Simple poll, Vote with your mind, not your heart (1 Viewer)

[top dog]

Although, as previously pointed out, being the underdog and losing <> choking.  That being said, is there another more over-rated coach in the NFL?  Cowher has had TONS of talent on his teams in the past decade or so and has nothing to show for it.  Sure he has division titles and what not, but they remind me of the Braves in baseball.  Always in the middle of it, but you always know they won't win it all.

I don't think that is fair. There is something to be said for always being in the thick of it. Cowher is one of the winningest coaches of the last ten plus years. Jeff Fisher, Andy Reid and Tony Dungy haven't won Super Bowls either, but I would still call them very good or even great coaches. And for the record, Bobby Cox has won one World Series championships with the Braves.

Yes he does, but he has still lost like 8000 playoff series.. I just get tired of hearing about "Cowher this.. and Cowher that.." when in reality, Cowher is just an above average coach (maybe).

 

[top dog]

He lost with a better team in 1994, I'll give you that. But in 1997 he lost to an Elway led Bronco team when Stewart threw 3 INTs and fumbled once. In 2001, he lost when the Patriots scored TDs on a punt return and a blocked field goal. He called for Josh Miller to punt it out of bounds, but Miller missed and kicked it right to Troy Brown. And in 2004, the Steelers lost to a Patriots team that were road favorites in Heinz Field.

1994 - I agree. They lost to a better team1997 - Stewart threw for over 3000+ yards that year. Threw for 20+ and ran for 11. He was still "Slash" at that point. 2001 - Stewart once again threw for over 3000 yards. Not as many TDs, but only 11 ints. I'll also point out that in 2002 Maddox threw for almost 3000 yards and did throw for over 3000+ in 2003. That's 4 years of pretty good passing. I guess you could call those "ok" years of passing, but for Steeler fans to put the blame on their QB is a little weak.And as far as other talent, let's not forget that Ward and Burress played together for 5 years.. In 2001 and 2002 they both put up 1000+ receiving years. Not one of them, but BOTH. Pitt has always had a solid running game.. and their defense is usually near the top.So.. If you have a QB putting up close to 3000 yards, with a couple 1000 yard receivers, a pretty good running game, and an above average defense and you still manage to not win in the playoffs.. I think you have to start looking at the coaching staff.

 

[AhrnCityPahnder]

Any updates on the Corey Simon injury? His playing or not playing could be very important to the outcome of this game IMO.

 

[djcolts]

Any updates on the Corey Simon injury?  His playing or not playing could be very important to the outcome of this game IMO.

Bill Polian said last night on his radio show that Simon practiced yesterday and should be ready for the game. I'm a little concerned about RT Ryan Diem - he didn't practice on Monday so I'd guess he will likely be questionable but also likely will play.

 

[fred_1_15301]

Damn, I knew the margin would be wide, but not by this much.

Well when you exclude Steeler fans (like me) this is what you get. On paper, this is a huge mismatch in my opinion. Fortunately, the game isn't played on paper and that gives the Steelers a chance.

 

[Godsbrother]

He lost with a better team in 1994, I'll give you that.  But in 1997 he lost to an Elway led Bronco team when Stewart threw 3 INTs and fumbled once.  In 2001, he lost when the Patriots scored TDs on a punt return and a blocked field goal.  He called for Josh Miller to punt it out of bounds, but Miller missed and kicked it right to Troy Brown.  And in 2004, the Steelers lost to a Patriots team that were road favorites in Heinz Field.

1994 - I agree. They lost to a better team1997 - Stewart threw for over 3000+ yards that year. Threw for 20+ and ran for 11. He was still "Slash" at that point.

2001 - Stewart once again threw for over 3000 yards. Not as many TDs, but only 11 ints.

I'll also point out that in 2002 Maddox threw for almost 3000 yards and did throw for over 3000+ in 2003.

That's 4 years of pretty good passing. I guess you could call those "ok" years of passing, but for Steeler fans to put the blame on their QB is a little weak.

