Pittsburgh Passing Game (1 Viewer)

[EBF]

"He's coming into an offense where the primary focus is to run the football," Steelers receivers coach Bruce Arians said. "So is he going to catch 100 balls? Hell no. But he should be able to break games open for us and be a big-play type of guy and draw some attention away from some other guys."Another factor in the Steelers' decision to seek Holmes' speed is Ben Roethlisberger. The team has every reason to trust that, after operating game plans that kept heavy demands on his passing arm to a minimum, Roethlisberger is ready to carry a heavier offensive load. "I think with the quarterback that we have, the ability to put some weapons around him is important," coach Bill Cowher said.

The Arians quote seems to indicate that Pittsburgh will be sticking with a run-first offense, but the Cowher quote hints towards more emphasis on the passing game. Roethlisberger must have been among the worst QBs in terms of attempts/game. He probably won't be leading the league in that category any time soon, but I think we're going to see a bump in his passing stats next season (and particularly in 2007).

 

[Steel City]

From this article by Bouchette: http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/06122/686674-66.stm

-----

"We aren't going to get away from running the football," Cowher promised. "We aren't changing our approach to the game."

They tried that in 2003 with disastrous results. They produced the second-most passing yards in their history, but it also led to a broken ground game and a 6-10 record. Cowher and coordinator Ken Whisenhunt reverted to their old philosophy by emphasizing the run in 2004 and '05, and reaped great rewards.

The Steelers ran 618 times in '04 and 549 times in '05, the most in the NFL each season.

While they won't employ the Run 'N Shoot or whatever passing offense they tried to run in 2003, the Steelers have the look of a team that certainly will evolve more toward a passing game and a more balanced offense.

"I think you have to give Ben an opportunity to get a guy that can stretch the field," Cowher said. "We have some guys now with Heath [Miller] being able to occupy the middle. Hines, you know what he's been able to do. Cedrick has been able to do that as well. I don't know if you can do enough of that."

---

They might open the offense up a BIT, but Cowher learned his lesson in 2003. Over the past two seasons, with Wiz at OC, the Steelers have went 15-1 and followed it up with a Super Bowl.

This team will still be a running team. 61% of the time? Maybe not. But to think these guys are going to make a drastic change in offensive philosophy is crazy. Crazy. Cowher will never let it happen again. Mularkey is gone for a reason.

 

[Franknbeans]

Running Game = Success for the Steelers. That's how it's been and how it will always be. I wouldn't count on Holmes for much this season but he will be groomed to be Hines Ward's eventual replacement. You can't coach speed.

 

[Sigmund Bloom]

Running Game = Success for the Steelers.  That's how it's been and how it will always be.  I wouldn't count on Holmes for much this season but he will be groomed to be Hines Ward's eventual replacement.  You can't coach speed.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

That "eventual" could be a while. Expect Ward to retire a Steeler.

 

[-OZ-]

They tried that in 2003 with disastrous results. They produced the second-most passing yards in their history, but it also led to a broken ground game and a 6-10 record. Cowher and coordinator Ken Whisenhunt reverted to their old philosophy by emphasizing the run in 2004 and '05, and reaped great rewards.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Maybe that led to 2004

1 11 Ben Roethlisberger QB Miami, O.



Pittsburgh will run the ball over 50% of the time, almost guaranteed.

Probably closer to 55% than 61% though, as Ben develops.

They certainly won't go away from their philosophy completely, but even an extra 5% = 50 passes, figure a 55% completion rate (Ben has a career 64.7% right now), that's an extra 33 completions. Plus, his YPA is 8.9, say that drops even to 8 YPA, that's an extra 400 yards passing.

In 12 games last year, he threw for 2300 yards, for a little under 200 per game. So, 3,200 in a 16 game season.

Add the 400 yards from above, and we're looking at 3,600 yards passing. Which puts them somewhere around the Giants, in the #10-12 range.

 

[-OZ-]

Running Game = Success for the Steelers.  That's how it's been and how it will always be.  I wouldn't count on Holmes for much this season but he will be groomed to be Hines Ward's eventual replacement.  You can't coach speed.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

That "eventual" could be a while. Expect Ward to retire a Steeler.
<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

and he has at least 4 years left.don't think of Holmes as Hines's replacement, but as his partner.

 

[JAA]

One thing to consider is that in 2 years they have lost their WR2 and WR3.

 

[Franknbeans]

Running Game = Success for the Steelers.  That's how it's been and how it will always be.  I wouldn't count on Holmes for much this season but he will be groomed to be Hines Ward's eventual replacement.  You can't coach speed.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

That "eventual" could be a while. Expect Ward to retire a Steeler.
<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

No doubt.

 

[Frenchy Fuqua]

Steelers OC Ken Whisenhunt was interviewed the other day and said that Roethlisberger "has earned the right to throw more." I think the Steelers gameplan in 2006 will be much the same as it was in the playoffs last year. The Steelers threw alot to get the lead and then ran the ball once they had the lead in the 2nd half.

 

[Bri]

"He's coming into an offense where the primary focus is to run the football," Steelers receivers coach Bruce Arians said. "So is he going to catch 100 balls? Hell no. But he should be able to break games open for us and be a big-play type of guy and draw some attention away from some other guys."

