I wanna say this about the Broncos

[Tibs]

Steelers fan here from the far side of the globe, thought I'd share my thoughts on the game vs. you oxygen-deprived mules from Colorado. :approve:

I've just spent the past half an hour or so watching some interviews with Broncos players & coaching staff: http://cbs4denver.com/video/?cid=5

Larry Coyer's (D coordinator) comments are particulary insightful, calling the Steelers an extremely difficult team to prepare for. All the way down the line, from Shanahan, to Plummer to FB Kyle Johnson (his comments on the Steelers D are worth watching), these guys seem to think they're going to have their hands full.

I never really pay much attention to other teams, other players in the NFL, but my pocket assessment is that these guys are pretty cool, level-headed, football smart, and all that. I think they are showing plenty of respect to the Steelers team and players. As we've seen - in the more civilized part of the country with running water & electricity - pretty much the same can be said for the fans that have dropped by our board @ steelernation.com.

Bottom line, this is the first time in a long time I have very little angst, hatred, whatever you want to call it, with regards to the opposition. I mean it's so easy to hate on teams like the Bengals, Pats, Colts, et al. Facing this Broncos team is building up to just being a great game of pure football. Two great teams, head to head, similiar styles, great players on both sides of the ball, excellent coaching staffs & diehard, loyal fans.

An AFC Championship game for the ages?

Oh, and for those of you gasping for air at that Himalayan altitude, here's the collection of videos from the Steelers' lockerroom:

http://kdka.com/video/?cid=33

I may have a new-found appreciation for the Broncos, but come Sunday, it's gonna be war. And I hope the Steelers destroy this team, in all phases of the game.

It just doesn't get any better than this.

Cheers, Tibs :sunshine:

[The Big E]

Damn, where have you Steelers fans been all week? We were infested with Pats fans last week and I couldn't even stand to come here.

I agree that we have two evenly matched teams, and we both pissed on the NFL's parade by taking out the league's darlings. That might contribute to the lack of animosity between us, but I'm sure we'll get there soon enough.

[ChampBailey24]

welcome and great first post but im afraid ur team will lose in a close heartbreaker lol. just my opinion. later man

[Play2win]

I think both these teams and their fans have a good amount of respect for the other team.

Unlike most of the other teams that WERE left in the playoffs...

[Kaylore]

The feeling is mututal. It will be a good game.

[Sodak]

Denver's 13th man. Altitude!

[ironskillet101]

Yeah, i've always respected the Steelers style of play and the fact that both of our respective teams earned their spots(to the whines of "experts") makes this a game in which both fans seem to respect the other team.

Believe me, the broncos are not overlooking the Steelers but I hope they are overlooking us.

welcome to the board.

[gunns]

It has been absolutely refreshing talking with Steeler fans this week after the Pat fans last week. On the ESPN boards there have been more Pat fans trying to justify their loss than Steeler fans but the Steeler fans that have come are great. Very evenly matched teams, the stats are eerie they are so similar. Wouldn't put my money on either team. To say the least this is weird.

[Tombstone RJ]

Its gonna be a hella game. I can hardly wait...

[2KBack]

Great goddamn post, I'm having a harder time everyday building up hatred for the enemy this week. It kinda feel like I'm just rooting against the Denver Doppleganger.

[Tibs]

A couple of thoughts (ten, to be exact) -

1. This is the guy that's gonna have to come through - big time - for you guys to stay in this game:

http://cache.denverbroncos.com/resources/custom/Team/vanpelt_bradlee_05_mug.jpg
11 Bradlee Van Pelt, Quarterback

Height: 6' 2"
Weight: 220 lbs.
College: Colorado State
Born: in Owosso, Mich.
Acquired: D7-04
Pro Year: 1st
Year with Broncos: 1st
NFL Games Played/Started: 3/0
Postseason: 0/0

Yes, I'm a bit concerned for the well-being of Jake Plummer, as much as I respect the guy.

2. (actually 1.b.) The Steelers front seven have been winning the line-of-scrimmage battle against every team they've faced during the past month and a half, I don't see that being any different Sunday. Dick LeBeau has been at the top of his schemes, and they've been working against the top offenses in the league (Bengals/Colts). The Steelers will bring the heat on Plummer, and as good of a scrambler as he is, the Steelers have the hounds to get after 'im. The Broncos do add the running game, which the Steelers D has been stopping for over 5 years now, consistently.

3. The Steelers O-lineman have been teeing-off on the Browns D-linemen for longer than even they can remember. Roethlisberger will have time to create in the passing game, and we all know the Steelers will do whatever they need to do to run the ball effectively.

4. Troy Polamalu will once again be all over the place. He's John Lynch with a rocket-pack strapped on, he's the one player who's reputation will never surpass his skills & impact on the field.

5. Big Ben is not the rookie QB who somehow made it through his rookie season 15-1, only to be overwhelmed by the time the games really counted in the playoffs last year. He's been relaxed, composed, and has obtained the respect of the entire team, on both sides of the ball. He's also 6-5, 250, who's able to move around in the pocket, and has been smart with his decisions.

6. Much like the Broncos, the Steelers' roster is full of veterans, hungry for their five minutes of fame. Hines Ward & Jerome Bettis are the heart & soul of this team. They've come up short many times, and the drive to the SB is as hot as it will ever be.

7. Willie Parker. You guys probably don't know much about our starting RB, as much press as the Bus is getting, but this kid is the Steelers' Tatum Bell, with 4.3 speed and the ability to go the distance. He is my darkhorse player of the game, as the Broncos focus their attention elsewhere.

8. Antwaan Randle El - returning punts, running reverses, throwing passes. I think the Steelers dip into the bag of tricks and Randle El is the ankle-breaking type player who can make things happen in a jiffy.

9. The Steelers unheralded, dismissed, underappreciated defensive backfield, young guys like Ike Taylor, Bryant McFadden, Chris Hope, Polamalu have been getting the job done. This is not the Steelers secondary of yesteryear with the likes of Chad Scott and DeWayne Washington (Toast, Burnt). I know the Broncos have scored with some young DB's as well, but these guys have been more than holding their own themselves.

10. The soppy, teary-eyed story of Jerome Bettis, sure-fire HOF'er. It may seem like a superficial thing, but in the 'Burgh, it is all about getting Bettis back to the Super Bowl in Motown.

Okay. So that's the equation from our angle, more or less. It's not gonna be easy, but I think the Steelers are riding a wave right now that's going to be hard to stop. As in Cinci, as in Indy... playing on the road means nothing to this team. Several players are from your neck of the woods - Aaron Smith, Porter, Haggans ... The altitude question - I think - is totally overblown.

Having said all that, as I wrote in my initial post, your Broncos are the first team we've faced this year that I can honestly say I have absolutely no bone to pick with. The Broncos could very well take this game. It's gonna be a doozy.

Cool site you guys have here, let's get ready to rumble on Sunday.

[Broncos4tw]

The altitude is not a problem until the fourth quarter. It's even harder to breath when it's cold. In the fourth when it all comes down to the wire, I'm just happy to be on the hometeam who is used to the altitude. Altitude isn't overblown, it's a scientific fact. :p

The air is thinner, which means you get less oxygyn per breath. It takes a couple weeks to even get to a point where you are starting to become acclimated. I wouldn't so readily dismiss the altitude, it may have more a factor on the game than you think.

[Jens1893]

Tibs, do you think there´s more to Ben´s injury than everyone knows? I haven´t heard ANYTHING out of the Steelers´ camp and that somehow makes me suspicious. Not that I´d blame Cowher for trying to keep this secret, of course.

[Tibs]

Tibs, do you think there´s more to Ben´s injury than everyone knows? I haven´t heard ANYTHING out of the Steelers´ camp and that somehow makes me suspicious. Not that I´d blame Cowher for trying to keep this secret, of course.

He's got a sore thumb. From what I know, there's nothing new from the aftermath of the Colts game. I think he got a stinger in the upper arm on a hit, but I think he's pretty much where he's been over the past few weeks.

[chuckrugger]

Awww, man. Now what the H am I gonna do. Half of the excitement comes from being able to get really angry at the other team (well, SOME of the excitement anyway). You guys are gonna ruin it for me.

BTW, Big E, I've been here since Monday (reference the "Here we Go" thread, first post: So which Broncos LB is going to have Bus tracks on his chest come Monday?)

[2KBack]

Yes, I'm a bit concerned for the well-being of Jake Plummer, as much as I respect the guy.

2. (actually 1.b.) The Steelers front seven have been winning the line-of-scrimmage battle against every team they've faced during the past month and a half, I don't see that being any different Sunday. Dick LeBeau has been at the top of his schemes, and they've been working against the top offenses in the league (Bengals/Colts). The Steelers will bring the heat on Plummer, and as good of a scrambler as he is, the Steelers have the hounds to get after 'im. The Broncos do add the running game, which the Steelers D has been stopping for over 5 years now, consistently.

