Super Bowl XLIII - Steelers vs. Cardinals

[FondestMemory]

two full weeks of discussion.

go.

[J.C.]

No obvious rooting interest for me. I'd probably lean towards Arizona, though my dad's a Steeler fan. Hopefully it's a good game.

[redsoxguy676]

fitzgerald = beast and owning steelers secondary all game

[Machu505]

I'm for the Steelers.

[silentstar1134]

As a Raven's fan it bans me for supporting the Steelers, but I do think they will win. Im Cheering for the birds though

[xerovision1]

arizona for me. they've been the surprise all postseason.. what's one more

[GetWellBoss]

Go Cardinals!!!!

[FondestMemory]

one for the other hand.

[walshknilb281]

Arizona because I think Rothlisberger is the most overrated athlete in professional sports

[preppyak]

fitzgerald = beast and owning steelers secondary all game
Thats the obvious...he's a monster WR, but Clark/Troy will be actively doubling him all game, so hopefully we can limit his numbers. The way Warner dealt with the blitz today scares me a bit, because it wasn't until almost halftime that he missed a pass he should have hit with pressure.

I like the Steelers D to completely stop any run game, and sort of force the assumed pass on most downs, but, the key is gonna be can we get TD's instead of FG's like we have all season...and also, how healthy is Hines Ward

[preppyak]

Arizona because I think Rothlisberger is the most overrated athlete in professional sports
over-statement much?

I can't think of a time when he's even been called a top 3 QB in the league...in most arguments about who is better of his draft class, he gets 1 of 3 analysts to pick him, the others pick Eli or Rivers...I can't think of a single time even Steelers fans themselves had said he's the best QB.

He might be a bit over-rated in the sense that he is blessed with a great defense, so it makes his job easier than other QB's, but, most over-rated in all sports is probably impossible to prove, especially for Ben

edit: In fact, I'd argue that he's no the most over-rated QB in the NFL...that would go to Tony Romo before Ben...as Romo is pretty commonly dropped as QB #3 or 4 in rankings...and Ben falls in the 6-8 range

[redsoxguy676]

Thats the obvious...he's a monster WR, but Clark/Troy will be actively doubling him all game, so hopefully we can limit his numbers. The way Warner dealt with the blitz today scares me a bit, because it wasn't until almost halftime that he missed a pass he should have hit with pressure.

I like the Steelers D to completely stop any run game, and sort of force the assumed pass on most downs, but, the key is gonna be can we get TD's instead of FG's like we have all season...and also, how healthy is Hines Ward

this is quite true, but if you watch highlights from this season, fitzgerald is under double coverage 60 percent of the time, and he somehow still has the ability to make split second changes in his routes and whatnot to compensate for being in that type of coverage, as he showed in the first touchdown catch against the falcons. i'm not saying that the falcons secondary is the best out there, but its just the moves he has.

[preppyak]

this is quite true, but if you watch highlights from this season, fitzgerald is under double coverage 60 percent of the time, and he somehow still has the ability to make split second changes in his routes and whatnot to compensate for being in that type of coverage, as he showed in the first touchdown catch against the falcons. i'm not saying that the falcons secondary is the best out there, but its just the moves he has.
That's why I said "keep his numbers down" instead of "shut him down"...because only a corner who is as tall as him and has his athleticism could really shut him down, especially on under-thrown long balls. I think the Steelers, if they force enough quicker throws, could stop him from getting the 40-50yd gains that kill teams, but I find it hard to believe he won't go for 100yds, its just if those yards end in 6 points

[TangledUp]

I'm a huge Cardinals fan because I used to live in Arizona. I highly doubt they can beat Pittsburgh, but I am usually a fan of the underdogs anyway. Go Cardinals!!

[S9Dallasoz]

Let's go AZ!

[DaveFeelsRight]

steelers. 24-10

[Spicoli hey bud]

this is quite true, but if you watch highlights from this season, fitzgerald is under double coverage 60 percent of the time, and he somehow still has the ability to make split second changes in his routes and whatnot to compensate for being in that type of coverage, as he showed in the first touchdown catch against the falcons. i'm not saying that the falcons secondary is the best out there, but its just the moves he has.
Highlights are not exactly the most reliable sources for making judgments like this. It has nothing to do with the routes that he runs, he is simply better than everyone. If you put 1 man on him, all you have to do is give him a jump ball and your chances of being successful are big.

over-statement much?

I can't think of a time when he's even been called a top 3 QB in the league...in most arguments about who is better of his draft class, he gets 1 of 3 analysts to pick him, the others pick Eli or Rivers...I can't think of a single time even Steelers fans themselves had said he's the best QB.

He might be a bit over-rated in the sense that he is blessed with a great defense, so it makes his job easier than other QB's, but, most over-rated in all sports is probably impossible to prove, especially for Ben

edit: In fact, I'd argue that he's no the most over-rated QB in the NFL...that would go to Tony Romo before Ben...as Romo is pretty commonly dropped as QB #3 or 4 in rankings...and Ben falls in the 6-8 range
Think harder.

Arizona because I think Rothlisberger is the most overrated athlete in professional sports
Not even the most overrated person on his team.

[crit]

Go Cardinals.

[TangledUp]

Yes, yes. I love hearing all of the love for Arizona. :-d

[preppyak]

Think harder.
I'm sure its been proclaimed, I know enough stupid Steelers fans, but, I can't think of a time anyone with a national following has claimed him on that level

edit: I will say that this next two weeks are gonna be brutal though, because all the analysts will proclaim him as a top QB because its 2 SB appearances in 3 years...so, he will def be over-rated, like many players in the SB are, by the time the game rolls around

[Vincewithouthee]

I can't believe this is the SB. I'm surely glad it is too. I think it's gonna be a good game, closer than people think. It's gonna be interesting how the Cards offense will work against the Steelers D.

[SwiftSilentDead]

I'll be pulling for the Cardinals.

[swt_catastrophe]

i have to root for my home team... go cards!

[Spicoli hey bud]

I'm sure its been proclaimed, I know enough stupid Steelers fans, but, I can't think of a time anyone with a national following has claimed him on that level

edit: I will say that this next two weeks are gonna be brutal though, because all the analysts will proclaim him as a top QB because its 2 SB appearances in 3 years...so, he will def be over-rated, like many players in the SB are, by the time the game rolls around
50% of steelers fans would probably say that ben (like hines ward) has some sort of intangible quality that puts him at the top.
Yes, yes. I love hearing all of the love for Arizona. :-d
It's probably moreso hatred for pittsburgh.

[rcrook]

I want the Cardinals so I don' t have to see Hines Ward goofy ass smile at the end of the game.

[preppyak]

Steelers -6.5, over is 47

[GiggsOho]

I want the Cardinals so I don' t have to see Hines Ward goofy ass smile at the end of the game.

just look at it here.

http://www.talkingnfl.com/wp-content/uploads/2007/12/hines1.jpg


Go Cards.

[preppyak]

50% of steelers fans would probably say that ben (like hines ward) has some sort of intangible quality that puts him at the top.
Ok, lets assume that's true...that makes Pitt a stupid fanbase, but does not make Ben over-rated, as pretty much any fanbase not name the Eagles thinks their QB is better than he is.

When I hear it from all of the ESPN mouthpieces, then I'll agree on the over-rated aspect

edit: But I am already sick of reading "Pittsburgh's going to the Super Bowl" comments on facebook already

[Spicoli hey bud]

Ok, lets assume that's true...that makes Pitt a stupid fanbase, but does not make Ben over-rated, as pretty much any fanbase not name the Eagles thinks their QB is better than he is.

When I hear it from all of the ESPN mouthpieces, then I'll agree on the over-rated aspect
Yeah, I think we're on the same page.

[preppyak]

Yeah, I think we're on the same page.
Yeah, I really dislike the people from Pittsburgh as a whole, but, I also dislike them less than the surrounding areas that provided the students at my college (Cleveland/Ohio in general, Rochester, and WV area).