Another factor in the Steelers' decision to seek Holmes' speed is Ben Roethlisberger. The team has every reason to trust that, after operating game plans that kept heavy demands on his passing arm to a minimum, Roethlisberger is ready to carry a heavier offensive load.

"I think with the quarterback that we have, the ability to put some weapons around him is important," coach Bill Cowher said.

The Arians quote seems to indicate that Pittsburgh will be sticking with a run-first offense, but the Cowher quote hints towards more emphasis on the passing game. Roethlisberger must have been among the worst QBs in terms of attempts/game. He probably won't be leading the league in that category any time soon, but I think we're going to see a bump in his passing stats next season (and particularly in 2007).
<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

I'd expect a Dan Henning type offense. Delhomme threw for 3400 and 3800 the last two years yet they pounded the ball alot with Davis/Foster and their was a heavy emphasis on the run. Pass/rush ratio numbers I have no idea, just a feeling from watching.

 

[Spike]

Running Game = Success for the Steelers.  That's how it's been and how it will always be.  I wouldn't count on Holmes for much this season but he will be groomed to be Hines Ward's eventual replacement.  You can't coach speed.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

That "eventual" could be a while. Expect Ward to retire a Steeler.
<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

I would certainly hope he does. There is definitely something, these days especially, to a player who plays his entire career for a single team. They tend to be "the epitome of a <insert team name here> player". And that's a good thing!

While I'm sure every team in the league would love to have Ward on their roster, and as a Pats fan, I like the idea of Ward finishing his (to this point) distinguished career with the Steelers.

 

[LHUCKS]

I believe part of what makes the Patriots such a great team is that their offense evolves with their personnel and as a result they have become less predictable.

I think it's a smart move for the Steelers to do the same...you can't have the same gameplan week in and week out and expect to repeat your initial success. Cowher and the Steelers know this.

 

[Sigmund Bloom]

I think it's a smart move for the Steelers to do the same...you can't have the same gameplan week in and week out and expect to repeat your initial success.  Cowher and the Steelers know this.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

this is true, but the steelers will ALWAYS have the same gameplan once theyre in the lead in the 2nd half - at least as long as cowher is the coach.

 

[Madscott]

Big Ben is only in his 3rd year in the league. He has continued to grow and has consequently been handed more to do in the offense as time has gone on. I think we learned this year that Ben can throw it up for over 300 yards. Now are they going to do that on a regular basis, no, but I do think it is a positive that they continue to add weapons to his arsenal.

Let's not forget, they could have stolen Lendale White at 32 and instead deemed that Ben needed more options to throw the ball to.

I'd look for Ben to continue to post solid, top 10 fantasy number for the next 10 years or so through his efficiecy more than anything.

 

[LHUCKS]

this is true, but the steelers will ALWAYS have the same gameplan once theyre in the lead in the 2nd half - at least as long as cowher is the coach.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Only if they have the personnel to do it though. Parker isn't exactly a workhorse. Hayes and Staley might be able to pick up the slack in a RBBC approach, but as you know the Steelers have been actively shopping the free agent RB market to no avail.

I'm not bullish on the Pittsburgh passing numbers, but I think there are some factors that may be pointing to a significant percentage increase in passing yards.

 

[Franknbeans]

this is true, but the steelers will ALWAYS have the same gameplan once theyre in the lead in the 2nd half - at least as long as cowher is the coach.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Parker isn't exactly a workhorse. Hayes and Staley might be able to pick up the slack in a RBBC approach, but as you know the Steelers have been actively shopping the free agent RB market to no avail.
<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Link?As far as I know, they offered a 5th round pick for Duckett and that was it. The Falcons wanted a 3rd rounder and the Steelers said no thanks.

 

[LHUCKS]

this is true, but the steelers will ALWAYS have the same gameplan once theyre in the lead in the 2nd half - at least as long as cowher is the coach.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Parker isn't exactly a workhorse. Hayes and Staley might be able to pick up the slack in a RBBC approach, but as you know the Steelers have been actively shopping the free agent RB market to no avail.
<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Link?As far as I know, they offered a 5th round pick for Duckett and that was it. The Falcons wanted a 3rd rounder and the Steelers said no thanks.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

I read so many things on so many sites that I don't know if I can point to a specific article. There's more to their shopping than just the Duckett talk...IIRC.

 

[Ben Stiller]

The Steelers are likely to throw the ball more in 2006 than 2005 if only because Parker will be their main RB. Fast Willie is a home run hitter but that also means alot of 2nd and 9's and 3rd and 8's. One of the keys to their Super Bowl run was Roethlisberger's ability to pass on first down and convert on third downs, particularly on third and long he was the man.

 

[Godsbrother]

The Steelers had success in the playoffs by opening up the passing game. I don't expect them to be the next carnation of Air Coryell but they're going to pass more.

 

[Steelers4Life]

It's only natural for a young, improving QB to gain more responsibility, and based on the success he had last year, I can't see any reason to believe he won't be given even more next year.

