Sit 'em Mike…

Going into this Sunday’s game against the Browns, Coach Tomlin has a big decision – sit your top players or let them play.  I’m hoping he let’s them all play a quarter and then let’s them sit.  At this point, it’s all about the post-season strategy and healthy players make great plays!

After that crushing loss to the Titans, but as I said in an earlier post history proves home field advantage not such an advantage, the team showed they need some rest.  A five-game winning streak to clinch the division was what really mattered, along with that first round bye.  When I say “crushing” I’m really referring to the way my 12-year-old reacted to the loss…not me. 

So, we saw Ben give up the ball 4 times, he was sacked 5 times…really, playing him doesn’t make a ton of sense when he also has a sprained ankle.  He’s the leader of this team, he needs to be healthy for the playoffs. 

Another thing that loss to the Titans exposed.  The horrible run game.  Willie Parker – 29 yards in 18 carries.  Mewelde Moore 28 yards over THREE carries.  I also said in an earlier post that Parker wasn’t playing right – that he’s either still hurt or…well, I don’t know…can’t see the hole?  Is the defense blocking so tough when he lines up that they know what he’s gonna do?  I don’t know…seems like Moore can break through.  I say sit Parker.  And oh by the way, if I can see that you are gonna run on the first two downs and then pass on the third – and more than likely not even get the pass completed, ummm, I think the defense can too.  Can we try to break up the plays a little?  Talk about predictable.

And penalties.  Come on now.  I know I also said this in an earlier post…penalties can make or break a game in the NFL.  Get it right. 

I’m looking forward to the playoffs.  The Steelers, despite what I say here today, really are a top team.  They have all the tricks and tools that lead to victory.  Use them.  The talent is there. 

Go play football.  For all of us fans out there…show everyone what the steel curtain is really about (and get the Titans back for desecrating the Terrible Towel).