3. The Steelers O-lineman have been teeing-off on the Browns D-linemen for longer than even they can remember. Ben will have time to create in the passing game, and we all know the Steelers will do whatever they need to do to run the ball effectively.

4. Troy Polamalu will once again be all over the place. He's John Lynch with a rocket-pack strapped on, he's the one player who's reputation will never surpass his skills & impact on the field.

5. Big Ben is not the rookie QB who somehow made it through his rookie season 15-1, only to be overwhelmed by the time the games really counted in the playoffs last year. He's been relaxed, composed, and has obtained the respect of the entire team, on both sides of the ball. He's also 6-5, 250, who's able to move around in the pocket, and has been smart with his decisions.

6. Hines Ward & Jerome Bettis are the heart & soul of this team. They've come up short many times, and the drive to the SB is as hot as it will ever be.

7. Willie Parker. You guys probably don't know much about our starting RB, as much press as the Bus is getting, but this kid is the Steelers' Tatum Bell, with 4.3 speed and the ability to go the distance. He is my darkhorse player of the game, as the Broncos focus their attention elsewhere.

8. Antwaan Randle El - returning punts, running reverses, throwing passes. I think the Steelers dip into the bag of tricks and Randle El is the ankle-breaking type player who can make things happen in a jiffy.

9. The Steelers unheralded, dismissed, underappreciated defensive backfield, young guys like Ike Taylor, Bryant McFadden, Chris Hope, Polamalu have been getting the job done. This is not the Steelers secondary of yesteryear with the likes of Chad Scot and DeWayne Washington (Toast, Burnt). I know the Broncos have scored with some young DB's as well, but these guys have been more than holding their own themselves.

10. The soppy, teary-eyed story of Jerome Bettis, sure-fire HOF'er. It may seem like a superficial thing, but in the 'Burgh, it is all about getting Bettis back to the Super Bowl in Motown.

Another good smack free post.

1. IF plummer goes down, yes I'm concerned. Luckily even if he is getting pounded, he usually doesn't take a lot of hard shots (typically becasue he is scrambling around). Denver plays the blitz well, and Pitt Blitzes well, it's a match-up to watch. I'd say this is the best o-line itt will have faced all year.

2/1b. I won't argue that this is a possibility, one of the better mini-match-ups in the game.

3. Please don't resort to brownco comparisons, that's been beaten to death by every opponent this year, and a 14-3 record with #2 rushing defense has proved them wrong.

4.no argument there, that guy's a beast
5.Ben's looked good, we'l have to see how he performs against constant heat. Much like the Plummer deal.
6.I like those guys, if you win, I'll be rooting for them.
7.Parker is a fast little dude, but Denver actually performs better against the speed guys, being a defense based on it. IT's one of the reasons why it's so nice to have aggressive tackling Corners. Not to mention easily the fastest LB corp in the league. You're more likely to run over us than around.
8.Actually, he scares the **** outta me.
9.Hopefully no one is underrating a secondary that held MArvin harrison to practically nothing.
10.If the Bus was playing anyone but Denver, I'd be rooting for him to get his ring.

[Rock Chalk]

A couple of thoughts (ten, to be exact) -

1. This is the guy that's gonna have to come through - big time - for you guys to stay in this game:

http://cache.denverbroncos.com/resources/custom/Team/vanpelt_bradlee_05_mug.jpg
11 Bradlee Van Pelt, Quarterback

Height: 6' 2"
Weight: 220 lbs.
College: Colorado State
Born: in Owosso, Mich.
Acquired: D7-04
Pro Year: 1st
Year with Broncos: 1st
NFL Games Played/Started: 3/0
Postseason: 0/0

Yes, I'm a bit concerned for the well-being of Jake Plummer, as much as I respect the guy.

I hope it gets better because your first thought sucked. No offense.

2. (actually 1.b.) The Steelers front seven have been winning the line-of-scrimmage battle against every team they've faced during the past month and a half, I don't see that being any different Sunday. Dick LeBeau has been at the top of his schemes, and they've been working against the top offenses in the league (Bengals/Colts). The Steelers will bring the heat on Plummer, and as good of a scrambler as he is, the Steelers have the hounds to get after 'im. The Broncos do add the running game, which the Steelers D has been stopping for over 5 years now, consistently.

The Steelers have not played against Denver's athletic offensive line this year and you would be surprised how quickly your guys are gonna get gassed. The Colts and Bengals run offenses that require at least moderate protection. We dont. We run the ball or pass to quick flats until you back off and in so doing will score 21 points. When you back off we will run and bring you back in and then we will hit you deep. Effectively, we have nullified the pass rush with game planning and Jake's mobility AND two all pro studs on our offensive line with 3 better than average other guys.

3. The Steelers O-lineman have been teeing-off on the Browns D-linemen for longer than even they can remember. Ben will have time to create in the passing game, and we all know the Steelers will do whatever they need to do to run the ball effectively.

The Browns D-linemen, minus Trevor Pryce with Al Wilson, DJ Williams and Ian Gold right behind them. Funny how no one seems to mention those guys when they talk about the Brownco's. Pryce alone will draw double teams and STILL get pressure and if you dont think that Warren and Myers and Ekuban and Brown are all playing at a higher level than they were in Cleveland you are SADLY mistaken.

4. Troy Polamalu will once again be all over the place. He's John Lynch with a rocket-pack strapped on, he's the one player who's reputation will never surpass his skills & impact on the field.

Oh yeah, Troy will give us fits, but he is also uber aggressive and Mike Shanahan will game plan around that.

5. Big Ben is not the rookie QB who somehow made it through his rookie season 15-1, only to be overwhelmed by the time the games really counted in the playoffs last year. He's been relaxed, composed, and has obtained the respect of the entire team, on both sides of the ball. He's also 6-5, 250, who's able to move around in the pocket, and has been smart with his decisions.

Big Ben is a fantastic QB. I think he is much better than given credit for and I think he shows a lot of poise as a young QB. That being said, AFC Championship, in Denver, first time in 7 years, 4-0 in home AFC Championship games, 3-2 against Pitt, evenly matched...advantage: Denver.

6. Hines Ward & Jerome Bettis are the heart & soul of this team. They've come up short many times, and the drive to the SB is as hot as it will ever be.

Yes, and its good for a team to have heart. We got some too. Rod Smith, Al Wilson, Mike Anderson to name a few. Rod Smith, by the way, has TWO superbowl rings and has commanded the respect of every DB in the league for the past 10 years. His teammates look up to him and with quiet confidence, they follow him. Very similar to Hines Ward, but greater. No knock on Hines at all, but Rod is God, you just have no idea.

7. Willie Parker. You guys probably don't know much about our starting RB, as much press as the Bus is getting, but this kid is the Steelers' Tatum Bell, with 4.3 speed and the ability to go the distance. He is my darkhorse player of the game, as the Broncos focus their attention elsewhere.

Naw, we are fully aware of Willie Parker. This community here is fairly adept in keeping up with other players and potential fantasy stars ;) To be fair, we are more worried about Parker than the Bus.

8. Antwaan Randle El - returning punts, running reverses, throwing passes. I think the Steelers dip into the bag of tricks and Randle El is the ankle-breaking type player who can make things happen in a jiffy.

Well, returning punts: Keith Burns. Running Reverses: The LBs, Throwing Passes: Champ Bailey, Ferguson and D Will.

9. The Steelers unheralded, dismissed, underappreciated defensive backfield, young guys like Ike Taylor, Bryant McFadden, Chris Hope, Polamalu have been getting the job done. This is not the Steelers secondary of yesteryear with the likes of Chad Scot and DeWayne Washington (Toast, Burnt). I know the Broncos have scored with some young DB's as well, but these guys have been more than holding their own themselves.

Yes, but we dont run a lot of deep pattern, we beat you short, long sustained drives. Kinda like you guys are used to. Should be fairly familiar to you, only you will be on the other side.

10. The soppy, teary-eyed story of Jerome Bettis, sure-fire HOF'er. It may seem like a superficial thing, but in the 'Burgh, it is all about getting Bettis back to the Super Bowl in Motown.

This is why I have no real hatred if the Steelers win. I would not be sad to see Bettis get a ring. That being said, **** Bettis.

Okay. So that's the equation from our angle, more or less. It's not gonna be easy, but I think the Steelers are riding a wave right now that's going to be hard to stop. As in Cinci, as in Indy... playing on the road means nothing to this team. Several players are from your neck of the woods - Aaron Smith, Porter, Haggans ... The altitude question - I think - is totally overblown.

Well, thats from mine.

Having said all that, as I wrote in my initial post, your Broncos are the first team we've faced this year that I can honestly say I have absolutely no bone to pick with. The Broncos could very well take this game. It's gonna be a doozy.

Cool site you guys have here, let's get ready to rumble on Sunday.
Yes, it is a nice site.

[Hogan11]

Go Pirates.