Cowher loves to run the ball, but he also knows how to gameplan towards the strengths of his team. Early on in his career, the way Ben threw the ball was even more impressive than some give him credit for because it was most often in obvious passing downs that he threw the ball.

During the playoffs was really the first time the Steelers implemented and stuck to a gameplan to pass on 1st and 2nd downs to set up the run, and the show Ben put on in the games leading up to the Super Bowl was very, very impressive. Excellent coaching, too. Combine that threat with a normal Steelers' running game and the offense can only get better. Defenses are definitely going to have a lot more to think about in 2006.

Ben has shown a knack for biding his time in the pocket, moving around a little, and creating time for his receivers to get open. He doesn't lock on to one guy - he'll throw it to whoever is open. Ward and Miller will be nice options for him, and I believe Wilson can at least match what Randle El brought to the offense. I'm also pretty hopeful that Holmes can step right in as the #3 WR, and he'll need to step up as a rookie to give Ben an additional target.

 

[Franknbeans]

this is true, but the steelers will ALWAYS have the same gameplan once theyre in the lead in the 2nd half - at least as long as cowher is the coach.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Parker isn't exactly a workhorse. Hayes and Staley might be able to pick up the slack in a RBBC approach, but as you know the Steelers have been actively shopping the free agent RB market to no avail.
<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Link?As far as I know, they offered a 5th round pick for Duckett and that was it. The Falcons wanted a 3rd rounder and the Steelers said no thanks.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

I read so many things on so many sites that I don't know if I can point to a specific article. There's more to their shopping than just the Duckett talk...IIRC.
<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Surely you could provide another back they were shopping for? I check all the sites too so I'd be interested to hear another name.

 

[LHUCKS]

this is true, but the steelers will ALWAYS have the same gameplan once theyre in the lead in the 2nd half - at least as long as cowher is the coach.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Parker isn't exactly a workhorse. Hayes and Staley might be able to pick up the slack in a RBBC approach, but as you know the Steelers have been actively shopping the free agent RB market to no avail.
<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Link?As far as I know, they offered a 5th round pick for Duckett and that was it. The Falcons wanted a 3rd rounder and the Steelers said no thanks.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

I read so many things on so many sites that I don't know if I can point to a specific article. There's more to their shopping than just the Duckett talk...IIRC.
<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Surely you could provide another back they were shopping for? I check all the sites too so I'd be interested to hear another name.
<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

It may not have been a specific back, but more an article on how they're looking for RBs...if I have the time I'll look.

 

[Iwannabeacowboybaby!]

I think it's a smart move for the Steelers to do the same...you can't have the same gameplan week in and week out and expect to repeat your initial success.  Cowher and the Steelers know this.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

this is true, but the steelers will ALWAYS have the same gameplan once theyre in the lead in the 2nd half - at least as long as cowher is the coach.
<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

I agree with this.....if they're winning in the 4th quarter, everyone in the stadium knows what they're going to do, and that's run the ball. They had some unbelieavable 4th quarter, grinding the clock drives last year.The only way they switch things up significantly is if they don't have the players to repeat the same success they had last year.

When I think of the great Cowboy teams, they didn't switch things up. The recipe was play very good defense and run the ball down their opponents throat, especially when they had the lead. They didn't switch things up until their people grew old/injuries and Father Time caught up to them.

 

[jurb26]

I believe part of what makes the Patriots such a great team is that their offense evolves with their personnel and as a result they have become less predictable.

I think it's a smart move for the Steelers to do the same...you can't have the same gameplan week in and week out and expect to repeat your initial success.  Cowher and the Steelers know this.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

I think what makes the Pats and Steelers great teams are vastly different in this aspect. Yes, the Pats seem to be able to adapt to the talent they find and make several different schemes work. This has been one of the primary reasons that I think Brady is the best QB in the game. No matter what scheme the coach’s throw at this guy, he swallows it up and executes it dang near perfectly. Pitt on the other hand has been very savvy in their ability to find players that fit the scheme the want to run. Guys that don’t look like great players or maybe you scratch your head and think “why did they pick that guy up?” Well, they did it because they saw something about the guys skill set that they feel translates very well to the type of football they want to play. Both work, pick your poison.

 

[-OZ-]

Pitt on the other hand has been very savvy in their ability to find players that fit the scheme the want to run.  Guys that don’t look like great players or maybe you scratch your head and think “why did they pick that guy up?”  Well, they did it because they saw something about the guys skill set that they feel translates very well to the type of football they want to play.  Both work, pick your poison.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

I hope you're not implying that New England doesn't do this.

 

[nightshift]

"He's coming into an offense where the primary focus is to run the football," Steelers receivers coach Bruce Arians said. "So is he going to catch 100 balls? Hell no. But he should be able to break games open for us and be a big-play type of guy and draw some attention away from some other guys."

Another factor in the Steelers' decision to seek Holmes' speed is Ben Roethlisberger. The team has every reason to trust that, after operating game plans that kept heavy demands on his passing arm to a minimum, Roethlisberger is ready to carry a heavier offensive load.

"I think with the quarterback that we have, the ability to put some weapons around him is important," coach Bill Cowher said.

