There is always something to talk about when it comes to the Black & Gold!
It’s Friday again, so it’s time for the six pack of questions. It seems as if Jeff and Dave come to a consensus in cutting to the chase…
This week, I, Dave, will be tasked with the questions up for discussion.
The rules are still the same…
Quick rundown of the ground rules.
I’ll ask at least four questions strictly related to the Steelers.
The rest of the questions could be about anything.
Be respectful.
Have fun talking about the Black-and-gold.
Procedural Note: Since the title feature has gone away, please feel free to leave your usual title as the first line of your response and even bold it if you can for the ease of others.
So here we go! With the formalities out of the way, it’s time to jump on in. Hopefully this party is exactly what you’re looking for on a Friday night. Here goes:
1. At this point in the Omar Khan era, how do you view the small sample size thus far?
2. What do you think of Mike Tomlin’s plan for the starters playing a quarter, backups playing the second and most of the third quarter, and the scraps going to the third string?
3. If you were Tomlin, how would you handle the quarterbacks and the division of labor? Tomlin said Mitch Trubisky will start, but didn’t go into details after that? So, how would you carve out the quarterback play on Saturday night?
4. What aspects of the game Saturday night will you be focusing on? (ex: Offense on 3rd downs, stopping the run, etc.)
5. To piggyback off No. 4, who are some players you are looking forward to watching vs. the Seahawks?
6. How do you watch the NFL preseason? Will you watch it live? Will you be watching in replay? Or do you not even watch, just focusing on recaps, etc.?
Stay safe out there!
And it wouldn’t be a Friday night unless we said…
HERE WE GO STEELERS!
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Saturday’s clash with the Seahawks should draw big ratings, and for good reason.
When August enters the fray, there’s little that brings more pure joy than the return of NFL football.
At least, some version of it.
Pro football’s preseason is, at minimum, a semblance of the game we see by mid-September. Star players may only play a handful of snaps, but even watching the poetry of the game unfold on a real gridiron and on live television is a majestic sight.
That being said, it’s difficult to discern how much effort one, as a fan, should put into following the preseason. How realistic is it to watch every play of a game with no real consequences and reserves getting vast chunks of playing time?
Even as a Steelers and NFL die-hard, my interest in the preseason is admittedly a bit half-hearted, waiting eagerly instead for the actual, official kickoff date to arrive. I’ll try to catch as many snaps as possible to glean takeaways about sleepers or fringe roster performers, but I’m certainly not as glued or enchanted as I would be during regular season action.
This August, that’s fairly probable to change.
The 2022 preseason will be no ordinary preliminary period for the Steelers. In fact, it might be the franchise’s most exciting stretch of “meaningless” games in recent memory.
The obvious attraction is the team’s quarterback battle, which will assuredly draw flocks.
Given the level of interaction fans have had with tweets regarding each gunslinger’s performance in training camp, expect strong reactions based on every throw and every allotment of playing time. Some of that’s not without valid reason, though — Pittsburgh’s QB competition will largely be decided by what Mitch Trubisky, Kenny Pickett and Mason Rudolph put together against the Seahawks, Jaguars and Lions; tuning in should offer the answers supporters have been craving.
It’s more than just the men under center, however. Steelers fans will also get their first looks at potential future stars in the bonafide black and gold.
The foremost highlight is receiver George Pickens, who has seemingly made a transcendent play each practice session in Latrobe. The hype around Pickens is very much real (and arguably overboard, to the bemusement of some), and the preseason grants a chance to watch the primary stop of a potentially prolific career.
Joining the Steelers newcomer is fellow rookie receiver Calvin Austin III, whose burners will be activated against actual competition. Draft picks DeMarvin Leal, Connor Heyward and Mark Robinson also have an opportunity to amplify roles and leave little doubt about their roster spots.
Pittsburgh’s acquisitions spanned far wider than just its draft class, though. Free agent additions like Myles Jack, Larry Ogunjobi, Levi Wallace, James Daniels and Mason Cole could play in the initial three games to become acclimated; then again, it’s tough to predict how much each veteran will suit up, especially in the case of Ogunjobi, who suffered a foot injury in the playoffs.
The Steelers’ defensive scheme had fluctuated little through 2021, yet following the retirement of Keith Butler, promotion of Teryl Austin and hire of the notable Brian Flores, constancy will not prevail. The preseason could offer fans an early snapshot of how Austin and Flores plan to divide responsibilities and a petri dish for experimentation with pressures, linebacker usage and safety rotation.
In a similar vein, offensive coordinator Matt Canada presumably feels bolstered by returning for his second season in the role. Without Ben Roethlisberger, Canada should have the freedom to execute more play action and increased motions, which could feature prominently during August and early September.
A fundamental element of the preseason is determining starters, unit combinations and roster finalizations, all of which 2022 should provide.
Entering Saturday, the Steelers listed both Kevin Dotson and Kendrick Green as starters at left guard. That obviously cannot remain static, meaning the preseason will decide who gets the nod. While Cole was initially positioned at center and Daniels at right guard, new OL coach Pat Meyer very well might substitute the two to determine levels of comfort and continuity.
Moreover, Pittsburgh needs to establish its running backs that give Najee Harris reprieves. It’s likely that only two of Benny Snell Jr., Anthony McFarland Jr., Jaylen Warren, Mataeo Durant and Master Teague III make the ultimate 53, and hitting the turf for games is the true arbiter of such decisions.
