View Full Version : What are you looking forward to?
Every year there is a certain story line or some drama to keep the Steelers fanbase wondering about the coming year. Whether it be our wondering about losing an aging player, or maybe the anxiety of how the new draft picks will fit in.
This year, especially during this slow football news period, I have been giving thought to what I am looking forward to in the coming year and I wondered what the steeler universe is keeping a loyal eye on.
For me, I am excited/anxious about:
1) The Defense
Last year we lost every game by 7 points or less, with the majority of our games being lost by 3 points. Due to attrition and injury we had an aging (but productive) defense with little depth. The FO zeroed in on that problem early and through the draft and free agency we have turned a weakness into a strength. I still forsee a few unknowns, such as what to do with our backup OLB's and wondering what we have in Keenan Lewis but that only adds to the intrigue.
2) Jonathan Dwyer
Considered a top 30 pick at one time, teams backed away fro Dwyer due to a percieved lack of speed, worries about his running out of the triple option at Georgia Tech, and rumors of a failed drug test that the league confirmed was not a banned substance but rather prescribed medications. Technically the Steelers have two Running backs who have first-round talent. Now that is something to get excited about.
3) The Receiving Corp
Wallace was an incredible surprise last year and shows every sign of being able to step up and take the place of the departed Holmes. Combined with the ageless Hines Ward, who has shown no reason why he can't have another 1,000 recieving yards year, the two should continue where Pittsburgh left off last year. The addition of two draft picks and the return of ARE will add enough fresh blood and veteran presence to make the year interesting.
4) Special Teams
Stefan Logan did an incredible job for us last year. He was quietly effective but his inability to break tackles for the long run and his lack of versatility in playing another position may open the door for one of the new WR/RS to bump him off the roster. On kickoffs and punt teams we may see some of the new LBers busting their tails to make the team and infuse the ST's with much needed talent.
5) QB situation
Okay...dont lie...ALL OF US have had the conversation that went something like this: "so what do we do if we are undefeated when Ben comes off his suspension"?
You can't help but wonder if the FO is already meeting behind closed doors to discuss such a posibility AND to figure out what they are going to due with Charlie Batch after the suspension is served.
There are several other story lines that are worth keeping an eye on...what are YOU looking forward to?
The Duke
07-17-2010, 10:55 AM
Defense definitely
Those guys most be hungrier than ever, and healthier. And with the additions of some young backers, corners and dlinemen they may be even better down the stretch. If we are going to win games without ben, it will be with the defense. If it stuggles like last year late in games I doubt Leftwich/Dixon can overcome that
The receiving corps should be interesting too. But since Im not expecting too much throwing this year, especially without ben, I'm more excited about the D
Big year for heath though!
Defense definitely
Those guys most be hungrier than ever, and healthier. And with the additions of some young backers, corners and dlinemen they may be even better down the stretch. If we are going to win games without ben, it will be with the defense. If it stuggles like last year late in games I doubt Leftwich/Dixon can overcome that
The receiving corps should be interesting too. But since Im not expecting too much throwing this year, especially without ben, I'm more excited about the D
Big year for heath though!
Heath goes to the pro-bowl this year....mark it down.
BPS3akaWirels3
07-17-2010, 10:59 AM
Special Teams improving this year over last. Too many kick returns went bad for us.
Special Teams improving this year over last. Too many kick returns went bad for us.
I didnt mention it originally...but I am also keeping an eye on the O-line. I'm hoping that Legursky can stick with the team this year and be Pounceys back up next year at center.
Devilsdancefloor
07-17-2010, 11:09 AM
Im really looking forward to seeing how the Dline does this year. They set the tone for the other 8 guys on D. I also want to see how well farrior plays this year. he has lost a step, but is a very savvy vet. It is really nice to have foote back and i am wondering if foote will be in the line up more and more as the season goes on replacing farrior. I would expect K. lewis to step it up i was really high on the guy when we drafted him. I am wondering huw the Oline is going to be handled this year as well with willie gone. I really like legursky & urbik, but do not know where they fit in this year. i am hoping urbik picks it up and can play or at least dress this year for games. I am hoping for a lot from our young guys i hope they can step it up. Im just wish it was football season already i need my fix lol.
Im really looking forward to seeing how the Dline does this year. They set the tone for the other 8 guys on D. I also want to see how well farrior plays this year. he has lost a step, but is a very savvy vet. It is really nice to have foote back and i am wondering if foote will be in the line up more and more as the season goes on replacing farrior. I would expect K. lewis to step it up i was really high on the guy when we drafted him. I am wondering huw the Oline is going to be handled this year as well with willie gone. I really like legursky & urbik, but do not know where they fit in this year. i am hoping urbik picks it up and can play or at least dress this year for games. I am hoping for a lot from our young guys i hope they can step it up. Im just wish it was football season already i need my fix lol.
