You are here:
Home 
Sports Bob Smizik's Blog Predicting a winner in title game
Sports Bob Smizik's Blog Predicting a winner in title game
RSS: Bob's Q&A
| Have a question for me on sports? This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ... I'll answer as many as I can in future blog posts. |
Blog Roll
Sports blogsSteelers: Blog 'n' Gold
Penguins: Empty Netters
Pirates: PBC Blog
College Sports: Redshirt Diaries
High School: Varsity Blog
Fantasy Sports: The Fantasy Factor
Sports onlineussportspages.combaseball-reference.com pro-football-reference.com |
Sunday, 23 January 2011 07:00
As a columnist and a blogger, I’ve always tried to have strong opinions on subjects I know something about. I seldom, however, have opinions on the outcome of games because they are not something of which I have any degree of expertise. Few people do, as much as they might think otherwise.
That’s why I’m always surprised at how quick some people are to throw out not just predictions of victory but even final scores. Just the other day, someone predicted a 31-0 Steelers' victory over the New York Jets tonight. Based on what?
The AFC title game between the Steelers and Jets at Heinz Field has been bandied about all week. All areas of both teams have been thoroughly examined and reexamined. The strengths and weaknesses of the teams and their coaches have been weighed and evaluated.
After reading much, but not nearly all, of these examinations I have no idea which team will win. The teams are simply too close in talent to know convincingly which will win. Arguments can be made for both sides. And those arguments can easily be countered.
One of the most popular reasons to predict a Steelers win is the large edge they have at the most important position on the field: quarterback. Ben Roethlisberger is among the elite quarterbacks in the NFL. It’s possible the Jets' Mark Sanchez will some day be in that category, but at this date he’s not even close.
Therefore, the Steelers win.
Except for this: In the eyes of most people outside of Pittsburgh, New England had a larger edge at quarterback over the Jets than the Steelers do. But the Jets still beat New England handily and Sanchez, to the astonishment of all, outplayed the great, and I say that with respect not ridicule, Tom Brady.
If the Jets with Sanchez can beat the Patriots with Brady, they can beat the Steelers with Roethlisberger. Anyone who denies that is refusing to face reality.
That’s not to say the Jets will win. It’s just to say any argument put forth can be rather easily dismantled.
Statistically, the teams are ridiculously close.
Offensively, the Steelers were ninth in the AFC in yards and sixth in points. The Jets were sixth in yards and seventh in points.
Defensively, the Steelers were second in fewest yards allowed, first in fewest points allowed. The Jets were third in yards, sixth in points.
If there's an edge statistically, it goes to the Steelers. But that slight advantage is mostly negated by the fact the Jets easily handled the New England offense, which was far and away the most productive in the NFL.
That the Steelers have home field would figure to be an significant advantage but that is negated, somewhat, by the fact the Jets are fresh from winning at Indianapolis and at New England.
The Steelers are more rested, but the Jets are on more of a roll.
One more area where the teams are even: The Steelers have an offensive coordinator thought to be an idiot by the fans. The Jets have an offensive coordinator thought to be an idiot by the fans.
This information is presented to show how hard it is to try and predict a winner. And even the most learned of experts cannot account for a fumble inside the 10, an interception returned for a TD, a field-goal attempt blocked and returned for a TD. Those things happen and no one can predict when or by which team.
But this game being what it is, and after having admitting I have no business trying to pick a winner, I will:
Had I wished to drive up the ‘’hits’’ on this blog, which is what some people think is my primary, if not sole, reason for writing what I do, I’d take the Jets and await the avalanche of outrage.
Instead: Steelers, 23-20.
Comments (59)
Subscribe to this comment's feed
...
written by Jay in VA, January 23, 2011 - 05:18 AM
written by Jay in VA, January 23, 2011 - 05:18 AM
Predicting the final score is nothing but a blind prediction, so someone who happens to guess the score spot-on can brag about it for a couple days.
The dark jerseys, 20-6.
It's Myron's birthday today, by the way.
The dark jerseys, 20-6.
It's Myron's birthday today, by the way.
-
- +8
-
-
...
written by HotRod26, January 23, 2011 - 05:24 AM
written by HotRod26, January 23, 2011 - 05:24 AM
Hey Bob, 1rst, where is G.Dulac's pick, I don't see it anywhere on the site? 2nd, I can't say I can argue w/ you, I think it could go either way. My biggest worry, & it should be for all Steelers fans, is the health of B.McFadden. NYJ have two #1 WRs, we have an #1 CB in Ike Taylor, but if McFadden is out or limited, we could be in trouble. I can see this game going into OT at 20-20, then all bets are off.
-
- +1
-
-
...
written by HotRod26, January 23, 2011 - 05:37 AM
written by HotRod26, January 23, 2011 - 05:37 AM
Jay, we could use the Power of THE TERRIBLE TOWEL Today. 
-
- +1
-
-
...
written by GenoSid, January 23, 2011 - 06:16 AM
written by GenoSid, January 23, 2011 - 06:16 AM
I absolutely think you can make educated guesses on the winners and losers of games based on personnel, matchup history, etc. etc.
I find it beyond absurd when people try to predict the score, BUT also how the score will come to be...
Mr. X- I think the Steelers will win 28-13 on two defensive TD returns.
This is also why I don't understand betting against the spread or picking winners with it, at least.
The teams don't care how many points they win by...they just want to win.
Regarding today's game, I agree with the many people who have said that if both teams play well, we win (semi) comfortably...meaning the game will be over by the 2 minute warning.
If the Steelers play averagely and the Jets play great...then who knows...
But the Pittsburgh Steelers are the better team. There is no question about that. I expect us to prove that today.
I find it beyond absurd when people try to predict the score, BUT also how the score will come to be...
Mr. X- I think the Steelers will win 28-13 on two defensive TD returns.
This is also why I don't understand betting against the spread or picking winners with it, at least.
The teams don't care how many points they win by...they just want to win.
Regarding today's game, I agree with the many people who have said that if both teams play well, we win (semi) comfortably...meaning the game will be over by the 2 minute warning.
If the Steelers play averagely and the Jets play great...then who knows...
But the Pittsburgh Steelers are the better team. There is no question about that. I expect us to prove that today.
-
- +1
-
-
...
written by Jopa-n, January 23, 2011 - 06:16 AM
written by Jopa-n, January 23, 2011 - 06:16 AM
I think predicting scores became real popular when the Superbowl boards where being drawn up to raffle for the final score.