If I didn't have the Cleveland and Rochester people to balance out my assessment (and Philly fans too), I'd definitely hate many Steeler fans

[FondestMemory]

i can't stand most the steeler fans that post here.

[Vincewithouthee]

I can't ever have a legit discussion about football with anyone around here other than a couple friends. Whatever. Every team has their retarded fans.

[SwiftSilentDead]

Most of the Steelers fans that I know are pretty cool people. The ones that annoy me are all of the Redskins fans that jumped on the Steelers bandwagon because they're team didn't make the playoffs and they just want to talk shit on the Ravens.

[Im Not Scene]

I hope AZ wins simply for Larry, Quan, and Edge. They all deserve a ring. (Technically Edge was given one by the Colts, but he wasn't really on the team when they won the Super Bowl.)

[preppyak]

Boldin was being a huge bitch in the post-game...and I get the feeling that Cardinals fans, who from my experience are usually pretty laid back, are gonna consider him on par with TO when he pulls his off-season moves to go to a new team

for example: http://mike-freeman.blogs.cbssports.com/mcc/blogs/entry/6264363/13040597

[rcrook]

fuck boldin...larry fitz is so official. i was so drunk last night i was telling people he was the best receiver since jerry rice

[Throwback]

I have no preference (like the Steelers/Warner and Fitz about equally) and just have to let the disappointment trickle away.

I just hope its a great game.

[Throwback]

And I have to change my avatar now.

[WordsAndFears]

i'm gonna go with the steelers because the cardinals beat the eagles and that's just not cool.

[thesafeword]

Dissapointing match up. Not an interesting game at all.

[S9Dallasoz]

Dissapointing match up. Not an interesting game at all.

Well, I'm stoked for it.

Team I really like vs. team I hate - I can always deal with that.
Go Cards.

[thesafeword]

Who knows how Arizona got here and I hate the Steelers.

I wonder if it'll be the same officiating crew that the Seahawks got a few years back. If so, then the Cardinals are fucked.

[bobby runs]

just look at it here.

http://www.talkingnfl.com/wp-content/uploads/2007/12/hines1.jpg


Go Cards.
He needs to quit smiling.

I want the Cardinals to win. Only because I love their stadium and are closer to SD and cause Pittsburgh can gargle my balls.

[Broken Parachute]

I'd be happy for either team to win.

[Kaku]

If the Steelers would have lost, I'd go for the underdog. Nothing against Ravens though. ;)
Now that the Steelers won, I think they gonna win it.

2 LONNNNGGG weeks 'til the big game.

I dunno, how bad is Wards injury? Doesn't look that bad yesterday, so I hope at least he could recover in this 2 weeks.

[fly_guy]

No Bucs' no care.

Go cards

[pand75]

I guess go Cards, since that Fitz/Warner combo has brought them this far.

[Chris M.]

Go Cards

[SwishMX48]

I'm a Browns fan so I have to root for the Cardinals by default

[-ben]

Arizona because I think Rothlisberger is the most overrated athlete in professional sports

This from the kid with the Tom Brady avatar ;)

Thats the obvious...he's a monster WR, but Clark/Troy will be actively doubling him all game, so hopefully we can limit his numbers. The way Warner dealt with the blitz today scares me a bit, because it wasn't until almost halftime that he missed a pass he should have hit with pressure.

I like the Steelers D to completely stop any run game, and sort of force the assumed pass on most downs, but, the key is gonna be can we get TD's instead of FG's like we have all season...and also, how healthy is Hines Ward

Fitz makes me nervous. BUT I have a feeling if anyone can step up to it it's the Steelers D.


Now obviously I'm oblivious, being that I'm from the Burgh, but why does everyone hate the Steelers so much? Is it because your team doesn't win and ours does consistently? I can cite at least a few of you on that one.

[iheartmusic043]

This from the kid with the Tom Brady avatar ;)



Fitz makes me nervous. BUT I have a feeling if anyone can step up to it it's the Steelers D.


Now obviously I'm oblivious, being that I'm from the Burgh, but why does everyone hate the Steelers so much? Is it because your team doesn't win and ours does consistently? I can cite at least a few of you on that one.

Thank you for stating this. It had to be said. Steelers Ftw! I hope we win this so we can have the most super bowl wins ever.

[-ben]

Thank you for stating this. It had to be said. Steelers Ftw! I hope we win this so we can have the most super bowl wins ever.

hahaha it's a sweet thought. Have you been to the malls in the area in the past few weeks? They're all playing the old Super Bowl wins front to back on the TVs they have scattered throughout the mall :-)


I didn't mean to sound like a dick in my last post, sorry if I came off that way. It just irks me. The Steelers organization is one of the more respectable organizations in every aspect of the game. We just happen to win a lot. I'm sorry so many of you guys feel the way you do about us.

[kofiadrian]

i have a feeling that cards will pull it out.

[iheartmusic043]

hahaha it's a sweet thought. Have you been to the malls in the area in the past few weeks? They're all playing the old Super Bowl wins front to back on the TVs they have scattered throughout the mall :-)


I didn't mean to sound like a dick in my last post, sorry if I came off that way. It just irks me. The Steelers organization is one of the more respectable organizations in every aspect of the game. We just happen to win a lot. I'm sorry so many of you guys feel the way you do about us.


Yea every mall is crazy about the steelers. I love it. I know what you mean about alot of people hating the steelers.

Oh and I love your avatar.

[livethesounds]

38 - 13 Cardinals

[MuSiCxFrEaK]

i love the steelers. they will go all the way.


GO STEELERS!!!

[lindZ629]

I'll be pulling for the Cardinals only because I love it when Pennsylvania teams lose.

[Scott Weber]

definitely rooting for arizona.

[iheartmusic043]

Why do people not like the steelers? I always wondered this.

[Scott Weber]

Why do people not like the steelers? I always wondered this.
used to be joey porter. now it's hines ward. i really can't stand that dude. i have respect for the organization, but I just don't care for any of their players outside of TP.

[we are cured]

Why do people not like the steelers? I always wondered this.

rooting for the underdog is more fun

[iheartmusic043]

rooting for the underdog is more fun

used to be joey porter. now it's hines ward. i really can't stand that dude. i have respect for the organization, but I just don't care for any of their players outside of TP.

1. I remember when everyone and their mothers were a fan of the steelers in super bowl 40 when they were underdogs.

2. I don't like some of the steelers like ben (I haven't liked him ever since his motorcycle accident) but I still fully support them. You do have a point about troy. He's my favorite and he's a really nice guy. That man knows how to play football.

[we are cured]

the steelers also have a nationally represented fan base (much like the cowboys) that can bring about animosity from fans of many other teams

[Scott Weber]

the steelers also have fans like GoWaitintheCar which always helps.

[S9Dallasoz]

Why do people not like the steelers? I always wondered this.

Too many Super Bowl victories.
It's also fun to hate the Yankees/Celtics/Red Wings, for similar reasons.

Go Cards.

[-ben]

used to be joey porter. now it's hines ward. i really can't stand that dude. i have respect for the organization, but I just don't care for any of their players outside of TP.

Hines? Why?

rooting for the underdog is more fun

Fair enough

the steelers also have a nationally represented fan base (much like the cowboys) that can bring about animosity from fans of many other teams

Fair enough

Too many Super Bowl victories.
It's also fun to hate the Yankees/Celtics/Red Wings, for similar reasons.

Go Cards.

Fair enough. I do hate the Red Wings and Yankees. So I won't argue this.



But they're my hometown team. I grew up a Steeler fan and couldn't possibly be prouder :-)

[-ben]

Also, for the record: If the Cards were playing anybody else in the AFC, there's a good chance I'd be rooting for them. Fitz is a Pitt guy, and Warner is one of the most respectable players in the game.

[Scott Weber]

Hines Ward is a bitch. I hate his constant shit-eating grin and I hate the giant drama/chip on his shoulder garbage he had with Cowher and how he felt so disrespected. I've never liked the guy.

[deadstar]

Rooting for the underdog is a lot more fun. Why are people getting their feelings hurt over who other people root for? Arizona would be a great story.