Numerous others remain on the bubble. Might this be a final audition for cornerbacks Justin Layne and James Pierre? Will Miles Boykin or Anthony Miller be the sixth wideout? Does either Jace Sternberger or Kevin Rader make the team? Which defensive lineman (or linemen) will be thrust out of the rotation? Such storylines will certainly intensify intrigue, as expected from the preseason.
Beyond the on-field action, Saturday will present fans the first glimpse at the newly named Acrisure Stadium. Watching the inaugural preseason game without the iconic Heinz ketchup bottles may disorient some, but it allows the team and its audience to grow accustomed to its new abode.
The Steelers ended 2021 with multifaceted change on the horizon, and those shifts came in droves. From its starting quarterback to its general manager to its defensive coordinator to even its stadium nomenclature, the organization will start a nascent era on Saturday night — preseason or not, it’s hard not to tune in.
Who is eligible and where do they stand before the first preseason games?
First, for any of you that aren’t aware of the Greatest Pre-Season Award in any sport, the Isaac Redman Award is given out annually to a young player who comes from relative obscurity and excites the fan base with their performance in training camp and the preseason.
Here are the guidelines handed down from days of yore, defining who is eligible for the award:
Player must not be a draft pick higher than the sixth round.
Player can only have participated in two other training camps prior to this one.
Player demonstrated frequent references in comments regarding the likelihood of significant playing time in the coming year.
Weight of general fan sentiment is the player is a “diamond in the rough”.
Player does not have to make the team in the year of his nomination to qualify (this isn’t meant to be included in 53-man roster discussion).
So which players are eligible and where do they stand before the start of preseason?
The Favorites
Connor Heyward – As the Steelers 2022 6th round pick, he is eligible for the award, and he has the benefit of being Cameron Heyward’s brother. Cameron Heyward is the current embodiment of Steeler Football, and his little brother plays on the other side of the ball, where last season the team ranked 29th in both rushing yards and yards per rush.
The situation: If Heyward can score some touchdowns as a receiver or runner, throw around some crushing blocks and have the Steelers run game looking good when he’s in, Connor Heyward will have a good shot at being viewed as a key player for returning the Steelers to “smash-mouth football” and that’s a great way to win the Redman Award.
Mark Robinson – The Steelers 7th round draft pick is a running back turned linebacker. His lack of experience overshadowed his production in SEC football, especially his obvious struggles in coverage, but his highlights showed a player that read run plays quickly and got to the right spot reliably to fill run lanes and stuff runners. He also hit hard.
The situation: Robinson has looked good in camp, especially in coverage, where he has defended a good number of passes, and excelled in coverage drills that favor the offense. If Robinson can continue to be solid in coverage and put some highlight reel hits on running backs, he has a great chance of convincing fans he can be the Buck linebacker that will solve the Steelers run defense woes. Linebackers blowing up run plays is always going to be popular on the team Jack Lambert played for.
Jaylen Warren – Undrafted, and not a highly rated free agent after the draft, Jaylen Warren flew under the radar until the Steelers put the pads on at training camp, and then Jaylen Warren took off, breaking runs and making plays throughout the second week of camp.
The situation: The Steelers need a second running back to take some of the load off of Najee Harris, and Steeler fans are already tired of Benny Snell and Anthony McFarland. If Warren can roll his strong camp into a strong preseason, he will be hard to beat for the Redman Award. It’s Isaac Redman’s position, and at a time the fan base is hungry for a running back to step up.
The Competitors
There’s a month left before the season starts, and a lot of positions don’t have a great chance to shine during training camp. Here’s the eligible players that seem to have a decent shot at competing for the award.
Offensive Line – Just like the running backs, offensive lineman have a great opportunity this year to convince fans that they are the ticket to improving the offensive line, especially if they are moving defenders out of run lanes.
Jake Dixon – Dixon has been in the middle of a lot of camp scuffles, bring that nastiness to the preseason along with some good execution? That’s how you win over the fanbase.
Chris Owens – Played all over the line at Alabama, starting at tackle and center. He’s a powerful run blocker looking to follow J.C. Hassenauer’s route from Alabama backup to NFL backup.
Jordan Tucker – Tucker is listed as the biggest player on the Steelers roster at 6’6”, 340 lbs. Lacked polish in college but he’s a big guy that likes to bury people.
Defensive Back – A deep position but lacking an established pecking order. Won’t be the easiest to make the roster.
Chris Steele – Has had a great camp, lots of pass break ups in coverage and a few interceptions added in. It’s a tough road to winning the dime back job, but interceptions make anything possible.
Carlins Platel – A division II stand out he’s bee playing, and playing well at the nickel spot for the Steelers, has gotten some higher tier reps when players are out. A good showing in coverage, blitzing and run stopping (he’s looked good in camp) would be huge.
The rest of the eligible players
These players haven’t been making waves and/or are in positions that will be tough to stand out and get fans excited. That doesn’t mean they can’t win the award, they just have a harder road to winning.