People get there blocks on the board then the numbers and all you here at the office lunch room is "I've got 0 and 8, so I need it to be 30-28 or something like that. I don't think they are going to score that high. I see it as more like 20 to 13 which means my first number might work, but my (
doesn't look so good unless they have like a lot of turnovers".
That really made people think about football scores alot more, which I think, set off an avalanche of score predictions which is just common now. Who knows?
People get there blocks on the board then the numbers and all you here at the office lunch room is "I've got 0 and 8, so I need it to be 30-28 or something like that. I don't think they are going to score that high. I see it as more like 20 to 13 which means my first number might work, but my (
doesn't look so good unless they have like a lot of turnovers". That really made people think about football scores alot more, which I think, set off an avalanche of score predictions which is just common now. Who knows?
-
- +0
-
-
...
written by Jopa-n, January 23, 2011 - 06:18 AM
written by Jopa-n, January 23, 2011 - 06:18 AM
Don't know what happened on my post but the is supposed to be the number 8.
is supposed to be the number 8.
-
- +0
-
-
...
written by Big Blue Crawl, January 23, 2011 - 06:31 AM
written by Big Blue Crawl, January 23, 2011 - 06:31 AM
Nice piece and very true. The games rarely play out the way anyone imagines.
3 points...
1) "The Jets easily handled the New England offense, which was far and away the most productive in the NFL."
Although the Patriots led the league in scoring, they only had the 8th ranked offense in yardage, and, specifically, only were ranked 11th in passing yards per game, to the Steelers' 14th. New England's offense was perceived as being much more powerful than it actually was all season.
2) On home field advantage
The Steelers' defense has a bite every bit as fierce as its bark. And, as we all know in this town, the home field advantage here shows its face mostly when the Steelers dig in on the defensive side of the ball.
3) "The most learned of experts cannot account for a fumble inside the 10, an interception returned for a TD, a field-goal attempt blocked and returned for a TD."
Exactly. Big plays end up deciding games like this. Which is another reason to pick the Steelers, who now have Troy Polamalu back, one of the masters of the big, game-changing play.
Steelers 24 Jets 17
3 points...
1) "The Jets easily handled the New England offense, which was far and away the most productive in the NFL."
Although the Patriots led the league in scoring, they only had the 8th ranked offense in yardage, and, specifically, only were ranked 11th in passing yards per game, to the Steelers' 14th. New England's offense was perceived as being much more powerful than it actually was all season.
2) On home field advantage
The Steelers' defense has a bite every bit as fierce as its bark. And, as we all know in this town, the home field advantage here shows its face mostly when the Steelers dig in on the defensive side of the ball.
3) "The most learned of experts cannot account for a fumble inside the 10, an interception returned for a TD, a field-goal attempt blocked and returned for a TD."
Exactly. Big plays end up deciding games like this. Which is another reason to pick the Steelers, who now have Troy Polamalu back, one of the masters of the big, game-changing play.
Steelers 24 Jets 17
-
- +1
-
-
...
written by Whistle Pig, January 23, 2011 - 06:59 AM
written by Whistle Pig, January 23, 2011 - 06:59 AM
Bobbo ...as I began reading, I pondered if you'd been into a coupla IC Lite 6 packs on Saturday nite. But in any case, pun intended, figured you'd drunk your fill and sobered up as you reached your conclusion. Steelers indeed!
Can the Jetsons manage a surprise? Of course. That's why they play it. W/ Ungentle Ben bearing the brunt of trying to reshape his Pittsburgh personna, this'll be his time to shine. No matter his previous showings, he needs this to quiet the memories of his boorish behavior. Here's that he and his mates succeed in showing that was the Jets win over the Pats was no more an anomalous abberation than the Jets earlier goodluck in Heinz. There's something to prove, and the Steelers will.
Can the Jetsons manage a surprise? Of course. That's why they play it. W/ Ungentle Ben bearing the brunt of trying to reshape his Pittsburgh personna, this'll be his time to shine. No matter his previous showings, he needs this to quiet the memories of his boorish behavior. Here's that he and his mates succeed in showing that was the Jets win over the Pats was no more an anomalous abberation than the Jets earlier goodluck in Heinz. There's something to prove, and the Steelers will.
-
- +0
-
-
...
written by SteelVa, January 23, 2011 - 07:08 AM
written by SteelVa, January 23, 2011 - 07:08 AM
.
I agree with Bob's premise that picking a winner can be dubious.
However, this is a game that, very clearly, the Steelers should win.
The Trippers have recently been lured into a sense of offensive competence, having beaten not 1, but 2 weak defenses in Indy and N.E.
Of course, Jets OC Brian Shottenheimer is probably still snickering at the way he was able to toy with the great almighty lord of defensive football, Dick LeBeau, back on Dec. 19th, particularly in the 2nd half.
As long as some WAKES UP Dick LeBeau, the supreme almighty lord deity of defensive football, after halftime and he can prevent the Jets from marching up and down the field like the Grambling marching band the way they did back on Dec. 19th (esp. in the 2nd half), the Steelers should win this game. Should.
I agree with Bob's premise that picking a winner can be dubious.
However, this is a game that, very clearly, the Steelers should win.
The Trippers have recently been lured into a sense of offensive competence, having beaten not 1, but 2 weak defenses in Indy and N.E.
Of course, Jets OC Brian Shottenheimer is probably still snickering at the way he was able to toy with the great almighty lord of defensive football, Dick LeBeau, back on Dec. 19th, particularly in the 2nd half.
As long as some WAKES UP Dick LeBeau, the supreme almighty lord deity of defensive football, after halftime and he can prevent the Jets from marching up and down the field like the Grambling marching band the way they did back on Dec. 19th (esp. in the 2nd half), the Steelers should win this game. Should.
-
- -13
-
-
...
written by BUCCS72, January 23, 2011 - 07:36 AM
written by BUCCS72, January 23, 2011 - 07:36 AM
I agree with you Bob that it is folly for most of us amateurs to pick winners and especially to pick scores.
Most of those exercises are related to gambling anyway...and what most people don't recognize is that the professional gamblers set the point spreads based on luring an equal amount of money to be bet on both teams not on how many points they believe one team to be better than the other one. So even the point spreads we see posted on each game have only some relevance to the comparative strengths of the teams.
Having written that....I look for a very close Steelers' win in a low scoring game...possibly in OT. Why???