[No1BroncoFan]

Damn, where have you Steelers fans been all week? We were infested with Pats fans last week and I couldn't even stand to come here.

I agree that we have two evenly matched teams, and we both pissed on the NFL's parade by taking out the league's darlings. That might contribute to the lack of animosity between us, but I'm sure we'll get there soon enough.
I'll take two or three posters like this over the wave of Pats troll we got any week!

Welcome in Tibs!

Ben

[chuckrugger]

Unfortunately, the reason we were able to hold Marvin Harrison to just 2 catches and generally limit all the Colts recievers was because we got such great pressure on Manning with only 4 or 5 guys. Once he got pressured a couple of times his feet NEVER stopped dancing around. Plummer, as a guy who's comfortable scrambling and throwing on the run (not to mention getting the crap beat out of him in Arizona) seems to me like a guy who won't get scared nearly as easily. If we can't get him looking over his shoulder, it might be a long night for our secondary with Alexander, Putzier, Smith, and Lelie running around with time to get open.

[2KBack]

Unfortunately, the reason we were able to hold Marvin Harrison to just 2 catches and generally limit all the Colts recievers was because we got such great pressure on Manning with only 4 or 5 guys. Once he got pressured a couple of times his feet NEVER stopped dancing around. Plummer, as a guy who's comfortable scrambling and throwing on the run (not to mention getting the crap beat out of him in Arizona) seems to me like a guy who won't get scared nearly as easily. If we can't get him looking over his shoulder, it might be a long night for our secondary with Alexander, Putzier, Smith, and Lelie running around with time to get open.


Jeez, will you just look at this humble ****? Are we sure that AFC championship is coming up this weekend?

[BroncoFanDoug]

If you step back a bit, you have:


Both have looked good in the playoffs
Denver finished with a 2 game better record (that's a lot - diff between 10-6 and 8-8).
Denver played a slightly tougher schedule
Denver finished the 2nd half of the season much stronger
Denver is playing at home
Denver is better rested
Denver has a much better net turnover in the reg season (20-7) and the playoffs (4-0)


I think Pit is a very good team, and none of this guarantees anything. But playing in Denver, I don't think these teams are even. I think Denver is better and should win.

Go Broncs!

[i4jelway7]

great posts steeler fans... I've never hated the steelers... whoever wins they will deserve it... both teams are tough and it is going to be a dogfight... whoever wins will represent the AFC well... with that said GO BRONCOS

[Rock Chalk]

This sucks.

I want SOME smack.

****ing Steeler pussies.

[kamakazi_kal]

im glad everyone on this post is all fuzzy and happy with the steelers fans but let me be the first to say

steelers...... you can ride the bus right into the offseason this weekend


oh and %u*k the STEELERS.......... classless i know but ......dont care

[chuckrugger]

Jeez, will you just look at this humble ****? Are we sure that AFC championship is coming up this weekend?


Well, everybody was getting so warm and fuzzy with all the 'mutual respect' and all the other posts I've read on thsi board about how you guys think its kinda wierd that there's nothing about the other team to really dislike and get worked up over. I didn't want to ruin the mood by saying something like,


"There's no way anybody is stopping this team after the run they've had destroying the Browns (nothing gets the Steelers fired up like beating the crap out of the Browns, its kind of like the Broncos-Raiders thing but nastier), beating the crap out of the whiny-ass, cry-baby, prima-donna Bengals, and then silencing the RCA Dome (minus a few last minute theatrics) and pretty much pimp-slapping everybody's favorite team when NOBODY gave them a chance (Terry Bradshaw picked the Colts for crying out loud). I really don't care HOW impressed Denver is with their altitude, or how SPECIAL everyone seems to think their team is. The Bus is ending his career in the Superbowl in his home town and there's just no way the rest of the guys on that team will let anything stop them from getting him there.


That said... you guys have a really 'special' team and if we have to lose to someone I'm glad its the Broncos and it should be a great game no matter who wins and we're just lucky to be there and all that other meaningless crap....



How's that for humble:devil:

[Ray Finkle]

Unfortunately, the reason we were able to hold Marvin Harrison to just 2 catches and generally limit all the Colts recievers was because we got such great pressure on Manning with only 4 or 5 guys. Once he got pressured a couple of times his feet NEVER stopped dancing around. Plummer, as a guy who's comfortable scrambling and throwing on the run (not to mention getting the crap beat out of him in Arizona) seems to me like a guy who won't get scared nearly as easily. If we can't get him looking over his shoulder, it might be a long night for our secondary with Alexander, Putzier, Smith, and Lelie running around with time to get open.


Great point. One thing Denver will not do that Indy did. Abandon the run.....that sets up the screens and TE's behind the blitz....

[Sassy]

Ha! Is this really a football board?

[orinjkrush]

dam*! but if we don't go i hope the steelers win the XL

[2KBack]

Well, everybody was getting so warm and fuzzy with all the 'mutual respect' and all the other posts I've read on thsi board about how you guys think its kinda wierd that there's nothing about the other team to really dislike and get worked up over. I didn't want to ruin the mood by saying something like,


"There's no way anybody is stopping this team after the run they've had destroying the Browns (nothing gets the Steelers fired up like beating the crap out of the Browns, its kind of like the Broncos-Raiders thing but nastier), beating the crap out of the whiny-ass, cry-baby, prima-donna Bengals, and then silencing the RCA Dome (minus a few last minute theatrics) and pretty much pimp-slapping everybody's favorite team when NOBODY gave them a chance (Terry Bradshaw picked the Colts for crying out loud). I really don't care HOW impressed Denver is with their altitude, or how SPECIAL everyone seems to think their team is. The Bus is ending his career in the Superbowl in his home town and there's just no way the rest of the guys on that team will let anything stop them from getting him there.


That said... you guys have a really 'special' team and if we have to lose to someone I'm glad its the Broncos and it should be a great game no matter who wins and we're just lucky to be there and all that other meaningless crap....



How's that for humble:devil:

:rofl: I love it

[chuckrugger]

Actually, one of my best friends lives in Golden. I've been to Denver several times and think its a really great town. I also don't really have much against the Broncos except for the fact that they're playing the Steelers this weekend and must therefore die. But, when you call me out like that.... what else am I gonna do?

[Tibs]

I hope it gets better because your first thought sucked. No offense.

Yeah, I know, just wanted to add some bite to the bark.

Btw, we are equally ****ed if Ben goes down. If Tommy Maddox or Charlie Batch comes in, I will be eyeing the 5th floor balcony (as far as finding a good launching spot).

The Steelers have not played against Denver's athletic offensive line this year and you would be surprised how quickly your guys are gonna get gassed. The Colts and Bengals run offenses that require at least moderate protection. We dont. We run the ball or pass to quick flats until you back off and in so doing will score 21 points. When you back off w00e will run and bring you back in and then we will hit you deep. Effectively, we have nullified the pass rush with game planning and Jake's mobility AND two all pro studs on our offensive line with 3 better than average other guys.

Fair enough. But on that note, the Broncos haven’t faced a D like the Steelers this year, Pats, or no Pats, and the heat will come from all angles. I agree with you in the sense that the D will have to get to Plummer quicker than against a Manning, per se, but I have full confidence that it will get there.

Also, our D I think will be able to meet – even surpass – the so-called quickness of your offensive line, for the simple reason that our LB’s and DB’s are at least as quick as yours, which is as quick and fast and sudden as defense is played in the league today.

The Browns D-linemen, minus Trevor Pryce with Al Wilson, DJ Williams and Ian Gold right behind them. Funny how no one seems to mention those guys when they talk about the Brownco's. Pryce alone will draw double teams and STILL get pressure and if you dont think that Warren and Myers and Ekuban and Brown are all playing at a higher level than they were in Cleveland you are SADLY mistaken.

I’ll tell you what, we put a hat-on-hat and there are some quality players there in the Steelers blocking scheme. Alan Faneca is arguably the best pulling-guard in the league, and the OL guys have been peaking at the right time. Add to that TE Heath Miller & FB Dan Kreider, we’ll cover our asses in getting to the second level, blocking wise. Not in this game, per chance, it’s what’s allowed the Steelers to get this far in the first place.

Oh yeah, Troy will give us fits, but he is also uber aggressive and Mike Shanahan will game plan around that.

That’s a misnomer. I wouldn’t trade Troy Polamalu for any defensive backfield player in the NFL. He’s not as “uber aggressive” as you think. Troy P. has a calmness about him that allows him to be where he needs to be on a given play. It’s called anticipation. And he has an elevated sensibility in that department.

Big Ben is a fantastic QB. I think he is much better than given credit for and I think he shows a lot of poise as a young QB. That being said, AFC Championship, in Denver, first time in 7 years, 4-0 in home AFC Championship games, 3-2 against Pitt, evenly matched...advantage: Denver.