[-ben]

Hines Ward is a bitch. I hate his constant shit-eating grin and I hate the giant drama/chip on his shoulder garbage he had with Cowher and how he felt so disrespected. I've never liked the guy.

This saddens me. He's a great guy, he genuinely enjoys what he's doing. He gets under everyone's skin that way too, so be it.

Rooting for the underdog is a lot more fun. Why are people getting their feelings hurt over who other people root for? Arizona would be a great story.

Feelings not hurt, and I'm not arguing with that. I have nothing bad to say about Arizona either.

[Scott Weber]

http://www.post-gazette.com/images3/20050124DSsteelershines_450.jpg

[MyWorldEntire]

Cards will win

[Smithers]

rooting for the underdog is more fun
seconded. reason #1 the NCAA tournament is so fun.

[Zeran]

as a neutral, for some reason, i'm not too excited about this year's superbowl. i'm glad that arizona finally isn't having another losing season, but i feel like pittsburgh will win.

[-ben]

http://www.post-gazette.com/images3/20050124DSsteelershines_450.jpg

Makes me wanna hug him. But I can understand the Joey Porter thing. That's why he's gone. Or a Plaxico Burress thing. But that's why he's gone too. Hines is still on the roster because he's a great player and a great guy.

[deadstar]

Oh and Lets Go Steelers

m51w9nmSaxQ&eurl

[TangledUp]

Cardinals ftw

[c_rob2700]

Rootin for Cardinals. Rep our shitty division

[iheartmusic043]

http://www.post-gazette.com/images3/20050124DSsteelershines_450.jpg

Lol. He's an amazing player but a jerk. I'm glad he plays for the steerlers even though he annoys me.

[xbrokendownx]

just hoping for a good game..i picked the Steelers to win it all most of the season but ill probably find myself rooting for Arizona because of Warner and Fitz

[FondestMemory]

Lol. He's an amazing player but a jerk. I'm glad he plays for the steerlers even though he annoys me.

how is he a jerk?

i really don't understand how anybody can claim to be a steeler fan and not like hines. he's the epitome of what this team is about. he does everything asked of him and more, and has for his whole career.

[Scott Weber]

how is he a jerk?

i really don't understand how anybody can claim to be a steeler fan and not like hines. he's the epitome of what this team is about. he does everything asked of him and more, and has for his whole career.
holding unnecessary grudges?

[FondestMemory]

holding unnecessary grudges?

huh?

[Scott Weber]

huh?
i have always found his "nobody respects me, the steelers disrespected me, cowher disrespected me" shtick to be so played. he whined about plax being drafted, he whined about Santonio being drafted. Every time a high draft pick was spent on a WR, you heard about it from him.

[FondestMemory]

i have always found his "nobody respects me, the steelers disrespected me, cowher disrespected me" shtick to be so played. he whined about plax being drafted, he whined about Santonio being drafted. Every time a high draft pick was spent on a WR, you heard about it from him.

but he goes out there and leaves everything on the field every sunday.

i can understand non-steeler fans not liking hines. i just don't understand how anybody can claim to be a fan and not like him, considering he's the perfect steeler player.

and he voices his opinion at times, but it never becomes an issue. he and ben had words through reporters this offseason, but that didn't do a damn bit of harm. he doesn't make issues out of anything. he brings it up, voices his opinion, then goes on with his life.

[preppyak]

This from the kid with the Tom Brady avatar ;)
Yeah...cause the guy with the statistically best season ever, leading his team to a perfect regular season and multiple Super Bowl rings is totally over-rated...gotcha

[-ben]

Yeah...cause the guy with the statistically best season ever, leading his team to a perfect regular season and multiple Super Bowl rings is totally over-rated...gotcha

Brady's the only thing those guys have, as evidenced by this season. I will not argue that Tom Brady is a fantastic player though. I just don't like him the way you don't like Ben. And for the record Ben is not overrated by any means. It's rare to hear him placed even in the top 5 quarterbacks in the NFL, and yet, his rookie year he started and led us to the AFC championship game, and the next year he won the Superbowl. He has done some stupid things (the motorcycle accident stands out) but he's a damn good player, and the one or two sports commentators that rave about him should take nothing away from him as a player. This is the first year people have even given him enough credit to come out and say he's better than Eli or Rivers, which seems pretty clear to me.

but he goes out there and leaves everything on the field every sunday.

i can understand non-steeler fans not liking hines. i just don't understand how anybody can claim to be a fan and not like him, considering he's the perfect steeler player.

and he voices his opinion at times, but it never becomes an issue. he and ben had words through reporters this offseason, but that didn't do a damn bit of harm. he doesn't make issues out of anything. he brings it up, voices his opinion, then goes on with his life.

Couldn't have said it better myself.

[preppyak]

I just don't like him the way you don't like Ben. And for the record Ben is not overrated by any means.
Uhhh...go back and re-read what I wrote...you literally re-quoted my arguments, yet said I didn't like Ben. I defended Ben the entire way, said that he was far from overrated, especially compared to a Tony Romo who is consistently ranked above him but who has accomplished less, and said that probably the only way he is overrated is gonna be this week or two period where commentators will make him into a Top 3 QB because he's back in the SB.

How you got that I don't like Ben out of my comments confuses me...I hate large portions of the Steelers fans, not the players

edit: overstatement much?

I can't think of a time when he's even been called a top 3 QB in the league...in most arguments about who is better of his draft class, he gets 1 of 3 analysts to pick him, the others pick Eli or Rivers...I can't think of a single time even Steelers fans themselves had said he's the best QB.

edit: In fact, I'd argue that he's not the most over-rated QB in the NFL...that would go to Tony Romo before Ben...as Romo is pretty commonly dropped as QB #3 or 4 in rankings...and Ben falls in the 6-8 range

[splitsecond]

Here is a great article that quite nicely sums up the pure stupidity that reigns supreme in Western PA. A "journalist" has dubbed the Cardinals "Steelers West".

http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/09020/943051-66.stm

[preppyak]

hahafour players who formerly practiced there: injured linebacker Clark Haggans, special-teams ace Sean Morey, tight end Jerame Tuman and quarterback Brian St. Pierre.So nobody who really plays a critical role...and 2 of whom will certainly not see the field.

andTheir mantras about physical and mental toughness, accountability, hard work and unity are the same. I'm not sure that could encompass any more cliches that are every teams "mantras" into one sentence...maybe if they also threw in the phrase "counted us out" and "110% every down" just for fun.

I mean, sure, there are gonna be some similarities because Whisenhunt came from the Steelers...but Steelers West? Like they are some sort of cheap knock off...this is why you don't let Western PA people hold a pen, much less a gun. Though, the writer did manage to avoid contracting the entire thing into one long sentence

[splitsecond]

Well the writer also forgot that:

1. Whisenhunt was interested in the their coaching job, but didn't make the short list.
2. Grimm was interviewed for the job, and was passed over
3. The Cardinals were actually winning by 14 (21-7) until the there were less than 2 minutes remaining in the game.

Don't get me wrong, I have a ton of respect for the Steelers organization and players, but this is the kind of stupidity I dealt with daily when I lived in Pittsburgh. A lot of people really do think the world revolves around the Steelers.

[-ben]

Uhhh...go back and re-read what I wrote...you literally re-quoted my arguments, yet said I didn't like Ben. I defended Ben the entire way, said that he was far from overrated, especially compared to a Tony Romo who is consistently ranked above him but who has accomplished less, and said that probably the only way he is overrated is gonna be this week or two period where commentators will make him into a Top 3 QB because he's back in the SB.

How you got that I don't like Ben out of my comments confuses me...I hate large portions of the Steelers fans, not the players

edit:

Fuck, I thought you were the kid with the Brady avatar defending yourself. That's completely my fault, a misunderstanding. Sorry X-)

Well the writer also forgot that:

1. Whisenhunt was interested in the their coaching job, but didn't make the short list.
2. Grimm was interviewed for the job, and was passed over
3. The Cardinals were actually winning by 14 (21-7) until the there were less than 2 minutes remaining in the game.