The Jets are on a roll with a lot of momentum...plus they can play the type of defense that can give the Steelers a lot of problems. I look for them to continue on playing the same type of D against the Steelers as they did against the Pats....only rushing four and dropping more people into coverage. They will also rush by staying in their lanes and keeping Big Ben in the pocket as much as possible, getting to him by overpowering the OL. Look for five or six sacks on Big Ben tonight.
Another factor I see for a close, low scoring game is the cold weather. The Steelers offensive strength is throwing the ball and the cold weather will make throwing and catching it more difficult.
The factors favor the Jets but I just believe the Steelers are the better team and will somehow scrape by with a three point win in OT. But what do I know???
Most of those exercises are related to gambling anyway...and what most people don't recognize is that the professional gamblers set the point spreads based on luring an equal amount of money to be bet on both teams not on how many points they believe one team to be better than the other one. So even the point spreads we see posted on each game have only some relevance to the comparative strengths of the teams.
Having written that....I look for a very close Steelers' win in a low scoring game...possibly in OT. Why???
The Jets are on a roll with a lot of momentum...plus they can play the type of defense that can give the Steelers a lot of problems. I look for them to continue on playing the same type of D against the Steelers as they did against the Pats....only rushing four and dropping more people into coverage. They will also rush by staying in their lanes and keeping Big Ben in the pocket as much as possible, getting to him by overpowering the OL. Look for five or six sacks on Big Ben tonight.
Another factor I see for a close, low scoring game is the cold weather. The Steelers offensive strength is throwing the ball and the cold weather will make throwing and catching it more difficult.
The factors favor the Jets but I just believe the Steelers are the better team and will somehow scrape by with a three point win in OT. But what do I know???
-
- +0
-
-
...
written by Comatose, January 23, 2011 - 07:39 AM
written by Comatose, January 23, 2011 - 07:39 AM
Someone please get SteelVa a thesaurus so he knows there are words available other than simpleton, deity, and vanilla. While we're at it, a list of the top 10 marching bands in America would also be helpful as this is the 4th or 5th mention of Grambling in the last week.
-
- +2
-
-
...
written by SonnyDrysdale, January 23, 2011 - 07:40 AM
written by SonnyDrysdale, January 23, 2011 - 07:40 AM
I think the media should lose their jobs for a year when they pick the wrong team. This would all but eliminate such prognostications. When the weather forecasters on TV get it wrong they very rarely have to explain what happened. The visionary I have the most respect for is Punxsutawney Phil, now he has it made, six more weeks of winter or spring is just around the corner. He doesn't have to come with any meteorological algorithms, just a simple unexplainable prediction.
Today is the late Myron Cope's 82nd birthday and I believe he would pick the Steelers, as for our furry groundhog, I hear he is forecasting two more weeks of football for the Steelers
Today is the late Myron Cope's 82nd birthday and I believe he would pick the Steelers, as for our furry groundhog, I hear he is forecasting two more weeks of football for the Steelers
-
- +0
-
-
...
written by BarelySane, January 23, 2011 - 07:43 AM
written by BarelySane, January 23, 2011 - 07:43 AM
"As long as some WAKES UP Dick LeBeau, the supreme almighty lord deity of defensive football..."
Is this now a tag line?
Is this now a tag line?
-
- +1
-
-
...
written by psumule70, January 23, 2011 - 07:52 AM
written by psumule70, January 23, 2011 - 07:52 AM
I get a weird feeling that this game will not be as close as everyone thinks.... I am not sure which team will win but the score will resemble 30-13.
-
- +0
-
-
...
written by Max, January 23, 2011 - 07:53 AM
written by Max, January 23, 2011 - 07:53 AM
...
What is impossible to predict is injuries that take key players out of the game. Sure maybe Troy re-aggravates an injury, could be McFadden will leave after a couple plays.
But what if Kemo steps on Pouncey's ankle in a pile-up? What if a guy like Suggs hits Ben's knee just a little harder? You don't want to watch if Leftwich has to play 3 quarters, or maybe even 3 plays.
What is impossible to predict is injuries that take key players out of the game. Sure maybe Troy re-aggravates an injury, could be McFadden will leave after a couple plays.
But what if Kemo steps on Pouncey's ankle in a pile-up? What if a guy like Suggs hits Ben's knee just a little harder? You don't want to watch if Leftwich has to play 3 quarters, or maybe even 3 plays.
-
- +0
-
-
...
written by 3rivers, January 23, 2011 - 07:55 AM
written by 3rivers, January 23, 2011 - 07:55 AM
SteelVa-you need to come up with some new material, your "marching up and down the field like the Grambling Marching Band" is getting old. I guess your not very creative, but certainly your constant drumming of the great, Hall of Fame Dick Lebeau is really getting old and boring.
Can you come up with new fresh material that can at least hold our attention-please!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Can you come up with new fresh material that can at least hold our attention-please!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
-
- +2
-
-
...
written by leefoo, January 23, 2011 - 07:56 AM
Bob....very valid points. When folks ask "Whaddaya think about the game", I reply, without 'snark' that the team with the most points will win and that I will be rooting for the Steelers.
So much wierd stuff can happen. Injuries, slips, flags, etc.
...........
written by leefoo, January 23, 2011 - 07:56 AM
Bob....very valid points. When folks ask "Whaddaya think about the game", I reply, without 'snark' that the team with the most points will win and that I will be rooting for the Steelers.
So much wierd stuff can happen. Injuries, slips, flags, etc.
...........
-
- +0
-
-
...
written by Rich W, January 23, 2011 - 08:01 AM
How is there "no question" when the Jets already won in Pittsburgh?
The Jets have played "great" twice this season. The first and third games against the Pats. That's it. And they were dominating in both. If they play that way against the Steelers, they win. The Steelers don't have to be "average". The teams match up extremely well and on a normal day it would more likely than not be tight until the end.
Except for one thing: Zero-degree wind chill. Winds swirling off the river. Rock-solid turf.
Those factors make for a bigger home field advantage than the crowd. Close games are decided on field position. And conditions probably negate the Jets' decided advantage in punting and coverage, making it less likely they can consistently pin the Steelers deep.
In normal conditions, I'd take LT/Greene and the Jets OL over Mendenhall and the Steelers OL, but on an iceberg, I'd favor Mendenhall.
This will be the coldest conditions Sanchez has ever faced. His receivers help out with acrobatic catches, which are much harder to hold onto when the ball is hard as a rock.
Given conditions, I'd take the Steelers to cover.
written by Rich W, January 23, 2011 - 08:01 AM
written by GenoSid, January 23, 2011 - 07:16 AM
I find it beyond absurd when people try to predict the score, BUT also how the score will come to be...