Roethlisberger will be ready to play within the system and make things happen when called upon. Steelers fans themselves have been taken aback by the type of poise the kid has been showing.

Yes, and its good for a team to have heart. We got some too. Rod Smith, Al Wilson, Mike Anderson to name a few. Rod Smith, by the way, has TWO superbowl rings and has commanded the respect of every DB in the league for the past 10 years. His teammates look up to him and with quiet confidence, they follow him. Very similar to Hines Ward, but greater. No knock on Hines at all, but Rod is God, you just have no idea.

Rod Smith cannot hold Hines Ward's jockstrap.

Naw, we are fully aware of Willie Parker. This community here is fairly adept in keeping up with other players and potential fantasy stars ;) To be fair, we are more worried about Parker than the Bus. .

Good, you’re coming around.

Well, returning punts: Keith Burns. Running Reverses: The LBs, Throwing Passes: Champ Bailey, Ferguson and D Will. .

Sure thing. May as well make your way down to the local parsonage and do a few hail mary’s.

Yes, but we dont run a lot of deep pattern, we beat you short, long sustained drives. Kinda like you guys are used to. Should be fairly familiar to you, only you will be on the other side. .

If you say so.

This is why I have no real hatred if the Steelers win. I would not be sad to see Bettis get a ring. That being said, **** Bettis. .

That being said, **** Mike Anderson and **** Tatum Bell.


Well, thats from mine.

And an excellent post at that.

[2KBack]

Actually, one of my best friends lives in Golden. I've been to Denver several times and think its a really great town. I also don't really have much against the Broncos except for the fact that they're playing the Steelers this weekend and must therefore die. But, when you call me out like that.... what else am I gonna do?


My best friend went to school at Pitt, I used to go up and visit from DC all the time, it's a good town. Weird beer laws, but good people. Of all the teams in the playoffs this year, the Steelers are the only ones I would root for in Detroit. That said, I'm sure I'll curse them more than once this sunday.

[Ray Finkle]

Fair enough. But on that note, the Broncos haven’t faced a D like the Steelers this year, Pats, or no Pats, and the heat will come from all angles. I agree with you in the sense that the D will have to get to Plummer quicker than against a Manning, per se, but I have full confidence that it will get there.
see the Chargers....



Rod Smith cannot hold Hines Ward\s jockstrap.

that is your opinion and you are entitled to it...

[chuckrugger]

Right on, Tibs

[2KBack]

Rod Smith cannot hold Hines Ward's jockstrap.

If your trying to rile up the fanbase, this is the road you could travel

[chuckrugger]

My best friend went to school at Pitt, I used to go up and visit from DC all the time, it's a good town. Weird beer laws, but good people. Of all the teams in the playoffs this year, the Steelers are the only ones I would root for in Detroit. That said, I'm sure I'll curse them more than once this sunday.


Yeah, what's up with that? You can't buy a six-pack anywhere except a bar. You can't buy liquor at the same place you buy the beer. It's like,"Well, we'll let you drink but only if you drink a whole lot at once."

[Tibs]

see the Chargers....

:gossip:

Where the **** are the Chargers? The Chargers have 4-5 solid players on D, the Steelers have eleven.

[Darkdoc]

10. The soppy, teary-eyed story of Jerome Bettis, sure-fire HOF'er. It may seem like a superficial thing, but in the 'Burgh, it is all about getting Bettis back to the Super Bowl in Motown.

I just can't find it in me to be even a little emotional about his "need" to go to a Super Bowl in his home town.

He's had 13 years to get there - who's responsible for that failure on your TEAM'S part?. I respect the man, but thinking the Broncos should have any desire to get emotional about Bettis' loss - well the bus can bite my ass.

There is a whole team full of Broncos who have earned the right to go to Detroit as well.

This weepy stuff is going to hurt you girly men.

[The Big E]

Awww, man. Now what the H am I gonna do. Half of the excitement comes from being able to get really angry at the other team (well, SOME of the excitement anyway). You guys are gonna ruin it for me.

BTW, Big E, I've been here since Monday (reference the "Here we Go" thread, first post: So which Broncos LB is going to have Bus tracks on his chest come Monday?)
I know you've been here, I was just commenting in general that there have been relatively few of you guys here. How many Broncos fans are on your boards?

What I really want to know is, which of your players will be found on a turnpike overpass with a rifle, a la Ernie Holmes, after we end your season? (I lived in Cleveland until age 12, which is why I remember that, although details may be sketchy)

[kamakazi_kal]

ward is a cheap knockoff of eddie mac

[Tibs]

If your trying to rile up the fanbase, this is the road you could travel

Doing my best.

I like Rod Smith. In fact, Rod Smith can safely say to family and friends he's half the player that Hines Ward is, and still look good.

[Tibs]

This weepy stuff is going to hurt you girly men.

Well, since the Broncos will be doing the weeping, it's no skin off of Bettis' back.

[chuckrugger]

I know you've been here, I was just commenting in general that there have been relatively few of you guys here. How many Broncos fans are on your boards?

What I really want to know is, which of your players will be found on a turnpike overpass with a rifle, a la Ernie Holmes, after we end your season? (I lived in Cleveland until age 12, which is why I remember that, although details may be sketchy)


As much as I hate to badmouth anything Steelers. You guys let me register on your board in about 3 minutes. I tried to get on two of the Steelers boards Sunday night and I STILL haven't heard back about my "application". I tried three times, too. I'm not sure what their deal is.

[kamakazi_kal]

ward will get a nice dose of champ this weekend and ill take that matchup any day......

go ahead say it dosent worry you ........ we all know your lying

:thumbs:

[Bronx33]

[QUOTE=Ray Finkle]
see the Chargers....

:gossip:

Where the **** are the Chargers? The Chargers have 4-5 solid players on D, the Steelers have eleven.

I will say that you have a good D but owning manning and his OL wasn't as big a deal as you think, manning is about as mobile as a dead hooker and he depended on that protection which you guys owned all day. Plummer is not going to stand there like manning did and i think mike may use that against you on your blitzes.

[Ray Finkle]

[QUOTE=Ray Finkle]
see the Chargers....

:gossip:

Where the **** are the Chargers? The Chargers have 4-5 solid players on D, the Steelers have eleven.


They have a good defense that blitzes from all angles....you said Denver didn't face anyone like that...

[ChampBailey24]

kill Tibs!!!! no one says that about rod and doesnt get banned lol

[2KBack]

Doing my best.

I like Rod Smith. In fact, Rod Smith can safely say to family and friends he's half the player that Hines Ward is, and still look good.

I would say that hines ward is all but 2 fingers of what Rod Smith is, the kicker is that those two fingers have superbowl rings on them.

[Bronx33]

As much as I hate to badmouth anything Steelers. You guys let me register on your board in about 3 minutes. I tried to get on two of the Steelers boards Sunday night and I STILL haven't heard back about my "application". I tried three times, too. I'm not sure what their deal is.


They are probaly doing a back ground check on ya j/k your right though that is kinda odd that during the playoffs a message board isn't letting posters in as fast as possiable it's the fricken playoffs for chridt sakes!

[rodr88]

Rod Smith cannot hold Hines Ward's jockstrap.





Not that he would want to, but with his 10,000 + yards and two FREAKIN SUPERBOWL RINGS why should he be bothered with Hines.

Hines is a damn fine player, but please, before Rod gets assigned jockstrap duty let Hines get a Superbowl ring.

And you were doing so well right up to that point.

[elsid13]

Doing my best.

I like Rod Smith. In fact, Rod Smith can safely say to family and friends he's half the player that Hines Ward is, and still look good.


Just think that if Ward 2 Super Bowl rings he might be same league as Smith is.

[2KBack]

Rod would get more press if he smiled as much as Ward

[chuckrugger]

Not that he would want to, but with his 10,000 + yards and two FREAKIN SUPERBOWL RINGS why should he be bothered with Hines.

Hines is a damn fine player, but please, before Rod gets assigned jockstrap duty let Hines get a Superbowl ring.

And you were doing so well right up to that point.


Yeah, he's got 10877 yards in 11 years with John freakin' Elway throwing to him most of the time.

Hines has 7000+ in 8 years and for at least one season he had Ken Graham throwing him the ball, plus Maddox's second season, plus all the time that Kordell Stewart was sucking it up in Three Rivers. Numbers are great but the circumstances surrounding them do matter.

[chuckrugger]

Rod would get more press if he smiled as much as Ward

:~ohyah!: I have to admit though. It does feel pretty good to see him take a huge hit, hold onto the ball, and get up smiling.

BTW, when's the last time anyone saw Rod Smith knock out a DB blocking for the running game.

[2KBack]

Yeah, he's got 10877 yards in 11 years with John freakin' Elway throwing to him most of the time.

Hines has 7000+ in 8 years and for at least one season he had Ken Graham throwing him the ball, plus Maddox's second season, plus all the time that Kordell Stewart was sucking it up in Three Rivers. Numbers are great but the circumstances surrounding them do matter.

just to be fair, Rod only started for 2 years with Elway. 75% of his numbers have come from the golden arm of Brian Griese.