And as far as other talent, let's not forget that Ward and Burress played together for 5 years.. In 2001 and 2002 they both put up 1000+ receiving years. Not one of them, but BOTH.

Pitt has always had a solid running game.. and their defense is usually near the top.

So.. If you have a QB putting up close to 3000 yards, with a couple 1000 yard receivers, a pretty good running game, and an above average defense and you still manage to not win in the playoffs.. I think you have to start looking at the coaching staff.

You're right, Kordell Stewart and Tommy Maddox are outstanding QBs. How the Steelers could have lost with those guys at the helm is unbelievable.

 

[ravnzfan]

:X only this opponent could have me pull out a yellow snot ragI dread having to watch my 2 least favorites, but it is, afterall, an NFL playoff game, so I'll be watching:gostillers

 

[jurb26]

OK, question. When you say vote with your mind does that mean vote blindly for the higher seated team with HF? Cause that's what I did.

 

[Steelers4Life]

He lost with a better team in 1994, I'll give you that.  But in 1997 he lost to an Elway led Bronco team when Stewart threw 3 INTs and fumbled once.  In 2001, he lost when the Patriots scored TDs on a punt return and a blocked field goal.  He called for Josh Miller to punt it out of bounds, but Miller missed and kicked it right to Troy Brown.  And in 2004, the Steelers lost to a Patriots team that were road favorites in Heinz Field.

1994 - I agree. They lost to a better team1997 - Stewart threw for over 3000+ yards that year. Threw for 20+ and ran for 11. He was still "Slash" at that point.

2001 - Stewart once again threw for over 3000 yards. Not as many TDs, but only 11 ints.

I'll also point out that in 2002 Maddox threw for almost 3000 yards and did throw for over 3000+ in 2003.

That's 4 years of pretty good passing. I guess you could call those "ok" years of passing, but for Steeler fans to put the blame on their QB is a little weak.

And as far as other talent, let's not forget that Ward and Burress played together for 5 years.. In 2001 and 2002 they both put up 1000+ receiving years. Not one of them, but BOTH.

Pitt has always had a solid running game.. and their defense is usually near the top.

So.. If you have a QB putting up close to 3000 yards, with a couple 1000 yard receivers, a pretty good running game, and an above average defense and you still manage to not win in the playoffs.. I think you have to start looking at the coaching staff.

Look, Stewart had half decent numbers in 1997 and 2001. The problem with him at that point was that when he got the playoffs and his "slashness" was taken away, he couldn't lead the team to victory with his arm. When he tried, he made mistakes. Stewart's mistakes in 1997 were most of the reason they lost by 3 to Denver, and that game really shook his confidence. They overcame Stewart's shortcomings in 2001, only to watch special teams cost them the AFC Championship.You know why Maddox threw for a lot of yards in 2002 and 2003? Because the offensive line was in shambles and the running game struggled mightily in 2003, and the defense wasn't very good at all in 2002. They passed a lot those two years not because Maddox was good at it, but because they had to.

If people want to blame Cowher for sticking with Kordell too long, that's fine. It wasn't completely his call, because he's not nor has he ever been the GM. A lot of the other things that have gone wrong were out of his control.

 

[JohnnyU]

OK, question. When you say vote with your mind does that mean vote blindly for the higher seated team with HF? Cause that's what I did.

No, that means to vote on who you think will win without regards to team homerism.

 

[bullitt]

It would be hard to believe that the Steelers can go back there and win, anything is possible, but it is just not probable.

 

[JohnnyU]

It would be hard to believe that the Steelers can go back there and win, anything is possible, but it is just not probable.

Not really. The Colts haven't played a good game in 6 weeks. Add the fact the starters haven't played a whole game in awhile, and the Dungy tragedy, the Colts could come out flat. They could find themselves down 17-3 in the 3rd QTR. On the other hand, if they practice well, and have blood and spit in the eyes for Dungy, the game could be over before halftime.

