Steelers (2007) (1 Viewer)

[Frenchy Fuqua]

ACP thanks for the head's up, you alerted us all to Lolley last year. He has great reports...

Today's doesn't sound so good for Timmons.

Thursday, July 26, 2007

First injury

The first injury of this Pittsburgh Steelers training camp reared its ugly head Thursday and it's somebody the team can't afford to miss much time.

First-round pick Lawrence Timmons aggravated his groin injury that kept him out of the team's offseason workouts midway through Thursday morning's practice and spent the remainder of the session with trainers John Norwig and Ryan Grove testing the injury.

There's no initial prognosis, but the injury didn't seem serious and Timmons looked to be staying off the field more as a precaution than anything. But given the fact that he missed all of the OTAs and most of mini-camp, it's certainly something that is going to hold him back in terms of his growth as a player.

The injury came just a few plays after Timmons, a linebacker, made his first big play of this camp. Dropping into coverage, Timmons jumped a pass in the flats in zone coverage and picked off the Charlie Batch ball, making a juggling catch along the sidelines.

The highlight of the morning was a new twist on the backs on backers pass-rush, pass-protection drill. This time, it was safeties and nickel backs rushing the running backs.

The offense looked to have gotten the better of it, but Troy Polamalu and Anthony Smith were everything but unblockable, beating practically everybody they went up against.

Polamalu even beat unofficial blocking champion Dan Kreider in a heavyweight matchup. He uses a variety of spin moves and looks more like a defensive end rushing rather than a safety.

Smith, meanwhile, was just explosive, running through people to get to the QB. He hits like a truck.

The offensive star of the drill was Carey Davis. The first-year running back went 5-0 in the drill, even stopping Smith on the final attempt of the drill. Smith slipped coming in and never really made it to Davis with any force, but the young back already had stoned Ricardo Colclough, Bryant McFadden, Harrison Smith and Deshea Townsend.

Perhaps that's why Davis is the only surprise player on the No. 1 punt coverage team, where he plays one of the wings.

QB Ben Roethlisberger looked sharper today. He made a great pass deep over the middle while rolling to his right to Hines Ward. Ward had gotten behind the safeties and the duo made it look easy.

Ryan Clark was back working with the No. 1 Okie base defense this morning.

Also of note is that sources tell me that running back Kevan Barlow, signed as a possible backup to Willie Parker, is the worst character guy the Steelers have had since this source has been here. That dates back nearly 10 years.

The players are also upset that they do not have a scheduled day off in the first two weeks of camp. They're not complaining publicly about it - yet.

posted by Dale Lolley at 11:18 AM 0 comments

 

[Pittsburgh United]

The offense looked to have gotten the better of it, but Troy Polamalu and Anthony Smith were everything but unblockable, beating practically everybody they went up against.Polamalu even beat unofficial blocking champion Dan Kreider in a heavyweight matchup. He uses a variety of spin moves and looks more like a defensive end rushing rather than a safety.

Also of note is that sources tell me that running back Kevan Barlow, signed as a possible backup to Willie Parker, is the worst character guy the Steelers have had since this source has been here. That dates back nearly 10 years.

Cut this bum.

 

[BigSteelThrill]

Its a groin, I hope they test him slowly and methodically. If it needs any more time, fine.

Just dont rip the sucker so he wont be available come playoff time. It will re tard his progression, but wont stop it completely. Patience.

First injury

The first injury of this Pittsburgh Steelers training camp reared its ugly head Thursday and it's somebody the team can't afford to miss much time.

First-round pick Lawrence Timmons aggravated his groin injury that kept him out of the team's offseason workouts midway through Thursday morning's practice and spent the remainder of the session with trainers John Norwig and Ryan Grove testing the injury.

 

[Sheriff66]

Ben looking sharp

Steelers Notebook: It happened one night -- Ben looking sharp

Saturday, July 28, 2007

By Ed Bouchette, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Coach Mike Tomlin abandoned the live goal-line drill that for years traditionally ended a Steelers night training camp practice, only he forgot to tell that to quarterback Ben Roethlisberger.

Roethlisberger treated the goal line as his personal playground, throwing consecutive touchdown passes and adding a third in 11 on 11 to the delight of the estimated 12,000 fans who turned out last night at Memorial Stadium in Latrobe.

The quarterback looked in top form as he rifled a 15-yard pass in the left front of the end zone to Cedrick Wilson, who held on after a big hit from safety Tyrone Carter. Next, Roethlisberger showed perfect touch on a 15-yard lob pass to tight end Heath Miller, who stretched his 6-foot-5 frame just enough in the right back corner of the end zone for the score.

Although Roethlisberger did throw one misguided pass on a rollout that safety Anthony Smith dropped in the end zone, the quarterback came back and pitched a 35-yard touchdown to Nate Washington.

"I was real pleased,'' said offensive coordinator Bruce Arians. "He knows what he's doing right now."

Well-deserved breather

Tomlin eased up on his team for the first time.

He extended their curfew last night after practice and canceled this morning's scheduled 90-minute practice at Saint Vincent College.

Although the players still must attend meetings this morning, it's the first time they will not have two daily practices since their first Tuesday morning. They will have a two-hour practice starting at 2:55 p.m. that is open to the public.

"It's good to throw the guys a bone now and then," Tomlin said.

Timmons a spectator

No. 1 draft pick Lawrence Timmons wasn't involved in last night's practice. After reinjuring his groin on Thursday, Timmons watched morning special teams practice for 10 minutes and then left the field when quarterbacks and the offensive line were dismissed.

Timmons is expected to play on several special teams as a rookie but things are not off to a good start.

