UPDATE Bell out for Ravens Game

[Craic]

Figured I'd start a new thread for this instead of searching through a bunch of other threads for info.

Here's the latest tweet I found concerning his injury:

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[Steelman]

This was from last night, which I took to be an encouraging sign:

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[thesteelerdealer]

Yeah I read that Tweet as well. But, until an official report is announced after Bell has his MRI...I won't assume anything.

[Craic]

This was from last night, which I took to be an encouraging sign:

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That's actually more encouraging than the tweet I posted.

[GBMelBlount]

Very encouraging.

[thesteelerdealer]

That's actually more encouraging than the tweet I posted.



Yeah and I was right there, on the court when Kobe Bryant did the EXACT same thing, walked out of the arena with no limp, or crutches either when he tore his Achillies. So Bell doing that means nothing.

[one side only]

I don't think they will risk further injury by trying to play him on Saturday. He would be a decoy at best.

[polamalubeast]

I don't think they will risk further injury by trying to play him on Saturday. He would be a decoy at best.


This is a playoffs game....If he can play,I want him to play even if he is not at 100%

[thesteelerdealer]

I don't think they will risk further injury by trying to play him on Saturday. He would be a decoy at best.



If his knee is structurally okay, but is only at 75 % strength, I think they won't play him cause Bell's type of game is based on a lot of stalling, and cutting and stop and going. And that requires all the strength and stability in the knee. Now, if Bell was a one trick pony type of straight ahead runner, then he MIGHT be able to play. But regardless, if Bell were given the decision...he would play. That's what warriors do. But the people who know..medical staff, and what not need to protect him from himself. Like I said, my HOPE that his knee is no worse then what has been reported, and that with 2 straight weeks of healing, he will be fine and ready to go. I mean if we can just get by Baltimore, then he will be back for Denver. And that is when we will really need him.

[one side only]

This is a playoffs game....If he can play,I want him to play even if he is not at 100%

He has to be able to walk at least, which I'm told he cannot do at the moment.

[thesteelerdealer]

He has to be able to walk at least, which I'm told he cannot do at the moment.


He can walk, he just was told to keep any stress off his knee. That is the treatment for a hyper extension knee injury.

[Steelman]

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[thesteelerdealer]

Again, that guy is clueless. Bell looks like he can barely walk because he IS Barely walking. Barely walking NOT applying any pressure to his knee, cause allowing your foot to walk, and apply pressure to that knee causes the blood to flow through it, and Blood IS Hot, and that causes the swelling to not go down. That is why it LOOKED like Bell could hardly walk Dale. That twitter dude is as stupid as they come. Maybe Bell only has a Hyper extended knee...maybe he has a total ACL & MCL tear in his knee. Bottom line is there is no way to know until the MRI is done.

[steelreserve]

Usually things like this would be worst on the second day, when it's had a good 24 hours to swell up and get bruised and stiff. The important part is what happens after that.

In any event, I would not be holding my breath for him to play this weekend, much less carry the offense. We're going to have to find a way to win the game without him.

[86WARD]

Again, that guy is clueless. Bell looks like he can barely walk because he IS Barely walking. Barely walking NOT applying any pressure to his knee, cause allowing your foot to walk, and apply pressure to that knee causes the blood to flow through it, and Blood IS Hot, and that causes the swelling to not go down. That is why it LOOKED like Bell could hardly walk Dale. That twitter dude is as stupid as they come. Maybe Bell only has a Hyper extended knee...maybe he has a total ACL & MCL tear in his knee. Bottom line is there is no way to know until the MRI is done.

When did you talk to Bell?

[GBMelBlount]

Usually things like this would be worst on the second day, when it's had a good 24 hours to swell up and get bruised and stiff. The important part is what happens after that.

In any event, I would not be holding my breath for him to play this weekend, much less carry the offense.

We're going to have to find a way to win the game without him.

This could be a helluva game.

Ben is going to have to come out firing on all cylinders and the Ravens are going to be bringing the house all day so he doesn't have time to throw.

THIS is going to be the real test of the......Mach 5.:car:


:peep:

[thesteelerdealer]

When did you talk to Bell?



I didn't. But I DO know knee injuries. And even the slightest Hyperextended knee takes a minimum of 2 weeks to heal, more likely 3 to 4 weeks though. But never in history has any Athlete played after a week...never. But, you cannot tell if a knee is Hyperextended or a ACL tear by an X-ray...Impossible to see. Only a MRI can show this. And the pain and swelling that Bell is feeling is NO different at all from a Major ACL tear. I hope Bell is only slightly injured with that Hyperextension, but even so, NO CHANCE he will play against Baltimore. And if they allow him to try, then the Steelers are Dumb, and are not looking out for Bell, and his long term future.

[Steeldude]

I didn't. But I DO know knee injuries. And even the slightest Hyperextended knee takes a minimum of 2 weeks to heal, more likely 3 to 4 weeks though. But never in history has any Athlete played after a week...never. But, you cannot tell if a knee is Hyperextended or a ACL tear by an X-ray...Impossible to see. Only a MRI can show this. And the pain and swelling that Bell is feeling is NO different at all from a Major ACL tear. I hope Bell is only slightly injured with that Hyperextension, but even so, NO CHANCE he will play against Baltimore. And if they allow him to try, then the Steelers are Dumb, and are not looking out for Bell, and his long term future.

Not always. I have hyper-extended my knee twice. I was hit in the same fashion. I was back on the court the next week for one of them and 3 days later for the other. I experienced soreness, but no problems with stability.

Perhaps Bell doesn't have much swelling or pain. The following day is the most telling.

Josh Harris said Bell texted him saying he was fine. Now that doesn't always mean Bell is telling the truth. He could have said it just to remain positive.

[thesteelerdealer]

Not always. I have hyper-extended my knee twice. I was hit in the same fashion. I was back on the court the next week for one of them and 3 days later for the other. I experienced soreness, but no problems with stability.

Perhaps Bell doesn't have much swelling or pain. The following day is the most telling.

Josh Harris said Bell texted him saying he was fine. Now that doesn't always mean Bell is telling the truth. He could have said it just to remain positive.




Like I said, the MRI will tell the tale. And if this was just a minor Hyperextended Injury, then the swelling would have been gone by this morning. And you cannot take a MRI til the swelling is gone. And so far, I haven't heard of any MRI as of yet being given to Bell. That tells me he still has swelling, which tells me it is not just a minor Injury. Oh it still could just be a Hyperextension...but not the most minor of ones. But either way, Bell playing Saturday is not gonna happen. I just can't see it considering everything I know about these types of Injuries.

[NCSteeler]

On a side note, I believe it was Harris's second hand off he had trouble putting it away and juggled just a bit. Not a good sign, him and Ben need to be working on it right now, he needs to sleep at Ben's all week . One botched hand off could mean the game.

Also we are going to miss Bell's blocking . Have to keep Spaeth or Heath into block.

[thesteelerdealer]

On a side note, I believe it was Harris's second hand off he had trouble putting it away and juggled just a bit. Not a good sign, him and Ben need to be working on it right now, he needs to sleep at Ben's all week . One botched hand off could mean the game.

Also we are going to miss Bell's blocking . Have to keep Spaeth or Heath into block.




I suspect if anything, Haley will use even more short, quick passing slants to Brown, and WR Screens and what not to nullify the Ravens Pass pressure. That will keep them honest, and allow Ben the occasional long shot to Brown and Bryant.

[polamalubeast]

THIS JUST IN: MRI does not show any ligament damage to Steelers RB LeVeon Bell's knee.

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Saw Le'Veon Bell walking gingerly to his car. No structural damage means he can play if he can deal with weakness, stiffness. Meds can help


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[Merchant]

THIS JUST IN: MRI does not show any ligament damage to Steelers RB LeVeon Bell's knee.


https://twitter.com/SportsCenter/status/549650332415164419/photo/1

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Saw Le'Veon Bell walking gingerly to his car. No structural damage means he can play if he can deal with weakness, stiffness. Meds can help


https://twitter.com/MarkKaboly_Trib/status/549650919668060161

I think I just heard all of Pittsburgh breathe a sigh of relief from here in Toronto.