Chris Oladokun (QB)
Matteo Durant (RB)
Master Teague (RB)
Tyler Snead (WR)
Cody White (WR)
Tyler Vaugns (WR)
Nate Gilliam (OL)
Donovan Jeter (DL)
Delonte Scott (LB)
Donovan Stiner (DB)
Nick Sciba (K)
That’s all the eligible players for the award. Do you have a personal favorite for the award this year? And what role on the team do you hope we find a diamond in the rough to fill?
Rumors of Steelers undrafted rookie running back Jaylen Warren’s shortcomings may have been greatly exaggerated.
The majority of NFL enthusiasts realize that the whole pre-draft prospect evaluation process is anything but an exact science. Proven by all the undrafted free agent longshots scattered on NFL rosters around the league.
The Pittsburgh Steelers franchise has enjoyed more than their fair share over the years, with Hall of Famer Donnie Shell being the ultimate overachiever.
Which raises a valid question, and the focal point of this article.
Why do the multitude of professional personnel around the NFL paid to do this one thing, talent evaluation, end up getting it wrong so frequently?
The question came to mind a while back as I was reading a report that the Steelers were placing recently signed free agent running back Jeremy McNichols on season-ending injured reserve, and signing free agent running back Major Teague III, a rookie free agent from Ohio State, to fill the empty spot on the training camp depth chart.
I thought about how the Steelers were forced to replace a proven third down back possessing NFL experience with a unproven rookie free agent. I immediately surmised that transaction likely improved the odds of current camp sensation Jaylen Warren working his way onto the final roster.
Then it hit me.
What do all three running backs have in common, besides competing for an opportunity with the Steelers?
All three runners were undrafted.
The possible reasons a talented running back like Warren went undrafted are numerous.
For starters, Warren was easy to overlook, both literally and figuratively. Not only was he a one-year wonder with the Oklahoma State Cowboys, but the youngster is vertically challenged. In other words, he’s short, measuring in at 5’8″ and 215 lbs. He ran reasonably well when tested, clocking in with a 4.55 forty, but his explosive numbers were pedestrian. Many scouting reports mentioned he was a one-speed runner who lacked an extra gear, with marginal elusiveness. He is a strong momentum runner, but he needs the hole to be there to hit top speed running downhill. Although he is obviously strong and well built, his evaluations were underwhelming, to say the least.
Truthfully, the evaluations explain why Warren went undrafted, but he has multiple attributes that are impossible to measure during pre-draft workouts and testing. Those overlooked and underreported intangibles are the precise reasons that he is a real threat to not only earn a surprise roster spot, but actually contribute this season for the Steelers.
It’s impossible to adequately gauge a prospect’s determination, competitiveness, and preparedness during the pre-draft testing process. Each has been revealed at training camp through his superior conditioning achieved by his offseason work ethic, preparing preemptively for this very opportunity. It is evident in the intensity demonstrated during each training camp carry or task.
All of these attributes have been on full display for Warren during the first two and a half weeks of the 2022 Steelers Training Camp, to the point Mike Tomlin himself noticed and has felt compelled to mention him on multiple occasions without prompting.
Tomlin likes to remind the Steelers ravenous fan base that one man’s misfortune is another man’s opportunity. Sometimes that opportunity can be golden.
Warren’s odds of earning a roster spot remain in the longshot category at the moment. He is looking up at Benny Snell and Anthony McFarland Jr. on the depth chart, but seems to be closing the distance on the frontrunners on a daily basis.
Snell has the proven experience of a couple of 90 yard games with the Steelers already on his resume, accomplishing both behind an anemic offensive line, to say the least. That would seem to give him a leg up on the competition, but his roster spot is anything but secure.
Snell fancied himself a closer when he first entered the NFL, a grinder who could get the tough yards needed to accumulate first downs, extend drives, and possess the football. Maybe Snell could showcase that as of yet unseen ability behind a fully functional offensive line, something that the Steelers have lacked during his tenure.
Even if the Steelers offensive line makes significant strides this season as hoped, Warren has a few noticeable advantages over Snell as they battle for a roster spot and playing type. Warren possesses better speed and elusiveness, and is a far superior receiver. That makes Warren a true third down, change of pace backup for stud starter Najee Harris.
Anthony McFarland Jr. has the speed and athleticism advantage in the competition, but has shown zero durability thus far in his NFL career. Warren definitely has the physicality advantage in their comparison. McFarland has enjoyed an impressive camp thus far, but can he stay healthy enough to remain on the field, where he can realize his potential? If it’s going to happen for the young man, it needs to happen now.
Warren has already surpassed Mataeo Durant, another UDFA runner, on the depth chart, and the aforementioned Master Teague is still trying to find his footing so he can hit the ground running.
The bottom line is this: Just because a player goes undrafted doesn’t mean they lack NFL caliber abilities. That is true at the running back position more so than any other. There are multiple qualities a running back must possess to be successful at the highest level. Some of them are impossible to measure during the pre-draft evaluations and testing. Some perceived limitations turn out to not be limiting at all.
Jaylen Warren may just be the Steelers latest perfect example.
One thing is for certain. This is shaping up to be the most exciting and intriguing preseason for the Steelers in decades.
Photo by Brandon Sloter/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
These 3 players need big games on Saturday if they want to be playing on Sundays this fall.
Football is back, y’all! There is nothing like knowing football is on the horizon, and Steelers fans across the globe could not be more excited. As we countdown the days until the Steelers take on the Seahawks in Week 1 of the NFL Preseason, let’s take a look at who needs a big game the most.