[TUG]

Try B. Griese throwing to him most of the time. Rod was really only a starter for Elway in 97 and 98. Ward is a great player, but he just does what Smith has been doing for years with Smith having better numbers.

[Ray Finkle]

Yeah, he's got 10877 yards in 11 years with John freakin' Elway throwing to him most of the time.

Hines has 7000+ in 8 years and for at least one season he had Ken Graham throwing him the ball, plus Maddox's second season, plus all the time that Kordell Stewart was sucking it up in Three Rivers. Numbers are great but the circumstances surrounding them do matter.

Actually Elway only three to him for about four of the seasons (95-98). He has had Griese, Brister, Miller, Buerline, Plummer, and a couple others....

[Ray Finkle]

:~ohyah!: I have to admit though. It does feel pretty good to see him take a huge hit, hold onto the ball, and get up smiling.

BTW, when's the last time anyone saw Rod Smith knock out a DB blocking for the running game.


watch Dayne's run in OT vs the Boys...

[kamakazi_kal]

nice excuse CHUCK..........

[elsid13]

:gossip:

Where the **** are the Chargers? The Chargers have 4-5 solid players on D, the Steelers have eleven.


Last time I looked everyone in the league had 11 players play D. The front 7 is solid, but your secondary minus Troy is weak.

[chuckrugger]

just to be fair, Rod only started for 2 years with Elway. 75% of his numbers have come from the golden arm of Brian Griese.


Wow, has it been that long since Elway retired? D***, college was a long time ago :kiddingme

[2KBack]

:~ohyah!: I have to admit though. It does feel pretty good to see him take a huge hit, hold onto the ball, and get up smiling.

BTW, when's the last time anyone saw Rod Smith knock out a DB blocking for the running game.

it's actually amazing that the simularities in these teams are even apparent in their recievers. Rod made a name for himself by being an excellent blocking reciever somehow managing really good numbers in a run first offense. Ward is cut from the same stone. If only Terrell was still around, we could compare HOF RB too.

[Tibs]

And you were doing so well right up to that point.

Hines Ward is as tough of a WR as you will find in the game.

As is Rod Smith, in your view.

Broncos fans will swear by Smith, Steelers fans will swear by Ward.

That's what makes this match up what it is.

It's a bitch responding to a bunch of posts in this thread, in enemy territory.

I'm doing my best Kofi Annan impersenation.

[elsid13]

Hines Ward is as tough of a WR as you will find in the game.

As is Rod Smith, in your view.

Broncos fans will swear by Smith, Steelers fans will swear by Ward.

That's what makes this match up what it is.


Unless Ward looking for new contract, then Steeler fans will only swear at Ward.

[chuckrugger]

Last time I looked everyone in the league had 11 players play D. The front 7 is solid, but your secondary minus Troy is weak.


Actually, our secondary IS minus Troy alot of the time. A lot of times he's coming on the blitz and Porter or Farrior are dropping back into coverage.

Besides, Pitt was ranked 16th in the NFL in passing defense. Where was Denver? (Answer: 29th)

[Rock Chalk]

Yeah, I know, just wanted to add some bite to the bark.

Btw, we are equally ****ed if Ben goes down. If Tommy Maddox or Charlie Batch comes in, I will be eyeing the 5th floor balcony (as far as finding a good launching spot).



Fair enough. But on that note, the Broncos haven’t faced a D like the Steelers this year, Pats, or no Pats, and the heat will come from all angles. I agree with you in the sense that the D will have to get to Plummer quicker than against a Manning, per se, but I have full confidence that it will get there.

Also, our D I think will be able to meet – even surpass – the so-called quickness of your offensive line, for the simple reason that our LB’s and DB’s are at least as quick as yours, which is as quick and fast and sudden as defense is played in the league today.



I’ll tell you what, we put a hat-on-hat and there are some quality players there in the Steelers blocking scheme. Alan Faneca is arguably the best pulling-guard in the league, and the OL guys have been peaking at the right time. Add to that TE Heath Miller & FB Dan Kreider, we’ll cover our asses in getting to the second level, blocking wise. Not in this game, per chance, it’s what’s allowed the Steelers to get this far in the first place.



That’s a misnomer. I wouldn’t trade Troy Polamalu for any defensive backfield player in the NFL. He’s not as “uber aggressive” as you think. Troy P. has a calmness about him that allows him to be where he needs to be on a given play. It’s called anticipation. And he has an elevated sensibility in that department.



Roethlisberger will be ready to play within the system and make things happen when called upon. Steelers fans themselves have been taken aback by the type of poise the kid has been showing.



Rod Smith cannot hold Hines Ward's jockstrap.



Good, you’re coming around.



Sure thing. May as well make your way down to the local parsonage and do a few hail mary’s.



If you say so.



That being said, **** Mike Anderson and **** Tatum Bell.




And an excellent post at that.
We're all good, you and I, but you blaspheme Rod like that again and we might have some issues.

[Bronx33]

We're all good, you and I, but you blaspheme Rod like that again and we might have some issues.


Seems rod has hines in the stat dept even with big ben at QB.

http://www.nfl.com/stats/playersort/AFC/WR-RECEIVING/2005/regular

[Spider]

Hines Ward is as tough of a WR as you will find in the game.

As is Rod Smith, in your view.

Broncos fans will swear by Smith, Steelers fans will swear by Ward.

That's what makes this match up what it is.

It's a b**** responding to a bunch of posts in this thread, in enemy territory.

I'm doing my best Kofi Annan impersenation.
Ward or Rod , cant go wrong with either guy ...... Both tough as nails , Chain movers , understand the game , get the Job done , unlike a moss or a T.O .
you guys got Randle el , we got lelie ...... you got the Bus , we got a marine ....you got a bearded QB , so do we , you guys play nasty D , so do we ......

[Rock Chalk]

Actually, our secondary IS minus Troy alot of the time. A lot of times he's coming on the blitz and Porter or Farrior are dropping back into coverage.

Besides, Pitt was ranked 16th in the NFL in passing defense. Where was Denver? (Answer: 29th)
That's a misnomer however. Denver gave up a lot of yards, but were passed on far more than any other team in the league as well. In pass defense, we had more interceptions than touchdowns allowed and over the past 9 games Denver has really turned on the heat in percentages on 3rd down, total completion percentage, yards per catch average and points allowed.

The last quarter of the season, Denver's horrible pass defense, yielded less than 10 points per game and limited Tom Brady, yes, Tom Brady, to one passing touchdown in a huge game where is normally clutch.

Most will look at the stats and say "their pass defense sucked", but they undestimate what they really can do.

[Spider]

Actually, our secondary IS minus Troy alot of the time. A lot of times he's coming on the blitz and Porter or Farrior are dropping back into coverage.

Besides, Pitt was ranked 16th in the NFL in passing defense. Where was Denver? (Answer: 29th)
another case of misleading stats ..........

[chuckrugger]

Unless Ward looking for new contract, then Steeler fans will only swear at Ward.

Are you kidding? You should have seen some of the local polls the newspapers were taking. That's the most heat the team (the WHOLE team, not just Cowher or the offense or Kordell but the organization as a whole) has EVER taken. People were even ripping on Rooney, and you just don't do that in Pittsburgh.

We're talking about a city that was so far down the tubes in the late 60's through the early 80's that the ONLY thing anyone had to feel good about was the Steelers, the Pirates, and the Penguins. The Steelers are completely untouchable in Pittsbrugh. Guys will fight you for badmouthing them too much. Regardless of all that, when it came down to choosing between Hines and the team, it was almost 50/50.

[Steve Sewell]

A couple of thoughts (ten, to be exact) -

1. This is the guy that's gonna have to come through - big time - for you guys to stay in this game:

http://cache.denverbroncos.com/resources/custom/Team/vanpelt_bradlee_05_mug.jpg
11 Bradlee Van Pelt, Quarterback

Height: 6' 2"
Weight: 220 lbs.
College: Colorado State
Born: in Owosso, Mich.
Acquired: D7-04
Pro Year: 1st
Year with Broncos: 1st
NFL Games Played/Started: 3/0
Postseason: 0/0

Yes, I'm a bit concerned for the well-being of Jake Plummer, as much as I respect the guy.

2. (actually 1.b.) The Steelers front seven have been winning the line-of-scrimmage battle against every team they've faced during the past month and a half, I don't see that being any different Sunday. Dick LeBeau has been at the top of his schemes, and they've been working against the top offenses in the league (Bengals/Colts). The Steelers will bring the heat on Plummer, and as good of a scrambler as he is, the Steelers have the hounds to get after 'im. The Broncos do add the running game, which the Steelers D has been stopping for over 5 years now, consistently.