The Arians quote seems to indicate that Pittsburgh will be sticking with a run-first offense, but the Cowher quote hints towards more emphasis on the passing game. Roethlisberger must have been among the worst QBs in terms of attempts/game. He probably won't be leading the league in that category any time soon, but I think we're going to see a bump in his passing stats next season (and particularly in 2007).
<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Put down your Big Ben Bong & step away from the keyboard. NO WAY, NO WAY, Cowher going to make the Steelers more of a passing team. Won't happen. Hint: Rooney won't allow it either.

At the absolute best, they might increase to the passing game 5%-10%. More towards 5 than 10.

You don't mess the team's identity or its fan base, especially when you are the reigning SB Champs!

Steelers are a run first team in 2007 & the foreseeable future. BET ON IT!

Goin' for SIX in '06!

 

[-OZ-]

The Arians quote seems to indicate that Pittsburgh will be sticking with a run-first offense, but the Cowher quote hints towards more emphasis on the passing game. Roethlisberger must have been among the worst QBs in terms of attempts/game. He probably won't be leading the league in that category any time soon, but I think we're going to see a bump in his passing stats next season (and particularly in 2007).

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Put down your Big Ben Bong & step away from the keyboard. NO WAY, NO WAY, Cowher going to make the Steelers more of a passing team. Won't happen. Hint: Rooney won't allow it either.

At the absolute best, they might increase to the passing game 5%-10%. More towards 5 than 10.

You don't mess the team's identity or its fan base, especially when you are the reigning SB Champs!

Steelers are a run first team in 2007 & the foreseeable future. BET ON IT!

Goin' for SIX in '06!



<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

an additional 5-10% puts Ben's stats in the top 5 or so.

 

[C & C]

Roethlisberger's stat's are all a matter of Pittsburgh having a half time lead or not...