Don't get me wrong, I have a ton of respect for the Steelers organization and players, but this is the kind of stupidity I dealt with daily when I lived in Pittsburgh. A lot of people really do think the world revolves around the Steelers.

It's true. I love the Steelers and I'll always root for them, but there's going to be people taking three weeks off of work and spending hundreds of dollars to go to the Superbowl. They're not stupid, they're insane.

But you can't lump every Steelers fan in with those people.

[-ben]

Also, I've never read anything that I can remember by a "Chuck Finder," but I did not like that article at all either haha. What a douche.

[Spicoli hey bud]

A lot of people really do think the world revolves around the Steelers.
In the bubble of shitsburgh, nothing else exists.

[deadstar]

Blah blah blah. Every team has their idiot fans. It just so happens the Steelers are one of the more popular teams based on winning many years ago. Trendy.

[deadstar]

I also dont see whats so bad about the Post-Gazette article. Granted he was a little off with how the whole coaching thing went down, and it is quite arrogant to refer to the Cardinals as "Steelers West", but much of what is said in that article is from actual Cardinals players/coaches. Seems like they are happy to have an opportunity to play the team when some of them came from, which is nice.

[we are cured]

Blah blah blah. Every team has their idiot fans. It just so happens the Steelers are one of the more popular teams based on winning many years ago. Trendy.

more fans, same percentage of idiots which = more idiots

[walshknilb281]

over-statement much?

I can't think of a time when he's even been called a top 3 QB in the league...in most arguments about who is better of his draft class, he gets 1 of 3 analysts to pick him, the others pick Eli or Rivers...I can't think of a single time even Steelers fans themselves had said he's the best QB.

He might be a bit over-rated in the sense that he is blessed with a great defense, so it makes his job easier than other QB's, but, most over-rated in all sports is probably impossible to prove, especially for Ben

edit: In fact, I'd argue that he's no the most over-rated QB in the NFL...that would go to Tony Romo before Ben...as Romo is pretty commonly dropped as QB #3 or 4 in rankings...and Ben falls in the 6-8 range
i'll give u that, he's not essentially over rated per say, more his win loss stats makes it seem like he is joe montana, he knows how to win, but he is hardly the reason they do, i feel you could stick 10 QBs on that team and would get the same result. I think its just that fact that he's not the reason there a successful team

[deadstar]

more fans, same percentage of idiots which = more idiots

Yea very true. The surrounding areas are really bad in terms of bandwagon fans who know nothing but love to brag.

[FondestMemory]

i'll give u that, he's not essentially over rated per say, more his win loss stats makes it seem like he is joe montana, he knows how to win, but he is hardly the reason they do, i feel you could stick 10 QBs on that team and would get the same result. I think its just that fact that he's not the reason there a successful team

he's a huge reason the steelers win.

that's such a stupid fucking argument. ben does his job and he does it damn near perfectly. he runs that offense how it's supposed to be run.

and if you don't think he has much to do with how they win games, look up how many fourth quarter comebacks he has this season and in his career and get back to me.

[rcrook]

ben isn't going to throw for 350 yards like a Manning, Brees, Cutler but he manages a game and he is damn good at it. He is a perfect fit in the Steelers system, his stats aren't going to wow you but a lot of the steelers success is directly corrolated to him.

[Bigalan2004]

the guy has already won a super bowl that's enough for me. ben is a good quarterback. i like that he doesn't try to do too much in a game and throw crazy amounts of pics like brett farve.

[Crimson Reaper]

As a neutral brit (ok pats fan, but im not like a fanatic, i appreciate other teams and players) i was gutted to see the ravens go out, i really wanted flacco to hit the Superbowl in his first season!
As for the bowl itself, i fancy the Cards. First ever bowl, gunna be pumped but with an old head like Warner there, their not going to be overawed!

[FondestMemory]

overawed? is that the same as overwhelmed?

warner's one of the only ones that has been there. the majority of the team is pretty young. one vet that's been through it twice doesn't fix that. especially against a team who was just there a few years ago.

both teams are gonna be pumped. both coaches have a ton to prove. everybody's gonna be overhyped.

[rcrook]

steelers -7 and under 46.5 is what i'd bet

[rcrook]

the guy has already won a super bowl that's enough for me. ben is a good quarterback. i like that he doesn't try to do too much in a game and throw crazy amounts of pics like brett farve.

he did have 22 turnovers this year...just playing devils advocate. he is still a good qb though.

[FondestMemory]

he's not perfect. but he's perfect for this team.

i'm not gonna say he's a top five qb in the league, but he's my qb and i can't think of five qbs in the league i'd rather have leading this team.

i just get annoyed when people claim he has nothing to do with our success and that any qb could have the same success that he does with this team, because that's just not true.

[rcrook]

http://sports.espn.go.com/espnmag/story?id=3848921

interesting article about larry fitzgerald sr. and how he will be a reporter during the super bowl

[FondestMemory]

he was on mike and mike this morning. real good interview.

seems like a pretty cool dude.

[rcrook]

both jr. and sr. seem like real good guys. i'm a big larry fitz fan, he is an elite receiver who keeps his mouth shut unlike chad johnson or T.O. Fitz and Andre Johnson are my two favorite receivers right now.

[FondestMemory]

and those are the two best receivers in the game, in my opinion.

fitz is gonna become a star over these next few weeks. he already is to football fans, but i think he's gonna blow up to casual fans as well.

[preppyak]

and those are the two best receivers in the game, in my opinion.

fitz is gonna become a star over these next few weeks. he already is to football fans, but i think he's gonna blow up to casual fans as well.
No doubt, he's a great guy, a great story, and a freak of an athlete...he's pretty much the poster boy for Pre-Super Bowl stories

[fenderkid212]

The Steelers are going to win this one

[preppyak]

haha, awesome

DkTflRQzCZg&eurl=http://community.post-gazette.com/blogs/blogngold/archive/2009/01/20/best-steelers-song-and-video-ever.aspx

[-ben]

he's a huge reason the steelers win.

that's such a stupid fucking argument. ben does his job and he does it damn near perfectly. he runs that offense how it's supposed to be run.

and if you don't think he has much to do with how they win games, look up how many fourth quarter comebacks he has this season and in his career and get back to me.

the man can engineer a drive, that's for sure. he makes mistakes, but who doesn't? he's not the best though, you'll never hear me say that.

the guy has already won a super bowl that's enough for me. ben is a good quarterback. i like that he doesn't try to do too much in a game and throw crazy amounts of pics like brett farve.

he did have 22 turnovers this year...just playing devils advocate. he is still a good qb though.

he also had a terrible game in that superbowl, randle el's passer rating was probably better than his hahahaha. but he seems more mature this year.

[-ben]

also, fitz is one of the classier players in the league, along with warner. i have a ton of respect for the cardinals as a franchise and a team. and i would rather be playing the eagles lol.

[splitsecond]

haha, awesome

DkTflRQzCZg&eurl=http://community.post-gazette.com/blogs/blogngold/archive/2009/01/20/best-steelers-song-and-video-ever.aspx

this kind of nonsense makes me very happy to not live in that town anymore

[rcrook]

im so tired with you and the disrespect thing. you were 9-7 you aren't supposed to get respect. respect for making it to the super bowl but stop being a crybaby about how nobody thinks the cardinals will win. so what if a bunch of steelers fans want to make a song about their team, i hate the steelers i hope they lose by 50 but their fans are some of the best in the league and they have a real good team. so stop being a fucking cunt.

[livethesounds]

haha, i don't think that post had anything to do with the cardinals not getting respect and more about his personal like/dislike of the town of Pittsburgh. or that's the way i took it.

[preppyak]

this kind of nonsense makes me very happy to not live in that town anymore
I'll take it over "Here we go" any day of the week...way more entertaining. Besides, its a bunch of 12 and 13 year old kids doing a pretty sweet cover, and one of them shredding on guitar. I bet Alice Cooper enjoyed it

[FondestMemory]

because pittsburgh is the only city in the world that cares enough about their team to do shit like this.

what a stupid fucking comment. every sports town does crap like this to support their teams.