3. The Steelers O-lineman have been teeing-off on the Browns D-linemen for longer than even they can remember. Roethlisberger will have time to create in the passing game, and we all know the Steelers will do whatever they need to do to run the ball effectively.

4. Troy Polamalu will once again be all over the place. He's John Lynch with a rocket-pack strapped on, he's the one player who's reputation will never surpass his skills & impact on the field.

5. Big Ben is not the rookie QB who somehow made it through his rookie season 15-1, only to be overwhelmed by the time the games really counted in the playoffs last year. He's been relaxed, composed, and has obtained the respect of the entire team, on both sides of the ball. He's also 6-5, 250, who's able to move around in the pocket, and has been smart with his decisions.

6. Much like the Broncos, the Steelers' roster is full of veterans, hungry for their five minutes of fame. Hines Ward & Jerome Bettis are the heart & soul of this team. They've come up short many times, and the drive to the SB is as hot as it will ever be.

7. Willie Parker. You guys probably don't know much about our starting RB, as much press as the Bus is getting, but this kid is the Steelers' Tatum Bell, with 4.3 speed and the ability to go the distance. He is my darkhorse player of the game, as the Broncos focus their attention elsewhere.

8. Antwaan Randle El - returning punts, running reverses, throwing passes. I think the Steelers dip into the bag of tricks and Randle El is the ankle-breaking type player who can make things happen in a jiffy.

9. The Steelers unheralded, dismissed, underappreciated defensive backfield, young guys like Ike Taylor, Bryant McFadden, Chris Hope, Polamalu have been getting the job done. This is not the Steelers secondary of yesteryear with the likes of Chad Scott and DeWayne Washington (Toast, Burnt). I know the Broncos have scored with some young DB's as well, but these guys have been more than holding their own themselves.

10. The soppy, teary-eyed story of Jerome Bettis, sure-fire HOF'er. It may seem like a superficial thing, but in the 'Burgh, it is all about getting Bettis back to the Super Bowl in Motown.

Okay. So that's the equation from our angle, more or less. It's not gonna be easy, but I think the Steelers are riding a wave right now that's going to be hard to stop. As in Cinci, as in Indy... playing on the road means nothing to this team. Several players are from your neck of the woods - Aaron Smith, Porter, Haggans ... The altitude question - I think - is totally overblown.

Having said all that, as I wrote in my initial post, your Broncos are the first team we've faced this year that I can honestly say I have absolutely no bone to pick with. The Broncos could very well take this game. It's gonna be a doozy.

Cool site you guys have here, let's get ready to rumble on Sunday.


There's a reason that Pittsburgh has trouble in the AFC Championship Game. And it's not because Pittsburgh suddenly turns into a bad team. It's because Cowher simply get's outcoached. Expect more of the same on Sunday. Although both teams are similar in philosphy, Mike Shanahan is probably THE best game planner and play caller in the NFL and has been for years.

Combine this little tidbit with the fact that the game is in Denver against a QB who has never experienced a game at Mile High, and the Broncos chances of winning are multiplied. If the Broncos jump out to a lead quickly the game could get out of hand.

[Tibs]

We're all good, you and I, but you blaspheme Rod like that again and we might have some issues.

This thing is not on my desk, not in my "inbox".

If you're curious to Rod Smith's production this weekend, check Marvin Harrison stats from last Sunday.

This thread is slowly sinking into trash talk, but it seems like that's what you folks want.

Well, the Steelers are gonna kick your ass on Sunday.

I came, I tried to be civil, I tried to be nice (pussified, many will argue).

Well, **** that. If it's blood that you crave, have mine. The Steelers are gonna kick your asses, and it's not gonna be pretty.

ps - I'm all for talking football, or getting back to that, as in, I tried that. But, like the Romans you want blood and guts and gore.

So, **** you guys. The Steelers are gonna knock your goddamn helmets off. You were much better off facing Indy, but too little too late.

[chuckrugger]

That's a misnomer however. Denver gave up a lot of yards, but were passed on far more than any other team in the league as well. In pass defense, we had more interceptions than touchdowns allowed and over the past 9 games Denver has really turned on the heat in percentages on 3rd down, total completion percentage, yards per catch average and points allowed.

Passing attempts per game against the Steelers: 34.3

Passing attempts per game against the Broncos: 38.3

Wow, four whole times a game more than the Steelers.

[elsid13]

Actually, our secondary IS minus Troy alot of the time. A lot of times he's coming on the blitz and Porter or Farrior are dropping back into coverage.

Besides, Pitt was ranked 16th in the NFL in passing defense. Where was Denver? (Answer: 29th)


See what happens when you get Baltimore, Tennessee and Cleveland on your schedule it helps you with your teams stats. ;D

In all fairness, I hope that you push Troy down into the box, because t Shanahan and Kubes will find a way to win the mismatches in the secondary with our WRs and TEs. The one stats that everyone is missing from the Indy game is that Colt basically stopped running James. Stopping James was the way to beat the Colts, since a lot of the deep stuff come on Colts ability to make team defend the run. Denver will not give up on the run unlike Colts OC Manning, which will force the Steelers not to get to aggressive on D.

[Spider]

Passing attempts per game against the Steelers: 34.3

Passing attempts per game against the Broncos: 38.3

Wow, four whole times a game more than the Steelers.
hmmm... somthing isnt right

[2KBack]

This thing is not on my desk, not in my "inbox".

If you're curious to Rod Smith's production this weekend, check Marvin Harrison stats from last Sunday.

This thread is slowly sinking into trash talk, but it seems like that's what you folks want.

Well, the Steelers are gonna kick your ass on Sunday.

I came, I tried to be civil, I tried to be nice (pussified, many will argue).

Well, **** that. If it's blood that you crave, have mine. The Steelers are gonna kick your asses, and it's not gonna be pretty.

ps - I'm all for talking football, or getting back to that, as in, I tried that. But, like the Romans you want blood and guts and gore.

So, **** you guys. The Steelers are gonna knock your goddamn helmets off. You were much better off facing Indy, but too little too late.

I thought things were actually going pretty well.

[Spider]

I thought things were actually going pretty well.
LOL , if he went off on that , he better steer clear of Raider fan .........

[elsid13]

Gee wiz, Wally I thought we being pretty nice.

[chuckrugger]

See what happens when you get Baltimore, Tennessee and Cleveland on your schedule it helps you with your teams stats. ;D.

Ummmm, we also played New England, Cincy twice, San Diego, Indianapolis, Minnesota when they were hot (six wins in a row), Jacksonville (ranked immediately behind you guys in passing offense). C'mon lets be real, here.

[Jens1893]

Besides, Pitt was ranked 16th in the NFL in passing defense. Where was Denver? (Answer: 29th)

Total yards don´t really mean a whole lot. We were 15th in total defense (Pitt 4th), but 3rd in scoring defense, same as Pittsburgh, btw. We had a top 5 defense yard wise the past 2 seasons and you see where it got in the playoffs and I have way more faith in this unit than in the units we had the past few seasons.

Many people will point out we were 2nd in rushing defense, but we were playing with a lead more often than not and forced the opposing teams to abandon the running game. We were the least rushed on, but most passed on team in the NFL and we are on average giving up 4.0 yards per rush (15th NFL), which is a bit too much IMO. Pitt is giving up 3.4 per rush. Falling behind by 2 scores early could possibly kill either team in this game.

As for our passing defense, yes, we do give up a chunk of yards, but see above. Teams don´t run on us because we usually have a lead, but when you break down our passing D stats, you´ll see this unit isn´t as bad as it first looks.

Completion Percentage 56.1 % 3rd NFL (Pitt 57.4% 8th)
Yards per attempt 6.25 4th NFL (Pitt 6.34 5th)

Rushing Attempts against 344, 1st in the NFL ... 40 less than 2nd placed Kansas City ... Passing Attempts against 613, 32nd ... 33 more than 31st placed NYG

[chuckrugger]

hmmm... somthing isnt right

got the stats right from NFL.com

you guys did get passed on more than anyone else but the three teams behind you were like 36.2, 36, 35.7, etc.

[2KBack]

LOL , if he went off on that , he better steer clear of Raider fan .........

True, we could be a bit desensitized by the likes of KC and Oakland. Around here it's considered civil as long as no one's mother gets mentioned

[Spider]

Ummmm, we also played New England, Cincy twice, San Diego, Indianapolis, Minnesota when they were hot (six wins in a row), Jacksonville (ranked immediately behind you guys in passing offense). C'mon lets be real, here.
lets see you lost th the Jags , Lost to the Pats . split with the bengals ......

[Bronx33]

This thing is not on my desk, not in my "inbox".

If you're curious to Rod Smith's production this weekend, check Marvin Harrison stats from last Sunday.

This thread is slowly sinking into trash talk, but it seems like that's what you folks want.

Well, the Steelers are gonna kick your ass on Sunday.

I came, I tried to be civil, I tried to be nice (pussified, many will argue).