[thesteelerdealer]

THIS JUST IN: MRI does not show any ligament damage to Steelers RB LeVeon Bell's knee.


https://twitter.com/SportsCenter/status/549650332415164419/photo/1

- - - Updated - - -

Saw Le'Veon Bell walking gingerly to his car. No structural damage means he can play if he can deal with weakness, stiffness. Meds can help


https://twitter.com/MarkKaboly_Trib/status/549650919668060161




Well that is good news. Thanks. But I still say there is less then a 5 % chance Bell plays. Remember who we are playing....Baltimore is the Cheap Shot Kings. And Fat Boy Haloti Ngata is the " Ndamukong Suh " of the Baltimore Ravens.

[Steelman]

Thank God!!

PCL's are the fortunately the strongest of the knee ligaments. He's young and from what I could tell, tried to soften that hit by Nelson. Could've saved him. Had his foot been planted, probably torn ACL among others.

I stand by my statement that he'll be available but very limited against Baltimore.

[Psycho Ward 86]

Thank the lord. If Bell had his leg planted for 0.1 seconds longer that leg would have been a goner. Rest up Le'veon. And dont play if you cant.

[fansince'76]

I think I just heard all of Pittsburgh breathe a sigh of relief from here in Toronto.

Best news I've heard all day...

[steel striker]

Yes this good news but, I think they should rest Bell. I know we need him to make a deep playoff run but, let's look at the big picture here.

[Steeltreal]

Yes this good news but, I think they should rest Bell. I know we need him to make a deep playoff run but, let's look at the big picture here.

Agreed, he has to be given time.

[Psycho Ward 86]

Yes this good news but, I think they should rest Bell. I know we need him to make a deep playoff run but, let's look at the big picture here.


thats not the big picture. the big picture is not pulling an RGIII with Leveon.

[Dwinsgames]

http://549667619239100418

[GBMelBlount]

Thank. God.

[GoSlash27]

Yes this good news but, I think they should rest Bell. I know we need him to make a deep playoff run but, let's look at the big picture here.

Agreed.
Leveon Bell is too valuable to waste on a single game, even if it *is* a playoff game.

If he's not 100%, I'd rather make do without him.

[stillers4me]

Le'Veon Bell slowly hobbled to and from the Steelers locker room on Monday, a little more than 12 hours after hyperextending his right knee in the third quarter of the Steelers' 27-17 AFC North-clinching win over Cincinnati.

Coach Mike Tomlin said Bell suffered no structural damage to the knee from the hit from Bengals safety Reggie Nelson, meaning there is a possibility that the Steelers team MVP could be ready to play Saturday night against Baltimore in a wild card playoff game.

“If he suffered no structural damage (ACL, PCL), then yes, he can play,” said Dr. David Geier, an orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist in Charleston, S.C. “He would just have to work through discomfort, stiffness and weakness.”

Geier said pain killers toradol and cortisone are popular treatments to allow players to get back on the field quickly after suffering injuries similar to Bell's...........


Read more: http://triblive.com/sports/steelers/7465820-74/bell-steelers-agent#ixzz3NKmO3YUO

[SteelerFanInStl]

Agreed.
Leveon Bell is too valuable to waste on a single game, even if it *is* a playoff game.

If he's not 100%, I'd rather make do without him.

Exactly. I'd rather take a chance in this game without him than risk his very bright future on one game.

[GBMelBlount]

If he is legitimately cleared to play and the team feels he is healthy enough to go I would have no problem if they played him.

[polamalubeast]

If he is legitimately cleared to play and the team feels he is healthy enough to go I would have no problem if they played him.

100% agree

[Count Steeler]

What injury did Ward have a few years ago and he did some blood vodoo to get his injury to heal for the game. I think it was a leg injury as well.

[tube517]

What injury did Ward have a few years ago and he did some blood vodoo to get his injury to heal for the game. I think it was a leg injury as well.

Are you talking about that injury (sprained MCL) in the 2008 AFCC game? He played in the Super Bowl 2 weeks later but was hobbled. That was an ugly injury

[Count Steeler]

Are you talking about that injury (sprained MCL) in the 2008 AFCC game? He played in the Super Bowl 2 weeks later but was hobbled. That was an ugly injury

Yeah. He did some blood transfusion thing. Sounded really weird, but he was able to play.

[lilyoder6]

i bet the steelers probably had one of those sleeping chambers delivered to his house at some point today to help him recover as fast as possible with hopes of him playing sat

[Craic]

Exactly. I'd rather take a chance in this game without him than risk his very bright future on one game.

I could very well be wrong here, but I don't think there is any risk of his future if he plays, because there's nothing that's damaged in that sense. It's just a bunch of fatty tissue and other stuff that hangs out around the knee that's torqued off at being stretched and bent in ways it didn't want to be. So there's probably swelling in there. But again, if none of that is structural, then there's no long term danger.

Short term, however, the question is whether we think we need him against the Ravens, or if we think we can let him get some rest on that knee the following week if we win, so it feels even better.

[tube517]

Yeah. He did some blood transfusion thing. Sounded really weird, but he was able to play.

i remember now

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/02/17/sports/17blood.html?pagewanted=all&_r=0

[Shoes]

Drafting a solid back-up is a must!

[86WARD]

Drafting a solid back-up is a must!

Or signing one...

[Craic]

Or signing one...

Yeah, I'd prefer to sign one instead of playing the Draft-Day Guessing Game, and then finding out we don't have a good backup half way through the season when we need him.

[Hindes204]

No structural damage means no risk of long term damage. If he's cleared, he needs to play. Bell at 50% is still better than the scrubs we have behind him. We sit him to "rest" for a playoff run, we should start making tee times for the following week

[86WARD]

Harris looked good busting a run for 59...lol.

[thesteelerdealer]

I wonder if this earlier play is why Reggie Nelson tackled Bell low later on ?





https://pbs.twimg.com/tweet_video/B6FLOqCCYAAlHlW.mp4

[Crow-Magnon]

His knee may not be "damaged" per se, but if pain causes him to plant his leg wrong on a cut, or it hobbles his gait on a carry, he could get hit and suffer real damage to the joint. Knees are fragile things.

I'll give the Steelers one thing-they aren't stupid. If Bell can play with ability, he'll play. But if there is any doubt, I don't think the coaching staff will risk a player's long-term health. Especially one of his caliber.

I wish the best for him. He is an exciting player to watch.

[one side only]

Bell will not play this week.

[Steelman]

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[vader29]

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:tomlinism:

[Steelman]

From presser: Tomlin said Bell's on the bike, seeing about managing pain. Hard to believe there is no structural damage, but that's what they keep saying. They will "leave the light on" for Bell in terms of how he feels by Saturday.

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[fansince'76]

His knee may not be "damaged" per se, but if pain causes him to plant his leg wrong on a cut, or it hobbles his gait on a carry, he could get hit and suffer real damage to the joint. Knees are fragile things.

Exactly. If he's favoring that leg in any way, and I'm sure he is, that in itself could cause problems.


Bell will not play this week.

Yeah, I don't see it either, unfortunately.

[Steelman]

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Sounds like Bell is working his tail off to play in this game. I'm not saying he should play, but it's a good sign for his future, especially if we advance.

Having had knee injuries though, the thing about stationary bikes is just that -- they're stationary. Up and down movement is not the same as side to side, it's easy to think you're further along than you are. Can't speak for Bell, just from personal experience. (torn MCL, LCL)

[smokin3000gt]

His knee may not be "damaged" per se, but if pain causes him to plant his leg wrong on a cut, or it hobbles his gait on a carry, he could get hit and suffer real damage to the joint. Knees are fragile things.

I'll give the Steelers one thing-they aren't stupid. If Bell can play with ability, he'll play. But if there is any doubt, I don't think the coaching staff will risk a player's long-term health. Especially one of his caliber.

I wish the best for him. He is an exciting player to watch.

I would agree typically except I have seen players hardly healed up on the field too soon and they're play/recovery time showed it. (troy p comes to mind)

I am glad he will get the extra week.

[thesteelerdealer]

549975834149535744

Sounds like Bell is working his tail off to play in this game. I'm not saying he should play, but it's a good sign for his future, especially if we advance.