I think that Foster and Essex will man the right side...With Pouncy taking over at RG before all is said and done. Kemo will be at LG and that still leaves Urbik and Legursky fighting for that last slot.
Devilsdancefloor
07-17-2010, 11:37 AM
i have never been a big essex fan, but he can play guard and tackle. i just hate it when 2 guys i like are fighting for that last slot. maybe legursky becomes a FB this year. all i know is urbik was a freaking road gradder at wisconsin. i just hope he steps it up this year. i am hoping we cut a lot of dead weight this year with all the st specialist and guys that are just sucking up a spot. i think it is going to be a really interesting camp to say the least.
ShoeHorn
07-17-2010, 11:47 AM
I'm looking forward to the Steelers remembering that we are supposed to BEAT crappy teams when we play them
stillers4me
07-17-2010, 11:58 AM
I'm looking forward to seeing Troy on the field again. I'm anxious and praying that our special teams have dramatic improvements. I'm anxious to see how the o-line improves under new coaching (dang it, Willie!) but I'm not worried at all about the defense. All the cogs are in place for total annihilation.
Actually, if we are undefeated when Ben gets back, that's all the better. The chip on his shoulder just gets bigger.
Im looking forward to our QB playing with a chip the size of a boulder on his shoulder.
SteelCityMan786
07-17-2010, 12:14 PM
Special Teams and the QB Situation. Most especially ST. I blame almost every loss last year on at least 1 ST blunder.
I'm looking forward to seeing Troy on the field again. I'm anxious and praying that our special teams have dramatic improvements. I'm anxious to see how the o-line improves under new coaching (dang it, Willie!) but I'm not worried at all about the defense. All the cogs are in place for total annihilation.
Actually, if we are undefeated when Ben gets back, that's all the better. The chip on his shoulder just gets bigger.
Great point about Troy....With Mac back in the secondary, Keenan Lewis able to show us what he can do, and Troy healthy.....we may be able to sucker a few teams into thinking that we are the same secondary as last year.
steel striker
07-17-2010, 12:30 PM
I look for Mendy to having a good season and, I know we need a replacement for Colon. Mendy could a season most folks don't give us a chance.
solardave
07-17-2010, 12:37 PM
Im really looking forward to seeing how the Dline does this year. They set the tone for the other 8 guys on D. I also want to see how well farrior plays this year. he has lost a step, but is a very savvy vet. It is really nice to have foote back and i am wondering if foote will be in the line up more and more as the season goes on replacing farrior. I would expect K. lewis to step it up i was really high on the guy when we drafted him. I am wondering huw the Oline is going to be handled this year as well with willie gone. I really like legursky & urbik, but do not know where they fit in this year. i am hoping urbik picks it up and can play or at least dress this year for games. I am hoping for a lot from our young guys i hope they can step it up. Im just wish it was football season already i need my fix lol.
You sound a little jittery there buddy. Calm down, breathe deep the season is almost here. Hey, I'm just telling you what I keep saying to myself.:)
I want to see #85 get his lights turned out by Clark. I want to see Ziggy get more time. And Im curious about how well we can blend in some of the rookies on STs. I also want to see someone step up and take over for Colon and play at a high level. I too would like to us us keep Ligursky. I agree that Logan will probably be gone and we'll see him take at least 2 back for another team that can block on STs.
You sound a little jittery there buddy. Calm down, breathe deep the season is almost here. Hey, I'm just telling you what I keep saying to myself.:)
I want to see #85 get his lights turned out by Clark. I want to see Ziggy get more time. And Im curious about how well we can blend in some of the rookies on STs. I also want to see someone step up and take over for Colon and play at a high level. I too would like to us us keep Ligursky. I agree that Logan will probably be gone and we'll see him take at least 2 back for another team that can block on STs.
I think Ziggy will get considerable time this year....very interested to see if Harris or Worthington step up and show that they can handle the other side in the future.
tony hipchest
07-17-2010, 03:42 PM
good thread. :thumbsup:
1) last year before the season i had a strong feeling that polamalu was gonna reach the pinnacle of his career, lead the league in ints and possibly break the int record, and make a strong push for defensive MVP. he was looking to not disappoint in that 1st game vs the titans until that brutal injury. nobody in the league could stop the nfl's fastest man, chris johnson, last year. troy did. i am looking for him to pick up right where he left off.