[preppyak]

the best I've seen from the Cardinals so far is them rolling our Alice Cooper as a fan on ESPN morning shows

[CubbyNick42]

Steelers win a close game. I'm taking the points.

[Vincewithouthee]

this kind of nonsense makes me very happy to not live in that town anymore

Jesus christ. You just love pulling this card, don't you? Keep on crying.

[splitsecond]

It isn't a difficult card to pull Vince. You know the city literally goes retarded for the stillers.

http://www.takemeoutonline.com/images/fanpics/fan_pic_3.jpg

[theguy77]

i call cardinals victory.

[theguy77]

wow so a kid with a belly wants to paint his body like his dad does. still not that crazy.

[Chris Fallon]

I want Pittsburgh to win only so Arizona and Seattle can be even. That way I won't hate them nearly as much... maybe.

[xbrokendownx]

yea no fans of any city ever get crazy for their team being in a super bowl

jesus christ...

[Vincewithouthee]

It isn't a difficult card to pull Vince. You know the city literally goes retarded for the stillers.

http://www.takemeoutonline.com/images/fanpics/fan_pic_3.jpg

Of course this shit is gonna happen, especially when the Steelers have one of the biggest (if not the biggest) fan base in the NFL. Who cares anyway? Just you apparently.

Isn't it a good thing for fans to care this much? Who cares how they look. Come on man...

[raukura]

ben is not a bad qb but it is fact that alot of qbs could do the same on that team. He doesn't have to lead them to victory (His first sb being a perfect example)

[preppyak]

ben is not a bad qb but it is fact that alot of qbs could do the same on that team. He doesn't have to lead them to victory (His first sb being a perfect example)
:shake:

Yep, he never had to lead them on 4th quarter drives 18 times for wins...he didn't have to lead them on their longest drive of the season against the #2 defense in the league with 3 minutes to go to beat the Ravens...nope...any QB could do that

The list of QB's that couldn't do that is pretty long...there's about 15 of them at least starting for teams in the league right now...unless you think Dan Orlovsky could lead that drive, in which case, you should get a thread ban

[Chris Fallon]

:shake:

Yep, he never had to lead them on 4th quarter drives 18 times for wins...he didn't have to lead them on their longest drive of the season against the #2 defense in the league with 3 minutes to go to beat the Ravens...nope...any QB could do that

The list of QB's that couldn't do that is pretty long...there's about 15 of them at least starting for teams in the league right now...unless you think Dan Orlovsky could lead that drive, in which case, you should get a thread ban
So glad you said that. I was scratching my head at his post.

[raukura]

In the last 2 playoff games ben has thrown 33/59 536 yards and 2 tds no picks, their not bad numbers but in both games the steelers were up big in the 4th quarter mainly thanks to willie parker 146 running yards 2 tds v chargers, and the steelers d 3 picks 1 returned for td v ravens.

What im saying is ben is a solid qb but not a great one, any solid qb could fit into that team and be in the superbowl.

Also is the ravens game your referring to a regular season one? coz it certainly wasn't the playoff game.

[preppyak]

In the last 2 playoff games ben has thrown 33/59 536 yards and 2 tds no picks, their not bad numbers but in both games the steelers were up big in the 4th quarter mainly thanks to willie parker 146 running yards 2 tds v chargers, and the steelers d 3 picks 1 returned for td v ravens.

What im saying is ben is a solid qb but not a great one, any solid qb could fit into that team and be in the superbowl.
Ok...that's completely different than what you said earlier...when you said thisalot of qbs could do the same on that team.
So, lets get that out of the way right away. You said a lot of QB's could do it...but, a lot of QB's are sitting at home right now, and Ben is in the Super Bowl. A lot of QB's didn't even have their team make the playoffs.
Also is the ravens game your referring to a regular season one? coz it certainly wasn't the playoff game. Tell me where you defined this as the playoffs and I'll give a fuck about this point...last I checked you have to win regular season games to get to the playoffs...ask Dallas about that one. He did, however, throw 0 picks against a very ball hungry defense on his way to a win in that game. Moreover, you made my point for me with those earlier stats...you think a lot of QB's throw for 270yds, a TD, and no picks as a playoff average? The Titans, Ravens, Vikings, and Panthers would have LOVED to have that performance, instead of sitting at home right now

Actually, lets play a fun game...name me 10 QB's that were starting on NFL teams as of December that you would 100% take before Ben...just 10, more if you can. I'd like to have a good laugh at the names you bring up

I can think of 5 QB's I'd take over him, about about 5-6 I'd put on par with him in a playoff game maybe

[FondestMemory]

ben is not a bad qb but it is fact that alot of qbs could do the same on that team. He doesn't have to lead them to victory (His first sb being a perfect example)

look up his career fourth quarter comebacks, and then look at how many of them came just this season.

then come back with less stupid statements.

[livethesounds]

NFL network showing replays of the best superbowl games all week in their entirety. Rams-Titans on right now. It's so hard to watch, but I love watching McNair and George in their prime. God they were good.

[raukura]

" You said a lot of QB's could do it...but, a lot of QB's are sitting at home right now, and Ben is in the Super Bowl. A lot of QB's didn't even have their team make the playoffs.
"
I also said on that steelers team, steelers d is #1 ranked so it would be alot easier to qb a team which doesnt allow a lot of points on the board.

Anyway, i didnt mean to have an argument about it so thats the last ill say about it.

[raukura]

look up his career fourth quarter comebacks, and then look at how many of them came just this season.

then come back with less stupid statements.


look at his superbowl rating lol, 22

[FondestMemory]

yep. judge his entire career based on one game.

find me a qb in their second year that had a great game in the super bowl. fuck, even find me a qb in their second year that took their team to a super bowl and ended up winning it.

look at the games leading up to that superbowl and how they wouldn't have even been in it if it weren't for ben playing lights out the first three rounds. even in the super bowl there were a few huge plays he made that 95% of qbs in the league couldn't even dream of making.

[rcrook]

i didn't even know they watched the nfl in new zealand

[FondestMemory]

based on his statements i'm convinced they don't.

[splitsecond]

Deion Sanders is so fucking annoying.

[I am Mick]

I'm ridiculously late on this thread, but Steelers are taking it.

[iheartmusic043]

I'm ridiculously late on this thread, but Steelers are taking it.

lol. Totally agree. Currently wearing my Polamalu jersey as I'm typing this. How ironic.

[mynameisdrakex]

The Steelers have this game in the bag. :D

[iheartmusic043]

The Steelers have this game in the bag. :D

Yea even the Commissioner of the NFL and President Obama want the Steelers to win. The commissioner was shown on the news saying "here we go steelers here we go".

[deadstar]

Why even play it? Just give the Steelers another ring then.

Dumb.

Super Bowls are even harder to predict than any playoff game. Anything can happen. I try to steer clear of betting on it, but theres no way I dont place some money on it.

[Charles777]

I'm for the Steelers, but only because I won't have school the next day if they win.

[iheartmusic043]

I'm for the Steelers, but only because I won't have school the next day if they win.

Lucky. A bunch of my teachers told me that my school might have a two hour delay the day after the super bowl.

[Charles777]

Lucky. A bunch of my teachers told me that my school might have a two hour delay the day after the super bowl.
Pittsburgh Public Schools does. I know that for a fact, but I don't know about you. It has nothing to do with the district, my dad just says I can stay home.
:P

[theguy77]

over-statement much?

I can't think of a time when he's even been called a top 3 QB in the league...in most arguments about who is better of his draft class, he gets 1 of 3 analysts to pick him, the others pick Eli or Rivers...I can't think of a single time even Steelers fans themselves had said he's the best QB.