Having had knee injuries though, the thing about stationary bikes is just that -- they're stationary. Up and down movement is not the same as side to side, it's easy to think you're further along than you are. Can't speak for Bell, just from personal experience. (torn MCL, LCL)





Nobody here doubts Bell/s Guts & toughness. But sometimes a Coach/Organization has to save a player from themselves.

[one side only]

Mike Tomlin reported Le'Veon Bell was riding a stationary bike, but there will be no bikes on the field Saturday night.

I still think it would be a miracle if he plays.

[Lady Steel]

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[polamalubeast]

Tomlin said he's comfortable with Archer doing what he does. "If I want him to block Suggs, then I'm stupid"


https://twitter.com/dlolleyor/status/549980674862907393

[Steelman]

549982227606822912

:chuckle:

[86WARD]

This made me laugh...

Mike Tomlin: "If I want (Dri Archer) to block Suggs, then I'm stupid."

[Hawkman]

This made me laugh...

Mike Tomlin: "If I want (Dri Archer) to block Suggs, then I'm stupid."

Me too!

[Craic]

This made me laugh...

Mike Tomlin: "If I want (Dri Archer) to block Suggs, then I'm stupid."

Yeah, that was a great quote from him.

[vader29]

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[fansince'76]

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:yay3:

[Merchant]

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Is anyone else picturing dozens of media members following Bell around everywhere he goes for up-to-the-minute updates? :chuckle:

[thesteelerdealer]

Great news, but, no limp doesn't necessarily mean No Pain!

[fansince'76]

Great news, but, no limp doesn't necessarily mean No Pain!

Still don't want him playing on Saturday, but I'm thinking beyond Saturday.

[Chidi29]

Analysis of the injury from a doctor.

http://www.steelersdepot.com/2014/12/leveon-bell-will-try-bike-bone-bruise/

[fansince'76]

Analysis of the injury from a doctor.

http://www.steelersdepot.com/2014/12/leveon-bell-will-try-bike-bone-bruise/

Not buying the bone bruise bit. The only ones reporting that are Bleacher Report, and I don't trust their "sources." (An uncle of a friend of a nephew of a friend of someone who works as an admin assistant in the Steelers front office tells me that...)

[thesteelerdealer]

Not buying the bone bruise bit. The only ones reporting that are Bleacher Report, and I don't trust their "sources." (An uncle of a friend of a nephew of a friend of someone who works as an admin assistant in the Steelers front office tells me that...)




Go to Web MD. The minimum time for a slight Hyperextended knee is 2 weeks. And they are as Legit as they get.

[zulater]

One can only imagine the cheap shots Thuggs and Upshaw are plotting against LeVeon.

[thesteelerdealer]

One can only imagine the cheap shots Thuggs and Upshaw are plotting against LeVeon.

:ohoh:




No doubt. But, I would be more concerned with one....Halodi Ngata ACCIDENTLY Falling on Bell's leg after a tackle.....Suh style. Or Ladarius Webb coming in at Bell's knee after a catch out of the back field.

[fansince'76]

Go to Web MD. The minimum time for a slight Hyperextended knee is 2 weeks. And they are as Legit as they get.

Hyperextended knee ≠ bone bruise. A bone bruise can result from a hyperextension, but since nobody but BR is reporting a bone bruise, I'm not buying that part.

[Merchant]

http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000452323/article/leveon-bell-feels-great-but-taking-it-day-by-day

Bell said "I feel great" twice.

[Dwinsgames]

Not buying the bone bruise bit. The only ones reporting that are Bleacher Report, and I don't trust their "sources." (An uncle of a friend of a nephew of a friend of someone who works as an admin assistant in the Steelers front office tells me that...)

we all seen the knee bend backwards to some degree , not consistent with a bruise injury , that being said a bruise is still possible from the hit itself and could be an underlying thing that essentially is pretty much nothing for an NFL player ..without a doubt some degree of hyper extension is involved ...

from a non medical professional such as myself walking without a limp is a great sign , but at the same time I feel it is still in a weakened state and would not want to risk further injury ( more serious in nature ) due to the weakened state of the knee structure , but that is me ....

[fansince'76]

we all seen the knee bend backwards to some degree , not consistent with a bruise injury , that being said a bruise is still possible from the hit itself and could be an underlying thing that essentially is pretty much nothing for an NFL player ..without a doubt some degree of hyper extension is involved ...

from a non medical professional such as myself walking without a limp is a great sign , but at the same time I feel it is still in a weakened state and would not want to risk further injury ( more serious in nature ) due to the weakened state of the knee structure , but that is me ....

Agreed, the only reason I'm skeptical about the "bone bruise" part is that the ONLY ones reporting that is Bleacher Report. None of the other (more credible) outlets like the Post-Gazette have even mentioned it. One would think they would when they reported that there was no structural damage to the knee itself after the MRI results were released. And if he truly is walking without a limp at this point, that makes me even more dubious about it. I've never had a bone bruise in the knee myself, but I understand they hurt like hell and one would be hard-pressed to walk without a limp if they did have one.

[Count Steeler]

Good way to keep the Ravens distracted this week. Who do they prepare for?

I say really shock them and start Archer. He has to be good for at least 1 yard.

[Dwinsgames]

Agreed, the only reason I'm skeptical about the "bone bruise" part is that the ONLY ones reporting that is Bleacher Report. None of the other outlets like the Post-Gazette have even mentioned it. One would think they would when they reported that there was no structural damage to the knee itself after the MRI results were released. And if he truly is walking without a limp at this point, that makes me even more dubious about it.


couple guys from BR I trust , one has been a friend for 12-14 years ( Curt Popejoy ), the other a former NFL player Matt Bowen

[thesteelerdealer]

Good way to keep the Ravens distracted this week. Who do they prepare for?

I say really shock them and start Archer. He has to be good for at least 1 yard.




To be honest, what choice do the Ravens have ? They have to either prepare for Bell, or Tate, cause that's all who they have played, and have game film on. The Ravens, or the rest of the league have SQUAT on Harris. And that could be a huge advantage for us come game time. I mean Harris may not have seen any REAL Game action this year....you can't evaluate anyone based on 9 carries. But, he has been practicing the whole season. The team does know Harris and his running tendencies and Harris knows the OL. So Baltimore can only game plan for players they have either faced, or have actual Game film on...and NOT just a few carries.

[tube517]

Bell just needs that concoction that Sidney Thornton made during the 79 season (From the America's Game 79 Steelers episode) that stunk up the lockerroom. :ill: :chuckle:

[stillers4me]

Is anyone else picturing dozens of media members following Bell around everywhere he goes for up-to-the-minute updates? :chuckle:
Reminds me of "Pouncey was seen without a boot!"

[GBMelBlount]

Reminds me of "Pouncey was seen without a boot!"


and "Hernandez was seen with cuffs!"

[stillers4me]

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[Psycho Ward 86]

Good way to keep the Ravens distracted this week. Who do they prepare for?

I say really shock them and start Archer. He has to be good for at least 1 yard.

*-1

[GoSlash27]

To be honest, what choice do the Ravens have ? They have to either prepare for Bell, or Tate, cause that's all who they have played, and have game film on. The Ravens, or the rest of the league have SQUAT on Harris. And that could be a huge advantage for us come game time. I mean Harris may not have seen any REAL Game action this year....you can't evaluate anyone based on 9 carries. But, he has been practicing the whole season. The team does know Harris and his running tendencies and Harris knows the OL. So Baltimore can only game plan for players they have either faced, or have actual Game film on...and NOT just a few carries.

TBH, I'm kinda interested to see what Harris can do. If that monster run against the Bungles wasn't a fluke, he could be a real ace in the hole; a guy who can rip off big plays and the Ravens have no way to prepare for.
If he can force them to respect the run, then the play- action buffet will be open against Baltimore's secondary. All you can eat :D

[thesteelerdealer]

https://pbs.twimg.com/profile_images/546031715156639744/bbR3aCfY_normal.jpegMark Kaboly @MarkKaboly_Trib (https://twitter.com/MarkKaboly_Trib) · 40m40 minutes ago (https://twitter.com/MarkKaboly_Trib/status/550700343152357376)

Your daily Le'Veon Bell walking update:Notice little hiccup to his step today when walking thru locker room.Man,is this what it's coming to?