The most interesting battles to watch in the first game may be in the wide receiver room, simply because of the incredible depth at the position. There are quality receivers the Steelers will be forced to part with before the season begins, but how many of them will there be? Do the Steelers keep, say, seven receivers? That seems highly unlikely, but there are at least eight receivers that have a valid argument to make the roster. Making a final decision on who is cut will be incredibly difficult for the Steelers front office and coaching staff.
Quarterback will steal the most spotlight, although it seems highly unlikely we see anyone other than Mitch Trubisky Week 1. The biggest battle, in my opinion, is the fight for QB3. Mason Rudolph has been lighting it up in training camp, but if the Steelers try to stash Chris Oladokun on the practice squad, the rookie is unlikely to hang around long-term, considering multiple teams in the league showed interest in him during the pre-draft process. He would likely be claimed by a team who suffers an early-season quarterback injury.
The point being, there are many directions I could have gone here. However, below are the three players I believe need a strong performance the most on Saturday.
Gunner Olszewski
Some receivers simply are not going to make it on this roster. Diontae Johnson, Chase Claypool, George Pickens, Calvin Austin, and Myles Boykin all seem to be safe bets to make the roster, while Anthony Miller and Steven Sims are also impressing. There is no doubt Gunner needs to provide a spark on special teams in the preseason, but if he fails to provide any explosiveness on offense, his locker may be moving closer to the exit sign. Despite being an outside free-agent signing in March, his time in Pittsburgh may be short-lived, as there is simply too much competition. He desperately needs a big game this weekend.
Justin Layne
I still have faith in Layne’s potential in a defense run by Teryl Austin and Brian Flores, but he needs to prove it on the field for an extended period of time, not just a drive here and there or a partial game every now and again. Consistency is the key, and if he is unable to provide it, there is a rookie by the name of Chris Steele, who could quickly surpass him on the depth chart and steal his roster spot. I have not given up on Layne just yet, but this is likely his last chance to make an impression on the Steelers’ decision makers. It is now or never for the former third-round pick.
Nick Sciba
Let me save you the breath in the comment section. I am not making a case for Sciba to supplant Chris Boswell, who recently signed a contract extension with the Steelers. However, a strong performance by Sciba is likely the only way he gets a chance elsewhere. Saturday is Sciba’s opportunity to shine, and if he fails to come through, he may not see another opportunity in Week 2. A strong collegiate resume for a kicker does not prove that a successful NFL career is imminent. Nonetheless, Sciba made nearly 90% of his field goal attempts at Wake Forest, attempting 89 kicks and nailing 80 of them. He will get a look elsewhere if he takes advantage of his opportunities with the Steelers.
Which Steelers do you think need a big game on Saturday? Which players could miss the roster if they fail to impress? Let us know your thoughts on this and all things Pittsburgh Steelers in the comment section below!
The Pittsburgh Steelers are back at Training Camp, and it is time to check out what went down during the latest practice!
The Pittsburgh Steelers are back at Saint Vincent College for the first time since 2019, and fans have descended on Latrobe, PA in hopes of catching a glimpse of the 2022 team.
What went down during the latest training camp practice? That is where this article comes in. Check out all that was said, as well as photos and videos from the day’s workouts.
Here we go…
The Pittsburgh Steelers have a lot of questions marks across the roster, and it will take every practice and preseason game for the coaching staff to find a way to get answers to those questions. There were a lot of storylines to come out of Wednesday’s practice, and we highlight some of those below:
Full Pads
Despite the Steelers preparing for their preseason game this Saturday vs. the Seattle Seahawks, the team had a full pad, and live tackling, practice Thursday. Rare just a few days before a game.
Steelers in full pads today. Very unusual a couple days before a preseason game
The thing about Thursday’s practice wasn’t just how they were wearing pads, but the fact it was extremely physical. It’s safe to say it is time for the Steelers to start hitting players who aren’t their teammates.
Master Teague might lack elite speed…but man is he a hard runner. Became the offensive star of a 1 on 1 runner/tackler drill by bulling people over, impressing Mike Tomlin
This is an energetic practice to say the very least. Master Teague and Mark Robinson just went three rounds in backs on backers. Teague won the first, Robinson won the second, and there was a big disagreement over who won the third.
Najee Harris is in full pads today for the first time since getting his foot stepped on last Monday. Diontae Johnson (hip flexor) has shoulder pads but no leg pads today. Chase Claypool (shoulder) isn’t practicing.
Of all the players who have impressed so far this training camp, few have done it with the consistency of Jaylen Warren. Warren isn’t just a flash in the pan, but has shown the amount of staying power which have some thinking he could be the backup running back in 2022.
Fantasy football alert: Jaylen Warren with a nifty-quick run up the middle. This kid is the real deal. Hits the hole hard and fast.
Through two and a half weeks of camp, Jaylen Warren isn’t just a flash in the pan. He’s proving to have real staying power. Preseason games will be a big indicator.
While most fans view the preseason as totally meaningless, the players realize there is value in these games. Mason Rudolph, someone vying for starting repetitions, knows it more than most.