                                                First    Second     FinalTennesee - Game 1 Win 34-7 (20-7 at half)----------------------------------------------TOTAL NET YARDS                                     249       175       424Total Offensive Plays                                25        27        52NET YARDS RUSHING                                    71       135       206NET YARDS PASSING                                   178        40       218Pass Attempts-Completions-Had Intercepted        9-7-00    2-2-00   11-9-00Houston - Week 2 Win 27-7 (20-0 at half)----------------------------------------------TOTAL NET YARDS                                     273       115       388Total Offensive Plays                                31        23        54NET YARDS RUSHING                                    73        62       135NET YARDS PASSING                                   200        53       253Pass Attempts-Completions-Had Intercepted      15-11-0     6-3-00  21-14-0New England - Week 3 Loss 20-23 (10-7 at half)----------------------------------------------TOTAL NET YARDS                                     181        88       269Total Offensive Plays                                24        31        55NET YARDS RUSHING                                    53        26        79NET YARDS PASSING                                   128        62       190Pass Attempts-Completions-Had Intercepted       10-4-00   18-8-0   28-12-0San Diego - Week 4 Win 24-22 (14-7 at half)----------------------------------------------TOTAL NET YARDS                                     169       142       311Total Offensive Plays                                34        27        61NET YARDS RUSHING                                    67        37       104NET YARDS PASSING                                   102       105       207Pass Attempts-Completions-Had Intercepted       14-8-0    12-9-00  26-17-0Jacksonville - Game 5 Loss 17-23 (10-14 at half) *** Roethlisberger did not play----------------------------------------------TOTAL NET YARDS                                      65       153       218Total Offensive Plays                                25        35        60NET YARDS RUSHING                                    24        49        73NET YARDS PASSING                                    41       104       145Pass Attempts-Completions-Had Intercepted       13-4-2    15-7-1   28-11-3Cincinnati - Game 6 Win 27-13 (7-6 at half)----------------------------------------------TOTAL NET YARDS                                     111       193       304Total Offensive Plays                                24        38        62NET YARDS RUSHING                                    71       150       221NET YARDS PASSING                                    40        43        83Pass Attempts-Completions-Had Intercepted        8-4-00    6-5-01   14-9-1Baltimore - Game 7 Win 20-19 (10-10 at half)----------------------------------------------TOTAL NET YARDS                                     109       152       261Total Offensive Plays                                32        29        61NET YARDS RUSHING                                    43        58       101NET YARDS PASSING                                    66        94       160Pass Attempts-Completions-Had Intercepted      17-10-1    14-8-0   31-18-1Green Bay - Game 8 Win 20-10 (13-3 at half) *** Roethlisberger did not play----------------------------------------------TOTAL NET YARDS                                      97       116       213Total Offensive Plays                                20        30        50NET YARDS RUSHING                                    72        82       154NET YARDS PASSING                                    25        34        59Pass Attempts-Completions-Had Intercepted        8-5-01    8-4-00   16-9-1Cleveland - Game 9 Win 34-21 (17-7 at half) *** Roethlisberger did not play----------------------------------------------TOTAL NET YARDS                                     211       171       382Total Offensive Plays                                35        33        68NET YARDS RUSHING                                    61        98       159NET YARDS PASSING                                   150        73       223Pass Attempts-Completions-Had Intercepted        9-7-00  18-11-0   27-18-0Baltimore - Game 10 Loss 13-16 (6-13 at half) *** Roethlisberger did not play----------------------------------------------TOTAL NET YARDS                                      69       213       282Total Offensive Plays                                23        46        69NET YARDS RUSHING                                    10        60        70NET YARDS PASSING                                    59       153       212Pass Attempts-Completions-Had Intercepted       14-5-0   24-16-1   38-21-1Indianapolis - Game 11 Loss 7-26 (7-16 at half)----------------------------------------------TOTAL NET YARDS                                      75       122       197Total Offensive Plays                                31        23        54NET YARDS RUSHING                                    27        59        86NET YARDS PASSING                                    48        63       111Pass Attempts-Completions-Had Intercepted      14-10-1    12-7-01  26-17-2Cincinnati - Game 12 Loss 31-38 (17-21 at half)----------------------------------------------TOTAL NET YARDS                                     262       212       474Total Offensive Plays                                36        35        71NET YARDS RUSHING                                    44        51        95NET YARDS PASSING                                   218       161       379Pass Attempts-Completions-Had Intercepted      20-14-1   21-15-2   41-29-3Chicago - Game 13 Win 21-9 (14-3 at half)----------------------------------------------TOTAL NET YARDS                                     192       171       363Total Offensive Plays                                28        38        66NET YARDS RUSHING                                    62       128       190NET YARDS PASSING                                   130        43       173Pass Attempts-Completions-Had Intercepted       12-8-00    8-5-00  20-13-0Minnesota - Game 14 Win 18-3 (10-3 at half)----------------------------------------------TOTAL NET YARDS                                      99       176       275Total Offensive Plays                                25        33        58NET YARDS RUSHING                                    31       111       142NET YARDS PASSING                                    68        65       133Pass Attempts-Completions-Had Intercepted        9-4-00    6-6-00  15-10-0Cleveland - Game 15 Win 41-0 (20-0 at half)----------------------------------------------TOTAL NET YARDS                                     251       206       457Total Offensive Plays                                37        21        58NET YARDS RUSHING                                    66       143       209NET YARDS PASSING                                   185        63       248Pass Attempts-Completions-Had Intercepted      15-10-0     6-4-00  21-14-0Detroit - Game 16 Win 35-21 (21-7 at half)----------------------------------------------TOTAL NET YARDS                                      88       243       331Total Offensive Plays                                25        36        61NET YARDS RUSHING                                    52       147       199NET YARDS PASSING                                    36        96       132Pass Attempts-Completions-Had Intercepted       11-4-01    5-3-01   16-7-2===========================================================================Season Totals----------------------------------------------TOTAL NET YARDS                                    2501      2648      5149Total Offensive Plays                               455       505       960NET YARDS RUSHING                                   827      1396      2223NET YARDS PASSING                                  1674      1252      2926Pass Attempts-Completions-Had Intercepted     198-115-7 181-113-7 379-228-14Games with a Halftime Lead (11)----------------------------------------------TOTAL NET YARDS                                    1921      1796      3717Total Offensive Plays                               308       337       645NET YARDS RUSHING                                   679      1119      1798NET YARDS PASSING                                  1242       677      1919Pass Attempts-Completions-Had Intercepted      120-72-2   95-60-2 215-132-4Games without a Halftime Lead (5)----------------------------------------------TOTAL NET YARDS                                     580       852      1432Total Offensive Plays                               147       168       315NET YARDS RUSHING                                   148       277       425NET YARDS PASSING                                   432       575      1007Pass Attempts-Completions-Had Intercepted       78-43-5   86-53-5 164-96-10
People who thought they only started throwing the ball in the first half during the playoffs are sorely mistaken. Check out those games with a half time lead again...

 

[brewer]

Games with a Halftime Lead (11)----------------------------------------------TOTAL NET YARDS                                    1921      1796      3717Total Offensive Plays                               308       337       645NET YARDS RUSHING                                   679      1119      1798NET YARDS PASSING                                  1242       677      1919Pass Attempts-Completions-Had Intercepted      120-72-2   95-60-2 215-132-4Games without a Halftime Lead (5)----------------------------------------------TOTAL NET YARDS                                     580       852      1432Total Offensive Plays                               147       168       315NET YARDS RUSHING                                   148       277       425NET YARDS PASSING                                   432       575      1007Pass Attempts-Completions-Had Intercepted       78-43-5   86-53-5 164-96-10People who thought they only started throwing the ball in the first half during the playoffs are sorely mistaken.  Check out those games with a half time lead again...
<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

I know your point and I don't necessarily disagree, but the passing yards per game are only off by 25 in each of these scenarios:174.5 ypg when leading at half

201.4 ypg when trailing at half

Now, if you remove the 2 games they trailed at half when Ben didn't play, you get:

216.7 ypg when trailing at half(with Ben)

I think the more telling stat however was that when they were leading at halftime, 65% of their first half yardage came from passing, when they were not leading, 74% of their first half yardage came through the air.

Run, Willie, Run!