2) everyone wonders how last years rookie phenom will do moving outside and drawing the opponents #1 or 2 CB's, and whether he will see a drop off in his production. i see this as excellent opportunities for others, particularly emmanuel sanders who is primed to be this years rookie phenom operating out of the slot. while holmes was great he was never a 100 rec or 10 td guy. comparable numbers should be expected on the outside and expecting the same production from the new 3rd round wr isnt unreasonable. he can be either mike wallace or willie reid. i say he will be a mike wallace clone.
3) a return to the "band of brothers" attitude that seemed to be missing last year. hopefully the team will be galvanized in the absence of ben and colon. i actually think holmes being gone will help team chemistry, and finally, while we cant see into the locker room, the addition of leftwich, el, foote, and mcfadden should boost morale and camaraderie. i think the net effect of all these additions and subractions will still be positive.
4) 2nd and 3rd year players stepping onto the scene and coming into their own as professionals. i thought this would be sweeds year. thats not happening. mendenhall, ziggy, lewis, burnett, and urbick all have a chance to flash and show their talent. plus all the new blood and competition on special teams could totally turn the teams fortunes around. there should be some sick competition and we have cut ties with alot of old dead weight. special teams can be the difference of us making the playoffs this year when things look bleak as opposed to being a main reason for missing the playoffs last year when the steelers were on cloud 9.
I'm just creaming in my pants thinking about the defense. Just can't wait for the season to start!
good thread. :thumbsup:
. i actually think holmes being gone will help team chemistry, and finally, while we cant see into the locker room, the addition of leftwich, el, foote, and mcfadden should boost morale and camaraderie. i think the net effect of all these additions and subractions will still be positive.
I think you are touching on somehting there.....I have NO doubt that there are going to be some voices in the locker room this year who will be setting any slackers straight as to what a PRIVILIDGE it is to be a Steeler. Someone just might get a "FOOTE" stuck up their ass.
I think you are touching on somehting there.....I have NO doubt that there are going to be some voices in the locker room this year who will be setting any slackers straight as to what a PRIVILIDGE it is to be a Steeler. Someone just might get a "FOOTE" stuck up their ass.
Good point!
SteelGhost
07-17-2010, 11:19 PM
My wish list :
1. Ben to get his act together and be a leader of this team.
2. Healthy Troy and Aaron all season long.
3. The return of Foote, BMac and ARE works according to the team needs.
4. Jonathan Dwyer being a great compliment to our running game.(If he makes the team)
5. Brucey has to learn from his mistakes and make a lot better situational play calling.
6. Run the damn ball effectively
7. Whoever takes the RT spot does the job adequately.
8. A substancial improvements in the ST corps.
9. Make the playoffs
10. Lombardi # 7
:tt03:
steelerdude15
07-17-2010, 11:39 PM
I'm looking forward to seeing our rookies and all the new free agents we got this offseason. I'm also excited to see Troy and Aaron back on the field and of course, to see Ben.
Nadroj 20
07-18-2010, 07:29 AM
1.) QB Situation I wouldn't call it so much a "situation" once Ben is able to play because regardless of record I think he needs to play. The situation lies of course those first 4-6 games and whether or not to start Lefty or Dixon ( my pref. ). So far Lefty looks like he is getting the nod but I'm looking foward to seeing how they still use Dixon, because IMO even if Lefty is the starter, they need to get Dixon on the field and use him some.
2.) Special Teams This one caused some fun discussions last season :chuckle: basically the kickoff team was of most concern, because we werent terrible at returning and Reed was solid for us all year kicking FG's. Hopefully some of these LB's we've added will give us more bodies to be much better at covering the kickoffs.
3.) Troy and Aaron Thrilled to have these guys healthy this year and im really looking foward to seeing them out on the field again. Having these guys back instantly improves the D. And our secondary as a whole unit will improve because of troy being back.
4.) Mike Wallace I am looking foward to seeing if this kid can be a solid #2 WR. IMO he can. He will be going against tougher D, but with his speed and quickness and having a vet like Ward to guide him i see no reason why this guy can not be a very good wide out this season and also our potential #1 in the future.
5.) O-Line and Mendy with injuries to the o-line it will be interesting to see how they preform this season. Because of the QB problems i was looking to see Mendenhall get ALOT of the work load. I still think he gets to rush it quite a bit, but with Colon being injured and lack of experience being added to the line....it will be interesting to see how well Mendy can do and how well our offense as an entire unit will do.
P.S. after saying all this i think we can all agree what we all are looking MOST foward to is.....THE SEASON TO START!!!! :rockon:
I cant wait.