[Craic]

TBH, I'm kinda interested to see what Harris can do. If that monster run against the Bungles wasn't a fluke, he could be a real ace in the hole; a guy who can rip off big plays and the Ravens have no way to prepare for.
If he can force them to respect the run, then the play- action buffet will be open against Baltimore's secondary. All you can eat :D

I went back and re-watched that run a couple of times. I think it was a combination of the O line opening a hole, the Defense not being prepared for going to him like that, and at the very least, decent sight on his part and decent footwork getting through the hole. So, I'm not holding my breath for him to be a break-out player this game, but I think he is definitely serviceable and maybe even has the possibility of being good.

[Shoes]

I went back and re-watched that run a couple of times. I think it was a combination of the O line opening a hole, the Defense not being prepared for going to him like that, and at the very least, decent sight on his part and decent footwork getting through the hole. So, I'm not holding my breath for him to be a break-out player this game, but I think he is definitely serviceable and maybe even has the possibility of being good.


My concern with him is ball security, I saw him bobble the hand off slightly while moving forward a few times. Could be the pressure of being thrown into the game tho.

[Craic]

My concern with him is ball security, I saw him bobble the hand off slightly while moving forward a few times. Could be the pressure of being thrown into the game tho.

I honestly wasn't watching that, but yeah, that could be a serious concern. I imagine (or hope) he and Ben get about a hundred reps this week just on handoffs.

[thesteelerdealer]

My concern with him is ball security, I saw him bobble the hand off slightly while moving forward a few times. Could be the pressure of being thrown into the game tho.



Well when comparing him to Bell, I am worried about any other RB possibly fumbling the ball. I mean you have a better chance of stripping away a bottle of " Jack Daniels " from" Lindsey Lohan " then anyone does of stripping away the
football from Le'veon Bell! So don't hold Harris, or anyone else up to Bell's standards. Lets just hope that one play was a fluke cause he had no timing with Ben.

[Craic]

Well when comparing him to Bell, I am worried about any other RB possibly fumbling the ball. I mean you have a better chance of stripping away a bottle of " Jack Daniels " from" Lindsey Lohan " then anyone does of stripping away the
football from Le'veon Bell! So don't hold Harris, or anyone else up to Bell's standards. Lets just hope that one play was a fluke cause he had no timing with Ben.

I didn't see him making a comparison. I saw him discussing fundamentals. :noidea:

[thesteelerdealer]

I didn't see him making a comparison. I saw him discussing fundamentals. :noidea:




Oh....sorry. Well then, in the words of a former GREAT and late " Saturday Night Live " personality......



https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V3FnpaWQJO0

[Shoes]

I didn't see him making a comparison. I saw him discussing fundamentals. :noidea:


Correct Preach….dang I still can't see you as Craic! :chuckle:

[GoSlash27]

Whoever we end up starting, I hope they can tote the rock on a sloppy field, 'cuz that's what it looks like we'll be dealing with.
I don't expect much from the passing game if the weather report holds.

[steelpride12]

He's not playing guys, come on use your heads. He's hurting and it's obvious. When it comes to knee injuries then you have to think about many factors including running, speed, cutting, and the chance of reinjuring the knee. You know damn well that every Raven and their mothers will be aiming for his knee. With a young all star like Bell you don't want to end his career by forcing a start. Think of the last few Ravens games, THEY'RE NOT A GREAT TEAM. Yes, it's Steelers vs. Ravens and it's the playoffs so anything can happen, but we can win.

Here's my issue though, it's going to rain all night long and during the entire game. That makes it a running backs game over a passing game. So Ben and Brown need to obviously take over the load, but it won't be easy in those weather conditions.

[GoSlash27]

Here's my issue though, it's going to rain all night long and during the entire game. That makes it a running backs game over a passing game. So Ben and Brown need to obviously take over the load, but it won't be easy in those weather conditions.

I'm gonna go the other way on this. If it's a running backs game, then Ben and Brown *can't* take over the load.

If the weather is as bad as they're predicting, it's our run vs. their run D on a sloppy field and vice-versa. Minor edge to us: We have a guy who can actually kick at Heinz Field in bad weather.
Baltimore has a great run stop front 4 statistically, but they didn't rack up those stats in crappy weather. Baltimore's more of an angles 'n speed run defense, and that doesn't work in the mud.

[thesteelerdealer]

I hope Bell heals as well as he picks College games.....




https://pbs.twimg.com/profile_images/378800000813244612/e3f9a45be41d0790f248c3599e4a08c4_normal.jpegLe'Veo n Bell @L_Bell26 (https://twitter.com/L_Bell26) · 9h9 hours ago (https://twitter.com/L_Bell26/status/550707910847000576)

lol youu are TRIPPIN! RT @Lcaper_22 (https://twitter.com/Lcaper_22): My Bowl Winners: MSU vs Baylor (MSU)Ohio State vs Bama (OSU)Oregon vs Florida St. (Oregon)

[steelpride12]

He won't be playing. He hasn't practiced at all this week and we are still waiting on the word if he practices today on their final day. I think even if he does some sort of limited running, it won't be enough to get the green light. I think the Steelers practiced all week with that notion of no Bell and have prepared Tate as much as possible. I've expected this all week, but I think it's pretty close to a final call here. You can't expect even an MVP like Bell to play after not practicing a whole week. He is NOT ready.

[GBMelBlount]

You can't expect even an MVP like Bell to play after not practicing a whole week. He is NOT ready.

Taking a week off does not automatically equate to "Not ready"...unless perhaps you are ONLY talking physically.

Otherwise, if cleared to play and detemined to be healthy enough he would be far more ready than Tate.

[steelpride12]

Taking a week off does not automatically equate to "Not ready"...unless perhaps you are ONLY talking physically.

Otherwise, if cleared to play and detemined to be healthy enough he would be far more ready than Tate.

I trust his doctors and medical staff, but that's an injury that can be nagging regardless of the severity. Wednesday he had no limp, Thursday he was limping. Which means he is still bothered by it, which I don't consider ready. It's not worth risking his health for one game. Playoff game or not. We do not need him to win this game. In Ben we trust.

[vader29]

551072090376667136

[thesteelerdealer]

Well that ends that. Good decision though. In bad weather, no need to risk the man to further Injury. If we win, give him the extra week to get ready for Denver.

[HollywoodSteel]

551072090376667136

Not sure what the benefit is to tipping your hand like that. Why not wait until the last possible second to announce? Make the Ravens game plan for him.

I doubt any of that make any real difference but I just don't see the upside of the announcement.

[Craic]

Not sure what the benefit is to tipping your hand like that. Why not wait until the last possible second to announce? Make the Ravens game plan for him.

I doubt any of that make any real difference but I just don't see the upside of the announcement.

Isn't there some kind of rule about that? I know some can be a gametime decision, but . . . maybe it has to do with scratching a player and dressing someone else. Sadly, I'm starting to feel like this is Pittsburgh up in Foxborough when Bettis got that shot in his leg and it numbed his nerve, putting him out of the game. Hope I'm wrong, very wrong.

Time to see what Harris can do and how much Tate can help.

[thesteelerdealer]

Of course this could be a Lie. Get Baltimore to relax and not concentrate on Bell, then suddenly he is out there. I doubt it, but you never know. Also, maybe Pittsburgh is trying to get into the Ravens head by already announcing Bell is out cause to them...it doesn't matter, we are gonna win regardless. But in the end it doesn't matter cause Baltimore can't prepare for Harris anyways. They have no idea how he runs, what he likes to do, ect.

[fansince'76]

Isn't there some kind of rule about that? I know some can be a gametime decision, but . . . maybe it has to do with scratching a player and dressing someone else.

Don't see why, since Belichick has been fudging injury reports for years. Uh, never mind...