Regarding today's game, I agree with the many people who have said that if both teams play well, we win (semi) comfortably...meaning the game will be over by the 2 minute warning.
If the Steelers play averagely and the Jets play great...then who knows...
But the Pittsburgh Steelers are the better team. There is no question about that. I expect us to prove that today.
How is there "no question" when the Jets already won in Pittsburgh?
The Jets have played "great" twice this season. The first and third games against the Pats. That's it. And they were dominating in both. If they play that way against the Steelers, they win. The Steelers don't have to be "average". The teams match up extremely well and on a normal day it would more likely than not be tight until the end.
Except for one thing: Zero-degree wind chill. Winds swirling off the river. Rock-solid turf.
Those factors make for a bigger home field advantage than the crowd. Close games are decided on field position. And conditions probably negate the Jets' decided advantage in punting and coverage, making it less likely they can consistently pin the Steelers deep.
In normal conditions, I'd take LT/Greene and the Jets OL over Mendenhall and the Steelers OL, but on an iceberg, I'd favor Mendenhall.
This will be the coldest conditions Sanchez has ever faced. His receivers help out with acrobatic catches, which are much harder to hold onto when the ball is hard as a rock.
Given conditions, I'd take the Steelers to cover.
-
- -2
-
-
...
written by Max, January 23, 2011 - 08:03 AM
written by Max, January 23, 2011 - 08:03 AM
...
Besides the weather forecasters, nobody holds lawyers, economists or teachers responsible for their work.
But let somebody predict 2 out of 3 NFL games wrong, WOW!
Besides the weather forecasters, nobody holds lawyers, economists or teachers responsible for their work.
But let somebody predict 2 out of 3 NFL games wrong, WOW!
-
- +0
-
-
...
written by PSB, January 23, 2011 - 08:04 AM
written by PSB, January 23, 2011 - 08:04 AM
I've always felt that Hines Ward has never been a dirty player. Opponenentsjust can't take it that a wide receiver dares to dish back to them what they dish out in the first place. Hard nosed perhaps, but not dirty.
-
- +0
-
-
...
written by Retire#21, January 23, 2011 - 08:15 AM
written by Retire#21, January 23, 2011 - 08:15 AM
I believe that offense versus defense and defense versus offense, that the Steelers are a slightly better team than the Jets, and I believe that they proved that in the last meeting. The problem lies in the special teams. I can see this thing playing out almost like a youth football game where the Steelers fear kicking deep, and therefore give up field position all day long as a concession to their inability to cover kicks.
They say special teams is where the hidden yardage is found, but the threat or fear of special special teams presents another kind of hidden yardage and that is the field position you sacrifice with squib kicks. Giving up 15-20 yards per kickoff because you're certain you can't risk kicking deep adds up. Even if you get a stop you are now beginning your own offensive series at your 5 or 10 instead of your 20 or 25. Next thing you know you are giving up 2 points on a safety because of a loss on a running play.
In past home field post season failures, special teams and turnovers have played a large part in the disappointment. Ben has done a great job of protecting the ball this year, but the special teams have reverted to form as the season has gone along.
Assuming the special teams does their part today, I'll take the Steelers by 3 but I don't think it'll be as low scoring as most. 27-24.
They say special teams is where the hidden yardage is found, but the threat or fear of special special teams presents another kind of hidden yardage and that is the field position you sacrifice with squib kicks. Giving up 15-20 yards per kickoff because you're certain you can't risk kicking deep adds up. Even if you get a stop you are now beginning your own offensive series at your 5 or 10 instead of your 20 or 25. Next thing you know you are giving up 2 points on a safety because of a loss on a running play.
In past home field post season failures, special teams and turnovers have played a large part in the disappointment. Ben has done a great job of protecting the ball this year, but the special teams have reverted to form as the season has gone along.
Assuming the special teams does their part today, I'll take the Steelers by 3 but I don't think it'll be as low scoring as most. 27-24.
-
- +0
-
-
...
written by 123, January 23, 2011 - 08:23 AM
written by 123, January 23, 2011 - 08:23 AM
Regardless of what happens today, I really like Rex Ryan. The guy wears his heart on his sleeve.
When he said this week, "it's our turn, we want that hat, we want that t-shirt," can't you just taste how big this for the Jets....what a huge win or less this will be.?
Hey, we're going to miss all this with the lockout. Savor every moment.
Steelers win 17-6...Sanchez can't handle the cold.
When he said this week, "it's our turn, we want that hat, we want that t-shirt," can't you just taste how big this for the Jets....what a huge win or less this will be.?
Hey, we're going to miss all this with the lockout. Savor every moment.
Steelers win 17-6...Sanchez can't handle the cold.
-
- -1
-
-
...
written by heartbeatsings, January 23, 2011 - 08:24 AM
written by heartbeatsings, January 23, 2011 - 08:24 AM
Bob, look at it this way, there are only maybe 4 or 5 Jets who would start for the Steelers. The Steelers are the better team, without any questions.
Two things can hurt the Steelers today: injuries to key players and the officials.
Steelers 21, Jets 10.
Two things can hurt the Steelers today: injuries to key players and the officials.
Steelers 21, Jets 10.
-
- +1
-
-
...
written by Nutting Hostage, January 23, 2011 - 08:25 AM
Bob,
I compeltely agree with your comments about predicting a winner, however I think you overlooked one aspect of making predictions. - It's fun.
That said:
Jets - 17
Steelers - 31
written by Nutting Hostage, January 23, 2011 - 08:25 AM
Bob,
I compeltely agree with your comments about predicting a winner, however I think you overlooked one aspect of making predictions. - It's fun.
That said:
Jets - 17
Steelers - 31
-
- +3
-
-
...
written by pwmcdupitt, January 23, 2011 - 08:28 AM
written by pwmcdupitt, January 23, 2011 - 08:28 AM
Gosh cramden, what got your panties in a bunch? If you don't care, go enjoy your life, but why are you on a board about the outcome of the game? We enjoy the game, the team and the debate. I assure you, most of us have very fulfilling lives, and this is just one, fun, part of it.
Go Steelers!
Go Steelers!
-
- +1
-
-
...
written by bob15012, January 23, 2011 - 08:29 AM
written by bob15012, January 23, 2011 - 08:29 AM
Just sit down. Shut up. and enjoy the game.
nuff said.
nuff said.
-
- -1
-
-
...
written by GenoSid, January 23, 2011 - 08:35 AM
written by GenoSid, January 23, 2011 - 08:35 AM
"How is there "no question" when the Jets already won in Pittsburgh?"