Two, but not tough

There are two-a-day practices, and then there are two-a-days and not all are the same. That first coach Tomlin held on the first morning of camp, Tuesday, was a real practice, two hours long and plenty of hitting.

Then there was yesterday's one-hour drill. It was all special teams, no hitting -- unless you count the number of times players tried to knock down a volleyball as they "rushed" the punter.

Ten minutes into the morning practice, the entire offensive line and the four quarterbacks were dismissed, along with Hines Ward and Timmons. They walked back into the dorm with two coaches, offensive coordinator Bruce Arians and line coach Larry Zierlein.

Thirty minutes later, the defensive line departed.

Block that kick?

Watching special teams practices in the morning -- unfortunately, not open to the public -- is like watching a three-ring circus. Over here, players are running and batting volleyballs as if they are saving a punted football from bouncing into the end zone. Over there, more volleyballs are being pooch punted as players try to block them.

The former regime rarely tried to block kicks and maybe this one won't either, but they're certainly putting a lot of practice time into it.

There's also the football-on-a-stick. Think banana-on-a-stick, only the stick is about 3 feet long and the football is not covered in chocolate. It's not exactly high-tech; the coaches use it to signal the snap from center -- they hold the stick, put the ball on the ground and yank it up on the snap.

Don't forget the skinny posts. That's what they call a certain route run by receivers down the middle.

Now they are literally using skinny posts in practice -- goal posts about half the width of normal ones so kickers, I suppose, can get used to kicking through tighter quarters.

The other day, they went to the mattresses -- not like La Cosa Nostra -- using big foam rubber things as a soft landing ground for players trying to extend their bodies to block a punt. No bedsprings involved and no bedposts.

Holmes still out

Santonio Holmes again did not practice. Holmes, who might practice soon, had a non-football "procedure" before camp started.

Haynes comes back

Halfback Verron Haynes practiced for the first time last night after the Steelers withdrew him from the physically unable to perform list.

Haynes must fight to reclaim his spot on the team as a third-down back and backup halfback.

The competition is keen for Haynes with Najeh Davenport, Kevan Barlow, John Kuhn and a couple of other free agent backs in camp.

Haynes blew out his left knee -- virtually every ligament in it -- last November and made a miracle comeback to practice in the spring. Such injuries normally take at least a year to heal.

"I wasn't even supposed to be practicing until November," Haynes said.

"They don't want the setbacks to occur. So right now since I'm ahead of schedule, they want to keep it that way, monitor everything. Coach talked to me: It's a long preseason. We're just going to monitor it day by day."

Haynes has been running this week.

Rehage returns

Another player who came off the PUP list and practiced for the first time last night was linebacker Derek Rehage, who did so wearing a splint on his broken thumb.

 

[CrossEyed]

Some interesting observations from Dale Lolley on Kevan Barlow.

Also of note is that sources tell me that running back Kevan Barlow, signed as a possible backup to Willie Parker, is the worst character guy the Steelers have had since this source has been here. That dates back nearly 10 years.

Kevan Barlow looked lost at times as a blocker.

On the other hand, Kevan Barlow looks like he's got nothing in the tank. That, coupled with what I learned about his lack of character, leads me to believe he has not shot of making this team.

 

[Godsbrother]

Some interesting observations from Dale Lolley on Kevan Barlow.

Also of note is that sources tell me that running back Kevan Barlow, signed as a possible backup to Willie Parker, is the worst character guy the Steelers have had since this source has been here. That dates back nearly 10 years.

Kevan Barlow looked lost at times as a blocker.

On the other hand, Kevan Barlow looks like he's got nothing in the tank. That, coupled with what I learned about his lack of character, leads me to believe he has not shot of making this team.

If true, Barlow better get his act together. It is a bit crowded at RB right now. The Steelers are probably only going to keep 5 RBs. Parker, Davenport and Kreider are locks and if Haynes makes it through camp without a setback he'll likely keep his job due to his versatility and ability to play special teams. That leaves one spot for Barlow, Russell, Kuhn, Davis and Croom.

 

[BigSteelThrill]

Some interesting observations from Dale Lolley on Kevan Barlow.

Also of note is that sources tell me that running back Kevan Barlow, signed as a possible backup to Willie Parker, is the worst character guy the Steelers have had since this source has been here. That dates back nearly 10 years.

Kevan Barlow looked lost at times as a blocker.

On the other hand, Kevan Barlow looks like he's got nothing in the tank. That, coupled with what I learned about his lack of character, leads me to believe he has not shot of making this team.

If true, Barlow better get his act together. It is a bit crowded at RB right now. The Steelers are probably only going to keep 5 RBs. Parker, Davenport and Kreider are locks and if Haynes makes it through camp without a setback he'll likely keep his job due to his versatility and ability to play special teams. That leaves one spot for Barlow, Russell, Kuhn, Davis and Croom.

 

[McBokonon]

The below is Dulac's little round-up, which includes Ward complaining a bit about some hard hits on the receivers in practice...training camp stuff. But also mentioned:

Wide receiver Santonio Holmes participated in individual drills for the first time and will participate in a full practice today -- his first since training camp began. Holmes, last year's No. 1 draft choice, has not practiced because of an undisclosed non-football-related surgical procedure.

"Just getting the opportunity to get back on the field felt good," Holmes said. "I'm tired of sitting around and watching."

 

[AhrnCityPahnder]

Even more dumping on Barlow. This dude is history.

http://steelers.scout.com/2/662699.html

By Jim Wexell

SteelCityInsider.com

Posted Jul 29, 2007

The Steelers are providing few reps and even fewer carries for Kevan Barlow, and that doesn't bode well for the Pittsburgh kid. Read below for more.

LATROBE – On paper, the addition of Kevan Barlow seemed to strengthen a thin position for the Steelers.