[thesteelerdealer]

In everyone's life, a little Rain must fall. Bell being out is our sad rain. But HEY...lets not forget the MONSOON in Baltimore shall we ?.....



https://pbs.twimg.com/profile_images/541073151115800576/LhDej9-V_normal.jpegJeff Zrebiec @jeffzrebiecsun (https://twitter.com/jeffzrebiecsun) · 8m8 minutes ago (https://twitter.com/jeffzrebiecsun/status/551087543257935872)

Ravens rule out Eugene Monroe, Arthur Brown and Timmy Jernigan. None of them practiced this week so no surprise.





https://pbs.twimg.com/profile_images/541073151115800576/LhDej9-V_normal.jpegJeff Zrebiec @jeffzrebiecsun (https://twitter.com/jeffzrebiecsun) · 7m7 minutes ago (https://twitter.com/jeffzrebiecsun/status/551087919818366976)

Ravens will start two rookies on O-line: LT James Hurst a UDFA and RG John Urschel, a 5th round pick. Yanda likely to move to RT again.










- - - Updated - - -


In everyone's life, a little Rain must fall. Bell being out is our sad rain. But HEY...lets not forget the MONSOON in Baltimore shall we ?.....



https://pbs.twimg.com/profile_images/541073151115800576/LhDej9-V_normal.jpegJeff Zrebiec @jeffzrebiecsun (https://twitter.com/jeffzrebiecsun) · 8m8 minutes ago (https://twitter.com/jeffzrebiecsun/status/551087543257935872)

Ravens rule out Eugene Monroe, Arthur Brown and Timmy Jernigan. None of them practiced this week so no surprise.





https://pbs.twimg.com/profile_images/541073151115800576/LhDej9-V_normal.jpegJeff Zrebiec @jeffzrebiecsun (https://twitter.com/jeffzrebiecsun) · 7m7 minutes ago (https://twitter.com/jeffzrebiecsun/status/551087919818366976)

Ravens will start two rookies on O-line: LT James Hurst a UDFA and RG John Urschel, a 5th round pick. Yanda likely to move to RT again.














Why to I have this feeling that " James Harrison " has a BIG Ole smile on his face right now saying...." FRESH MEAT "!!!

[Crow-Magnon]

Next. Man. Up. On both sides.

[one side only]

James Harrison had two sacks vs. Monroe in the last game. Still moving guys around on the O-line isn't the formula for success in the playoffs. Look for some twists and stunts inside.

[thesteelerdealer]

Next. Man. Up. On both sides.



That's true, but two rookies ? Having never sniffed playoff action on any level ? Dude, Harrison will either so destroy Hurst, or the Ravens will have to play two extra TE's in every passing down to stop Harrison...which only means that others like Tuitt and Heyward will have a free pass at Flacco. Also remember, Yanda is a PRO BOWL Guard. But he is rather below average as a RT. I remember he had to play there before against us, and Lamar Woodley and Kiesel had their way with him. I am sure Cam Heyward is also licking his Chops as well as Harrison.

[Crow-Magnon]

I didn't say it was a good thing, but it is what it is. The Ravens can either pout about their misfortune, or game plan around the weaknesses.

My guess will be a lot of Flacco in the shotgun on passing downs with a back for blocking. Which, if the Steeler D overcommits, may open some great options for draws.

Losing Monroe and Brown is a big blow, but good coaching will gameplan around that.

[thesteelerdealer]

I didn't say it was a good thing, but it is what it is. The Ravens can either pout about their misfortune, or game plan around the weaknesses.

My guess will be a lot of Flacco in the shotgun on passing downs with a back for blocking. Which, if the Steeler D overcommits, may open some great options for draws.

Losing Monroe and Brown is a big blow, but good coaching will gameplan around that.




Screw that. If I were your team...I would bring in a team PRIEST....and do some " GOOD PRAYING! " :pray:

[86WARD]

A lot of overconfidence running around in here...

[thesteelerdealer]

A lot of overconfidence running around in here...



Not really. I am just stating a fact. Most all games are decided in the trenches. And right or for wrong, 2 rookie starters in their first playoff game, and against these two teams will be a huge factor. And in the rain it will be even worse...footing, extra time needed for the QB to set-up and get the pass off. Things like that. Hurst looked good last weekend against Cleveland. But Cleveland is a Base Defensive front that does not Blitz or stunt. It will be completely different against the Steelers defense...and you know this. So, it's not overconfidence. It's recognizing a fact.

[Mojouw]

Harrison is 36 years old, and has 5.5 sacks on the season. 4 of them came in games where the other team was forced to totally abandon the running game in order to attempt to keep up with Ben when he went on his video game hot-streak. Additionally, his two best sack games (Indy and the 2nd Ravens game) came with his old buddy Kiesel running stunts and feints to clear out blockers for him. Will that work as well with Tuitt?

While I think it is awesome that the Ravens are shuffling back-ups and pretzel vendors into their 5 man starting o-line - I'm not ready to order up victory cigars yet.

Now if Troy and James can find the fountain of youth for one last ride, it could get ugly for Flacco. Dude folds like cheap suit under pressure.

[Craic]

A lot of overconfidence running around in here...

No doubt.

And no, Steelerdealer, you're not stating facts. You're stating conjecture based on a few observed items. None of us know whether the rookies will be able to step up. Heck, for all we know, they might be pro-bowl caliber players just waiting to get a break a la James Harrison, and since this is the third time these two teams are meeting, you can bet their studying film all day, every day.

You're also forgetting that the Ravens can run the ball, and unless they go with a lot of funky zone block schemes, there's no reason to believe they'll completely suck at run blocking. Furthermore, if the weather is what's been predicted, all those exotic blitzes we do will be difficult because they rely on being able to keep foot and cut around players. That puts us into a more straight-ahead blitzing scenario. And THAT helps the Raven's rookies as well.

Either scenario, yours or mine, is just as likely. While we both hope yours is the one that comes to pass on Saturday, it's foolish to think it's a done deal now.

[thesteelerdealer]

Harrison is 36 years old, and has 5.5 sacks on the season. 4 of them came in games where the other team was forced to totally abandon the running game in order to attempt to keep up with Ben when he went on his video game hot-streak. Additionally, his two best sack games (Indy and the 2nd Ravens game) came with his old buddy Kiesel running stunts and feints to clear out blockers for him. Will that work as well with Tuitt?

While I think it is awesome that the Ravens are shuffling back-ups and pretzel vendors into their 5 man starting o-line - I'm not ready to order up victory cigars yet.

Now if Troy and James can find the fountain of youth for one last ride, it could get ugly for Flacco. Dude folds like cheap suit under pressure.




Two things. One, I know 1 of Harrison's 2 sacks against Baltimore came way early on when the game, in fact Baltimore was leading..I remember that. So that wasn't because Baltimore was just passing. And in the KC game and Cincy game, Harrison was a Monster, not only recording sacks but was credited for 14 pass pressures in those two straight weeks...most of any NFL Defensive player...Including JJ Watt. I think you're also missing the direct effect that Harrison's play has afforded both Tuitt and Heyward.

[Craic]

Two things. One, I know 1 of Harrison's 2 sacks against Baltimore came way early on when the game, in fact Baltimore was leading..I remember that. So that wasn't because Baltimore was just passing. And in the KC game and Cincy game, Harrison was a Monster, not only recording sacks but was credited for 14 pass pressures in those two straight weeks...most of any NFL Defensive player...Including JJ Watt. I think you're also missing the direct effect that Harrison's play has afforded both Tuitt and Heyward.

This could very well be true, especially if Harrison is also doing some on-field coaching for Tuitt. You also have to throw Timmons's name into that, since he's at RILB. Having those two in your ear at RDE can be nothing but good.

[Moose]

A lot of overconfidence running around in here...

Ditto !

[86WARD]

Let's not act like T-Sizzle doesn't single handedly destroy the Steelers front on a bi-annual basis...and that's with a healthy RB in the backfield to pass protect. Without Bell? Harris and Archer don't stand a chance. I suspect that the Steelers will put Miller or Spaeth in the backfield and Adams at the TE spot if they are smart. If they get cute (which we all know Haley and Tomlin like to do) and put Archer back there...that could wind up being the game. Dallas has an undrafted free agent in their o-line and they are easily the best unit in pro football. You can't say the Steelers are just going to win because the Ravens have two rookie OLinemen. It's Ravens/Steelers. Anything can happen.