Mason Rudolph knows the games (even preseason) mean a lot in terms of evaluation pic.twitter.com/wqNv72zyXE
An update on the inside linebackers. Devin Bush showed up in the early portions of practice, but Robert Spillane continues to be a liability in pass coverage. This dampens the thought of Spillane possibly taking over for Devin Bush alongside Myles Jack.
Devin Bush up the middle would have been a sack of Trubisky. Came right off the snap. Play before that, the offense got Spillane matched up on Freiermuth. Easy completion over the middle.
Nice throw by Trubisky backed up inside the 20 to McFarland down the sideline against Spillane. Again, when he’s on the field in coverage, it’s a mismatch, especially in that matchup in a race.
Now it’s Jaylen Warren’s turn. He breaks out for a 70-yard run. Granted, the whistle was blown a couple times, but he kept running and shook out of a couple half-hearted DB tackles.
The Steelers will be able to have a very versatile secondary this season, and that started to flash at practice Thursday. According to reports, there was a series which had Minkah Fitzpatrick up at the line of scrimmage, and Cam Sutton back in the free safety position. Versatility is key with this defense in 2022.
So, Minkah Fitzpatrick up at the line of scrimmage as the nickel corner and Cam Sutton slides back to free safety.
Arguably the highlight drill of camp. Full passed open-field tackling 1 on 1. Mike Tomlin, the big crowd on hand and players on both sides were very much into each rep of WRs/RBs vs. DBs pic.twitter.com/jKhHXr2820
Position coach Mike Sullivan and the QBs always convene for this ritual after the end of every practice. Push-ups are done by some. pic.twitter.com/2euFudlA9G
Speaking to the media ahead of their first preseason game, the Steelers head coach answered a few questions about specific players.
As the 2022 Pittsburgh Steelers continue their preparation for the upcoming season, we were also graced with an official media session from head coach Mike Tomlin. For that reason, it’s time for another installment of the “players mentioned” article. Remember these are current players where a specific question was asked during the Q&A period.
Mitch Trubisky
Even though he was vague in his opening statement where he said that the Steelers will progress with their first group through the first quarter, Coach Tomlin was asked straight-up if Mitch Trubisky will be the starter on Saturday night.
“Yes.”
Mason Rudolph & Kenny Pickett
Despite others reporting Coach Tomlin specifically saying the order of the other quarterbacks, he did not do so by name but instead implied how they plan to do things. Coach Tomlin was asked the order of the other two players at quarterback, especially since he said they were playing three quarterbacks, and when they would play.
“It’s probably the way it’s played out here to this point. Like I mentioned to you guys, I wasn’t going to be blowing in the wind regarding the quarterback rotation. We’ve been thoughtful about giving guys an opportunity to work in different groups, but our intentions are to play them this first time out very much the way we started this process.”
In a follow-up question, Coach Tomlin was asked how he measures success in the preseason for quarterbacks.
“Moving the unit and taking care of the football.”
In a later question, Coach Tomlin was asked what Mason Rudolph and Kenny Pickett have shown him where they could possibly earn some more first-team reps.
“They’re doing what we’re asking them to do. They’re taking care of the ball, they’re moving their units, they’re doing the unofficial things that come with the quarterback position in terms of leadership. They’re doing a nice job. Again, I’ll be quite honest with you guys, I only provide depth charts because I have to. That’s what this process is about. I think you do this process a disservice, oftentimes, when you read too much into the depth charts at this juncture, particularly when we haven’t even been in the stadium yet.”
In a later question specifically about Kenny Pickett, Coach Tomlin was asked what Pickett could learn from seeing a live NFL defense.
“A lot. This guy hasn’t been in a live pocket yet. None of the quarterbacks have, and that component of it is significant. In terms of their play, their ability to operate and make decisions in a timely manner, their ability to absorb the punishment that comes with the game and the position. There’s so much involved in live quarterback play, their ability to protect the football. It’s a big opportunity for him and others.”
Hamilcar Rashed
The Steelers made a roster move on Wednesday which they announced Thursday morning where Ulysses Gilbert was waived/injured and the Steelers claimed outside linebacker Hamilcar Rashed off waivers. Coach Tomlin was asked what he knows about Rashed and will he be able to go onto the field soon.
“I just walked off the field with him and got to meet him a little bit. I remember when he came out in the draft, he was a guy that had our attention. He’s an outside linebacker body type. I think he had 14 sacks his junior year at Oregon State, and that captured our attention, but it’s a get to know process and we’ll be excited about giving him an opportunity to show himself to us. He’s a guy that’s not a rookie, he’s been in this thing, so I’m hopeful that he can learn fast enough to be a contributor in some form or fashion on Saturday.”
Mike Tomlin’s media session can be seen below:
LIVE: Coach Tomlin addresses the media ahead of our preseason game against the Seahawks. https://t.co/6jumwLSW6r
With the Steelers welcoming the Seahawks to Acrisure for a preseason tilt, BTSC looks back at the most-memorable games ever played between the two franchises.
Do the Seattle Seahawks and the Pittsburgh Steelers have a long history, that would be a firm no. But the two teams from opposite sides of the country almost always put on a fantastic show when pitted head-to-head. Since 1977, the team from Emerald City and the Men of Steeltown have battled a total of 20 times (including one really huge postseason game) and they have come out even at 10-10.
Now Let’s take a look at the most memorable games that these two franchises have offered up to the football world.
