I was fortunate enough to be able to watch the game on Saturday through my local ABC affiliate. I was pleasently surprised.
I was fortunate enough to be able to watch the game on Saturday through my local ABC affiliate. I was pleasently surprised.
After the debacle the previous Saturday, I didn't know what to expect. Buffalo's opening drive had me worried. Rob Johnson seemed to have his way with us. He methodically drove his team downfield, completing 7 straight passes, scrambled away from any danger, and put 6 quick points on the board. But once the jitters were gone, the Steelers dominated.
Sure, it was mostly our backups dominating theirs, but it sure felt good to get a victory under our belts. Former C.F.L. star Doug Flutie, ran for his life the entire second half. Winning builds confidance, and I'm sure the team needed some.
Another thing I really loved about this game, was the way Bill Cowher let his emotions fly off the handle again. He was none too impressed by the 3 offside penalties from his first string defence. You can bet those involved in the infractions will be concentrating a little more against Philadelphia.
Apart from the amazing game that Jahine Arnold had, Carnell Lake impressed me the most. I don't think there was one single play this man was not involved in. He was covering like flies on doo-doo, making tackles, and recorded a sack. He is the consummate defensive player. I'm glad he's on our side.
Other notables who impressed me were Hines Ward, George Jones, and Andre Coleman. These guys had their game faces on the whole night. Ward had 3 catches for 51 yards, Coleman had 2 tough catches for 25 yards, and Jones now has 10 rushes for 51 yards and a touchdown.
But this night belonged to Jahine Arnold. His first Kick off return went for 51 yards and helped set up Bettis' touchdown run. He also had another K.O. return for 44 yards, a punt return for 13 yards (when nothing seemed to be there), and 2 catches for 70 yards. It made the loss of Bailey a little easier to take.
It seemed our problems of finding a return man were solved, but lo and behold Steeler fans, fate stepped in again. Lethon Flowers inadvertantly broke Jahine's collarbone in practice as they were both going for the ball. Arnold is gone for 4-6 weeks.
Now it's up to Coleman, Blackwell, or possibly Adams to step it up.