He might be a bit over-rated in the sense that he is blessed with a great defense, so it makes his job easier than other QB's, but, most over-rated in all sports is probably impossible to prove, especially for Ben

edit: In fact, I'd argue that he's no the most over-rated QB in the NFL...that would go to Tony Romo before Ben...as Romo is pretty commonly dropped as QB #3 or 4 in rankings...and Ben falls in the 6-8 range

yeah, thats essentially my stance, he wouldnt have had anything close to that record breaking rookie year on a different team. matt ryan for example i think was a better rookie than roethlisberger, because turner was good but inconsistent and on his off days they could rely on matt, and he didnt have near the defense.

however i disagree with you as far as romo is concerned. when he's on his game i.e. not out of practice due to an injury, 300 yards and 2-3 TDs a game, even when barber isnt productive? thats pretty fucking good.

[theguy77]

im really thinking of putting last minute money on the cardinals.

[livethesounds]

man, NFL network does this superbowl week great. they showed the entire media day live, and basically from 9am to 6pm every day it's non stop live interviews with huge names all day. it's entertaining as hell, it's like big name radio on superbowl week, but all day and on tv. plus full replays of the some of the best superbowls ever at night. i've pretty much only watched this channel all week.

[splitsecond]

Yeah, I watched a ton of NFL network. I think they finally have it right, hopefully they keep this kind of quality up during the SEASON next year.


Check out ESPN.com. Experts seem to mostly agree on Steelers, but the fan voters are picking the Cardinals 53% to 47%.

Fuck, I am so excited. I really think this could be a great game.

[iheartmusic043]

Pittsburgh Public Schools does. I know that for a fact, but I don't know about you. It has nothing to do with the district, my dad just says I can stay home.
:P

Lol. Way to gloat. A lot my teachers will probably call off except for one crazy teacher who is a browns fan. He's lived in pittsburgh all his life but is a traitor.

[livethesounds]

lol. Totally agree. Currently wearing my Polamalu jersey as I'm typing this. How ironic.

how is that ironic?

and it seems like steelers fans are convinced they're winning this, but i'm pretty surprised to see SO many people pulling for the cards. The Steelers aren't really an unlikable team or anything, but from who i've talked to and what i've seen, it seems if your not a steelers fan, you're not rooting for the steelers.

[rcrook]

the steelers are boring thats why people are rooting for the cardinals.

[Scott Weber]

tons of passing and spectacular wide receivers > ground 'em pound 'em football.

[Bigalan2004]

i'm not rooting for any one team, i'm just looking forward to some quality football being played, hopefully ben doesnt play like he did in his first super bowl.

[FondestMemory]

i wish the steelers still played groun em pound em football.

they've gotten too far away from that philosophy for my liking.

[splitsecond]

tons of passing and spectacular wide receivers > ground 'em pound 'em football.

Montana to Rice made me fall in love with football, so I agree 110% here.

i wish the steelers still played groun em pound em football.

they've gotten too far away from that philosophy for my liking.

Their offense isn't capable of it right now. 23rd in run offense in the league this year. Not much better than AZ. Their defense is flat out the reason they are here. They definitely do some pounding of their own.

[FondestMemory]

Their offense isn't capable of it right now. 23rd in run offense in the league this year. Not much better than AZ. Their defense is flat out the reason they are here. They definitely do some pounding of their own.

their offense is capable of it, they just don't do it.

willie not being 100% hurt those numbers a bit. but they never even try the ram it kind of style they used to. they use a fullback so little. it gets kind of ridiculous.

the traditional steeler running game was a lot of runs out of the i formation just ramming it down the other team's throat. they could do that still, but arians would much rather run a three receiver bunch formation.

arians is growing on me slowly, but there are a lot of times where i want to remind him he's calling plays for the steelers. i understand evolving as the game evolves, but to completely abandon what made this franchise gets annoying at times.

[xbrokendownx]

I think this year I want the Steelers to win. Their uniform is better looking.




X-)

[Scott Weber]

Stop this stupid bickering fight before it begins, please.

[splitsecond]

their offense is capable of it, they just don't do it.

willie not being 100% hurt those numbers a bit. but they never even try the ram it kind of style they used to. they use a fullback so little. it gets kind of ridiculous.

the traditional steeler running game was a lot of runs out of the i formation just ramming it down the other team's throat. they could do that still, but arians would much rather run a three receiver bunch formation.

arians is growing on me slowly, but there are a lot of times where i want to remind him he's calling plays for the steelers. i understand evolving as the game evolves, but to completely abandon what made this franchise gets annoying at times.

Parker is a speed back, not a power back. I agree he could probably do more when healthy and with a little better play calling, but he is not a power back. They lost that "pound it" ability when Bettis retired and have not really filled that slot yet.

[fallout1819]

People in Pittsburgh already think the Steelers won so I"m hoping the Cardinals do just to crush their dreams.

[J.C.]

I don't think I've made a pick yet.

Pittsburgh - 27
Arizona - 17

[splitsecond]

People in Pittsburgh already think the Steelers won so I"m hoping the Cardinals do just to crush their dreams.

Lets be fair, they thought the Steelers won the superbowl one game into the preseason, most likely.

[fallout1819]

Lets be fair, they thought the Steelers won the superbowl one game into the preseason, most likely.
That's true as well. My facebook has been overrun with "LETS GO STEELERS" statuses. Its pathetic.

[FondestMemory]

Parker is a speed back, not a power back. I agree he could probably do more when healthy and with a little better play calling, but he is not a power back. They lost that "pound it" ability when Bettis retired and have not really filled that slot yet.

parker is beyond capable of running between the tackles.

he's not a power back or a bruiser, but that doesn't mean he can't contribute to shoving the ball down their throats.

[Scott Weber]

willie parker is horrible. he's extremely ineffective all things considered.

[FondestMemory]

i'd agree with you if you were right in any way.

[Scott Weber]

i'd agree with you if you were right in any way.
he's a pussy and he can't stay healthy. and he sucks at fighting for extra yards. i hate everything about him, so many other backs would be more successful in that system. once the organization realizes it, the steelers will be even better.

[FondestMemory]

in his four years as a starter he's missed 6 games. and four of those came this year. i don't see how that's not staying healthy. two of those four this year he could have played in if necessary, but mewelde was doing just fine.

he doesn't run out of bounds. i'm not sure where the sucks at fighting for extra yards comes from. he doesn't go down. he got destroyed for supposed fumble problems a couple seasons ago, but all of those fumbles came while he was fighting for extra yards. the real problem was that he wasn't going down when there were no more yards to gain. he does just fine fighting for extra yards.

in his four seasons as a starter he's averaging 84 yards a game. i'll take that type of ineffectiveness.

and in his four seasons as a starter, we've won a super bowl and have a chance to win a second one tonight. so i sure as fuck hope the organization doesn't realize it, because i'm perfectly fine with the amount of success we're having with him as our starter.

[Scott Weber]

in his four years as a starter he's missed 6 games. and four of those came this year. i don't see how that's not staying healthy. two of those four this year he could have played in if necessary, but mewelde was doing just fine.

he doesn't run out of bounds. i'm not sure where the sucks at fighting for extra yards comes from. he doesn't go down. he got destroyed for supposed fumble problems a couple seasons ago, but all of those fumbles came while he was fighting for extra yards. the real problem was that he wasn't going down when there were no more yards to gain. he does just fine fighting for extra yards.

in his four seasons as a starter he's averaging 84 yards a game. i'll take that type of ineffectiveness.

and in his four seasons as a starter, we've won a super bowl and have a chance to win a second one tonight. so i sure as fuck hope the organization doesn't realize it, because i'm perfectly fine with the amount of success we're having with him as our starter.
this is pointless because as much as you are unbiased in every aspect, the minute we get to steelers, it's fists up. parker has been awful this year, and we both know it has nothing to do with games played. his YPC has decreased in 4 consecutive years, the team is noticeably more productive when Davenport or Moore has started in his place. You and what seems like the rest of the steeler fans can continue to play apologist for him, but the fact is that he's been increasingly ineffective, has never been any sort of threat in the passing game, and isn't durable at all. he's all sorts of wrong for that team...and they'd be in this year's super bowl without him. you're smarter than to give win-based analysis on a yearly subpar performance.