[thesteelerdealer]

Let's not act like T-Sizzle doesn't single handedly destroy the Steelers front on a bi-annual basis...and that's with a healthy RB in the backfield to pass protect. Without Bell? Harris and Archer don't stand a chance. I suspect that the Steelers will put Miller or Spaeth in the backfield and Adams at the TE spot if they are smart. If they get cute (which we all know Haley and Tomlin like to do) and put Archer back there...that could wind up being the game. Dallas has an undrafted free agent in their o-line and they are easily the best unit in pro football. You can't say the Steelers are just going to win because the Ravens have two rookie OLinemen. It's Ravens/Steelers. Anything can happen.




How do you know Harris can't do it ? I mean the guy is Yoked. He benched 28 Reps at 206 SOLID pounds. I mean look at his arms. He seems to be very capable of blocking, and his draft profile said his Pass Blocking was very good.

[86WARD]

Strength has zero to do with it. You expect a rookie with ZERO game day experience, a rookie pretty much off the street, to come in and be able to pick up the Ravens blitz schemes like he's been doing it all season? Lol. Okay. Then I guess we have nothing to worry about...neither does Ben.

[X-Terminator]

Well, this would fit nicely into the "not good" category.

I sincerely hope Todd Haley has some kind of plan, because if they can't block the Ravens' front 7 on passing downs, it's going to be a long, long night. This could ultimately be a game where the defense has to win the game. Advantage Ravens.

[GBMelBlount]

Well, this would fit nicely into the "not good" category.

I sincerely hope Todd Haley has some kind of plan, because if they can't block the Ravens' front 7 on passing downs, it's going to be a long, long night. This could ultimately be a game where the defense has to win the game. Advantage Ravens.

Yep.

Our offensive line will have their hands full tomorrow.

[Hindes204]

Well, this would fit nicely into the "not good" category.

I sincerely hope Todd Haley has some kind of plan, because if they can't block the Ravens' front 7 on passing downs, it's going to be a long, long night. This could ultimately be a game where the defense has to win the game. Advantage Ravens.


Yup

[Psycho Ward 86]

glad to see im not the only one jumping up and down about the ravens banged up secondary. its not like its even going to matter if the front 7 gets pressure. saw somewhere i think on steelers depot that suggested that dri archer be used as an immediate release/hot read from the back field to force potential blitzers to peel off and be forced to cover him. doesnt sound like a bad idea. if dri never end up getting the ball on plays like that it could still indirectly end up being really rewarding to our offense

[thesteelerdealer]

glad to see im not the only one jumping up and down about the ravens banged up secondary. its not like its even going to matter if the front 7 gets pressure. saw somewhere i think on steelers depot that suggested that dri archer be used as an immediate release/hot read from the back field to force potential blitzers to peel off and be forced to cover him. doesnt sound like a bad idea. if dri never end up getting the ball on plays like that it could still indirectly end up being really rewarding to our offense






Why does everyone assume our Offensive Line is bad ? And why does everyone think Bell was All-World as a Blocker ? Hell more then half the time Bell never even tried to Block a incoming Defender. I mean here is a number to remember.....137. Now multiple that by 5, and you have 685. Now Ben attempted 608 passes this year, and was sacked 33 times. Now 608 is 77 less attempts then 685. Now why that 137 number is so Important is that in our current 4 game winning streak, Ben has attempted 137 passes, and has been sacked 2...that's 2 times. If our OL had been blocking like that the whole season on Ben's 608 pass attempts, our OL would have allowed a total of 7 sacks.



And I'm sorry but all that is NOT because of Bell. I guarantee you even with Archer in there Blocking, at BEST the most sacks Baltimore would get is maybe 5 to 6. And as Long as Ben doesn't try to do too much, and throw a pass he shouldn't, we can easily survive those sacks. Cause no matter what the Ravens Defense does, our OL will allow at least 28-30 CLEAN Pass attempts for Ben. So our offense WILL have the opportunity to move.


As I said, the real OL Issue is on the Ravens side, not on ours. With 2 Raw rookies starting, and there All-World Guard Yanda playing Right Tackle...THAT is the problem here. I read on NFL Stats.com that in the games where Yanda was not at Guard, that Baltimore averages 2.1 YPC. that's because 80 + % of the Ravens Rush attempts are Pull plays that Yanda is outstanding at. At RT they will not have that Luxury. Not to mention that neither of thse rookies have ever come close to playing the complex Zone Blitz packages that our DC will toss at them.



And again, expect Archer to MAYBE see 12-15 total offensive plays. Harris maybe 15-20, and mostly all of them on obvious passing downs where Baltimore might come with a Blitzer, and where Harris can assist on the Blitz pick-up...which physically he is more then capable of doing. So all this " Doom & Gloom " over how Haley needs to come up with some way to protect Ben is nonsense. Yes Baltimore might get to Ben...but not more then a few times I bet.
I guarantee the real KEY will be us applying pressure on Flacco. Do not allow him to get into his Rhythm...which is when Flacco ALWAYS Shines. That is our problem...not our pass protection and our O-Line. Cause as the numbers clearly show in the past 1/4 of the season...our Line has been All-World.

[86WARD]

5-6 sacks? lol...

Archer can't block. Already proven. What has Harris proven as a blocker? Nothing. What has Harris done to make you think he can pick out and pick up a blitz? Nothing. You think a guy signed to the roster in the middle of November will just come in and block like a veteran? I'm beginning to think you don't even watch the games...possible?

To act like it's no big deal is just silly.

[Count Steeler]

glad to see im not the only one jumping up and down about the ravens banged up secondary. its not like its even going to matter if the front 7 gets pressure. saw somewhere i think on steelers depot that suggested that dri archer be used as an immediate release/hot read from the back field to force potential blitzers to peel off and be forced to cover him. doesnt sound like a bad idea. if dri never end up getting the ball on plays like that it could still indirectly end up being really rewarding to our offense

Or a pump fake to Dri and then send it deep to a post flying Martavis.

[thesteelerdealer]

5-6 sacks? lol...

Archer can't block. Already proven. What has Harris proven as a blocker? Nothing. What has Harris done to make you think he can pick out and pick up a blitz? Nothing. You think a guy signed to the roster in the middle of November will just come in and block like a veteran? I'm beginning to think you don't even watch the games...possible?

To act like it's no big deal is just silly.




Harris has been on the practice squad, so he has practiced the whole season with them. I mean until he played in a actual game, M.Bryant was on that same PS with Harris. And how did Bryant perform once in there ? I mean if having a bad running game, and poor RB Blockers means that Baltimore will tear through you...then why didn't they beat the Colts ? I mean they not only have had one of the worst ground games in the league, but both Bradshaw and especially Trent Richardson are considered horrific pass blockers...and yet in 49 pass attempts.....Luck was sacked 1 time....ONE...for a 7 yard loss.



So if the Colts can beat the Ravens with ZERO ground game and Horrible RB Pass Blockers....then why is it we are in such trouble ? I mean even IF Harris has issues with pass protection, you forget we still have other options...an extra TE or our FB who is an excellent blocker, and a much underrated Receiver out of the backfield....even though we rarely use him in that role. But don't go mistaken that " Will Johnson " cannot catch the ball. So please, have some faith and use some common sense. Bell was not our ALL or nothing player as it goes to Offense, or especially pass protection which he was doing on maybe 20 % of all of Ben's pass attempts.

[one side only]

YGBSM

[86WARD]

Harris has been on the practice squad, so he has practiced the whole season with them. I mean until he played in a actual game, M.Bryant was on that same PS with Harris. And how did Bryant perform once in there ? I mean if having a bad running game, and poor RB Blockers means that Baltimore will tear through you...then why didn't they beat the Colts ? I mean they not only have had one of the worst ground games in the league, but both Bradshaw and especially Trent Richardson are considered horrific pass blockers...and yet in 49 pass attempts.....Luck was sacked 1 time....ONE...for a 7 yard loss.



So if the Colts can beat the Ravens with ZERO ground game and Horrible RB Pass Blockers....then why is it we are in such trouble ? I mean even IF Harris has issues with pass protection, you forget we still have other options...an extra TE or our FB who is an excellent blocker, and a much underrated Receiver out of the backfield....even though we rarely use him in that role. But don't go mistaken that " Will Johnson " cannot catch the ball. So please, have some faith and use some common sense. Bell was not our ALL or nothing player as it goes to Offense, or especially pass protection which he was doing on maybe 20 % of all of Ben's pass attempts.