The better team does not always win.
The Jets needed a 97 yard kick return and a safety to beat a team playing without it's MVP (Polamalu) and perhaps the key cog of their offense, in terms of both blocking and receiving, in Heath Miller. Spaeth had, like, 859 drops in that game.
Certainly the Jets have a few advantages, such as corner and O-line, but overall the Steelers are a much better team who's won it all twice before. They have the talent and the experience.
And yes, the Jets were very impressive in beating the Pats twice. They did so because their corners covered well enough to allow the blitzers to get Brady's nose dirty. That won't work as well against Ben.
The better team does not always win.
The Jets needed a 97 yard kick return and a safety to beat a team playing without it's MVP (Polamalu) and perhaps the key cog of their offense, in terms of both blocking and receiving, in Heath Miller. Spaeth had, like, 859 drops in that game.
Certainly the Jets have a few advantages, such as corner and O-line, but overall the Steelers are a much better team who's won it all twice before. They have the talent and the experience.
And yes, the Jets were very impressive in beating the Pats twice. They did so because their corners covered well enough to allow the blitzers to get Brady's nose dirty. That won't work as well against Ben.
-
- +1
-
-
...
written by richie, January 23, 2011 - 08:36 AM
written by richie, January 23, 2011 - 08:36 AM
How can the Jets even compete here?
This game should be very simply to handicap. The Steelers will stuff the Jets running attack behind a great run defense and a frenzied crowd, and force Mark Sanchez to beat them with his p**s poor 6.2 Net yards per pass average.
Rex Ryan has major problems with his game plan here. Does he stick to his run first mentality and lose? Or does he come out throwing in an attempt to win the game? If Ryan chooses plan B, it will be his only chance to pull off a win. But this would be a tough call for him to make.
Cowher had issues with this for years. He would never want to get away from what he does best. Because if it backfired, he would most likely regret it for 6 months. This is all brought on by having a less than championship quality quarterback.
Run first teams don’t win championships. If they did, Earl Campbell, Barry Sanders, OJ Simpson, Eric Dickerson, Tomlinson, would all have at least 1 Superbowl between them.
The Steelers defense will shut down the run and force Sanchez to beat them. His lack of efficiency will become amazingly apparent in this game.
The Jets will walk away wondering if he can ever get them to where they want to go.
Rex Ryan will become known as a coach who can’t win the big one. That would be very unfair to him of course. But that label has been tossed around to a lot of great coaches that willed their team as a far as they could possibly go with mediocre talent at the Quarterback position.
Meanwhile Pittsburgh enters the game with a defense that seems to better each game. Pittsburgh allows just 4.5 Yards per play against a schedule of offenses that gain 5.4 yards per play on average. The Jets offense meanwhile gains just 5.2 yards per play against a schedule of teams that would allow 5.3 yards per play defensively on average. In other words the Jets may not be able to move the football much at all in this game.
The Jets are in a lot of trouble.
Roethlisberger is in a great spot. The Jets defense dominated the Colts and Patriots offenses. Roethlisberger said that he doesn’t know what he can do against them. Oh yes he does. You have to love this situational spot for big Ben. You just get the feeling that he is in a great frame of mind.
If we take the Steelers +0.7 net yards per play differential and divide by 0.15, you would get about 4.6 points. Now add 3 points to the home team and all of the situational angles that play into Pittsburgh’s favor, and we should see a Steelers victory reach double digits.
This really isn’t that hard folks.
Pittsburgh 27 Jets 13
This game should be very simply to handicap. The Steelers will stuff the Jets running attack behind a great run defense and a frenzied crowd, and force Mark Sanchez to beat them with his p**s poor 6.2 Net yards per pass average.
Rex Ryan has major problems with his game plan here. Does he stick to his run first mentality and lose? Or does he come out throwing in an attempt to win the game? If Ryan chooses plan B, it will be his only chance to pull off a win. But this would be a tough call for him to make.
Cowher had issues with this for years. He would never want to get away from what he does best. Because if it backfired, he would most likely regret it for 6 months. This is all brought on by having a less than championship quality quarterback.
Run first teams don’t win championships. If they did, Earl Campbell, Barry Sanders, OJ Simpson, Eric Dickerson, Tomlinson, would all have at least 1 Superbowl between them.
The Steelers defense will shut down the run and force Sanchez to beat them. His lack of efficiency will become amazingly apparent in this game.
The Jets will walk away wondering if he can ever get them to where they want to go.
Rex Ryan will become known as a coach who can’t win the big one. That would be very unfair to him of course. But that label has been tossed around to a lot of great coaches that willed their team as a far as they could possibly go with mediocre talent at the Quarterback position.
Meanwhile Pittsburgh enters the game with a defense that seems to better each game. Pittsburgh allows just 4.5 Yards per play against a schedule of offenses that gain 5.4 yards per play on average. The Jets offense meanwhile gains just 5.2 yards per play against a schedule of teams that would allow 5.3 yards per play defensively on average. In other words the Jets may not be able to move the football much at all in this game.
The Jets are in a lot of trouble.
Roethlisberger is in a great spot. The Jets defense dominated the Colts and Patriots offenses. Roethlisberger said that he doesn’t know what he can do against them. Oh yes he does. You have to love this situational spot for big Ben. You just get the feeling that he is in a great frame of mind.
If we take the Steelers +0.7 net yards per play differential and divide by 0.15, you would get about 4.6 points. Now add 3 points to the home team and all of the situational angles that play into Pittsburgh’s favor, and we should see a Steelers victory reach double digits.
This really isn’t that hard folks.
Pittsburgh 27 Jets 13
-
- +0
-
-
...
written by Hanover Bill, January 23, 2011 - 08:47 AM
written by Hanover Bill, January 23, 2011 - 08:47 AM
All things considered, the Steelers should win this game tonight, and yes, I'll say it, by a wider margin than most people are predicting. Mark Sanchez is about to see first hand, a defense the likes of which he has never witnessed in his wildest dreams. A defense that has made better and more experienced quarterbacks than him morph from very good into very ordinary, and occasionally into very bad. This defense will be whipped into a frenzy by one of the most passionate crowds in all of the NFL. It is not a matter of whether Sanchez will make any big mistakes it is a matter of how many he will make. To go along with this defense you have one of the greatest big game quarterbacks in the game today on offense. He who relishes leading the team to last second victories in huge games, although I don't think he will have to call on that part of his game tonight. The only way I see the Steelers losing this game is if they commit turnovers and give up big kick returns, these two areas could be problematic, but if they avoid those mistakes and play their game they will win, and it won't be that close.