 

[Family Matters]

I think it's a smart move for the Steelers to do the same...you can't have the same gameplan week in and week out and expect to repeat your initial success.  Cowher and the Steelers know this.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

this is true, but the steelers will ALWAYS have the same gameplan once theyre in the lead in the 2nd half - at least as long as cowher is the coach.
<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

I think that's the key to how much they throw. I don't expect them to throw much with a lead. I expect them to continue to do what has been successful which is a solid running game. To think they will change that much is like saying Don Coryell likes to run alot. It will look and feel much like before unless there are defensive and/or special teams break downs that force the issue.So it's reasonable to suggest Ben will throw for 3200 yards and maybe 20-21 TD's but that's not much more than what he was doing. It certainly doesn't make for top 8 QB material.

 

[by_the_sea_wannabe]

Big Ben is only in his 3rd year in the league.  He has continued to grow and has consequently been handed more to do in the offense as time has gone on.  I think we learned this year that Ben can throw it up for over 300 yards.  Now are they going to do that on a regular basis, no, but I do think it is a positive that they continue to add weapons to his arsenal.

Let's not forget, they could have stolen Lendale White at 32 and instead deemed that Ben needed more options to throw the ball to.

I'd look for Ben to continue to post solid, top 10 fantasy number for the next 10 years or so through his efficiecy more than anything.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

No way does Pittsburgh pick white even at 32. He is not a "steeler". Holmes however is

 

[Franknbeans]

this is true, but the steelers will ALWAYS have the same gameplan once theyre in the lead in the 2nd half - at least as long as cowher is the coach.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Parker isn't exactly a workhorse. Hayes and Staley might be able to pick up the slack in a RBBC approach, but as you know the Steelers have been actively shopping the free agent RB market to no avail.
<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Link?As far as I know, they offered a 5th round pick for Duckett and that was it. The Falcons wanted a 3rd rounder and the Steelers said no thanks.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

I read so many things on so many sites that I don't know if I can point to a specific article. There's more to their shopping than just the Duckett talk...IIRC.
<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Surely you could provide another back they were shopping for? I check all the sites too so I'd be interested to hear another name.
<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

It may not have been a specific back, but more an article on how they're looking for RBs...if I have the time I'll look.
<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

I'll give you another chance before I call

 

[-OZ-]

So it's reasonable to suggest Ben will throw for 3200 yards and maybe 20-21 TD's but that's not much more than what he was doing. It certainly doesn't make for top 8 QB material.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

2004 13 games: 2621 / 17 (Per game: 200/1.25)

2005 12 games: 2385 / 17 (Per game: 198/1.4)

Your prediction: per games 200 / 1.25

I suppose it's reasonable to think Ben as a 3rd year QB will perform exactly the same as his rookie and sophmore season, with a broken thumb.

 

[LHUCKS]

I'll give you another chance before I call 

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

I have better things to do with my time.

 

[C & C]

Games with a Halftime Lead (11)----------------------------------------------TOTAL NET YARDS                                    1921      1796      3717Total Offensive Plays                               308       337       645NET YARDS RUSHING                                   679      1119      1798NET YARDS PASSING                                  1242       677      1919Pass Attempts-Completions-Had Intercepted      120-72-2   95-60-2 215-132-4Games without a Halftime Lead (5)----------------------------------------------TOTAL NET YARDS                                     580       852      1432Total Offensive Plays                               147       168       315NET YARDS RUSHING                                   148       277       425NET YARDS PASSING                                   432       575      1007Pass Attempts-Completions-Had Intercepted       78-43-5   86-53-5 164-96-10People who thought they only started throwing the ball in the first half during the playoffs are sorely mistaken.  Check out those games with a half time lead again...
<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

I know your point and I don't necessarily disagree, but the passing yards per game are only off by 25 in each of these scenarios:174.5 ypg when leading at half

201.4 ypg when trailing at half

Now, if you remove the 2 games they trailed at half when Ben didn't play, you get:

216.7 ypg when trailing at half(with Ben)

I think the more telling stat however was that when they were leading at halftime, 65% of their first half yardage came from passing, when they were not leading, 74% of their first half yardage came through the air.

Run, Willie, Run!

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Actually my main point was more in line with what you said. My last comment might of derailed that slightly. With that said, I think starting with the 2nd Cincy game and throughout the playoffs they relied heavily on Ben to setup the first half of games.Back to what we're talking about, with such a small sample set (16 games) it not always easy to derive meanings from the data. 72% run plays when you have a lead at halftime versus 51% when you don't seems significant to me.

If you think the Steelers will have an easier time for it then at best Ben's number will only marginally increase. If you think they'll struggle in alot of their games then Ben's numbers could take a significant increase.

 

[LHUCKS]

this is true, but the steelers will ALWAYS have the same gameplan once theyre in the lead in the 2nd half - at least as long as cowher is the coach.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Parker isn't exactly a workhorse. Hayes and Staley might be able to pick up the slack in a RBBC approach, but as you know the Steelers have been actively shopping the free agent RB market to no avail.
<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Link?As far as I know, they offered a 5th round pick for Duckett and that was it. The Falcons wanted a 3rd rounder and the Steelers said no thanks.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

I read so many things on so many sites that I don't know if I can point to a specific article. There's more to their shopping than just the Duckett talk...IIRC.
<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Surely you could provide another back they were shopping for? I check all the sites too so I'd be interested to hear another name.
<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

It may not have been a specific back, but more an article on how they're looking for RBs...if I have the time I'll look.
<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

I'll give you another chance before I call
<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Here you go skippy...