[Vincewithouthee]

That's true as well. My facebook has been overrun with "LETS GO STEELERS" statuses. Its pathetic.

Even though probably 80% of my friends on facebook are frontrunner/fairweather fans and don't know shit about any sport I still like seeing their support. This whole city is revolved around this team.

[FondestMemory]

this is pointless because as much as you are unbiased in every aspect, the minute we get to steelers, it's fists up. parker has been awful this year, and we both know it has nothing to do with games played. his YPC has decreased in 4 consecutive years, the team is noticeably more productive when Davenport or Moore has started in his place. You and what seems like the rest of the steeler fans can continue to play apologist for him, but the fact is that he's been increasingly ineffective, has never been any sort of threat in the passing game, and isn't durable at all. he's all sorts of wrong for that team...and they'd be in this year's super bowl without him. you're smarter than to give win-based analysis on a yearly subpar performance.

it's not the fact that he's a steeler. i'd argue against you calling any back who's averaged 84 yards a game and 4.27 ypc over the past four seasons ineffective.

yes, he had a subpar year this year. but he was coming back from a broken leg and ended up dealing with other injuries as well. when all was said and done though, he still averaged 71 yards a game.

the team was never better off with davenport starting. and mewelde's big games as a starter this year came against jacksonville and cincinatti. of course our offense looked more productive against those defenses. they were 1-2 in the other three games he started. mewelde filled in great and did what was asked of him, but there is no way this team is better off with him starting than willie.

he's never been asked to be a part of the passing game. neither was bettis. or bam morris. he's always had a complementary third down back like verron haynes or mewelde moore. you can't hold something against him that isn't even expected of him.

i just don't get the 'isn't durable' part of the argument. he doesn't have a history of injuries. before this year he'd missed two games total. i'll take that for durability. he dealt with injuries this year and missed 5 games. if he has the same kind of problems next year, ok. but as of now i wouldn't say durability has been an issue.

the only reason i gave a win based analysis is because you claimed the team would be even better without him, and i was just pointing out that we're doing just fine with him.

willie is perfect for this team. i'm not being an apologist. i'm sticking up for a player on my team who had a large part in bringing a super bowl victory and is in position to strongly contribute to another one.

maybe we just have different ideas of the word ineffective, but if willie parker is ineffective, i'll take it.

[Vincewithouthee]

this is pointless because as much as you are unbiased in every aspect, the minute we get to steelers, it's fists up. parker has been awful this year, and we both know it has nothing to do with games played. his YPC has decreased in 4 consecutive years, the team is noticeably more productive when Davenport or Moore has started in his place. You and what seems like the rest of the steeler fans can continue to play apologist for him, but the fact is that he's been increasingly ineffective, has never been any sort of threat in the passing game, and isn't durable at all. he's all sorts of wrong for that team...and they'd be in this year's super bowl without him. you're smarter than to give win-based analysis on a yearly subpar performance.

I agree with both sides of this argument with some points. I just don't think Parker can be an every down back. That's just the way I see it. He was fresher and more effective when Bettis was here. The past two seasons after that the Steelers wore the shit out of him which kills almost any RB. He's never gonna be the same cause of that.

You can tell the Steelers and Parker himself knew what they were doing in getting him prepared for this year's playoffs. They conserved him for it and it clearly showed in the San Diego game. He didn't do shit against the Ravens but who does? I think he should do fine tonight.

Next season however we really need Mendenhall. We're gonna have to split the carries a lot more and maybe slowly get Rashard into the primary starting role. Steelers drafted him for a reason and it's a shame he got fucked by that injury early in the season. I'm excited to see him play.

[Scott Weber]

it's not the fact that he's a steeler. i'd argue against you calling any back who's averaged 84 yards a game and 4.27 ypc over the past four seasons ineffective.

yes, he had a subpar year this year. but he was coming back from a broken leg and ended up dealing with other injuries as well. when all was said and done though, he still averaged 71 yards a game.

the team was never better off with davenport starting. and mewelde's big games as a starter this year came against jacksonville and cincinatti. of course our offense looked more productive against those defenses. they were 1-2 in the other three games he started. mewelde filled in great and did what was asked of him, but there is no way this team is better off with him starting than willie.

he's never been asked to be a part of the passing game. neither was bettis. or bam morris. he's always had a complementary third down back like verron haynes or mewelde moore. you can't hold something against him that isn't even expected of him.

i just don't get the 'isn't durable' part of the argument. he doesn't have a history of injuries. before this year he'd missed two games total. i'll take that for durability. he dealt with injuries this year and missed 5 games. if he has the same kind of problems next year, ok. but as of now i wouldn't say durability has been an issue.

the only reason i gave a win based analysis is because you claimed the team would be even better without him, and i was just pointing out that we're doing just fine with him.

willie is perfect for this team. i'm not being an apologist. i'm sticking up for a player on my team who had a large part in bringing a super bowl victory and is in position to strongly contribute to another one.

maybe we just have different ideas of the word ineffective, but if willie parker is ineffective, i'll take it.
why would you judge him off 4 years of stats? if you look at LT over 4 years, you'd call him the best back in the league. clearly, he's no longer that. it's a steady decline of skills for parker and he's been banged up and ineffective all year. they made the super bowl in spite of him, not because of him. if you're satisfied with that, fine - i can get that. but he's no longer a good running back, and even if he has a great game today, that's not going to change it. whether you think he's "perfect" or not, the track record shows otherwise. of course you can't get any better than a super bowl win, so you know..whatever. but i certainly wouldn't call Antowain Smith the perfect Patriots RB because he won 2 super bowls with them.

[FondestMemory]

again, we have differing definitions of ineffective. even just basing on this year alone, he's averaged 71 yards a game. that's not elite numbers, but that's not ineffective by any means. especially for the steelers where teams come at you expecting the run. to get 71 yards a game is more than enough to open up the passing game.

i never said they made it because of him, but to say they made it in spite of him is a little bit of a reach. i sure am glad we were able to beat the chargers in spite of 146 yards and two tds. the fact the team managed to overcome that type of performance says a lot about them. even when he doesn't put up great numbers, he's still highly effective. due to his speed he's a threat to break a huge gain any time he touches the ball, and defenses have to gameplan for that.

i'm unsure what track record you're looking at that shows otherwise? he puts up solid numbers, and the team has success with him running the ball. i'm really not sure what else can be expected?

nowhere will i ever claim that he's the best running back in the league, but i'll still claim he's perfect for this team and i'm glad as hell that he's our's.

[Scott Weber]

again, we have differing definitions of ineffective. even just basing on this year alone, he's averaged 71 yards a game. that's not elite numbers, but that's not ineffective by any means. especially for the steelers where teams come at you expecting the run. to get 71 yards a game is more than enough to open up the passing game.

i never said they made it because of him, but to say they made it in spite of him is a little bit of a reach. i sure am glad we were able to beat the chargers in spite of 146 yards and two tds. the fact the team managed to overcome that type of performance says a lot about them. even when he doesn't put up great numbers, he's still highly effective. due to his speed he's a threat to break a huge gain any time he touches the ball, and defenses have to gameplan for that.

i'm unsure what track record you're looking at that shows otherwise? he puts up solid numbers, and the team has success with him running the ball. i'm really not sure what else can be expected?

nowhere will i ever claim that he's the best running back in the league, but i'll still claim he's perfect for this team and i'm glad as hell that he's our's.
Come on, it's not accurate to bring up one game's performance and write it off as a season savior. Even a blind squirrel finds a nut. Where was he in the week 16 Tennesee game? He wasn't highly effective. He was awful. Same with the 5 other games where he averaged 3.3 YPC or less - and I wouldn't really say he's a huge threat to gain big yards anymore - he's only had 3 games all year with a carry over 19 yards, and none of them were more than 34. I am not so sure teams really respect the speed like they used to. willie parker's statistics this season are not "solid." they are decisively mediocre and have decreased year after year after year. the NFL doesn't grade things on some 4 year average.