Galax Steeler
07-18-2010, 07:34 AM
4. Jonathan Dwyer being a great compliment to our running game.(If he makes the team)
I don't think you have to worry about that he will be one of the biggest steals of the draft.
I don't think you have to worry about that he will be one of the biggest steals of the draft.
I sure hope so! I just can't wait for the season to start! :dance::dance::dance:
I don't think you have to worry about that he will be one of the biggest steals of the draft.
I think you are right....Mendenhall & Dwyer have the potential of being the best 1-2 tandem since Harris/Bleier. I know...that is saying a great deal but I really believe that Dwyer is a first round talent.
86WARD
07-18-2010, 12:24 PM
Ben coming back and raping the AFC North.
Wallace taking over for Holmes.
Worilds and Gibson.
86WARD
07-18-2010, 12:25 PM
oh yeah...how could i forget...
Troy Polamalu and Aaron Smith returning to the D.
Ben coming back and raping the AFC North.
.
:nono:
......c'mer :buttkick:
Psycho Ward 86
07-18-2010, 01:51 PM
Dwyer's going to have defense coordinators stumbling over each other asking "WHO THE HELL IS THIS GUY???" in time.... :)
Austin87
07-19-2010, 03:45 AM
I am really excited about having Troy and A.Smith back.
And also our CB depth is really something to get excited about. Hopefully one of the young guys can come through this year and play at a high level.
Would be interesting to see what Leftwich can do during the first 4 games.
Good thread
Lots of good posts...
For me---
The Return of Troy
Wallace stepping up---I think we will see that he CAN get open, even with more attention from the opposing defenses
Mendy and Dwyer---could be a devastating tandem
Ben---forget the bullshit. Play ball.
and a lot more;
But I'll just sum it up-----7th
SteelGhost
07-19-2010, 09:44 AM
I don't think you have to worry about that he will be one of the biggest steals of the draft.
:drink:
I sorta mentioned it in the original post...but I am REAL interested in the backup OLB position. Obviously Woodley and Harrison have the starting OLB positions locked up, but with the drafting of Worilds and Gibson, you have to wonder what they are going to do about backups.
I dont think either player can be put on the PS without being picked up by another team...but do we really want to go into the season with two rookies behind the starters?
I think this may be the case. With Foote and Fox as ILB backups, we can always fall back on Timmons versatility as an ILB/OLB to start on the outside in a pinch.
It will be interesting to see how it works out.
Devilsdancefloor
07-19-2010, 10:33 AM
ok im gonna say it i'd love to see a pony backfield....
memphissteelergirl
07-19-2010, 11:40 AM
1. Troy getting back and helping our secondary wreak havoc on opposing QB's
2. Mendy, Heath, and Wallace having the best seasons of their careers
3. Our LB's kicking some serious boo-tay!
4. Lefty holding down the fort until Ben's return (with a little help from Dixon)
5. Special teams actually learning to tackle!
6. Basically...returning to what made Steeler football Steeler football (hard running game, kick a**, nasty D)
7. Lombardi #7 :chuckle:
SteelerSal
07-19-2010, 11:58 AM
I'm looking forward to;
1. Improved special teams- new sp teams coach and players
2. O-line improvement- new o-line coach
3. How our offense will respond with either Lefty or Dixon
4. How Ben will respond to all the negatives he will recieve
5. If mendy can continue where he left off and if Dwyer can be a great breather for him
6. If Wallace can be a #1 or #2 wr
7. If the defense can stay healthy and hungry
HughC
07-19-2010, 12:38 PM
I'm looking forward to the start of the season.
This offseason has taken forever and is one I'd prefer to forget about and move on from.
memphissteelergirl
07-20-2010, 08:10 AM
I'm looking forward to the start of the season.
This offseason has taken forever and is one I'd prefer to forget about and move on from.
:amen:
You know....after reading the majority of these posts, it looks like the Steelers Universe would really like to start the season with us kicking off....the opposing return man fielding the ball..taking two steps either way and....GETTING SERIOUSLY DE-CLEATED BY OUR ST's!!!!!!!!!
Now THAT would be a great way to start the season!!!!!!
polamalubeast
07-20-2010, 10:58 AM
The things they have to be important for the steelers in 2010.
1.What Leftwith plays well to the absence of Roethlisberger
2.What Roethlisberger plays well when he will return to the game
3.The performance of Wallace and Mendenhall will be very important steelers and I trust they will play!
4.What the defense once again become the best in the NFL!
5.What Polamalu will not hurt!
6.What defense creates more turnover.
7.What defense is not as bad as in 2009 to 4th quart!
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