But on the field, the Steelers are giving Barlow the impression that he may not make it past the first round of cuts.

That’s how light Barlow’s workload has been lately.

“Physically, I feel good. I feel better than I have in a long time,” Barlow said on Saturday. “But I didn’t get no reps today and I don’t know why. Maybe coach wanted to take a different look. You’ve got to ask him why.”

Running backs coach Kirby Wilson wasn’t around to answer the question. And the next day, Sunday, the elusive coach again bounced off the field ahead of reporters. Barlow saw a bit more action on Sunday. The previous day, during an extended 9-on-7 run-game drill, the order of the tailbacks was: Willie Parker, Najeh Davenport, Carey Davis, Gary Russell, Verron Haynes, Barlow, Dan Kreider and Larry Croom.

That put Barlow at sixth-team tailback, just ahead of the blocking fullback. And Barlow’s carry in the drill was his only touch of the day.

On Sunday, Barlow did receive two reps during the team scrimmages, but both were with the backups. He did not appear in any of the six goal-line reps and he doesn’t understand why.

“In my mind, I’ve always been a starter and that’s how I prepare myself mentally and that’s how I try to take my reps, as a starter,” he said. “I asked him today, but … you’ll have to ask him yourself.”

The problem may have begun with Barlow’s poor blocking performance during Friday night’s blitz drill with the linebackers. He’s also been tentative going through holes and one newspaper report indicated the Steelers are less than pleased with his character.

Wilson, the new RB coach, is a fanatic about blitz pick-up. Earlier in the week he had commented on his group of running backs this way:

“Najeh is really an outstanding pass protector. Carey Davis is doing some really good things. John Kuhn is really a better pass protector than he’s given credit for.”

Wilson also said of Russell, the free-agent rookie from Minnesota: “He’s shown he’s got an appetite for violence right now.”

Willie Parker also drew Wilson’s praise. When asked specifically about Parker, Wilson called him “an ultimate warrior.”

Wilson went on about Parker: “He’s got the heart of a lion and he relishes every opportunity to get better. He thrives on fear and that’s what keeps him going. You don’t have to motivate Willie. It’s very important to him. He’s got a lot of pride and he wants to be the best, he wants to win every drill. He’s a self-motivated guy. You don’t have to light a match under him. It’s already lit when he walks out on the football field. He’s definitely one of my favorites because of the size factor. You always root for the little guy and the underdog.”

Parker showed his ferociousness and blocking “want-to” in the DBs-on-RBs blitz drill Sunday afternoon. The mouthiest DB, Tyrone Carter, pushed Parker after Parker had stopped Carter cold. Parker pushed him back and the two went facemask-to-facemask and a fight appeared imminent, but did not materialize.

“I got a shot at him, but we’re talking so much it’s going to be like that,” Parker said. “But that’s my boy. He’s not a troublemaker. He’s just got a lot of mouth and I was trying to hit it.”

With Parker showing the heart to block as if he’s one of the bigger backs – i.e. Davenport, Davis, Kuhn, Haynes and even Russell – the tone has been set at the position. Even Barlow stepped up and stoned a DB (Anthony Madison) in his one and only rep during Sunday’s blitz pick-up. However, it may be a case of too little, too late for the hometown kid.

 

[Tom Servo]

I *thought* I heard on DVE that Barlow got pancaked by Woodley in the RB - LB drill last week.

If he can't handle blitz pickup, he's toast.

 

[AhrnCityPahnder]

I *thought* I heard on DVE that Barlow got pancaked by Woodley in the RB - LB drill last week. If he can't handle blitz pickup, he's toast.

According to the Lolley blog, it was Davenport. but from what I keep reading, Woodley is pancacking lots of mugs

 

[Franknbeans]

Even Barlow stepped up and stoned a DB (Anthony Madison) in his one and only rep during Sunday’s blitz pick-up. However, it may be a case of too little, too late for the hometown kid.

Let's hope so :11:

 

[3C's]

Interesting bit from the Lolley blog. They're using Dlinemen on O at the goal line.

Hampton made the big move after that, switching over to offense, where he lined up at fullback in front of Davenport. The play went behind right guard and Hampton hit the hole full speed, running into linebacker Clint Kriewaldt. It was a wasted effort as Davenport was stopped at the 1.

After that, it was defensive end Brett Keisel's turn to line up with the other side. Keisel set up on next to left tackle and ran a drag across the end zone and Batch lofted a pass that Keisel hauled in along the back line with two defenders in tow.

 

[Godsbrother]

With Parker showing the heart to block as if he’s one of the bigger backs – i.e. Davenport, Davis, Kuhn, Haynes and even Russell – the tone has been set at the position. Even Barlow stepped up and stoned a DB (Anthony Madison) in his one and only rep during Sunday’s blitz pick-up. However, it may be a case of too little, too late for the hometown kid.

I think it is way too early for this. The Steelers already know what they have in Parker so he's not going to see a lot of action past the 1st quarter in preseason. They'll also take it easy on Haynes for at least the first couple preseason games. With 5 preseason games there will be plenty of opportunity for Barlow.Barlow was brought in for depth so I think it is likely they'll hold on to him for awhile in case someone gets hurt in camp.

 

[Memphis Foundry]

One thing's for sure -- Kirby Wilson should get more interview time.

Wilson also said of Russell, the free-agent rookie from Minnesota: “He’s shown he’s got an appetite for violence right now.”

That's good stuff, right there.

 

[Tom Servo]

I *thought* I heard on DVE that Barlow got pancaked by Woodley in the RB - LB drill last week. If he can't handle blitz pickup, he's toast.