Ravens/Colts is not the same as Ravens/Steelers....nevermind. You don't get it. You just don't.

[Craic]

Ravens/Colts is not the same as Ravens/Steelers....nevermind. You don't get it. You just don't.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xpugp6DIb3I

[thesteelerdealer]

Ravens/Colts is not the same as Ravens/Steelers....nevermind. You don't get it. You just don't.



Yeah you're right. I am sure Baltimore played with no intensity at all. And never even took Indy seriously at all like they do us.





http://media2.giphy.com/media/14smAwp2uHM3Di/200.gif (http://giphy.com/gifs/wwe-eye-roll-the-rock-14smAwp2uHM3Di)

[86WARD]

Again...putting words in people's mouth with your imagination.

[thesteelerdealer]

Again...putting words in people's mouth with your imagination.



Look I know it's not a division rival. But you totally discount the fact that Baltimore lost to Indy, a totally one dimensional team with Horrible Pass Blockers at RB. And what about the Bengals ? Are they not a huge Divisional rival of Baltimore's ? I mean how do you explain over 80 pass attempts by Dalton, and only 1 sack by Baltimore with a RB in Hill who I GUARANTEE you is no better then Josh Harris as a pass protecting RB Blocker. ?


Please, explain it to me. I am not being a A-Hole here. I want you to explain it. Thanks.

[Renegade]

Again...putting words in people's mouth with your imagination.

this... lol

86ward... what exactly is... a pancake artist?

[86WARD]

Look I know it's not a division rival. But you totally discount the fact that Baltimore lost to Indy, a totally one dimensional team with Horrible Pass Blockers at RB. And what about the Bengals ? Are they not a huge Divisional rival of Baltimore's ? I mean how do you explain over 80 pass attempts by Dalton, and only 1 sack by Baltimore with a RB in Hill who I GUARANTEE you is no better then Josh Harris as a pass protecting RB Blocker. ?


Please, explain it to me. I am not being a A-Hole here. I want you to explain it. Thanks.

Where did I discount it?

[thesteelerdealer]

Where did I discount it?


Then why the worry ? If those teams can easily win with little to no running game, or a good RB who can pass block like Hill. Then why so worried about us ? I mean yes, it will be a loss to not have Bell. But I will miss him more as a out of the back field safety valave receiver for Ben then his pass blocking.

[Craic]

Yeah you're right. I am sure Baltimore played with no intensity at all. And never even took Indy seriously at all like they do us.


Are you sure you're not a bandwagon fan? I mean, even bandwagon fans from our SB run in 2008 understand that Steelers/Ravens is about an intensity and hatred like no other. Comparing a Ravens/Indy game to Ravens/Steelers is hilarious.

[86WARD]

this... lol

86ward... what exactly is... a pancake artist?

http://i82.photobucket.com/albums/j273/10_pearljam/Animated%20GIFS/hineswardhit.gif

http://i82.photobucket.com/albums/j273/10_pearljam/Animated%20GIFS/WardsHit.gif

[86WARD]

Then why the worry ? If those teams can easily win with little to no running game, or a good RB who can pass block like Hill. Then why so worried about us ? I mean yes, it will be a loss to not have Bell. But I will miss him more as a out of the back field safety valave receiver for Ben then his pass blocking.

Lol. Never mind. They'll be just fine. Josh Harris will run for 200 yards and they won't need to pass. He's the second coming of Barry Sanders.

Wow...

[Renegade]

http://i82.photobucket.com/albums/j273/10_pearljam/Animated%20GIFS/hineswardhit.gif


http://i82.photobucket.com/albums/j273/10_pearljam/Animated%20GIFS/WardsHit.gif


awesome

[thesteelerdealer]

Lol. Never mind. They'll be just fine. Josh Harris will run for 200 yards and they won't need to pass. He's the second coming of Barry Sanders.

Wow...




Now who's putting words in my mouth ? I mean why don't you just give up, and assume the team will lose tomorrow. I mean Jesus!!

[Steelerette]

I'm sure going to miss Bell out of the backfield. And it's true that you can't compare a Steelers-Ravens game to most league matchups.

But I'm not going to sit here and say that for one injured guy, Bell or not, we're doomed against a team we spanked hard in November, a team that hasn't been that good since the bye week, that's perhaps more banged up than we are.

Yeah it's going to be a hard game but I'm not going to sit here for one second and cry that the sky is falling. I made that mistake at the beginning of the season.

[steelpride12]

LOL why's everyone crying over here? Bell is gone and we all knew that. Next man up. Quit bitching. We got this.

[X-Terminator]

LOL why's everyone crying over here? Bell is gone and we all knew that. Next man up. Quit bitching. We got this.

Who's crying? Bell's loss is going to have an impact on this game. A MAJOR impact. Acknowledging that doesn't mean we're crying or bitching or that they're doomed to lose. Of all people, I should know not to underestimate this team.

[Crow-Magnon]

Look I know it's not a division rival. But you totally discount the fact that Baltimore lost to Indy, a totally one dimensional team with Horrible Pass Blockers at RB. And what about the Bengals ? Are they not a huge Divisional rival of Baltimore's ? I mean how do you explain over 80 pass attempts by Dalton, and only 1 sack by Baltimore with a RB in Hill who I GUARANTEE you is no better then Josh Harris as a pass protecting RB Blocker. ?


Please, explain it to me. I am not being a A-Hole here. I want you to explain it. Thanks.

It is explained by pressuring the QB with the D line and dropping LB's back in coverage to assist a weak secondary, vs pressure from the front seven. After the Chargers game, the Ravens figured out that trying to provide additional coverage downfield did not work if the QB had time to find open receivers and throw. Once they started to blitz more, they stopped giving up big passing yardage like they had been, and got more sacks.

Granted, maybe not against elite QBs, but the plan is essentially the same. And I am sure that is the plan Pees has in mind for tonight. The Ravens cannot allow Ben to drop back, stop, stare, whistle Dixie and find an open receiver 6-7 seconds after the snap. Yeah, he's good enough and mobile enough to elude a pass rush and still find an open receiver, but such pressure can force an INT or get a sack and maybe a fumble. Leaving him back there with limited to no pressure will be a disaster.

[BIG_Ben2004]

Have we all forgotten we have Ben Roethlisberger in the backfield? The guy who is known for his strength, escapability, and size? The guy who leads the NFL with a 70% completion percentage after contact?

Yes, Steelers-Ravens is a totally different ballgame than any other in the NFL, but even without Le'Veon, we're the better team. We can throw stats and this and that out, but it doesn't matter. This game comes down to heart, adaptability and the sheer will to win. When Pittsburgh HAD to win out to get the division and a playoff spot, they did it. Baltimore went to the Case Keenum led Texans and laid an egg. We're 1,000 times better than we were in week 2, and Baltimore is worse. Two corners have since gone to IR after the November 2nd beat down we dealt. A secondary that already is bad, is worse. Yes, we will miss Bell. There will be times during the game that we'll say, "Man, Le'Veon would have been a huge asset right there." But the fact of the matter is, Harris has learned EVERYTHING he knows from Bell and that coaching staff that developed Bell. Harris has been practicing and biding his time. Archer proved to be an asset in the passing game in the 4th quarter of the game last Sunday. Harris is a big dude. I have confidence that he'll pick up the blitz effectively more often than not.

Ben has a chance to cement his legacy and do what he's done many many times before, when we didn't have a stout running game. He can put the team on his back for 60 minutes and make enough plays. I'm also pretty confident that Harris has at least 50 yards rushing.

With Tate's experience and size, he'll pick up most of the blitzes. With Archer's speed, he'll be the safety valve in the passing game to keep the defense honest. And Harris' ability to power through the hole (as we saw a bit on Sunday), he's getting the bulk of the carries.

This is game is no gimme. This game is going to be fierce. It'll be close. But I believe that this team has shown time and time again, they can overcome adversity and show up when needed. I believe in our Steelers, and I think some of these young "unproven" guys will step up big tomorrow. Let's win it for Le'Veon. GO STEELERS!!!