-
- +2
-
-
...
written by griffirs, January 23, 2011 - 09:22 AM
written by griffirs, January 23, 2011 - 09:22 AM
In a very close game between evenly matched teams, special teams, kicking and turnovers can make all the difference. Turnovers can't be predicted-but the Jets probably have advantages in special teams and kicking.
Pittsburgh 14-10 in a defensive struggle on a cold windy day that makes the pasing game tough for both offebses. That's from my heart-not my head, however.
Pittsburgh 14-10 in a defensive struggle on a cold windy day that makes the pasing game tough for both offebses. That's from my heart-not my head, however.
-
- +0
-
-
...
written by Paul Hartman, January 23, 2011 - 09:34 AM
written by Paul Hartman, January 23, 2011 - 09:34 AM
Bob,
Your column makes a lot of sense. Who knows who is going to win this game. 23-20 sounds good to me so I'll take it!
One other note - going into the Ravens game I had a feeling that it was simply the Ravens turn, given the law of averages. Wonder how many other Steeler fans had the same feeling? And this goes back to the first Noll super bowl win in the 1970's wherein each time, I was fully into the Steelers winning. But not this time. I was prepared for the Steelers to lose then not overreact by considering suicide.
But having gotten past the Ravens, all the old feelings of "we hafta win 'cause we're the Steelers" has come back. Guess I didn't have a lot of faith in this particular team to go all the way, but now it appears to be there waiting for them.
After all, we don't have to face New England. Second, we CAN beat the Jets. Third, we should be able to beat whomever we face in the Super Bowl. So let's go Steelers!
Your column makes a lot of sense. Who knows who is going to win this game. 23-20 sounds good to me so I'll take it!
One other note - going into the Ravens game I had a feeling that it was simply the Ravens turn, given the law of averages. Wonder how many other Steeler fans had the same feeling? And this goes back to the first Noll super bowl win in the 1970's wherein each time, I was fully into the Steelers winning. But not this time. I was prepared for the Steelers to lose then not overreact by considering suicide.
But having gotten past the Ravens, all the old feelings of "we hafta win 'cause we're the Steelers" has come back. Guess I didn't have a lot of faith in this particular team to go all the way, but now it appears to be there waiting for them.
After all, we don't have to face New England. Second, we CAN beat the Jets. Third, we should be able to beat whomever we face in the Super Bowl. So let's go Steelers!
-
- +0
-
-
...
written by weeze, January 23, 2011 - 09:46 AM
written by weeze, January 23, 2011 - 09:46 AM
If the Steelers can only march down the field like TBDBINTL, (OSU marching band) then I like their chances.
-
- +1
-
-
...
written by Dobreshunka, January 23, 2011 - 09:48 AM
written by Dobreshunka, January 23, 2011 - 09:48 AM
Gene Collier had a very good column the other day on the importance of special teams in this game. He's absolutely correct. The Jets return of the opening kick-off for a touchdown in the first meeting was unforgivable...a blunder of huge proportions. Steelers can't let anything like that happen. Also, Jets punter pinned Steelers real deep twice in the fourth quarter that meeting which helped their effort much more than anything overrated Sanchez did.
I like the Steelers 27-7.
I like the Steelers 27-7.
-
- +1
-
-
...
written by PensRule, January 23, 2011 - 09:49 AM
written by PensRule, January 23, 2011 - 09:49 AM
I don't make predictions, but I do have a good feeling about this game. I'd love to see the choke bag on the Jets today with a helpful helping of humble pie. I can't stand that team or their loud mouth foot freak coach.
Here we go Steelers, Here we GO!!!
Here we go Steelers, Here we GO!!!
-
- -1
-
-
...
written by weeze, January 23, 2011 - 09:49 AM
written by weeze, January 23, 2011 - 09:49 AM
Seriously though, if Harrison or Woodley bust Sanchez in the mouth early, things should go pretty well. And the o-line can keep Ben clean, and not be shuffling injured guys all day. GO STEELERS!!!
-
- +0
-
-
...
written by dontknocktherock, January 23, 2011 - 09:50 AM
written by dontknocktherock, January 23, 2011 - 09:50 AM
I'm reading this while watching Sports Center and they just had their odds guru on, Hank Greenburg. Hank is an expert at calling games, right? On the NFL he barely has better than a .500 record this year. Some expert Huh?
Well I've predicted the Steelers would win evry conference championship they've been in. I will do so again. Meaning, of course, my winning pct. will creep above .500 for the first time since the 1970's.
Steelers by at least one point over the Jets, but not 1-0. This ain't Canadian football after all.
Well I've predicted the Steelers would win evry conference championship they've been in. I will do so again. Meaning, of course, my winning pct. will creep above .500 for the first time since the 1970's.
Steelers by at least one point over the Jets, but not 1-0. This ain't Canadian football after all.
-
- -1
-
-
...
written by SteelerMark, January 23, 2011 - 09:53 AM
Uh, the Jets did NOT easily handle the Patriots. In fact, but for a failed (and stupid) fake punt attempt, and a clock draining drive (by the PATRIOTS) the outcome of that game EASILY could have been to the Patriots (and the players themselves did not have control of those decisions).
Of course no one knows who will the Steeler -Jets game. So?
But here is how it will probably go. Jets will struggle to get to 17 points vs the Steeler D. The Steeler D will AGAIN set up the Steeler O (or score themselves, it's been happening all season) and Ben makes it happen in the 4th quarter.
Steelers 23 Jets 16.
written by SteelerMark, January 23, 2011 - 09:53 AM
Uh, the Jets did NOT easily handle the Patriots. In fact, but for a failed (and stupid) fake punt attempt, and a clock draining drive (by the PATRIOTS) the outcome of that game EASILY could have been to the Patriots (and the players themselves did not have control of those decisions).
Of course no one knows who will the Steeler -Jets game. So?
But here is how it will probably go. Jets will struggle to get to 17 points vs the Steeler D. The Steeler D will AGAIN set up the Steeler O (or score themselves, it's been happening all season) and Ben makes it happen in the 4th quarter.
Steelers 23 Jets 16.
-
- +0
-
-
...
written by lion1943, January 23, 2011 - 09:56 AM
written by lion1943, January 23, 2011 - 09:56 AM
SteelVa : at least you keep a lot of us laughing.Every time I think of your criticism of Le Beau,I can see the halftime show of the Grambling/Southern game.