The Steelers would seemingly be interested in Duckett as a short-yardage and goal-line complement to running back Willie Parker.

"We'll continue to keep our options open," coach Bill Cowher said Sunday, when asked if he wanted to acquire a veteran running back before training camp.

 

[Ben Stiller]

this is true, but the steelers will ALWAYS have the same gameplan once theyre in the lead in the 2nd half - at least as long as cowher is the coach.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Parker isn't exactly a workhorse. Hayes and Staley might be able to pick up the slack in a RBBC approach, but as you know the Steelers have been actively shopping the free agent RB market to no avail.
<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Link?As far as I know, they offered a 5th round pick for Duckett and that was it. The Falcons wanted a 3rd rounder and the Steelers said no thanks.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

I read so many things on so many sites that I don't know if I can point to a specific article. There's more to their shopping than just the Duckett talk...IIRC.
<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Surely you could provide another back they were shopping for? I check all the sites too so I'd be interested to hear another name.
<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

It may not have been a specific back, but more an article on how they're looking for RBs...if I have the time I'll look.
<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

I'll give you another chance before I call
<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Here you go skippy...

The Steelers would seemingly be interested in Duckett as a short-yardage and goal-line complement to running back Willie Parker.

"We'll continue to keep our options open," coach Bill Cowher said Sunday, when asked if he wanted to acquire a veteran running back before training camp.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Certainly doesn't seem like a stretch to think that the Steelers would want to bring in another big RB to compete with their 7th rounder Humes for the final RB roster spot. Here's a blurb from ESPN:

Duckett off the market?

<May. 2> The Falcons, after reportedly fielding offers for Duckett, plan to hold on to the running back -- at least until they get a look at third-round pick Jerious Norwood, according to the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review.

The Steelers were among the teams that made an offer for Duckett on Sunday. Pittsburgh drafted Virginia Tech running back Cedric Humes in the seventh round, but is believed to be interested in adding a short-yardage back to complement Willie Parker.

 

[LHUCKS]

Certainly doesn't seem like a stretch to think that the Steelers would want to bring in another big RB to compete with their 7th rounder Humes for the final RB roster spot.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

No it really doesn't seem like a stretch...this board is annoying sometimes.

 

[Family Matters]

So it's reasonable to suggest Ben will throw for 3200 yards and maybe 20-21 TD's but that's not much more than what he was doing. It certainly doesn't make for top 8 QB material.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

2004 13 games: 2621 / 17 (Per game: 200/1.25)

2005 12 games: 2385 / 17 (Per game: 198/1.4)

Your prediction: per games 200 / 1.25

I suppose it's reasonable to think Ben as a 3rd year QB will perform exactly the same as his rookie and sophmore season, with a broken thumb.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Actually, I think Ben could be Manning like if they let him. I just don't see Pitts making the changes to do so. That's all I'm saying.

 

[Bri]

this is true, but the steelers will ALWAYS have the same gameplan once theyre in the lead in the 2nd half - at least as long as cowher is the coach.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Parker isn't exactly a workhorse. Hayes and Staley might be able to pick up the slack in a RBBC approach, but as you know the Steelers have been actively shopping the free agent RB market to no avail.
<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Link?As far as I know, they offered a 5th round pick for Duckett and that was it. The Falcons wanted a 3rd rounder and the Steelers said no thanks.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

I read so many things on so many sites that I don't know if I can point to a specific article. There's more to their shopping than just the Duckett talk...IIRC.
<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Surely you could provide another back they were shopping for? I check all the sites too so I'd be interested to hear another name.
<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

It may not have been a specific back, but more an article on how they're looking for RBs...if I have the time I'll look.
<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

I'll give you another chance before I call
<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Curtis Martinsteelers will always have the welcome mat out for him.

 

[EBF]

this is true, but the steelers will ALWAYS have the same gameplan once theyre in the lead in the 2nd half - at least as long as cowher is the coach.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Parker isn't exactly a workhorse. Hayes and Staley might be able to pick up the slack in a RBBC approach, but as you know the Steelers have been actively shopping the free agent RB market to no avail.
<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Link?As far as I know, they offered a 5th round pick for Duckett and that was it. The Falcons wanted a 3rd rounder and the Steelers said no thanks.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

I read so many things on so many sites that I don't know if I can point to a specific article. There's more to their shopping than just the Duckett talk...IIRC.
<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Surely you could provide another back they were shopping for? I check all the sites too so I'd be interested to hear another name.
<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

It may not have been a specific back, but more an article on how they're looking for RBs...if I have the time I'll look.
<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

I'll give you another chance before I call
<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Curtis Martinsteelers will always have the welcome mat out for him.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

I hope they have a wheelchair ramp.

 

[Franknbeans]

Certainly doesn't seem like a stretch to think that the Steelers would want to bring in another big RB to compete with their 7th rounder Humes for the final RB roster spot.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

No it really doesn't seem like a stretch...this board is annoying sometimes.
<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Let's agree to disagree tough guy I wouldn't call keeping their options open as actively shopping but whatever.

