The preseason came to a merciful conclusion on Saturday night in Buffalo, as the Steelers lost their 3rd game in 4 attempts. As far as games go, this one was quite boring. Apart from Doug Fluties touchdown drive on his one and only series, this game offered nothing in the way of excitement. People who tuned in to see an offensive explosion by the Steelers, left very disappointed. It was just another meaningless game, but now it's time for the real thing.
This new year excites me. The play of Joey Porter has been nothing short of outstanding. He will get lots of playing time thanks to the unfortunate arm break of Mike Vrabel. He has shown in the preseason that he has what it takes to be a quality pass rusher in this league. Teamed with Jason Gildon, we could get back to the sack totals we had with Kevin Green and Greg Lloyd.
Troy Edwards has shown flashes of brilliance during the meaningless games, but he also made too many mistakes. The faster pace of the NFL has led to dropped passes, bobbles, and fumbles. But, when the ball is in his hands, he knows what to do with it. His presence will improve our return teams, and add some excitement to our passing game. I'm really looking forward to watching his progression this year.
Keeping four Quarterbacks on the roster has me thinking Bill Cowher has something up his sleeve. Is it possible Anthony Wright can catch a ball as well as throw it? He has the same speed and elusiveness that Kordell brought to the table in '95. I'm not saying that Coach Cowher will use him as a wideout, but it might not be a bad idea.
The best news the Steelers received was that "The Bus" will be rolling in Cleveland. Cowher said Jerome could have played against the Bills, but he decided to play it safe and keep him out. The starting Offensive line appeared to play much better against Buffalo. With Bettis in the backfield, i'm sure they'll be ready to pump it up against the Browns.
The Steelers (and me) will be in Cleveland on September 12th to get the real season rolling. This will be the day when we find out if the Steelers and their personnel have learned the lessons necessary in preseason to create a winning formula. The additions of Wayne Gandy, Travis Davis, Troy Edwards, Joey Porter, Amos Zereoue and Chad Scott certainly appear to make us look like contenders again. On paper, they look like a very improved team. But paper doesn't win games. This first contest should be a true test to find out what we can expect for the coming year.
The Browns fans will be loud and obnoxious cheering for the team, and the game that deserted them for three long years. Emotion plays a big role in how a team plays, and I can guarantee the Browns will be more than pumped up to play the Steelers. I can also guarantee that the Steelers will be pumped to go out and make a statement to the rest of the league that they are back! One thing for sure is that it will be loud and crazy on the field, as well as in the stands.
I will do my small part, and cheer relentlessly for the visiting team. If I can cheer loud enough, maybe I can fire up the boys in black and gold and raise their emotion level higher than the home town team, and lead us to victory. If I can do that, my mission in Cleveland will be accomplished.
by Steelergil (Sept.6, 99)