According to the Lolley blog, it was Davenport. but from what I keep reading, Woodley is pancacking lots of mugs

My bad. I was more excited about Woodley's pancake than who was on the receiving end.

 

[Pittsburgh United]

Wilson also said of Russell, the free-agent rookie from Minnesota: “He’s shown he’s got an appetite for violence right now.”Willie Parker also drew Wilson’s praise. When asked specifically about Parker, Wilson called him “an ultimate warrior.”

I love what I've been hearing out of camp.

 

[CrossEyed]

Gotta love FWP.

Willie Parker's goal is to be like LaDainian Tomlinson, only betterTuesday, July 31, 2007By Ed Bouchette, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Now that he has shown he's no fluke, Willie Parker wants to reach for the stars and not the twinkle-twinkle little ones, either. He has set his sights on the North star of the NFL, the brightest of the bright.They don't come any more luminous than San Diego halfback LaDainian Tomlinson, the reigning NFL Most Valuable Player after he set league records with 31 touchdowns and 186 points last season."I want to be better than L.T.," Parker proclaimed yesterday between the Steelers' double practices at Saint Vincent College. "L.T. can do all that stuff. He's like a role model to me. I look up to this guy. I just want to do what he does."The goals don't get much bigger, but then Parker backed up his 1,202-yard season in 2005 with 1,494 yards last season, third most in a franchise history that includes Franco Harris, John Henry Johnson and Jerome Bettis.He did so by carrying the ball 337 times, fourth most in Steelers history. Now Parker wants more, much more. He does not want to leave the playing field this year; he wants to not only be their starting halfback, he wants to stick around for third downs as well."I want to do it all," Parker said. "I wouldn't be no running back if I say I want to come off the field in certain situations. I want to do all the situations."His coaches are inclined to let him do it, too. New coordinator Bruce Arians believes in running his best players until their tongues hang out, and Parker might be the odds-on favorite to take over the role as third-down back, something Tomlinson does rather well."L.T.'s had a lot of touches, and if Willie has those kinds of touches, his yards could be the same," Arians said. "I like the fact he wants to be better. I don't ever want him on the bench unless he's tired."And, as new running backs coach Kirby Wilson noted, why take your best players out of the game?"Any time your best player is capable of playing [downs] one through three, you want him out there, especially with all the chips on the line."Tomlinson ran for 1,815 yards on 348 carries for the Chargers last season. He also caught 56 passes for 508 yards. Parker caught 31 passes for 222 yards, many on first down. His 16 touchdowns set a Steelers record but were barely half Tomlinson's total.Also, if Parker were the third-down back, he'd have more opportunities to run against defenses that are spread out to defend against the pass."That's something I'm beginning to love, it's something I'm taking a lot of pride in right now," Parker said of the third-down role. "I want to be on that field catching screens on third down."Receiver Hines Ward talked to Parker before training camp and advised him to work on his blocking and receiving this summer. He did it in the spring and has continued it in Latrobe because you can't play on third downs if you can't block the blitz."Willie Parker has a chance to be great because he's willing to identify what he needs to work on, and he's doing it," coach Mike Tomlin said. "He's doing a heck of a job."The L.T. goal is a lofty one, but Parker's story already has a can-you-top-this feel. Undrafted mostly because he was a backup at North Carolina, Parker played little as a rookie and then burst into the NFL consciousness in his second season, 2005, when he won the starting halfback job. He rushed for those 1,202 yards and then set a Super Bowl record by running 75 yards for a touchdown.A fluke, a scatback who only runs outside, a one-hit wonder -- Parker heard it all, then carved out his niche near the top of the Steelers' record book last season.Like Pittsburgh and its smoky image that won't go away, people thought of Parker as an outside runner. Even Tomlin, coaching the past six years in the NFC, thought that of him. He changed his mind after watching video of him from last season, saying he did not realize he was such a good runner inside."Everybody looks at my speed and says he's just so fast. They look at me as an outside runner," Parker said. "I'm always going to carry that. But I'm always banging inside too. I'm going to get the yards whatever it takes."In fact, Parker prefers to run between the tackles."I'd rather have the hole inside; you can spring them into a big play. Outside, you don't usually go too far."And, to be sure, Parker wants to go far, not so much to Tomlinson's level, but higher."That's a long goal and a big one, but that's what drives him," Wilson said. "He wants to be considered in that category and on that level."

 

[Pops]

For what it's worth, I was there Sunday afternoon. They had a drill where CB were blitzing off the corners and the RB had to pick it up.

Krieder had a really rough time of it getting beat quite a bit. I think it was just an off day.

Tyrone Carter was crushing everyone in site. Running over, around and thru everyone, except FWP. Parker caught him up under the pads and tossed him aside which turned into a nice little scuffle between the two. Parker also stood up Ike Taylor on a nice block. I was very impressed with Parker and his picking up the blitz.

 

[Godsbrother]

For what it's worth, I was there Sunday afternoon. They had a drill where CB were blitzing off the corners and the RB had to pick it up. Krieder had a really rough time of it getting beat quite a bit. I think it was just an off day.Tyrone Carter was crushing everyone in site. Running over, around and thru everyone, except FWP. Parker caught him up under the pads and tossed him aside which turned into a nice little scuffle between the two. Parker also stood up Ike Taylor on a nice block. I was very impressed with Parker and his picking up the blitz.