Well, **** that. If it's blood that you crave, have mine. The Steelers are gonna kick your asses, and it's not gonna be pretty.

ps - I'm all for talking football, or getting back to that, as in, I tried that. But, like the Romans you want blood and guts and gore.

So, **** you guys. The Steelers are gonna knock your goddamn helmets off. You were much better off facing Indy, but too little too late.


Seems you don't have any problems sinking to the trash talk.

[Spider]

got the stats right from NFL.com

you guys did get passed on more than anyone else but the three teams behind you were like 36.2, 36, 35.7, etc.
Fair enough , Now break it down by halfs ....... My point is Denver laid off alot in the second half of games , went more to a prevent D .......

[elsid13]

Are you kidding? You should have seen some of the local polls the newspapers were taking. That's the most heat the team (the WHOLE team, not just Cowher or the offense or Kordell but the organization as a whole) has EVER taken. People were even ripping on Rooney, and you just don't do that in Pittsburgh.

We're talking about a city that was so far down the tubes in the late 60's through the early 80's that the ONLY thing anyone had to feel good about was the Steelers, the Pirates, and the Penguins. The Steelers are completely untouchable in Pittsbrugh. Guys will fight you for badmouthing them too much. Regardless of all that, when it came down to choosing between Hines and the team, it was almost 50/50.


When the whole contract thing happen I was surprised about how the Management handle it. Ward has been your best player and leader on that team, they should have taken care of him none of the BS they gave him. I was also surprised that some on steelers boards were ripping Ward for selfish athlete. Denver always takes care of Mike's Guys.

[Spider]

True, we could be a bit desensitized by the likes of KC and Oakland. Around here it's considered civil as long as no one's mother gets mentioned
or a thong and the goat ;D

[chuckrugger]

lets see you lost th the Jags , Lost to the Pats . split with the bengals ......

and you lost to MIAMI, lost to the Giants, split with KC....

[Sideburn]

This thing is not on my desk, not in my "inbox".

If you're curious to Rod Smith's production this weekend, check Marvin Harrison stats from last Sunday.

This thread is slowly sinking into trash talk, but it seems like that's what you folks want.

Well, the Steelers are gonna kick your ass on Sunday.

I came, I tried to be civil, I tried to be nice (pussified, many will argue).

Well, **** that. If it's blood that you crave, have mine. The Steelers are gonna kick your asses, and it's not gonna be pretty.

ps - I'm all for talking football, or getting back to that, as in, I tried that. But, like the Romans you want blood and guts and gore.

So, **** you guys. The Steelers are gonna knock your goddamn helmets off. You were much better off facing Indy, but too little too late.


I think you somehow tripped and got your panties in a bunch. If you think what went on in this thread is sh!t talking, you have some brittle feelings.
Sh!t talking would involve us bashing the fan base. You know, something about stupid poles and whatnot. Maybe we could expand on how much of a choker your head coach is. His amazing ability to fvck up a wetdream. None of that went on. You said Rod Smith couldn't hold Ward's jockstrap. You got called on it, and promptly had panties twisted. You started the pissing contest and now want to play the hurt wittle feelwings card?

[Spider]

and you lost to MIAMI, lost to the Giants, split with KC....
but I am not bragging about who we did or didnt play ....... Miami was odd , Giants we could have won , should have won , but the G men made the plays when it counted we didnt ... as for KC, well lets just say we are used to splitting with them ...... But if I said we play KC , then you could bring up the fact that we lost to them ........

[chuckrugger]

When the whole contract thing happen I was surprised about how the Management handle it. Ward has been your best player and leader on that team, they should have taken care of him none of the BS they gave him. I was also surprised that some on steelers boards were ripping Ward for selfish athlete. Denver always takes care of Mike's Guys.


I was actually kinda on the fence for that one. The Steelers' original offer was the biggest in team history (with the biggest signing bonus in team history) and he turned them down cold. The Rooneys are VERY traditional. That's one of the reasons Pittsburgh loves them so much. All the crap you hear from other teams about contract disputes, show-boating a-hole players, etc. never happens to the Steelers. It took them awhile to break out of that mode and realize that maybe this time doing it the way you've always done it for 30 years wouldn't get it done.

[Blueflame]

bump....

[24champ]

and you lost to MIAMI, lost to the Giants, split with KC....
hmmmm all of those were AWAY games.

[L.A. BRONCOS FAN]

See what happens when you get Baltimore, Tennessee and Cleveland on your schedule it helps you with your teams stats. ;D

Bingo.

And the Steelers got manhandled by the Pats in their own back yard when the Pats were hobbled with injuries.

[Lidderer]

Passing attempts per game against the Steelers: 34.3

Passing attempts per game against the Broncos: 38.3

Wow, four whole times a game more than the Steelers.

dvoa, my friend, dvoa.

www.footballoutsiders.com

Pitt pass D: 8th
Denver pass D: 4th

also: the difference in ypg between pitt and denver is 29. And given that your average NFL QB averages about, oh, 7.5 yards per attempt, that's, what?, 30 more yards per game....

Hmm, soo those 4 attempts more per game would translate into...

ya, exactly.(aka more than what we allow.....nice work)

[Odysseus]

Just think that if Ward 2 Super Bowl rings he might be same league as Smith is.

Rod Smith getting into the hall of fame with THREE Super Bowl rings. Wow! There is a cool idea.

[elsid13]

Rod Smith getting into the hall of fame with THREE Super Bowl rings. Wow! There is a cool idea.

I'm thinking 4 SB rings, but that would be little to far out there right now.

[elsid13]

I was actually kinda on the fence for that one. The Steelers' original offer was the biggest in team history (with the biggest signing bonus in team history) and he turned them down cold. The Rooneys are VERY traditional. That's one of the reasons Pittsburgh loves them so much. All the crap you hear from other teams about contract disputes, show-boating a-hole players, etc. never happens to the Steelers. It took them awhile to break out of that mode and realize that maybe this time doing it the way you've always done it for 30 years wouldn't get it done.

There one that thing about being traditional there is another about using it as an excuse to be cheap. From outsider viewpoint I always thought Rooneys have used excuses to be cheap with talent. The players that have gone thru that organization should have made you SB winner once in Cowher tenure. I never bought that small market BS, with a new stadium, league revenue sharing and large fan base that buys the Steelers products they have no excuses for not spending money on players. 10% raise on nothing is still nothing.

[BritBronco Maniac]

7. Willie Parker. You guys probably don't know much about our starting RB, as much press as the Bus is getting, but this kid is the Steelers' Tatum Bell, with 4.3 speed and the ability to go the distance. He is my darkhorse player of the game, as the Broncos focus their attention elsewhere.


I had Willie on my fantasy team.
He had a habbit of putting up monster stats against terrible defenses, and then disappearing when he faced a solid run D

[Tibs]

My apologies for the last couple of posts on my part last night, must've blown a fuse or something. :flush:

I imagine it'll get nasty like that on the field Sunday, no reason to gnash at each other on the board, though.

So, what have we learned? It's damn tough being civilized before such a highly anticipated match-up, that's for sure.

Take it easy, ladies 'n gents. And may your behinds be thoroughly kicked come gametime, alas.

:puff:

[Needa Pass Rush]

got the stats right from NFL.com

you guys did get passed on more than anyone else but the three teams behind you were like 36.2, 36, 35.7, etc.


This likely has to do with the fact that we typically staked ourselves to early leads and the opposition went up top in a futile attempt to catch up. :thumbs:

[azbroncfan]

and you lost to MIAMI, lost to the Giants, split with KC....
Teams all with winning records.

[azbroncfan]

Yeah, he's got 10877 yards in 11 years with John freakin' Elway throwing to him most of the time.

Hines has 7000+ in 8 years and for at least one season he had Ken Graham throwing him the ball, plus Maddox's second season, plus all the time that Kordell Stewart was sucking it up in Three Rivers. Numbers are great but the circumstances surrounding them do matter.
Little late to the party but Smith's best years where when Grease monkey and ferrotte and other bums throwing the ball to him.

[WolfpackGuy]

KC And Gints games (on the road) could've gone either way. Miami was the only team that really laid it on us. God, you guys got to play the Browns twice, Ravens, Bengals, the AFC South, and the NFC Central. Don't berate our schedule.

[defenseman]

If you cannot admit the Steeler schedule was a cake-walk compared to the broncos, you do have a serious problem. Second, I will say your biggest win this year came last sunday against a very tough Indy team, kudo's to you. Note: your biggest win this year, your team will have to hang their collective hats on that one win against indy by late sunday afternoon....dman

[Tibs]

If you cannot admit the Steeler schedule was a cake-walk...

Cakewalk?

Beat the Chargers in S.D. (back when they were considered good)
Beat the Bengals in Cinci.
Beat the Bears at home (ending Bears winning streak)
Beat the Vikings in Minnesota (ending Vikes winning streak)

Beat the Bengals in Cinci - wild card
Beat Indy in Indy - divisional

Won 4 games to end the season, all must win games. Won two huge playoff games on the road, must win games.