December 4, 1977 – Steelers 30, Seahawks 20
Welcoming an expansion team to Three Rivers Stadium, one would think that the Steelers would dominate, but instead they played an uninspired brand of football that they weren’t proud of afterwards. “We were never out of control, we just didn’t have the killer instinct,” offered Terry Bradshaw to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. “I really can’t imagine us losing to an expansion team, but we should have beat them easy.” The Steelers quarterback ran for two scores, threw a 22-yard scoring pass to Lynn Swann and converted a key fourth down with a 16-yard scramble. The Steelers had gaffes however, turning it over twice with a Bradshaw interception and a Franco Harris fumble. But the inexperienced Seahawks lost three fumbles, one of the recovered by Loren Toews and a Jim Zorn interception picked-off by Mel Blount. It wasn’t pretty, but the first meeting between the two teams foreshadowed an interesting and competitive history between the two combatants over the years.
November 8, 1981 – Seahawks 24 , Steelers 21
The third meeting between the two then-AFC franchises really typified the 1981 Steelers who started off strong in games all year, only to fall miserably in the end. The Steelers led in the second quarter 21-3 behind touchdown runs by Franco Harris and Frank Pollard and one of the most-famous plays in Steelers history, Terry Bradshaw’s finding his third-string quarterback, Mark Malone, wide open for a then-team record 90-yard Touchdown bomb. But once again, the Steelers would deteriorate in a game that they had complete control of. The Jim Zorn to running back Dan Doornink connection tore apart the Steel Curtain for a 44-yard score and another 34-yard gain set up a Theotis Brown one-yard score. Then a Zorn bomb of 53 yards to Steve Largent after an Efren Herrera field goal set up the other Theotis Brown one-yard score of the day for the 24-21 lead. Bradshaw would rally the black and gold and it seemed like they would prevail when No. 12 hit Harris with a short pass that Franco took 82 yards to Kingdome glory, but a very questionable holding call on Craig Wolfley negated it. The Steelers got another chance late and took it all the way down to the Seattle five, but weren’t able to send the game into overtime as the much-maligned David Trout violently hooked the kick left from a mere 22-yards away. The rookie from Pitt’s second miss of the day to go with two Bradshaw picks hampered the black and gold on this day, losing to the Ospreys for the first time ever. Despite the Malone record and Franco reaching the 10,000-yard mark for career rushing yards, the Steelers lose making the 70s feel eons away. To make matters worse, backup quarterback Cliff Stoudt was lost for the season after snapping his right forearm, not like erroneously reported on a mechanical bull which he actually did ride, but on a test-your-strength punching bag in a Seattle lounge. That would have major repercussions at the end of the season when Bradshaw would go down.
October 23, 1983 – Steelers 27, Seahawks 21
Franco Harris channeled his earlier days rushing for 132 yds and a nine-yard touchdown to open the scoring in the Kingdome, while Keith Willis led the way on defense with 3 1⁄2 sacks to help lead the Steelers to their first (and only) win ever in the Emerald City. Second Quarter scoring runs by Cliff Stoudt and Frank Pollard combined with a Gary Anderson field goal saw the visitors up 24-0 at intermission. However, Seattle made adjustments at Halftime to make it a game, the biggest being the replacement of Jim Zorn (1/8 for 2 yards and a pick by Dwayne Woodruff) for Dave Krieg (13/20 for 214 yards and 2 TDs). The Seahawks desperately rallied with 21 points in the final 16 minutes of the game, but a Gary Anderson field goal and the Steelers forcing a turnover on downs in the final two minutes iced the game for Chuck Noll’s charges.
December 6, 1992 – Steelers 20, Seahawks 14
The Steelers shot out of the gate in Bill Cowher’s inaugural season as the HC of the Hypocycloids, but even the wins in the second half of the season got more difficult to achieve. This home tilt against visiting Seattle was definitely a challenge. Despite Neil O’Donnell throwing three interceptions on his first three series, breaking his leg and giving way to Bubby Brister to throw two more, blowing a 10-point lead and failing to score from one-yard out…The Steelers found a way to win, albeit ugly. Ernie Mills opened the scoring in the first quarter on a 19-yard connection with O’Donnell and Gary Anderson chipped-in with a field goal, but then the Seahawks took over with three interceptions by Eugene Robinson and Stan Gelbaugh scoring passes to Tommy Kane and the great (and future Steeler) John L. Williams. But three missed field goals by John Kasay, Barry Foster’s 10th 100-yd performance of the season and a fourth-down stop by the Steelers at the Seattle 26 led to the Steelers scoring 10 points in the final 2:28 to win the game and stay the course in their eventual AFC Central crowning.