 

[Dancing Bear]

Last year the Steelers were among the NFL leaders in passing plays of 20+ yards and they were 1st in the league with passing plays of 40+!

To me this means that they are balancing their Offensive attack and taking whatever a Defense is giving them.

A special note with respect to loosing players ... The Steelers lost Burress; they doubled their plays of 40+ yards without him, and nearly doubled their passing TD's from 2004 to 2005. I think that the crew that they have assembled is superior to that of either 2003 or 2004. The addition of Holmes should be icing on the cake.

 

[Pick]

Q & A with Ben.

 

[Evilgrin 72]

Q & A with Ben.

One thing about Roethlisberger is that he always knows the right things to say.

 

[Fiddles]

good interview thanks pick

 

[nightshift]

"He's coming into an offense where the primary focus is to run the football," Steelers receivers coach Bruce Arians said. "So is he going to catch 100 balls? Hell no. But he should be able to break games open for us and be a big-play type of guy and draw some attention away from some other guys."

Another factor in the Steelers' decision to seek Holmes' speed is Ben Roethlisberger. The team has every reason to trust that, after operating game plans that kept heavy demands on his passing arm to a minimum, Roethlisberger is ready to carry a heavier offensive load.

"I think with the quarterback that we have, the ability to put some weapons around him is important," coach Bill Cowher said.

The Arians quote seems to indicate that Pittsburgh will be sticking with a run-first offense, but the Cowher quote hints towards more emphasis on the passing game. Roethlisberger must have been among the worst QBs in terms of attempts/game. He probably won't be leading the league in that category any time soon, but I think we're going to see a bump in his passing stats next season (and particularly in 2007).

You're still hopin' but it ain't gonna happen. Steelers will be a ruun first offense. Could Big Ben throw a couple more? Yes. It's just as likely he will throw a couple less, too.Read whatever you like into it, but the truth is a Cowher team lives and dies by the run game. Plus a great defense.

 

[EBF]

"He's coming into an offense where the primary focus is to run the football," Steelers receivers coach Bruce Arians said. "So is he going to catch 100 balls? Hell no. But he should be able to break games open for us and be a big-play type of guy and draw some attention away from some other guys."

Another factor in the Steelers' decision to seek Holmes' speed is Ben Roethlisberger. The team has every reason to trust that, after operating game plans that kept heavy demands on his passing arm to a minimum, Roethlisberger is ready to carry a heavier offensive load.

"I think with the quarterback that we have, the ability to put some weapons around him is important," coach Bill Cowher said.

The Arians quote seems to indicate that Pittsburgh will be sticking with a run-first offense, but the Cowher quote hints towards more emphasis on the passing game. Roethlisberger must have been among the worst QBs in terms of attempts/game. He probably won't be leading the league in that category any time soon, but I think we're going to see a bump in his passing stats next season (and particularly in 2007).

You're still hopin' but it ain't gonna happen. Steelers will be a ruun first offense. Could Big Ben throw a couple more? Yes. It's just as likely he will throw a couple less, too.Read whatever you like into it, but the truth is a Cowher team lives and dies by the run game. Plus a great defense.

I'll answer your :brokenrecord: with one of my own:Neil O'Donnell under Bill Cowher:

1992 - 313 attempts in 12 games

1993 - 486 attempts in 16 games

1994 - 370 attemps in 14 games

1995 - 416 attempts in 12 games

1585 attempts in 54 games.

Average attempts per game = 29.35

Average attempts per 16 game season = 469.6

470 is not a ton of attempts, but it's a respectable amount. It's more than Jake Delhomme, Peyton Manning, and Matt Hasselbeck had in 2005 (and they all played in 16 games). I think it's definitely enough to allow Roethlisberger to rank among the top FF QBs.

I fully understand that Pittsburgh is a run-first, clock-controlling team by choice. At the same time, I think it's important to remember a few things:

- Cowher has never had a QB as good as Ben. Would you have thrown a lot if Kordell Stewart was your QB? The closest thing Cowher has had to Roethlisberger was O'Donnell. He never approached Bulger or Warner levels of pass attempts, but he threw enough to make an FF impact. I think Ben will do the same, but with greater efficiency.

- Sometimes, things don't work out as teams hope they will. A few injuries and/or free agent losses can force teams to alter their game plan. Do you really think Jeff Fisher wanted his QBs to throw the ball 572 times in 2004? Fisher is a run-first coach like Cowher, but a few unfortunate circumstances forced him to abandon his preference in order to be competitive. You really can't discount the possibility of the same thing happening in Pittsburgh. In fact, you could argue that it recently did happen in 2003, when the smashmouth Steelers QB chucked it 519 times. Does Cowher want to throw a lot? Of course not, but that doesn't mean he won't be forced to at some point in the future.

I don't expect Roethlisberger to be an FF monster in 2006. However, I do think he's the best young QB in football, I do think he's going to be a solid FF starter in the near future, and I do think he has the potential to put up monster numbers if the situation works out properly. That's why I picked him. He should be a solid player with the potential to be a difference-maker.