[FondestMemory]

Come on, it's not accurate to bring up one game's performance and write it off as a season savior. Even a blind squirrel finds a nut. Where was he in the week 16 Tennesee game? He wasn't highly effective. He was awful. Same with the 5 other games where he averaged 3.3 YPC or less - and I wouldn't really say he's a huge threat to gain big yards anymore - he's only had 3 games all year with a carry over 19 yards, and none of them were more than 34. I am not so sure teams really respect the speed like they used to. willie parker's statistics this season are not "solid." they are decisively mediocre and have decreased year after year after year. the NFL doesn't grade things on some 4 year average.

71 yards a game is solid. it's not elite, but it's better than mediocre. it's enough to do what the steelers want to do.

and no, things aren't graded on a 4 year average. but when a player has been highly effective three seasons, there's no need to jump to drastic conclusions after one injury riddled season where the numbers dip down.

your statement about the steelers being better off when they finally realize it makes it sound like he's been hurting the team for a long time. and that isn't the case at all.

and about his stats decreasing year after year after year? they went up after his first season as the starter. last year there was only a 178 yard difference between the previous season, and that was with a game and a half less. he was leading the league in rushing before breaking his leg. so it's not like his numbers were cut in half or anything. he was still beyond effective. the only one decreasing gradually is ypc. which, whatever, he's still right about 4, so it's not like he's hurting the team in that regard.

we're only looking at a four year career as a starter so far, and the gradual dropoff is nowhere near how you're making it out to be. dude's still very effective.

[Scott Weber]

71 yards a game is solid. it's not elite, but it's better than mediocre. it's enough to do what the steelers want to do.

and no, things aren't graded on a 4 year average. but when a player has been highly effective three seasons, there's no need to jump to drastic conclusions after one injury riddled season where the numbers dip down.

your statement about the steelers being better off when they finally realize it makes it sound like he's been hurting the team for a long time. and that isn't the case at all.

and about his stats decreasing year after year after year? they went up after his first season as the starter. last year there was only a 178 yard difference between the previous season, and that was with a game and a half less. he was leading the league in rushing before breaking his leg. so it's not like his numbers were cut in half or anything. he was still beyond effective. the only one decreasing gradually is ypc. which, whatever, he's still right about 4, so it's not like he's hurting the team in that regard.

we're only looking at a four year career as a starter so far, and the gradual dropoff is nowhere near how you're making it out to be. dude's still very effective.
71 yards a game but he takes a couple extra wasted plays to get there. Most RBs in the NFL will get 71 yards a game if they get enough carries. I don't find that exemplary in any way.

It's not "drastic" conclusions. These are really basic observations. His decline is well-documented. Decrease in YPC 4 straight years, horrible red zone performance in 2007, and now under 4 YPC and injurys +inconsistency in 2007. Very effective he is not, and I don't think anybody who's not a steeler fan is going to say that willie parker was "very effective" this year.

i'm out to a party. good luck. go cards.

[0101]

Im just going to cut in and say I'd really love for the Cardinals to win :( I like rooting for the underdog.

[xbrokendownx]

well hello there

[Charles777]

Lol. Way to gloat. A lot my teachers will probably call off except for one crazy teacher who is a browns fan. He's lived in pittsburgh all his life but is a traitor.
My middle school spanish teacher is a huge browns fan. We coated her room with toilet paper one time

:-d

[Charles777]

I hope the Steelers lose. I don't feel like listening to that shitty "Here We Go" song for the next year.

[CubbyNick42]

well hello there
Haha you're not in the college football thread much, I guess.

[Bigalan2004]

anyone see that performance by journey?

the singer is like 10 years younger than everyone else in the band.

[CubbyNick42]

They found him on YouTube.

[Bigalan2004]

They found him on YouTube.

i'm not one to recognize internet sarcasm, but if that is actually true that is pretty awesome.

[CarlosLunes]

i like her!

[Mirrorsandfevers]

i'm not one to recognize internet sarcasm, but if that is actually true that is pretty awesome.

It is true, I didn't believe it either.

[rcrook]

when i think super bowl i think matt millen

[Bigalan2004]

larry fitzgerald reminds me of troy polamalu

[acfrue]

when i think super bowl i think matt millen

who doesnt?

[theguy77]

i'd agree with you if you were right in any way.

ahhahaha, epic quote i should use this

[dont you move]

They found him on YouTube.

he's a legend in the philippines now cuz of it.

[The Raine]

I hope the Steelers lose. I don't feel like listening to that shitty "Here We Go" song for the next year.

This.

[SwiftSilentDead]

I'm reluctantly rooting for the Cardinals.

[silentstar1134]

Being a Ravens fan, I would just like to say Fuck the Steelers and Fuck the Terrible Towel....Im rooting for the Card's even though I think the Steelers are going to win.

[patpratt]

gonna be honest. not looking forward to this game in the slightest bit.

[xbrokendownx]

over/under on the number of times they show brenda warner? i set it at 7

[acfrue]

Its old SULLY SULLENBERG!!!

[theguy77]

i have never, ever heard a better performance of the national anthem. god damn everything was so perfect.

[xbrokendownx]

GI Joe movie? i just went from six to midnight

[Bigalan2004]

i think the whitney houston national anthem was better years back, but that was a very good performance.

[Regards]

8/7/09

[preppyak]

over/under on the number of times they show brenda warner? i set it at 7I'll take that over
Its old SULLY SULLENBERG!!!
Haha, I love that they showed him
i have never, ever heard a better performance of the national anthem. god damn everything was so perfect.
Yeah, I was pumped that they chose her

[Regards]

Madden looks like he's melting.

[theguy77]

hahahaahhaha elway needs some botox badly

[xbrokendownx]

NFC has won 12 straight coin tosses...thats nuts

[Regards]

Maybe a little selsun blue

[xbrokendownx]

alex flanagan could catch it

[preppyak]

NFC has won 12 straight coin tosses...thats nuts
the fix is in already!

And over/under on "grocery bagger/washed up QB" references is 15

[CarlosLunes]

wardrobe malfunction at halftime

[preppyak]

nice, Ward with the early big play

[J.C.]

Should've taken the ball.

[J.C.]

Knee looked down.

[xbrokendownx]

awful challenge..he was in to me

[ForlrnPerplxity]

awful challenge..he was in to me
FAIL

[J.C.]

Go for the 7.

[iihungrieii]

awful challenge..he was in to me

=)
(=
=)

[0101]

Hah, nice. Down from 7 to 3.

[laxcrs]

awesome challenge

[samsara]

awww dng how did the steelers get 3 points already?

[preppyak]

Steelers offense looked good...I'll take 3 early and see what the defense does

[theguy77]

comparing the black eyed peas guy with bob dylan? commercial FAIL

[preppyak]

haha, Doritos with the first winner

[preppyak]

comparing the black eyed peas guy with bob dylan? commercial FAIL
yeah, the Black Eyed Peas actually can sing

[1moreandimfree]

I liked the bud light one too

[J.C.]

That was a 1st down? What the hell was I looking at?

[acfrue]

yeah, the Black Eyed Peas actually can sing

lolol.

[samsara]

ha oh dang contact fail

[acfrue]

hahaha, conan ftw!!!

[theguy77]

conan!! yes! :lol:

[preppyak]

hahah...so pumped for The Year One

[samsara]

oh God Conan beer commercial.

[theguy77]

ohhh! almost picked!

[0101]

so close.

[J.C.]

That's why DRC doesn't play receiver.

[1moreandimfree]

Wow

[theguy77]

NO WAY

holy shit roethlisberger!!1

[preppyak]

wow, Ben took about 5 minutes to make that throw

[J.C.]

great play

[samsara]

that was a good play.

[0101]

very good play, both of them.

[preppyak]

Its shit like that that makes me glad we have Ben, but it also leads to like, 3 sacks a game

and Willie Parker running strong early

[samsara]

131 yards to 13 oh wow