-
- +2
-
-
...
written by 3rivers, January 23, 2011 - 09:59 AM
written by 3rivers, January 23, 2011 - 09:59 AM
Check out Coldhardfootballfacts.com for some excellent comparisons of the Jets and Steelers. Look under "quality stats" listed at the top. When looking at Steeler stats, factor in Ben not having played the first four games and his propensity of giving up sacks due to extending the play. The only stat I can't seem to locate on their cite which favors the Steelers in the "big play index".
Bob, the Steelers offense is much improved since the Jets game because the improved cohesion of the O line and the emergence of Sanders and Brown to complement Hines, Wallace, and Miller. Your offensive stats that you cite for the Steelers of course include Ben not playing the first 4 games.
Bob, the Steelers offense is much improved since the Jets game because the improved cohesion of the O line and the emergence of Sanders and Brown to complement Hines, Wallace, and Miller. Your offensive stats that you cite for the Steelers of course include Ben not playing the first 4 games.
-
- +0
-
-
...
written by FlaPittAlum, January 23, 2011 - 10:23 AM
written by FlaPittAlum, January 23, 2011 - 10:23 AM
Steelers - 27
Jets - 11 (meaningless late 2 point conversion)
Jets - 11 (meaningless late 2 point conversion)
-
- +0
-
-
...
written by Dan1283, January 23, 2011 - 10:23 AM
written by Dan1283, January 23, 2011 - 10:23 AM
Bob-
Making predictions is mostly all in fun. I'll give an educated one though.
Four times this year, the Jets scored less than 10 points in a game. The Steelers never scored less than 10 and scored only 10 points just once. So yes, the Steelers have the better offense.
But that also makes them much more consistent, a testament to their coaching, and that is a huge factor in picking a winner tonight. When the Steelers' gameplan goes to hell in a handbasket, they still have had a chance to win the game in the end all year. When it happens to the Jets, they can't move the ball at all.
To me, even if the Steelers gameplan goes to waste, they will still have a chance to win this game. The odds are with them when that happens.
Steelers 24, Jets 10.
Making predictions is mostly all in fun. I'll give an educated one though.
Four times this year, the Jets scored less than 10 points in a game. The Steelers never scored less than 10 and scored only 10 points just once. So yes, the Steelers have the better offense.
But that also makes them much more consistent, a testament to their coaching, and that is a huge factor in picking a winner tonight. When the Steelers' gameplan goes to hell in a handbasket, they still have had a chance to win the game in the end all year. When it happens to the Jets, they can't move the ball at all.
To me, even if the Steelers gameplan goes to waste, they will still have a chance to win this game. The odds are with them when that happens.
Steelers 24, Jets 10.
-
- +0
-
-
...
written by PiratesFanSince1960, January 23, 2011 - 10:29 AM
written by PiratesFanSince1960, January 23, 2011 - 10:29 AM
I agree, it should be 24-10 type of score.... STEELERS winning the game easily starting late 3rd quarter and into the 4th. Easily does not be a slaughter, easy game. Easily means do the job and we control the final 12 minutes of the game. LOL.... That is easy to me in today's NFL.
cheers/not counting on a win. mentally prepared as Jets are not a wimpy team! Beat the Patriots in Boston!
GO STEELERS...
cheers/not counting on a win. mentally prepared as Jets are not a wimpy team! Beat the Patriots in Boston!
GO STEELERS...
-
- +0
-
-
...
written by CLASSOF79, January 23, 2011 - 10:38 AM
written by CLASSOF79, January 23, 2011 - 10:38 AM
I certainly hope I'm wrong, but I think Santonio Holmes will make everyone remember that giving him away for a 5th round pick was a very poor decision.
-
- -2
-
-
...
written by Maine Bucs Fan, January 23, 2011 - 11:10 AM
written by Maine Bucs Fan, January 23, 2011 - 11:10 AM
Steelers by 10- turmoil in the Jets locker-room drowns out coverage of the SB in the Big Apple/Espn
-
- -1
-
-
...
written by Maine Bucs Fan, January 23, 2011 - 11:14 AM
written by Maine Bucs Fan, January 23, 2011 - 11:14 AM
BTW- the Boston Globe had one page (on page 10 of the sports section) about today's conferecne championships with barely a mention of the balck & gold + a column by Dan Shaughnessy urging New Englanders to root for the Jets (because Pittsburgh fans are "babies"-feel free to leave a comment on boston.com)
-
- +0
-
-
...
written by Bluesdude, January 23, 2011 - 11:32 AM
written by Bluesdude, January 23, 2011 - 11:32 AM
They beat the great Tom Brady but they also beat,and a lot of people forget this or simply don't know, a defense that was ranked 25th in the league.
-
- +1
-
-
...
written by Bob in Vegas, January 23, 2011 - 11:36 AM
written by Bob in Vegas, January 23, 2011 - 11:36 AM
No one (at least no one not named Billy Walters) can win betting NFL sides long term. Years ago it was possible, but with all the information available today there is no way to gain an edge. The numbers are just too tight. NFL totals are still beatable, and so is just about every other sport, but if anyone tells you they consistently beat NFL sides they are either lying or don't keep accurate records. I saw every wiseguy and syndicate when I was in the business, and Walters was the only guy who's NFL action was feared. For what it means the Steelers have taken money all week and now are at -4 just about everywhere. However, the Packers are a slight favorite to win the Super Bowl.
I feel a little more confident about today's game then I did last week. I expect the Steelers to be loose and not play tight, as some Steeler teams have been when playing at home in title games. It can be argued that the Jets, having reached this point last year, may actually have more pressure on them. This has been Roethlisberger's finest year. In the past he has often been prone to the key INT, but we haven't seen any of that this year. It seems to me as if he has matured on the field as least as much as he has off the field. I expect another solid game from him today. Hopefully this doesn't come down to a Suisham kick.
Steelers 20
Jets 13
I feel a little more confident about today's game then I did last week. I expect the Steelers to be loose and not play tight, as some Steeler teams have been when playing at home in title games. It can be argued that the Jets, having reached this point last year, may actually have more pressure on them. This has been Roethlisberger's finest year. In the past he has often been prone to the key INT, but we haven't seen any of that this year. It seems to me as if he has matured on the field as least as much as he has off the field. I expect another solid game from him today. Hopefully this doesn't come down to a Suisham kick.