The Steelers finally got that elusive “one for the thumb” after a magical season in which they had to fight and claw to get into the postseason. The game had controversial moments such as an offensive penalty on Seattle’s Darrell Jackson to turn a touchdown into a field goal and a debate on whether Ben Roethlisberger actually crossed the plane on Pittsburgh’s first touchdown for a Halftime lead of 7-3. But all that downplays the black-and-gold accomplishments and the Seattle miscues in Detroit on that day. Despite No. 7’s being a bit off in Super Bowl XL, the second-year quarterback made some important plays in this contest. His improv scrambling skills were on full display when he escaped harm on a 3rd and 28 heave to Hines Ward for 37 yards to set up the previously-mentioned first score. But the Steelers broke it open immediately in the second half when Alan Faneca freed Willie Parker for a record 75-yard scoring dash. After a Kelly Herndon pick of Ben made a Jeramy Stevens touchdown possible to make the score 14-10, Antwaan Randle El took a reverse handoff and threw a 43-yard beauty to the game’s MVP Ward, setting the score at 21-10 with 8:56 left in the game. Great defense for the Steelers featuring interceptions by Ike Taylor and sacks by Deshea Townsend, Casey Hampton and Clark Haggans helped cement the Men of Steel’s first Lombardi in 26 years, Bill Cowher’s shining moment and Jerome Bettis’ swan song in front of his home city of Motown.
November 29, 2015 – Seahawks 39, Steelers 30
The Space Needle Showdown in 2015 was one of the the most-exciting games between the two teams, it’s a shame there had to be a franchise hanging a loss in that particular column. It was even more disappointing that the Steelers came out on the defeated end. In a game that featured seven lead changes, the Seahawks ultimately prevailed by scoring 19 fourth-quarter points, including two Russell Wilson touchdown throws to Doug Baldwin in the final 8:12. Wilson (21/30 for 345 yards) had five touchdown tosses on the day, with three going to Baldwin (145 yards) and the other two to Jermaine Kearse. Thomas Rawls added 81 yards and a TD run for the victors. Ben Roethlisberger did put together the best passing performance ever against Seattle, as he threw for 456 yards, 201 went to Markus Wheaton who caught Ben’s only touchdown throw of the day. Wheaton was open due to the fact that Antonio Brown was blanketed most of the day by Richard Sherman. Martavis Bryant and Deangelo Williams had scoring runs, while Chris Boswell added three field goals. The Steelers were ultimately undone by interceptions, Ben Roethlisberger threw two and Landry Jones matched that total when No. 7 went out late in the fourth quarter and into the concussion protocol. The Steelers fell to 6-5, but still made the playoffs.
September 15, 2019 – Seahawks 28, Steelers 26
Multiple losses were suffered by the home-team Steelers in Week 2 of the 2019 season, the game, their franchise quarterback and a bizarre challenge on a pass interference call. Russell Wilson was superb, throwing for 300 yards and three scores, including two to tight end Will Dissly. But his brain and three scrambling first downs helped drain the final 5:34 off of the clock. The Steelers had plenty of chances on the afternoon, but losing Roethlisberger for the season with an elbow injury right before halftime, mental gaffes and poor officiating worked against the Men of Steel. A huge error by Daniel McCullers, whose personal foul allowed Seattle to take a field goal off of the board and replace it with Dissly’s first TD, made a big difference in the contest and put the Hawks on the board by a score of 10-7. In the third, Seattle took the lead on Dissly’s second score after Bradley McDougand intercepted a Mason Rudolph pass that bounced off of the stone hands and then helmet of Donte’ Moncrief. Rudolph filled in admirably for Ben, going 12/19 for 112 yards with two touchdowns to Vance McDonald and that interception that was actually quite a good throw. But the killer in this game was when Terrell Edmunds cleanly broke up a long pass intended for D.K. Metcalf, but Pete Carroll challenged the call and it was overturned into a pass interference penalty. That went from a stop to a touchdown and a terrible loss for the demoralized black and gold.
October 17, 2021 – Steelers 23, Seahawks 20 (OT)
In a game between two teams with disappointing 2-3 records in front of a Sunday Night crowd at Heinz Field, Steeler Nation felt that the black and gold would easily get back on track with stars Russell Wilson and Chris Carson out injured. But not so fast! Geno Smith, starting for the first instance in four years, completed 23 of 32 passes for 209 yards and a touchdown to Will Dissly, while past-tormentor Alex Collins ran for 101 yards and a score against the Steelers defense. As for the renegades from the Steel City, Ben Roethlisberger (229 yards/1 TD) opened the scoring with a touchdown toss to rookie running back Najee Harris who added 83 yards on the ground. While the running back scored on a pass play, tight end Eric Ebron reached the end zone on the ground to make the score 14-0 right before the half. After the intermission, Pete Carroll and the Seahawks obviously made adjustments as evidenced by scoring 17 points to the Steelers 3 in the next 17:01. The Steelers tried to wrap up the game with 3:59 remaining on the clock after a Chris Boswell field goal from 52 yards away. But this game was about to get even more interesting and a tad controversial. With the clock nearing zeroes and no timeouts left, D.K. Metcalf caught a pass near the sidelines but inexplicably decided to turn up field and not go out of bounds to stop the clock. Not only was he stopped, but James Pierre stripped the ball and Seahawk receiver Freddie Swain pounced on the ball with two seconds left and no time to get to the line of scrimmage. Game over, right? Well, in what Mike Tomlin described as “an embarrassment”, the officials stopped the clock to review the play for some reason. The play stood, but the Seahawks were awarded three seconds to allow Geno a spike to trot out Jason Myers and tied the score at 20 with a 43-yarder at the buzzer. The visitors would then win the toss and advance into enemy territory. With a 3rd and 4 on the Pittsburgh 45, Seattle was dangerously closing in to Myers’ range for a game-winning kick. So that’s when T.J. Watt stepped in and sacked Smith for a loss of 13 and a punt. But the Steelers went nowhere with the opportunity and punted the ball back. Watt apparently had enough and burst through and sacked Smith again, jarring the ball free to be recovered by Devin Bush. Chris Boswell’s field goal of 37 yards sealed a 23-20 OT victory for Pittsburgh. It was a wild and crazy game that got the Steelers to .500 and they would not fall below that mark the remainder of the season.