 

[Godsbrother]

If people want to blame Cowher for sticking with Kordell too long, that's fine. It wasn't completely his call, because he's not nor has he ever been the GM. A lot of the other things that have gone wrong were out of his control.

True, and it wasn't like he didn't try anyone else. During Kordell's "reign" he was benched for Mike Tomczak (twice), Kent Graham, and eventualy replaced by Tommy Maddox. The Steelers really didn't have a lot of great alternatives.

 

[jurb26]

If people want to blame Cowher for sticking with Kordell too long, that's fine. It wasn't completely his call, because he's not nor has he ever been the GM. A lot of the other things that have gone wrong were out of his control.

True, and it wasn't like he didn't try anyone else. During Kordell's "reign" he was benched for Mike Tomczak (twice), Kent Graham, and eventualy replaced by Tommy Maddox. The Steelers really didn't have a lot of great alternatives.

It also helped that Kordell did actually play well a few years while he was here in Pitt. People seem to forget that very easily.

 

[djcolts]

I got this email signed by Tony Dungy and Bill Polian (as did all Colts season ticket holders):

Dear (djcolts),The NFL Playoffs are finally here, and there is no place we would rather be!Throughout this exciting season, our "12th Man" has been the best in the league. This is a particularly vital element of "home field advantage" as we head into the playoffs. In an effort to keep the RCA Dome a "sea of blue" we are asking those of you who have tickets but cannot attend the game to do everything possible to make sure that your tickets end up in the hands of Colts fans. Our fans are critical to our success on the field, so if you cannot be there please make sure that someone who bleeds blue is in your seat. Thank you for your support. Go Indiana. Go Indianapolis. Go COLTS!

 

[Steelers4Life]

I got this email signed by Tony Dungy and Bill Polian (as did all Colts season ticket holders):

Dear (djcolts),

The NFL Playoffs are finally here, and there is no place we would rather be!

Throughout this exciting season, our "12th Man" has been the best in the league. This is a particularly vital element of "home field advantage" as we head into the playoffs. In an effort to keep the RCA Dome a "sea of blue" we are asking those of you who have tickets but cannot attend the game to do everything possible to make sure that your tickets end up in the hands of Colts fans. Our fans are critical to our success on the field, so if you cannot be there please make sure that someone who bleeds blue is in your seat.

Thank you for your support. Go Indiana. Go Indianapolis. Go COLTS!

That's a smart move... as long as it's not artificially pumped up crowd noise, that's fair game.

 

[djcolts]

I got this email signed by Tony Dungy and Bill Polian (as did all Colts season ticket holders):

Dear (djcolts),

The NFL Playoffs are finally here, and there is no place we would rather be!

Throughout this exciting season, our "12th Man" has been the best in the league. This is a particularly vital element of "home field advantage" as we head into the playoffs. In an effort to keep the RCA Dome a "sea of blue" we are asking those of you who have tickets but cannot attend the game to do everything possible to make sure that your tickets end up in the hands of Colts fans. Our fans are critical to our success on the field, so if you cannot be there please make sure that someone who bleeds blue is in your seat.

Thank you for your support. Go Indiana. Go Indianapolis. Go COLTS!

That's a smart move... as long as it's not artificially pumped up crowd noise, that's fair game.

I thought people would get a kick out of this. I understand the motives, but it is pretty funny.

 

[Steelers4Life]

If people want to blame Cowher for sticking with Kordell too long, that's fine.  It wasn't completely his call, because he's not nor has he ever been the GM.  A lot of the other things that have gone wrong were out of his control.

True, and it wasn't like he didn't try anyone else. During Kordell's "reign" he was benched for Mike Tomczak (twice), Kent Graham, and eventualy replaced by Tommy Maddox. The Steelers really didn't have a lot of great alternatives.

It also helped that Kordell did actually play well a few years while he was here in Pitt. People seem to forget that very easily.

Actually, even at his "best," he was never a good passer and never a QB who could win a game with his arm. That was his big shortcoming, and that's what caused him the problems in the playoffs.He was a novelty in 1997, but once that was solved, he was never anything close to that productive again.

