What the heck is going on around here?

Not only are the Quarterbacks sputtering along, but the Receivers have developed a sudden case of dropsies. Maybe they are just too shocked when they actually see a ball in their hands. There were 7 dropped balls in the first half alone on Friday night. Troy Edwards had 3 all by himself. This isn't a good sign heading into the first week of the season.

They way the Offense is playing, it looks like they could use another few weeks to prepare. Maybe it's a good thing they get the bye week in week 2. This is the second year under Offensive Coordinator Kevin Gilbride, and it doesn't look like they will ever learn his system. It's far too complicated, and this unit isn't talented enough to make it work.

In all fairness to Kent Graham, this is his first year under the system. But that is no excuse for missing a wide open Mark Breuner in the end zone. Although he has played better than Kordell Stewart this preseason, he hasn't exactly lit up the playing field. Kordell has played so poorly that Graham should have won the starting job hands down.

That is not the case. They have both been so bad that Bill Cowher can't decide which Quarterback will hurt the team the least. He knows that no matter who the starter is, the recipe for disaster is on the table. That is why he decided to go with two starting QB's this year.

That's right. Their both starters. It might not be that bad of an idea. Coach Cowher hasn't said how they will share the duties, just that they will.

Kent is going to be the starter on opening day. That only makes sense. The crowd at Three Rivers has already decided they won't give Kordell a chance. But let Kent Graham throw one interception, and you can bet they will be chanting for Kordell.

It has always been that way. The favorite player at Three Rivers is the back up QB. Cowher knows that, and it wouldn't surprise me if his strategy is to play Kent at home, and Kordell on the road. It goes against all conventional thinking, but they way Kordell has played at home the last 2 seasons, it just might work to have him start road games only.

Or maybe he plans on sharing the duties equally during a game. Let Kent play on first and second downs, and bring in Kordell on third down passing situations when the blitz is likely to be on. He could also use Kordell on the short yardage plays where he is like an extra Running Back.

Maybe the coach plans on putting them both behind Center at the same time. That would confuse a Defense. Or put Kordell at Tailback once in a while. Bring back Slash.

Whatever Cowhers plans are, it certainly is going to have Defensive Coordinators on their toes trying to figure it out. This little scheme of his just might be what the Offense needs.

As long as someone can catch the ball.

by SteelerGil (August 28, 00)