This team has done nothing but faced the pressure and come up big, week in and week out. They're not tired, they're not burned out, they're not hanging their hats on anything. You guys think beating the Colts means anything to a team that went 15-1 last year only to lose at home in the AFCC?

This is the game we want. This is where the focus is, beating the Broncos.

[Hotrod]

Actually, our secondary IS minus Troy alot of the time. A lot of times he's coming on the blitz and Porter or Farrior are dropping back into coverage.

Besides, Pitt was ranked 16th in the NFL in passing defense. Where was Denver? (Answer: 29th)

I heard an interesting stat on this 29th ranking. They are also 4th in avg yards per pass attempt allowed. That would seem to say people cant run at all against us so they throw ALOT.

[Old Dude]

Cakewalk?

Beat the Chargers in S.D. (back when they were considered good)
Beat the Bengals in Cinci.
Beat the Bears at home (ending Bears winning streak)
Beat the Vikings in Minnesota (ending Vikes winning streak)

Beat the Bengals in Cinci - wild card
Beat Indy in Indy - divisional

Won 4 games to end the season, all must win games. Won two huge playoff games on the road, must win games.

This team has done nothing but faced the pressure and come up big, week in and week out. They're not tired, they're not burned out, they're not hanging their hats on anything. You guys think beating the Colts means anything to a team that went 15-1 last year only to lose at home in the AFCC?

This is the game we want. This is where the focus is, beating the Broncos.

This is all very true. The Steelers did not get this far by beating up on weak sisters (like the Pats and Jags did through the latter portion of the season). What's more is that they had to battle through a stretch without Big Ben, which makes it even more impressive.

The Steelers are for real.

If I was a Steeler fan, my main concern right now would be facing a third consecutive week of travel. I know that conventional wisdom says the Steelers play better on the road than at home, but travel takes its toll, sooner or later, and Denver is not a place where you want to run low on gas.

[Rohirrim]

Cakewalk?

Beat the Chargers in S.D. (back when they were considered good)
Beat the Bengals in Cinci.
Beat the Bears at home (ending Bears winning streak)
Beat the Vikings in Minnesota (ending Vikes winning streak)

Beat the Bengals in Cinci - wild card
Beat Indy in Indy - divisional

Won 4 games to end the season, all must win games. Won two huge playoff games on the road, must win games.

This team has done nothing but faced the pressure and come up big, week in and week out. They're not tired, they're not burned out, they're not hanging their hats on anything. You guys think beating the Colts means anything to a team that went 15-1 last year only to lose at home in the AFCC?

This is the game we want. This is where the focus is, beating the Broncos.

What position do you play on the Steelers? :~ohyah!:

[Jens1893]

I heard an interesting stat on this 29th ranking. They are also 4th in avg yards per pass attempt allowed. That would seem to say people cant run at all against us so they throw ALOT.

You can run on us, but few teams have had the chance as we play with a lead more often than not.

[BMF Bronco]

Awww, man. Now what the H am I gonna do. Half of the excitement comes from being able to get really angry at the other team (well, SOME of the excitement anyway). You guys are gonna ruin it for me.

BTW, Big E, I've been here since Monday (reference the "Here we Go" thread, first post: So which Broncos LB is going to have Bus tracks on his chest come Monday?)
You're just incognito, as you have some insightful posts that aren't full of "Broncos suck" "plummer's a pussy" and other intelligent comments.

[chuckrugger]

Hey cool, the thread's back up!

It got nuked last night and I couldn't find it

[footstepsfrom#27]

Yeah, he's got 10877 yards in 11 years with John freakin' Elway throwing to him most of the time.

Hines has 7000+ in 8 years and for at least one season he had Ken Graham throwing him the ball, plus Maddox's second season, plus all the time that Kordell Stewart was sucking it up in Three Rivers. Numbers are great but the circumstances surrounding them do matter.
I'm not sure why it matters who was throwing the ball that much but for the record, Smith started 34 regular seasong games with Elway at QB and snared 198 passes from John for 2,791 yards and 21 TDs. Without John throwing the ball he caught 599 passes for 8,086 yards and 42 TDs over the course of 109 starts. He did this while being the best blocking WR in the game.

Next...

[chuckrugger]

He did this while being the best blocking WR in the game.

Next...


I'm sorry but there is no way Rod Smith is the best blocking wide reciever in the game. That's Hines without question. If you really need proof check out the SI polls of defensive players when they ask them which guy on offense they hate playing the most. The last two times Hines has been the only wide reciever on the list. Not only do they hate getting blocked by him, they hate the fact that NOBODY can hit him hard enough to take the smile off his face.

[footstepsfrom#27]

I'm sorry but there is no way Rod Smith is the best blocking wide reciever in the game. That's Hines without question. If you really need proof check out the SI polls of defensive players when they ask them which guy on offense they hate playing the most. The last two times Hines has been the only wide reciever on the list. Not only do they hate getting blocked by him, they hate the fact that NOBODY can hit him hard enough to take the smile off his face.
Wrong. We lead the NFL in rushing durring the Shanahan era, and Smith is a HUGE reason why.

Now how does that relate to your other nonsense about Smith and Elway?

[Old Dude]

Smith and Ward are both great blocking WRs, which is one of the reasons Denver and Pittsburgh are two of the top rushing teams year in and year out.

[Rock Chalk]

I'm sorry but there is no way Rod Smith is the best blocking wide reciever in the game. That's Hines without question. If you really need proof check out the SI polls of defensive players when they ask them which guy on offense they hate playing the most. The last two times Hines has been the only wide reciever on the list. Not only do they hate getting blocked by him, they hate the fact that NOBODY can hit him hard enough to take the smile off his face.
OK man, Take Hines' dick out of your ass for a moment and listen.

Denver = #1 rushing team over the last decade.

Rod Smith = #1 blocker in the secondary for that #1 rushing offense over the last decade.

Rod = 2 and soon to be 3 Superbowl Rings.

Hines Ward < Rod Smith.

[bendog]

espn did a little piece on the playoff history of Den and Pitt. Some good stuff there.

[bendog]

Hopefully Paul Howard and some guys will get Joe Green before the game with pipes and chains. (-:

[Jens1893]

at least rod´s never been caught crying on camera

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v284/FunkyDawg/WhinesWard.jpg

[TheDave]

Damn it would sure be nice if steeler fan could act a little more like Oakland/Chef fan... Since it's hard to hate this team at least we could despise their fan base

[delany]

its too bad that people will only use stats when comparing UFA Rod Smith to other WRs. What he does off the field IMO is better than anyone else in the game today.

The guy is a leader in every sense of the word.

You can keep 10 Hines Ward's...Rod Smith embodies everything I want the Denver Broncos to be.

[bendog]

chuckrugger has his moments though, Dave.

[ludo21]

at least rod´s never been caught crying on camera

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v284/FunkyDawg/WhinesWard.jpg


Ha!

Cry Baby, go cry on Dicks shoulder will ya.:yayaya:


At Stillers.com their forum shows much less class. So those of you wanting some action for smack, got there.

Great football talk here tho, i love it.

Last night NFL live actually showed something worth watching. They showed how the Colts were trying block and the blitz and it was horrible!! and they never changed their protection. Pulling the guard to block an outside Blitzer!! wont work!!!!!
Denver NEVER does that, and if the Steelers continue to do what they always do which is bring 4, never more than 5, then our front 5 should be ok if they dont guess and just play what they see!

Cant wait!!!

[BroncoFanDoug]

Cakewalk?

Beat the Chargers in S.D. (back when they were considered good)
Beat the Bengals in Cinci.
Beat the Bears at home (ending Bears winning streak)
Beat the Vikings in Minnesota (ending Vikes winning streak)

Beat the Bengals in Cinci - wild card
Beat Indy in Indy - divisional

Won 4 games to end the season, all must win games. Won two huge playoff games on the road, must win games.

This team has done nothing but faced the pressure and come up big, week in and week out. They're not tired, they're not burned out, they're not hanging their hats on anything. You guys think beating the Colts means anything to a team that went 15-1 last year only to lose at home in the AFCC?

This is the game we want. This is where the focus is, beating the Broncos.

I agree that the pits did not have an easy schedule, and that they finished strong. You did forgot to mention the losses at home to Jacks and Cinci, as well as a road loss to the ravens... And that in your last 4 games the only team of substance was Chicago at home (minn, cleavers and lions?)

Also, although you showed some good reasons to respect pits, you did not compare it to the the Broncos

The Broncos finished stronger than pits by almost any measure - 8-1 against slightly tougher schedule, mostly on the road (4-5). And then beat the healthy world champs by 14 in the playoffs. The Broncos will be playing at home and will be more rested than pits.

There is a lot of good reasons for you to respect and be nervous about the Broncos.