season.

 

[Leeroy Jenkins]

wow.. Tomlin apparently shredded Roman Wilson and his work ethic in his presser, by saying until Roman Wilson works for him, he won't consider him..

x.com

x.com

Is Wilson a head case already? I bet he doesn't see the field this season.

That’s what I heard a few weeks ago. Doesn’t take coaching well and is behind.

 

[fred_1_15301]

How does a rookie who has gotten the unbelievably rare opportunity to play in the NFL act like that? I mean at least put on a facade until you’ve earned some respect. Just mind boggling to me.

 

[irish eyes]

wow.. Tomlin apparently shredded Roman Wilson and his work ethic in his presser, by saying until Roman Wilson works for him, he won't consider him..

x.com

x.com

Is Wilson a head case already? I bet he doesn't see the field this season.

That’s what I heard a few weeks ago. Doesn’t take coaching well and is behind.

How does this not come out before being drafted? Guess they didn't vet him very well.

 

[sm8680]

Roman Wilson runs a 40 in 4.39 seconds. Preseason there was a lot of hype about him. Please get him on the field at least over Brandon Johnson. Brandon doesn't play special teams and in the 2 games that he has been active he has 1 catch for 9 yards. Steeler's can do a lot better than Brandon.

 

[karl.Racki]

Roman Wilson runs a 40 in 4.39 seconds. Preseason there was a lot of hype about him. Please get him on the field at least over Brandon Johnson. Brandon doesn't play special teams and in the 2 games that he has been active he has 1 catch for 9 yards. Steeler's can do a lot better than Brandon.

If the attitude thing is true with Wilson, I would not be shocked if you never see him dress here..

 

[karl.Racki]

How does a rookie who has gotten the unbelievably rare opportunity to play in the NFL act like that? I mean at least put on a facade until you’ve earned some respect. Just mind boggling to me.

Exactly, also being drafted by one of the best and most favorable franchises in Pro sports, and act like a turd.

 

[irish eyes]

How does a rookie who has gotten the unbelievably rare opportunity to play in the NFL act like that? I mean at least put on a facade until you’ve earned some respect. Just mind boggling to me.

Exactly, also being drafted by one of the best and most favorable franchises in Pro sports, and act like a turd.

Can't fix stupid.

 

[Leeroy Jenkins]

The Rams still think they have a chance in their division. So if the win tonight, I suspect Kupp is off the table. Not hearing of anything imminent, but if they lose things could get interesting, as there is certainly fire associated with all of the Kupp to the Steelers trade smoke.

 

[Godsbrother]

The other side of the coin is the Steelers (and any other interested teams) may want to see Kupp in action before committing anything

 

[crushedspirit]

Kupp has missed 17 of the last 31 games since 2022.

At $26+ mil/season, hard pass for an aging WR riddled with injuries in the past 3 seasons.

 

[Godsbrother]

Kupp has missed 17 of the last 31 games since 2022.

At $26+ mil/season, hard pass for an aging WR riddled with injuries in the past 3 seasons.

I’m thinking the same

 

[sm8680]

Missed in all the Wilson talk is that the actual stud Wilson was out there killing it.

x.com

x.com

Ok this needs more notice. Peyton played half the snaps and the lead the defense in tackles.

 

[Leeroy Jenkins]

Want to hear something crazy, that we will never know the truth of that my friend doesn't really believe but that he heard? Prior to Aiyuk getting hurt, there was another trade in place sending him to Pittsburgh because of his attitude with the team not improving.

Kupp off the board with the win last night. Kirk and Mike Williams are the only other names I have heard about so far, but it sure seems like they will make a move and have a new team coming out of the bye week.

 

[sm8680]

I never want to see someone hurt. But I'm glad Brandon is not a Steeler.

There's an article out there saying Darius Slayton NYG would be a good move for the Steelers. I like it he's not over 30.

 

[steelers1080]

Want to hear something crazy, that we will never know the truth of that my friend doesn't really believe but that he heard? Prior to Aiyuk getting hurt, there was another trade in place sending him to Pittsburgh because of his attitude with the team not improving.

Kupp off the board with the win last night. Kirk and Mike Williams are the only other names I have heard about so far, but it sure seems like they will make a move and have a new team coming out of the bye week.

At this point I don't see any WR move really helping the team that much. We're not going to get a solid WR, just another cast-off from another team who might be a solid WR3. The team needs a good WR across from Pickens but our best bet is an ok WR on a bloated contract or a guy who can't stay healthy or run the right routes.

 

[Godsbrother]

Steelers signed former Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Andy Isabella to their practice squad.

 

[5-ish Finkle]

Steelers signed former Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Andy Isabella to their practice squad.

"Championship"

 

[fred_1_15301]

Ravens and Bengals lose. The Steelers have to take advantage tomorrow night.

 

[Leeroy Jenkins]

No Fields package tonight.

A win really puts the team in a great position. Sole possession of 1st going into the BYE week, with Sutton back afterwards and some players getting healthy for the stretch run. Hopefully not a trap game and all these Steelers home MNF record blurbs don't jinx it . . . ..

 

[ThaPenguin]

Wonder if Bengals might be looking to move Higgins, definitely wouldn't hate that.

 

[5-ish Finkle]

No Fields package tonight.

This is getting ludicrous, if true. "You know that thing we could do to make our offense harder to predict/defend? Yeah, we arent doin' that."