Steelers 20
Jets 13
-
- +1
-
-
...
written by 123, January 23, 2011 - 11:36 AM
written by 123, January 23, 2011 - 11:36 AM
There are a lot of people around downtown today wearing the Kelly Green of the New Jorek Jets. (Last night Fr. Harry at St. Stanisylaus apologized for wearing green vestments at mass but he said he had no choice.)
And there will be a lot of Jets fans at the game. Two guys I know sold their tickets to secondary sellers for a ton of money....said it paid for next year's tickets.
Same thing happened in those Patriot championship games here. Markets like Boston and New York havr a lot of people and they are not afraid to fork over a lot of money to follow their teams.
And there will be a lot of Jets fans at the game. Two guys I know sold their tickets to secondary sellers for a ton of money....said it paid for next year's tickets.
Same thing happened in those Patriot championship games here. Markets like Boston and New York havr a lot of people and they are not afraid to fork over a lot of money to follow their teams.
-
- +0
-
-
...
written by pwmcdupitt, January 23, 2011 - 12:26 PM
written by pwmcdupitt, January 23, 2011 - 12:26 PM
A few of you have mentioned the cold. Since both teams are from the Northeast, and both play outside, is there reason to think that the cold, wind and field conditions favor one style/game plan/tendencies over another? I know our fans are will be incredible, but Jets fans are pretty nuts, too.
-
- +0
-
-
...
written by dontknocktherock, January 23, 2011 - 12:30 PM
written by dontknocktherock, January 23, 2011 - 12:30 PM
Bob says predicting a winner is for the foolish.
Here's more proof (besides the posters on here)
http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/s...ter-012311
Here's more proof (besides the posters on here)
http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/s...ter-012311
-
- -1
-
-
...
written by STATONJM, January 23, 2011 - 12:47 PM
written by STATONJM, January 23, 2011 - 12:47 PM
Bob,
Football is all about matchups. The reason the Jets can beat the Pats is simple, they matchup well against what the Pats do. Colts also. The Steelers do not matchup well against the Pats and that is why they consistently lose to them.
A team must have shut down corners who allow them to cut out the short crossing routes Welker and the tight ends run. The Steelers do not have shut down corners.
The Pats have the 25th ranked defense, which allows the Jets to control the game with their running game.
The Jets, however, do not matchup well against the Steelers. The Steelers unlike the Colts and Pats have speed receivers who can stretch the field. That opens up the short crossing routes for Miller and Ward. The Steelers also have corrected their red zone offense. They are using Legaursky as a fullback and punching it in ala the Bus. In the last game the Steelers moved the ball easily between the 20s but failed in the red zone. If Spaeth doesn't drop a touchdown pass the Steelers win. Miller won't drop touchdown or any other pass.
The Jets will not be facing a young no name Patriots defense or a injury depleted (no Sanders) Colts defense. They will be facing the best defense in all of pro football. They will not be able to protect their quarterback with their running game. Sanchez will be forced to beat the Steelers. I don't think he is ready to do that. Flacco's lack of success against the Steelers is a perfect example of a young quarterback being forced to carry his team against the Steelers.
The Jets can win by scoring on special teams or by the Steelers turning over the ball. Other that that, I don't see this game being close.
Steelers win 28-13.
Football is all about matchups. The reason the Jets can beat the Pats is simple, they matchup well against what the Pats do. Colts also. The Steelers do not matchup well against the Pats and that is why they consistently lose to them.
A team must have shut down corners who allow them to cut out the short crossing routes Welker and the tight ends run. The Steelers do not have shut down corners.
The Pats have the 25th ranked defense, which allows the Jets to control the game with their running game.
The Jets, however, do not matchup well against the Steelers. The Steelers unlike the Colts and Pats have speed receivers who can stretch the field. That opens up the short crossing routes for Miller and Ward. The Steelers also have corrected their red zone offense. They are using Legaursky as a fullback and punching it in ala the Bus. In the last game the Steelers moved the ball easily between the 20s but failed in the red zone. If Spaeth doesn't drop a touchdown pass the Steelers win. Miller won't drop touchdown or any other pass.
The Jets will not be facing a young no name Patriots defense or a injury depleted (no Sanders) Colts defense. They will be facing the best defense in all of pro football. They will not be able to protect their quarterback with their running game. Sanchez will be forced to beat the Steelers. I don't think he is ready to do that. Flacco's lack of success against the Steelers is a perfect example of a young quarterback being forced to carry his team against the Steelers.
The Jets can win by scoring on special teams or by the Steelers turning over the ball. Other that that, I don't see this game being close.
Steelers win 28-13.
-
- +2
-
-
...
written by Burgher in California, January 23, 2011 - 01:11 PM
written by Burgher in California, January 23, 2011 - 01:11 PM
After watching the replay of the regular season game last night on the NFL Network -- my biggest concern is which officiating crew is working this game.
The crew that called the previous match did not call defensive holding or pass interference at all. As a result, Cromartie and Revis were grabbing jerseys and arms -- or wrapping their arm around a receiver's torso to slow them down. They also arrived before the ball a couple of times, too. Maybe the Steelers secondary did it -- but if they did -- it wasn't picked up by CBS's cameras, that's for sure.
Long story short, an awful lot went the Jets way during the regular season game. Can't imagine the same happening today. 27-17 Steelers.
Enjoy the game, everybody. Have fun.
The crew that called the previous match did not call defensive holding or pass interference at all. As a result, Cromartie and Revis were grabbing jerseys and arms -- or wrapping their arm around a receiver's torso to slow them down. They also arrived before the ball a couple of times, too. Maybe the Steelers secondary did it -- but if they did -- it wasn't picked up by CBS's cameras, that's for sure.
Long story short, an awful lot went the Jets way during the regular season game. Can't imagine the same happening today. 27-17 Steelers.
Enjoy the game, everybody. Have fun.
-
- +0
-
-
Write comment
You must be logged in to post a comment. Please register if you do not have an account yet.
| < Prev | Next > |
|---|
"I really don't care. You smash him in the mouth, he's going to smash back, whatever," Cromartie said. "Does he do it while you're not looking? Yeah, he does. But who doesn't?" The Jets corner allowed that Ward's hits "can be" dirty. When such hits occur, Cromartie suggests that players "grab [him] by the throat and choke [him]."
Steelers, are you listening? Anybody says something like that about my teammate, well, maybe I'd have to just formally introduce myself more than a few times- just so they get to know me REAL well.
By the way, since when did Cromartie become some physical beast? Everything I've ever read on the guy is that the weak point of his game is the contact part, which he prefers to keep to a minimum. I hope Hines comes to greet him more than a few times.