 

[nightshift]

The Colts are not going to be intimidated by anyone! They are dishing out as much as they are taking this season(which is new for us).



STEELERS 27

My Pretty Ponies 20

Modified for your enjoyment (or Indy disappointment).Sincerely,

HERE WE GO, STEELERS, HERE WE GO!

 

[JohnnyU]

The Colts are not going to be intimidated by anyone! They are dishing out as much as they are taking this season(which is new for us).



STEELERS 27

My Pretty Ponies 20

Modified for your enjoyment (or Indy disappointment).Sincerely,

HERE WE GO, STEELERS, HERE WE GO!

God that post gave me a headache. Nice job Don.

 

[Cookiemonster]

Another no-vote Steeler fan. 1) I believe the fact that Marvel Smith will be in is a big difference from the game before. I don't think he can STOP Freeney, but a pro-bowl LT should slow him down a hell of a lot more than a rookie.2) RCA dome was the loudest road game most of these Steelers have ever faced, and they weren't prepared. Since then, they have been working on silent counts and hand signals.3) Last game, Ben was rusty. This game, Peyton will be a little off.4) Last game, Cowher didn't employ the proven method of defending Manning. A shifting 3-4 designed to limit Peyton's ability to recognize blitz/coverage pre-snap and make the correct audibles.I actually believe the Steelers should be about 3 point dogs, but it won't be a close game. Either the Steelers get to Manning and frustrate him, leading to the more famous and common Manning playoff meltdown. Or the Colts are able to stuff the run again and the game is over very early.*) The wild card and great unknown is how the Colts will come out of the tunnel following the time off and the Dungy tragedy. If they're a little off on timing and blitz pickup, I see my first projection coming true. If they are motivated to perform for their coach and have been practicing and studying dilligently, the latter.The Colts are the better team, and I believe its up to them and how they have handled the circumstances.

 

[apalmer]

I find it interesting that the "experts" at ESPN all seem to indicate that if the Steelers can somehow hold Indy to less than 30 points they can win, but "doubt" that they can (which also seems to be the consensus here). Was anyone watching the earlier game? Yeah, the Steelers got whipped, but even after 2 INT's and the disastrous onside kick, the Colts only scored 26. Other than the bomb on the first play, their scoring drives were only 45 (29 yard FG), 6 (48 yd. FG), 19 (44 yd. FG), 37 (TD) and 26 (28 yd. FG) yards. Cut out the turnovers and the cheap scores and it's a close game. That's where the burden has to be this week: be patient with the running game, don't turn it over and force the Colts to play on more than 1/2 a field and the Steelers can win.(Also a no-vote homer)

 

[JohnnyU]

The noise will in the dome will make it impossible for Roethlisberger to pickup the blitz packages. I think that will be a BIG factor. There is no doubt that Pittsburgh will throw a few INTs. Like I said earlier, the biggest advantage Pittsburgh has, is the amount of potential rust that may have accumulated on the Colts. If they can have the lead midway through the 3rd QTR, they have real shot. On the other hand, this game could be over by the 6:53 mark of the 2nd QTR. The Colts will throw deep early and often.

 

[jonessed]

I don't think Pitt can put the pressure on Manning that SD did. They have a better secondary, but Manning seems to pick any secondary apart as long as he has time. They can win if they keep the points down, but I don't see it sub 30.

 

[Steelers4Life]

The noise will in the dome will make it impossible for Roethlisberger to pickup the blitz packages. I think that will be a BIG factor. There is no doubt that Pittsburgh will throw a few INTs. Like I said earlier, the biggest advantage Pittsburgh has, is the amount of potential rust that may have accumulated on the Colts. If they can have the lead midway through the 3rd QTR, they have real shot. On the other hand, this game could be over by the 6:53 mark of the 2nd QTR. The Colts will throw deep early and often.

