The Steelers may have lost this game, but it was entertaining none the less. They made a valiant effort to wage a comeback from a 21 point deficit, but fell just a wee bit short. Bill Cowhers desire to avoid over time, resulted in a botched 2 point conversion that could have given Pittsburgh the victory.

But, at this time of year, victories are not as important as staying healthy, and playing well. With the exception of the special teams play, they were victorious on both counts.

The play of the Quarterbacks finally gave us some reason for optimism.

Although Kordell Stewart didn't have an outstanding day stats wise, he did look a little more confident in his role as the starter. He was only 8-18 for 82 yards, but he was victimized by some Troy Edwards, and Bobby Shaw drops. From what I saw, his only bad pass was to Hines Ward in the endzone. Ward had broke free, and was open, but Kordell bounced it to him.

He also had an interception in the endzone, but I give the credit to that on the good play of the Colts Safety Billy Austin. Mark Breuner was wide open, and Kordell drilled it to him. Trouble was, Austin flew out of nowhere for the pick. Apart from that, Stewart had a reasonably good day.

Kent Graham had his best day as a Steeler. He was 8-10 for 83 yards, including a TD pass to Malcolm Johnson. He looked comfortable in the system, and should prove to be an adequate replacement if Kordell falters again. He amazed me with his scrambling ability. I had always thought he was just a statue in the pocket.

Tee Martin won himself a spot on the club with his one series of action. He was 3-7 for 45 yards, and led the team on their final drive that fell a 2 point conversion short of victory. Rather than handing the ball off to Pepe Pearson, I would have liked to have seen Tee scramble to the end zone himself. He seems very poised as a rookie, and handles himself well on the field. He still has a lot to learn, but he could prove to be a valuable addition in a year or two.

None of these performances were pro bowl caliber, but it was better than we had seen in the first 3 games. If they can continue to improve, we might be able to win a few more games this year.

The thing I liked most about this game, is that they were only down 21-10 at halftime. Thanks to some poor special teams play, and Marvin Harrison burning Chad Scott, the Colts were able to score 21 unanswered points in 7 plays. From then on out, the game belonged to the Steelers.

Considering the Steelers were still without Jerome Bettis, Richard Huntley, and Dermontti Dawson, the team was able to hold its ground against a much better Colts team. I had visions of the team being embarrassed in this one, but they came out of it feeling pretty good about themselves.

I never want to see the team lose all of their preseason games, but I also think it's better if they don't win them all either. When a team wins too many, they get a false sense of security. If they lose too many, they start getting down on themselves.

Losing a game that could have easily went into overtime is the perfect match. The players leave Mexico feeling good about themselves, but they know there is still much work to be done. Once our big boys get healthy, I think the team will be just fine.

by SteelerGil (August 21, 00)