[cold-hard-steel]

It is explained by pressuring the QB with the D line and dropping LB's back in coverage to assist a weak secondary, vs pressure from the front seven. After the Chargers game, the Ravens figured out that trying to provide additional coverage downfield did not work if the QB had time to find open receivers and throw. Once they started to blitz more, they stopped giving up big passing yardage like they had been, and got more sacks.

Granted, maybe not against elite QBs, but the plan is essentially the same. And I am sure that is the plan Pees has in mind for tonight. The Ravens cannot allow Ben to drop back, stop, stare, whistle Dixie and find an open receiver 6-7 seconds after the snap. Yeah, he's good enough and mobile enough to elude a pass rush and still find an open receiver, but such pressure can force an INT or get a sack and maybe a fumble. Leaving him back there with limited to no pressure will be a disaster.

Are you calling Ben an elite qb ? I'm startin to like you Raven guys .

[GBMelBlount]

Who's crying? Bell's loss is going to have an impact on this game. A MAJOR impact. Acknowledging that doesn't mean we're crying or bitching or that they're doomed to lose. Of all people, I should know not to underestimate this team.

EXACTLY.

[stillers4me]

I trust his doctors and medical staff, but that's an injury that can be nagging regardless of the severity. Wednesday he had no limp, Thursday he was limping. Which means he is still bothered by it, which I don't consider ready. It's not worth risking his health for one game. Playoff game or not. We do not need him to win this game. In Ben we trust.

Yep. Besides, they were saving Dri Archer for the playoffs. :heh:

I'd rather lose this game than destroy Bell's career. He is vital to the future of this team, and just that over the top talented. We just need a few more pieces on the defense for this team to be overall scary. Nobody really wants to play us now, just think what a few tweaks is going to do.

[Crow-Magnon]

Are you calling Ben an elite qb ? I'm startin to like you Raven guys .

I think his record speaks for himself, no matter what the football talking heads may say. I'll take rings over accolades any day of the week.

[86WARD]

I think his record speaks for himself, no matter what the football talking heads may say. I'll take rings over accolades any day of the week.

This clown here ^^^...he ain't so bad...:alcohol:

[steelpride12]

I think his record speaks for himself, no matter what the football talking heads may say. I'll take rings over accolades any day of the week.

I still don't like you, you're a Ravens fan, and you wear purple.

But I wanna kiss you after that. I mean a big ole' wet one too.

[thesteelerdealer]

Sorry but, Baltimore averaging just 20 total points a game in it's last 4 games...against the likes of the Jags with their rookie QB, the Browns with a 3rd string rookie no one here has ever heard of, and with Joe Haden hurt, and a Miami team that has a High School O-Line, well...doesn't Impress me. The Steelers in their last 4 games are averaging over 30 a game. And we are at home. Now, if you wanna say that Bell's loss is worth more then 10 points a game...you can. You'd be NUTS...but you can.


Only was the Steelers lose tonight is if they beat themselves. Cause B-More just doesn't have the Chops, or pedigree.

[Hindes204]

If every Ravens fan was as classy as Crow, I'd probably like them a lot more...always enjoy your posts Crow


i really wish Bell was playing. This game will be a much harder game than it should be without him.

[Crow-Magnon]

Sorry but, Baltimore averaging just 20 total points a game in it's last 4 games...against the likes of the Jags with their rookie QB, the Browns with a 3rd string rookie no one here has ever heard of, and with Joe Haden hurt, and a Miami team that has a High School O-Line, well...doesn't Impress me. The Steelers in their last 4 games are averaging over 30 a game. And we are at home. Now, if you wanna say that Bell's loss is worth more then 10 points a game...you can. You'd be NUTS...but you can.


Only was the Steelers lose tonight is if they beat themselves. Cause B-More just doesn't have the Chops, or pedigree.

I understand your POV, as I had the same in 2012. Losing 4 of the last 5 was not the way you want your team heading to the post-season. IIRC, Baltimore was picked to lose every game. But they turned into a different team once they started in the playoffs.

Will they do the same? Seriously, I doubt it. They played the Colts at home in the WC round, which will not be the same as opening on the road in Heinz Field where they have been 0-3 in the post-season. Can they pull off an upset? I think so. Would I bet big $$$ on that? I'm no fool.

My prediction is Steelers 27- Ravens 24. Hopefully I'm wrong, but history often repeats itself. No matter what Harbaugh or the Ravens might say publicly, I guarantee that 0-3 kept them up at night reaching for the big bottle of Tums. Now, if a healthy Jimmy Smith was at CB, and either Monroe or Brown was at OT, I may feel different. But I think Baltimore has too many injuries at key positions to overcome.

[Craic]

First, Congrats, Crow-Magnon. I'll be puking in my mouth while I do it, but next week I'm a Ravens fan.

Second: Steelerdealer, hopefully now you understand the game of football a bit better, and why you never count out a division rivalry.

[86WARD]

Sorry but, Baltimore averaging just 20 total points a game in it's last 4 games...against the likes of the Jags with their rookie QB, the Browns with a 3rd string rookie no one here has ever heard of, and with Joe Haden hurt, and a Miami team that has a High School O-Line, well...doesn't Impress me. The Steelers in their last 4 games are averaging over 30 a game. And we are at home. Now, if you wanna say that Bell's loss is worth more then 10 points a game...you can. You'd be NUTS...but you can.


Only was the Steelers lose tonight is if they beat themselves. Cause B-More just doesn't have the Chops, or pedigree.

Baltimore had both the chops and pedigree...as well as a nice pass rush that the Steelers couldn't adjust or plan for. No pass pro for Roethlisberger. Just as most of us expected.

[Count Steeler]

First, Congrats, Crow-Magnon. I'll be puking in my mouth while I do it, but next week I'm a Ravens fan.

Second: Steelerdealer, hopefully now you understand the game of football a bit better, and why you never count out a division rivalry.

To be fair, thesteelerdealer did not want us to play the Ravens at all. He was trying to put a positive on it.

[smokin3000gt]

To be fair, thesteelerdealer did not want us to play the Ravens at all. He was trying to put a positive on it.

He said it was in the bag with us being 3-0 against them in the playoffs..

[Count Steeler]

He said it was in the bag with us being 3-0 against them in the playoffs..

Again, he was trying to put a positive spin on it. Go back to his early posts. He wanted us to play the Chargers.

[Craic]

Again, he was trying to put a positive spin on it. Go back to his early posts. He wanted us to play the Chargers.

Honestly, I wanted us playing the Ravens, right up until Bell got injured.

[Count Steeler]

Honestly, I wanted us playing the Ravens, right up until Bell got injured.

Yeah, I didn't honestly think we could overcome the loss of Bell. Not only as a player on the field, but also to the mind set of the team. That is OK. I saw some positive things that we can build on. Let's hope the coaches continue to develop and figure out the best way to fill the holes that need filling.

[zulater]

Honestly, I wanted us playing the Ravens, right up until Bell got injured.

Not me. I was so pissed that the Chargers got themselves beat.

[Craic]

Yeah, I didn't honestly think we could overcome the loss of Bell. Not only as a player on the field, but also to the mind set of the team. That is OK. I saw some positive things that we can build on. Let's hope the coaches continue to develop and figure out the best way to fill the holes that need filling.

Yep.

I remember being worried earlier in the year about what would happen if he got injured. It seems there's so many teams that have dual or triple threats from the backfield. A shame we can't put that together.

[Count Steeler]

Yep.

I remember being worried earlier in the year about what would happen if he got injured. It seems there's so many teams that have dual or triple threats from the backfield. A shame we can't put that together.

Well Archer is young and if he hits the weights, he may get to 190lbs, soaking wet. :sarcasm: Maybe he can replace Landry next year on clipboard duty.

[Craic]

Not me. I was so pissed that the Chargers got themselves beat.

LOL. It's the charges. What do ya' expect? :wink02:


Well Archer is young and if he hits the weights, he may get to 190lbs, soaking wet. :sarcasm: Maybe he can replace Landry next year on clipboard duty.

:buttkick:

:chuckle:

I had pretty high hopes for archer, but it just didn't work out. Bring him in to camp next year, but if he doesn't show any improvement by the last round of cuts, I'd let him go.