Hey Steelers fans. Welcome to Friday.
The Kickoff
It didn’t take a rocket scientist to figure out that many of the Steelers’ defensive players were upset with one of their teammates on Wednesday afternoon. From Cam Heyward to Patrick Queen, guys were frustrated and they were tired of “freelancing” and “hero ball.” But the question most fans were asking was, “Who are they talking about?” As I said in the opening, this doesn’t require a rocket scientist. Through a process of elimination one would have to conclude that the players are talking about either Minkah Fitzpatrick or Cam Sutton. Our analytics guru Ian did a terrific breakdown of who he believes it to be and it sure seems to hit the mark.
Let Fans Be Fans
We are all very frustrated by the recent struggles of our beloved Steelers but short of using facts, we cannot tell other fans how to feel. It’s part of being a fan. We are emotional, irrational at times and downright pissed but just let people vent whether you agree with them or not.
There’s a Positive Side?
We know what the offense did to the Bengals’ defense in Cincinnati several weeks back and we also know that the offense has struggled against much better opposition in recent weeks. If the offense can re-capture a little bit of that magic in the season finale then perhaps it will help create some confidence heading into the first round of the playoffs. Stranger things have happened right?
Tomlin’s Challenge
We all know – barring his own decision – that Mike Tomlin will return next season but assuming he’s coming off yet another unsuccessful postseason, will he be willing to change? He has to do some serious soul-searching regarding his defense and I’d also argue, his offensive line as well. Do I have faith he will make such changes? Sadly I do not but I want to give him the benefit of the doubt.
Good or Bad?
The one benefit of the ‘three games in 11 days’ thing is that the team does get some extra time between week 17 and week 18. I often wonder in these situations, coming off a three-game skid, is it better to get back on the field or take the break and dwell on things? In this instance, I think the break is sorely needed. From a health standpoint, it’s common sense, but I also think giving these guys some time away is positive too. We won’t know if this is a good thing or not until after the finale but as I sit here now, I feel it’s a good thing.
Ratings Kings
All due respect to LeBron James, but Christmas no longer belongs to the NBA. The ratings for the two NFL games were five times higher than the NBA games and there is some context to be had here. There are just 17 NFL games compared to the 82 NBA games so that does matter a bit. However, NBA ratings have declined significantly in recent years and especially this season. I used to love the NBA as a teenager but to be honest, I have zero interest in it now. It’s not the same game I grew up with and that doesn’t mean it’s bad. It’s just not for me anymore.
Random Reads
Perspective is always a good thing to have. Imagine being a Bears’ fan today. What a mess that has turned out to be… Steelers’ fans need to stop this idea of ‘boycotting’ the finale next week. If you really want to show your frustration then stop buying the jerseys and the gear, but you won’t… If you want something to boycott then start with the person in the press box who played ‘Renegade’ down 29-10 in the fourth quarter… If a team offered a first round pick this offseason for George Pickens, would you take it? I would… In recent weeks, I’ve changed my mind a bit on the MVP. Josh Allen has leveled off a bit whereas Lamar Jackson just keeps playing better. He’s grudgingly got my vote. I think Zach Frazier is clearly the Steelers’ rookie of the year, but I think Payton Wilson deserves some attention too.
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