Nice to hear that about Parker.Everything I have heard is that Kreider's role is going to be reduced quite a bit this season. Here is a blurb from the PPG's Ed Bouchette last Friday:

Ed Bouchette's daily questionFriday, July 27, 2007Pittsburgh Post-GazetteQuestion:There has been alot of talk about not being as predictable on offense and running out of three and four receiver sets. Do you think this will diminish Dan Kreider's role and are we losing our identity as a power running team? Russell Bird, Wytheville, Va.BOUCHETTE: Yes, I do see Kreider's role reduced. If you're running with four wide receivers or three wide and a tight end, there's only room for one back. Now, if you open with three wide receivers, you can still use the fullback without the tight end. However, coordinator Bruce Arians says he wants to use more tight ends and that usually means less of the fullback. He also can put a tight end in the backfield as an h-back, something they've practiced a lot since the spring. Kreider is a great blocker, but the problem is the Steelers do not give him the ball much, in fact hardly at all. That means they are predictable in that sense. With a tight end, say Heath Miller, there's a chance they might throw to him and he also can block. I don't think they're losing their identity, they're just trying to broaden their offense.

 

[Franknbeans]

Nice chat transcript here from yesterday

Some Excerpts...

MPM: Has there been any rookie free agent that has impressed you so far in camp and is challenging for a roster spot?

Ed Bouchette: Several. I like running back Gary Russell from Minnesota, the kid who gained 1,000 yards in 2005 as a backup and then flunked out of school. He's lost 40 pounds and looked good in his first week. The big kid from IUP, Jason Capizzi, had a good week as an OT. Derrick Jones, an end from Grand Valley State, appears to have some pass rush ability.

leesteins: How is the competition for #2 running back looking these days?

Ed Bouchette: Najeh Davenport pretty much has that nailed down.

skirace217: I know it's early, but if you had to guess, which RBs do you think make the team?

Ed Bouchette: Yes, it is early. I'll go out on a limb and say Parker and Davenport. After that, it's way too early. I could see Carey Davis making it as FB/RB and special teams. John Kuhn is reliable. If he can stay healthy, Verron Haynes and maybe Gary Russell. I know that's probably 2 too. You'd probably have to decide between Kuhn and Davis because they're both rb/fb and between Haynes and Russell. Dan Kreider is the fb.

skirace217: No love for Kevan Barlow, Ed?

Ed Bouchette: Oh, did I not include Kevan on that list?

DCP: No Barlow in the RB mix?

Ed Bouchette: Kevin had a really tough first week of camp.

 

[Steel Dillo]

Sirius NFL Radio is at Steeler's camp right now.

Currently interviewing Willie "Joe's Man Crush" Parker.

 

[Pops]

Local TV is reporting Parker has a sore knee and may not play Sunday. Missed 2nd straight day of camp.

http://kdka.com/topstories/local_story_213145813.html

 

[BigSteelThrill]

Local TV is reporting Parker has a sore knee and may not play Sunday. Missed 2nd straight day of camp.

http://kdka.com/topstories/local_story_213145813.html

He wont practice or play all week. Its a given.The Steelers play 5 preseason games, so its not unexpected.

Lets see what happens with Parker in the other weeks of practice and games.

 

[Franknbeans]

That blog hasn't been updated since Sunday but I found this...

Inside the ropes: Aug. 1

By Joe Starkey

TRIBUNE-REVIEW

Wednesday, August 1, 2007

The secondary shone in 11-on-11 play, making four interceptions during the morning session. That included a spectacular, leaping pick of a Brian St. Pierre pass by free agent Grant Mason (Michigan). Fittingly, the session ended with an interception by free agent cornerback Jovon Johnson (Iowa). This prompted much celebrating among the defensive backs.

"They say it's contagious," said cornerback Ike Taylor. "Hopefully, we can keep it going. ... It's hard for us to make plays, so when we do, we have to celebrate a little bit."

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He's alive!: First-round draft pick Lawrence Timmons (groin) once again sat out practice, but he did do some pass-defense drills with team orthopedist Dr. James Bradley, who would hold out a ball and move it in the direction he wanted Timmons to go.

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Safety first: Strong safety Troy Polamalu made the play of the day when he reached over Heath Miller's right shoulder and intercepted a Ben Roethlisberger pass. Miller dropped a pass from Charlie Batch earlier in the session.

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Go, Willie, Go!: Second-year receiver Willie Reid continued to impress from the slot position. On one play, Reid hauled in a short pass over the middle from Batch and sped down the right sideline toward the end zone. On another, he burned Grant Mason, which prompted coach Mike Tomlin to yell, "Hey, Willie Reid, all right!"

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Trickery: The kicking game got crazy late in the afternoon session. First, holder Daniel Sepulveda took a snap on a field-goal attempt, picked it up and raced around the right end. Later, the team lined up for a 52-yard field-goal attempt, and kicker Jeff Reed took a direct snap and pooch-punted. When Reed went to cover the kick, he was on a collision course with linebacker Clark Haggans and ducked out of bounds. Reed turned to reporters, laughed, and said, "He would have kicked my (butt)."

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Nice haul: The receivers had their moments during 11-on-11 play in the morning session, particularly on a series of red-zone plays that started at the 15-yard line. Santonio Holmes made a leaping touchdown catch in front of Bryant McFadden, and Walter Young jumped high in front of Taylor and landed with both feet in-bounds in the back of the end zone. Later, in the middle of the field, Hines Ward made a one-handed catch in front of Taylor.

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Legends of the game: Hall of Famers Joe Greene and Franco Harris watched part of the afternoon session together on the hill behind the bleachers at newly christened Chuck Noll Field.

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Getting his kicks: Directional punting wasn't supposed to be rookie Daniel Sepulveda's strongsuit, but he put on an impressive display of it during the morning session. Sepulveda seemingly placed the ball wherever he wanted -- left sideline, right sideline, down the middle.

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Warding them off: On a red-zone play in the afternoon session, the Steelers lined up with three tight ends, a wide receiver (Ward) and a running back (Najeh Davenport). QB Charlie Batch connected with Ward on a short touchdown pass.

 

[3C's]

If Reid can stay healthy he's going to be fun to watch. Ward, Holmes, Reid.

 

[Irish]

There's never enough balls to go around, but wide receiver Cedrick Wilson knows he's not getting his fair shareThursday, August 02, 2007Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Cedrick Wilson feels ignored and he's not happy about it.The Steelers receiver complained yesterday that his quarterbacks don't throw the ball his way enough in practice or games, even when he's wide open."I come out here and work hard just like everybody else. I deserve a couple of passes," an angry Wilson said shortly after morning practice ended on a pass play that provoked an outburst by him.Backup Charlie Batch threw a pass toward an underneath receiver that was intercepted by cornerback Jovon Johnson. Wilson, wide open deep, cursed loudly in the end zone about it and again during an interview."Yeah," he said, "then you all talk about how I ain't [expletive] and I never get the [expletive] football."He later explained that, for whatever reason, Steelers quarterbacks largely ignore him in the passing game."I can't help if the quarterback doesn't throw me the ball," said Wilson, the starting split end last season and still running with the first team. "I'm running my routes, I'm doing the right things. You can't help if the quarterback doesn't throw you the ball."Hall of Famers John Stallworth and Lynn Swann staged an intense competition to attract more balls their way, even schmoozing quarterback Terry Bradshaw. Asked if he ever talked to quarterback Ben Roethlisberger about it, Wilson said, "I try.""He can just do his thing," Wilson said. "As long as we're successful, I'm fine."Clearly, though, he is not. Asked if he were ignored often when open, Wilson said: "You tell me. You watch the games. Don't you watch the games?"Wilson said he has no idea why."I don't know. I don't know. I just have to work, I guess."Bruce Arians, the new offensive coordinator, said a receiver wanting the ball more is not a bad thing."They all want the ball more," Arians said. "There are not enough footballs to go around."Wilson was third on the team with 37 receptions and fourth with 504 yards last season, his first as a starter since the Steelers signed him as an unrestricted free agent in 2005 to help replace Plaxico Burress. He scored one touchdown.He was the starting split end until a sprained ankle Dec. 3 against Tampa Bay. Rookie Santonio Holmes, who had rotated every other series with Wilson for much of the season, took over from there.Holmes' 49 receptions for 824 yards were second on the team last season and led all AFC rookies. Holmes, a first-round draft choice, is listed as the starter on the depth chart with Wilson behind him, but Wilson also questions that. Holmes missed the first four days of practice because of a minor surgical procedure and has remained behind Wilson since his return Sunday."I think everybody's competing for a job," Wilson said. "I don't think anything's locked up. We have a new coach; he doesn't know anybody. That's a good thing for a lot of guys."We'll see how it works out. I'm in front of him right now. [Last season], I got hurt for four games so I finished behind him."Told it was assumed by many that Holmes would be the starter, including the official depth chart, Wilson said that was probably natural."You know what? He's a first-round pick, he's young. That's obvious. But at the same time, you still have to come out to the field and play."I didn't do anything last year to have my job taken away from me but get hurt. You shouldn't lose your job on account that you got hurt, know what I mean? Plus, you only lose your job on account you got hurt with a first-round pick behind you. At the same time, I caught all the balls that were thrown to me last year."Wilson was fourth on the team with 26 receptions for 451 yards in 2005 when he played behind starting split end Antwaan Randle El but rotated series with him.Arians re-worked the playbook this year to include more use of three and four wide receivers on first down, more use of three tight ends and even more use of Willie Parker as a third-down back.Are there enough footballs to go around?"I don't know, you know? I hope there are," Wilson said. "I just have to focus on the balls I get, I guess, because there ain't a lot of them, I'll tell you that much."

Someone might be talking their way off the team.

 

[Franknbeans]

Cedrick needs to realize he's in a competition for his job

 

[The Hank]

Mike Tomlin is a crazy man! I love it!

Check this out from the PG.

Wardrobe warfare

Tomlin has worn black every day of training camp, but for the past two days he's at least in shorts and not the long pants he wore last week. He's still wearing long-sleeved black shirts, though, as temperatures hover around the 90s at Saint Vincent.

Finally, yesterday, he let on why.

"It's part of the mental warfare. I don't want guys coming up to me and talking about how hot it is because they know I don't care. And that's part of it. I hope it gets hotter."

 

[AhrnCityPahnder]

Dear Cedric,

I noticed you seem unhappy this year. I have some words of encouragement for you that hopefully will brighten your day a bit.

Shut the hell up and go play football. Count your lucky stars that you're going to earn $2M as a #3 or #4 receiver this year. Go catch your 18 balls, and barring injury to ward, holmes, washington and reid this year, you gladly will have a chance to catch way more balls somewhere else next year. Any further sniveling on your part will result in your immediate nomination for the 2007 Lee Mays Award™.

Yours in Buddha,

ACP

 

[Godsbrother]

Dear Cedric, I noticed you seem unhappy this year. I have some words of encouragement for you that hopefully will brighten your day a bit.Shut the hell up and go play football. Count your lucky stars that you're going to earn $2M as a #3 or #4 receiver this year. Go catch your 18 balls, and barring injury to ward, holmes, washington and reid this year, you gladly will have a chance to catch way more balls somewhere else next year. Any further sniveling on your part will result in your immediate nomination for the 2007 Lee Mays Award™.Yours in Buddha,ACP

Lee Mays was a warrior :(

 

[Heinz 57]

I recall Cedric being WIDE open in no mans land frequently last year. I understand his argument. What he should do, however, is not to pull a Faneca and cry to the reporters about it, what he should do is speak softly and let the film do all the talking. He'll make the team.

 

[Irish]

I recall Cedric being WIDE open in no mans land frequently last year. I understand his argument. What he should do, however, is not to pull a Faneca and cry to the reporters about it, what he should do is speak softly and let the film do all the talking. He'll make the team.

Cedric and Wide open should never be used in the same sentence. Wilson can only get wide open on trick and misdirection plays. I rarely have seen him be able to get seperation on the DB on his own merits. Most of the time the DB is right there to make a play or Ben has to throw it where only Wilson has a shot at it. That is why Wilson spends most of his time on the field complaining to the refs to get a PI call.

 

[The Hank]

I recall Cedric being WIDE open in no mans land frequently last year. I understand his argument. What he should do, however, is not to pull a Faneca and cry to the reporters about it, what he should do is speak softly and let the film do all the talking. He'll make the team.

Cedric and Wide open should never be used in the same sentence. Wilson can only get wide open on trick and misdirection plays. I rarely have seen him be able to get seperation on the DB on his own merits. Most of the time the DB is right there to make a play or Ben has to throw it where only Wilson has a shot at it. That is why Wilson spends most of his time on the field complaining to the refs to get a PI call.

 

[McBokonon]

Just in case anybody else didn't notice, the blog referenced earlier has moved. I was getting frustrated that it hadn't been updated since Sunday and finally decided to look around:

http://nflfromthesidelines.blogspot.com/

 

[AhrnCityPahnder]

Just in case anybody else didn't notice, the blog referenced earlier has moved. I was getting frustrated that it hadn't been updated since Sunday and finally decided to look around:

http://nflfromthesidelines.blogspot.com/

thanks. Was wondering what was up too.

 

[AhrnCityPahnder]

Hey Guys.....a little birdie just told me that we have

STEELERS FOOTBALL KICKING OFF IN 6 HOURS.

 

[Pittsburgh United]

I have a suspicion Tomlin is going to show us maybe 0% of what's in the actual playbook. He strikes me as the kind of coach who would have separate plays for the preseason and a complete surprise in store for the regular season. Anyone else have this suspicion.

Either way -- HERE WE GO!!!!!!!!

 

[acme]

I'd love to listen to the game via web cast.

Do any of you guys know what station will be carrying it? Even better, might you have a link?

Never been to Pittsburgh, but the Steelers are one of my AFC favorites (I'm a cursed Lions fan first.)

 

[McBokonon]

I'd love to listen to the game via web cast.

Do any of you guys know what station will be carrying it? Even better, might you have a link?

Never been to Pittsburgh, but the Steelers are one of my AFC favorites (I'm a cursed Lions fan first.)

Bookmark this site for the season. On the left you can see where you navigate. Just try both teams until you get one, but you'll usually find one.

 

[acme]

I'd love to listen to the game via web cast.

Do any of you guys know what station will be carrying it? Even better, might you have a link?

Never been to Pittsburgh, but the Steelers are one of my AFC favorites (I'm a cursed Lions fan first.)

Bookmark this site for the season. On the left you can see where you navigate. Just try both teams until you get one, but you'll usually find one.

mighty cool. thanks guy.

 

[Fiddles]

Wave em if u got em

 

[beavers]

 

[Guapote]

I realize this has no fantasy relevance, and that's it's still early in camp, just wondering if there's any word on how Dallas Baker is doing. I saw he had no stat line, and I fell asleep during the game (and had a crappy sopcast to watch anyway) so I'm not sure he got in the game at all. Just curious as a Gator and Steeler fan, and hoping he catches on. He really grew up during his time at UF, and I hope he makes the most of his opportunity in Pittsburgh. He seemed like a good blocker, and was always willing to take a hit, did some things that made me think he might have a chance there.

Thanks.

 

[3C's]

I realize this has no fantasy relevance, and that's it's still early in camp, just wondering if there's any word on how Dallas Baker is doing. I saw he had no stat line, and I fell asleep during the game (and had a crappy sopcast to watch anyway) so I'm not sure he got in the game at all. Just curious as a Gator and Steeler fan, and hoping he catches on. He really grew up during his time at UF, and I hope he makes the most of his opportunity in Pittsburgh. He seemed like a good blocker, and was always willing to take a hit, did some things that made me think he might have a chance there.Thanks.

I don't remember seeing him. I don't think he'll make the 53 man roster, but maybe he'll go to the practice squad.

 

[Godsbrother]

I realize this has no fantasy relevance, and that's it's still early in camp, just wondering if there's any word on how Dallas Baker is doing. I saw he had no stat line, and I fell asleep during the game (and had a crappy sopcast to watch anyway) so I'm not sure he got in the game at all. Just curious as a Gator and Steeler fan, and hoping he catches on. He really grew up during his time at UF, and I hope he makes the most of his opportunity in Pittsburgh. He seemed like a good blocker, and was always willing to take a hit, did some things that made me think he might have a chance there.Thanks.

Supposedly he's been looking good in camp but I don't think he had anything thrown his way last night. I had a couple buddies over and we went out to finish our cigars in the 4th quarter so I am not 100% sure.With Ward, Holmes, Wilson, Washington, Reid and even Walter Young (looked pretty good last night) I think Baker is likely headed for the practice squad. Then again Washington could be in trouble if he doesn't find a cure for his dropsies.

 

[Memphis Foundry]

GB is right -- Walter Young made a couple of great grabs on tough throws last night and looked really good -- I was amazed. But Nate Washington looked about as surprisingly bad as Young did surprisingly good. I don't remember any balls going Baker's way all night -- they didn't throw much once Randall got into the game, though.

 

[Leeroy Jenkins]

I realize this has no fantasy relevance, and that's it's still early in camp, just wondering if there's any word on how Dallas Baker is doing. I saw he had no stat line, and I fell asleep during the game (and had a crappy sopcast to watch anyway) so I'm not sure he got in the game at all. Just curious as a Gator and Steeler fan, and hoping he catches on. He really grew up during his time at UF, and I hope he makes the most of his opportunity in Pittsburgh. He seemed like a good blocker, and was always willing to take a hit, did some things that made me think he might have a chance there.Thanks.

Supposedly he's been looking good in camp but I don't think he had anything thrown his way last night. I had a couple buddies over and we went out to finish our cigars in the 4th quarter so I am not 100% sure.With Ward, Holmes, Wilson, Washington, Reid and even Walter Young (looked pretty good last night) I think Baker is likely headed for the practice squad. Then again Washington could be in trouble if he doesn't find a cure for his dropsies.

Walter Young has been on the cusp the past few years IMO. I'm not a fan of Nate Washington and if the Steelers must make a choice, I'd be pulling for Young. (Ward, Wilson, Holmes, Reid, Young). If they keep 6 I would guess Washington makes it over Baker though. (and willie reid better get over his fumblitis)

 

[Barry Jive and The Uptown Five]

All I have to say about last night's game is that the play of the rookies on defense made me giddy.

Woodley dropping back in coverage on the TE and making a play on the ball.

William Gay... I simply haven't gotten tired of watching that hit on Meachum.

Gay's interception ...

Just goes to show how well this team drafts, year in & year out.

 

[AhrnCityPahnder]

http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/07219/807500-66.stm

Steelers' offense impresses Ward

Tuesday, August 07, 2007

By Ed Bouchette, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Steelers beat writer Ed Bouchette asks receiver Hines Ward if Sunday's performance means the team will move away from its offensive strategy of the past:

"We're going to be balanced ..."

The veteran starting wide receiver not only did not catch a pass in the Steelers' first preseason game, the quarterback never looked his way.

Hines Ward, though, did not feel ignored Sunday night in Canton, Ohio. He felt refreshed. He sees a Steelers offense spreading its wings.

"We looked sharp," Ward said after his one-and-out series produced a quick 7-0 lead on the way to a 20-7 victory against New Orleans. "We came down and took the first drive and scored points. You couldn't ask anything more out of the first offense.

"That's how we've looked at training camp. We've been looking good. We're only going to get better and better once the offensive line and starting five get together, and the continuity with the receivers, quarterback and tight end. I'm excited about the offense."

Bruce Arians promised more diversity in the offense when he took over as its coordinator this year. It may be a natural evolution as quarterback Ben Roethlisberger matures and he taps into more of what Willie Parker might be able to do for it.

Parker did not play Sunday night because of inflammation in his left knee. Provided that turns no more serious than coach Mike Tomlin has said it is, the Steelers could strike the kind of balance that eludes many NFL offenses.

Parker ranks among the league's more dangerous tailbacks, and if the passing game improves, defenses will have a more difficult time preparing against the Steelers. They ranked 10th in the NFL in rushing last season, ninth in passing.

The plan is not to abandon the ground game that was so good to them through the years, but to make defenses respect their passing game more.

"Bruce Arians is still someone who likes to run the ball," Ward said. "We're just not going to be one-dimensional anymore, using our run to set up our pass.

"We want to be balanced. We gave [the Saints] a lot of fronts. You saw, on first down, four wides. We ran the ball out of four wides, but you can also throw it out of four wides. That's only going to make a lot of teams study harder for us. But at the same time, it's putting our players in a position to go out there and make plays."

No one made more of them than wide receiver Cedrick Wilson Sunday night. He complained on the field and off at Saint Vincent College that his quarterbacks have been ignoring him. Roethlisberger told him before the game he would be a prime target and he delivered with catches of 55 and 18 yards on the first scoring drive, and four total for 99 yards in the first half.

Wilson ran with the first team at split end last week after Santonio Holmes, listed first on the depth chart, missed the first week of camp following minor surgery. Holmes replaced Wilson Sunday night and caught three passes for 48 yards in the first half, plus a touchdown on a lob pass from Brian St. Pierre.

"I know Ced was griping about not getting the ball earlier in the week," Ward said. "But he got his opportunities. He came out and capitalized on it. Santonio came in off an injury and missing camp and scored a touchdown.

"When that's happening and we're still able to put up some nice numbers offensively while not having Willie, and me not catching a ball, we're excited where this offense can go."

There was no Parker, no passes to the tight ends or Ward, and none of the no-huddle Arians wants to use more often. Still, he did use four wide receivers on first down and three tight ends as advertised. Ward said he noticed a marked difference in the offensive philosophy in the second quarter when St. Pierre lofted a pass that Holmes caught for his 3-yard touchdown in the back right corner of the end zone.

It came on second down.

"You see we threw a fade down in the end zone!" Ward said as if the Steelers had pulled a rabbit out of a hat. In the past, "we'd pound it. On second down, we threw a fade into the end zone!"

Of course, they often scored when they pounded it. Former coordinator Ken Whisenhunt oversaw an offense that not only helped the Steelers go 15-1 in 2004 and to a Super Bowl victory in 2005, but he helped Roethlisberger's birthing process into the NFL.

The Steelers' offense actually turned during the run to the Super Bowl, when Roethlisberger came out throwing early in the playoffs, the Steelers jumped out to leads and then buried the victory on the ground. Last year, Roethlisberger's physical setbacks and his NFL-leading 23 interceptions delayed the progress they are trying to regain now.

"Bruce believes in his players," Ward said. "Being wide receivers coach, he knows what we can do. He's going to put his trust and faith in Ben and his receivers to go out and make a play and we did that."