The noise gave the Steelers a hard time last time, but they're more prepared for it this time. They practiced for it before the Vikings game, and they know what to expect now. More silent counts, and Marvel Smith will be at LT instead of Trai Essex. Both are significant differences, especially Smith. Ben might throw a few INTs, but I don't necessarily think it's a lock that he will. He's playing very, very well right now and he's not rusty like he was for their first meeting. He missed some open WRs in that game that he normally doesn't miss, so there were opportunities to make plays that day. And through it all, they missed a game tying field goal in the 2nd quarter and only trailed by 6 with 30 seconds left in the 1st half.

If Manning gets time, he'll be able to do damage like he always does. It's the job of the Steelers to force them to kick field goals instead of scoring TDs. They were successful doing that last time.

 

[apalmer]

I don't think Pitt can put the pressure on Manning that SD did. They have a better secondary, but Manning seems to pick any secondary apart as long as he has time. They can win if they keep the points down, but I don't see it sub 30.

I find it interesting that the "experts" at ESPN all seem to indicate that if the Steelers can somehow hold Indy to less than 30 points they can win, but "doubt" that they can (which also seems to be the consensus here). Was anyone watching the earlier game? Yeah, the Steelers got whipped, but even after 2 INT's and the disastrous onside kick, the Colts only scored 26. Other than the bomb on the first play, their scoring drives were only 45 (29 yard FG), 6 (48 yd. FG), 19 (44 yd. FG), 37 (TD) and 26 (28 yd. FG) yards. Cut out the turnovers and the cheap scores and it's a close game. That's where the burden has to be this week: be patient with the running game, don't turn it over and force the Colts to play on more than 1/2 a field and the Steelers can win.

Like I said......

 

[JohnnyU]

They have a better secondary, but Manning seems to pick any secondary apart as long as he has time.

Pitt is weak against the long pass, and the Colts protect Manning for the most part. The Colts WILL connect on at least 2 bombs, and possibly more.

 

[Ghost Rider]

I think it is important to remind everyone that while the Colts only scored 26 points off of the Steelers in the game a few months ago, does anyone really think they wouldn't have scored more if they had to? The Colts defense was playing extremely well and the Colts offense was extremely conservative for the last quarter plus of that game because they knew their defense was going to hold the lead.

I think what has to worry Steelers fans is they their defense hasn't played well lately. They didn't look very good against Detroit two weeks ago and Kitna was moving the ball pretty well on them last week until they figured out he couldn't throw the deep ball like Palmer (and Manning) can. It is scary to think what Manning will do to them this weekend if they keep playing like that.

 

[Steelers4Life]

I think it is important to remind everyone that while the Colts only scored 26 points off of the Steelers in the game a few months ago, does anyone really think they wouldn't have scored more if they had to? The Colts defense was playing extremely well and the Colts offense was extremely conservative for the last quarter plus of that game because they knew their defense was going to hold the lead.

I think what has to worry Steelers fans is they their defense hasn't played well lately. They didn't look very good against Detroit two weeks ago and Kitna was moving the ball pretty well on them last week until they figured out he couldn't throw the deep ball like Palmer (and Manning) can. It is scary to think what Manning will do to them this weekend if they keep playing like that.

I think what you're going to see is a lot of defenses specifically designed to prevent the long ball. They may give up more underneath stuff as a result, but they'll try and make Manning go down the field as slowly as possible. And like I said, keeping them to field goals instead of TDs will be huge. Other than that 80 yard bomb on the first play of the game, they did a great job limiting those plays last time. They scored 26 points, yes. However, they started in Pittsburgh territory on 4 of their 6 scoring drives, and they started on their own 44 in another one.

I don't expect this game to be anything like the last one for a lot of reasons. Doesn't mean the Steelers will win, just that the game will play out much differently.

I'm definitely concerned that the secondary hasn't played well the past 2 weeks, so we'll see how they do this week.

 

[Frenchy Fuqua]

If Porter and Haggans are MIA this week it won't matter how good our secondary is. To stop Manning the Steelers need pressure from these guys without having to send extra LBs/DBs.