All the information needed to watch, listen, or follow the Steelers game on Saturday against the Seahawks at Acrisure Stadium.
The Pittsburgh Steelers are taking the field for the first time of the 2022 preseason. In fact, there will be a number of firsts on Saturday with players such as Mitch Trubisky, Kenny Pickett, George Pickens, and many more putting on a Steelers uniform to face another NFL opponent for the first time. It will also be the first game in the newly named Acrisure Stadium.
Will the Steelers offense look significantly different in the post-Ben Roethlisberger era? Will the Steelers offensive line show improvement from an underwhelming 2021 season? Will the defense continue to bring the pressure regardless of which players are on the field?
This Saturday will answer these questions as the Steelers look to start their 2022 season, albeit just the preseason, on a positive note. Make sure you get all the information you need below so you can enjoy the Steelers Week 1 preseason game. The latest odds are per DraftKings Sportsbook.
TV Channel: Broadcast nationally on NFL Network and locally on KDKA-TV and other Steelers preseason affiliates with Bob Pompeani and Charlie Batch as commentators and Missi Matthews as the sideline reporter. A list of Steelers preseason affiliates can be seen HERE for stations carrying the game in various cities in Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, Virginia, Alaska, and Mexico.
*NOTE: For those watching the game on NFL Network, there is another preseason game scheduled to appear at 9 PM, so the entire Steelers game is not likely to be shown. For those out-of-market viewers, an online option for streaming or catching the game on the radio should be something you prepare for if you are trying to catch the entire game.
Online: NFL+ offers all out of market preseason games with a paid subscription. fuboTValso allows you to stream NFL games online with a subscription. NFL Game Center will update the action on a play-by-play basis.
Radio:Steeler Nation Radio with Bill Hillgrove, Craig Wolfley, and Max Starks. The broadcast will be live on WDVE 102.5 FM and WBGG 970 AM in the Pittsburgh area or check the list ofSteelers Radio Affiliates. Viewers can listen anywhere in the world online via Steelers.com, butthe Steelers Official Mobile Appdoes have geographical restrictions. The Steelers broadcast is also available on Westwood One radio, XM Radio and Sirius Radio on channel 225.
You can also follow Behind the Steel Curtain onTwitter or in the game thread article to catch all of the highlights. Be sure to check back with BTSC after the game for our post-match roundup, and subscribe toBTSC Steelers Radioon YouTube to catch The Steelers Post Game Show with Jeff Hartman, Bryan Anthony Davis, and Dave Schofield.
Get the latest BTSC podcast content in the ‘Podcast Roundup’.
Here at BTSC, and our podcast platform, we are with you every step of the way. In the past we have given you the podcasts in individual articles on the website but have decided to go with a ‘Podcast Roundup’ article which has the latest four podcasts for your enjoyment. The reasoning behind this is to take up less space on the site for the great written content we have at BTSC.
With that being said and typed, enjoy the shows below with a brief description of each show.
What Yinz Talkin’ Bout: Countdown to Almost Counting
What Yinz Talkin’ Bout is the conversation about the Steelers social media conversation. Hosts Kyle Chrise (@KyleChrise) and Greg Benevent (@GregBenevent) break down the week’s hottest and most toxic takes on the internet. This week, It’s doom and gloom in the QB room, and there are gold jackets being sewed in the WR room. Plus, overreactions to the first dept chart.
Rundown of the show:
Toxic Takes
Depth Chart Drama
Premature Gold Jackets
QB Room Doom and Gloom
Much, Much More
Take a deep dive into the world of Steelers social media from a yinzer perspective as BTSC proudly presents a very unique show that highlights “What Yinz Talkin’ Bout”.
The Steelers Preview: We made it!!! Previewing the Preseason game vs. the Seahawks
Oh yeah!!!! To quote Barry Manilow, “Looks like we made it”. The Steelers have a preseason game on Saturday and the crew at BTSC finally have something to preview. This is just one of the subjects that will be discussed and speculated on in the latest edition in the flagship show of the BTSC family of podcasts, The Steelers Preview with Jeff Hartman, Bryan Anthony Davis, and Dave Schofield. Join the triumphant trio as they combine all things Steelers with shenanigans galore.
Check out the rundown of the show:
News of the Week
Finally!!!! We have an actual game to preview!!!!!
Trivia
Let’s Ride Friday: Don’t be blinded by the Steelers result Saturday
The Steelers could win big, lose miserably or simply look average on Saturday as the preseason opens for your hero in hypocycloids. BTSC Senior Editor Jeff Hartman explains why we shouldn’t overreact at what happens in Acrisure on Saturday on the latest episode of “Let’s Ride”.
Check out the rundown of the show:
News and Notes
Fans can’t judge the state of the Steelers based on the first preseason game
Hart to Heart
and MUCH MORE!
Jeff Hartman of BTSC walks you through everything you need to know regarding the black-and-gold.
Be sure to check out this and all episodes on the following platforms:
