Maybe They Have A Great Team and Maybe Not

[bradshaw2ben]

Who could tell from this level of competition?

Looks like they had a good camp, they have some talented players, their QB at least looks like he’s not a lost deer in the headlights, their defense front 7 seems to be deep.

Just hard to know what they are until we see how they play the first month of the season. No way you can not have optimism, even though I have severe Tomlin PTSD which is a reason to not get too infatuated with what we’ve seen so far.

SF has more talent and is better coached. PIT will likely come out hot like it’s the Super Bowl. That game could go either way based on how each team would like to play, style wise. I think SF’s quick passing game and complex PA kinda neutralizes the Steelers aggression on D, but that’s provided Purdy plays like he did last year or better.

Can the Steelers resist their temptation to play safe attrition offense and have Najee touch it 60% of the time? If Pickett has to make 3rd down throws all game, the Steelers have a good chance of losing.

Basically, the team that is most bold probably wins.

[tbsteel]

No way you can not have optimism

Well, you don't have any for one. You have to admit, you've been pretty damn sour. Cheer the hell up and get excited until you have legit reason not to be.

Preseason is preseason, but I feel pretty confident in that:

A) Pickett will be markedly better this year than last year, how much so TBD

B) Their overall depth is better this season than last, most notably at EDGE and OL

C) Holcomb/Roberts/Alexander will be upgrades over Bush/Jack/Spillane

D) We were wrong about Nick Herbig just like we were wrong about Connor Heyward. Herbig is going to be a legit pro.

Our record probably outpaced our talent last year by a game or two last year, a credit to Tomlin. We had a mid tier level talented squad overall that most coaches probably win 6-7 games with, but we finished upper mid tier in terms of record. That's coaching whether fans want to admit it or not. So we can be a --better-- team this year and still finish around 9 wins. But I think our floor has definitely risen compared to what our floor was last year. Like how it usually is, it'll come down to things like 2-3 plays a game, how Boswell kicks, the luck of turnover differential and how the ball bounces at times, and health. I'm still not sure of the secondary overall (I don't see PPat working out inside or just in general, and I'm sure JPJ will have growing pains).

[langer]

The backlash would be strong if they were to not utilize what everyone sees as assets.

It might be a team that can overcome moronic leadership. But, Ben couldn't, so we shall see.

[StillerDownSouth]

I’m probably more excited for this season than I have been in a while, prob since 2017-2018 years. I think this team has a ton of upside, a lot of youthful energy and a lot of guys that seem like football junkies, also doesn’t feel like there is any ego or drama looming. It also seems like Tomlin is looking kinda rejuvenated and like he might have something to prove, now I’m sure he will still make questionable game day decisions, but I am optimistic maybe he’s going to be a little more aggressive this year. I feel like if they can stay healthy that this team can be really good, and hopefully keep growing throughout the season and actually win some playoff games.

[RemoAZ]

I'll admit I'm worried this was all a mirage and we get the run, run, throw short of the sticks once the season starts but I sure as hell am happy to see: A) They actually got the starters consistent reps unlike every other season and B) They looked about as good as you possibly can in those reps. We could have and have seen the complete opposite and then watch them "ease" into the season for a few weeks. That won't be an excuse this year. Maybe the coaching staff, namely Tomlin, finally learned something. They are professionals after all. Right?

[shellwagnerblount]

Who could tell from this level of competition?

Yes..had no idea how bad the Falcons were even though (as we were forcefully reminded after every early play) they didn't play their first string and the Steeler did. If I'm a Falcons fan, I'm keying every one of the cars owned by that pathetic booth of so called "announcers" ....lol


Looks like they had a good camp, they have some talented players, their QB at least looks like he’s not a lost deer in the headlights, their defense front 7 seems to be deep.

It's a nice looking group! I'm impressed with how they've improved the depth and found guys with fire in their eyes in most of the units. Pickett has been a LOT better than I expected. He looks decisive, confident and very accurate with his throws. Not bad.

Just hard to know what they are until we see how they play the first month of the season. No way you can not have optimism, even though I have severe Tomlin PTSD which is a reason to not get too infatuated with what we’ve seen so far.

We need Tomlin to change and let them play this year. They have weapons and if the O=line can come together, they could be dangerous. But fearless leader likes to pull the dogs off ...

SF has more talent and is better coached. PIT will likely come out hot like it’s the Super Bowl. That game could go either way based on how each team would like to play, style wise. I think SF’s quick passing game and complex PA kinda neutralizes the Steelers aggression on D, but that’s provided Purdy plays like he did last year or better.

SF is very talented. A tough matchup for them but it should really answer a lot of questions early.


Can the Steelers resist their temptation to play safe attrition offense and have Najee touch it 60% of the time? If Pickett has to make 3rd down throws all game, the Steelers have a good chance of losing.

We really hope so...but we've seen that movie too many times by now! LOL.. I'm thinking this game will really show us a lot about just what level they are at to begin the season. I hope for a win to set the tone. A young team needs that encouragment that all the reps they put in paid off.
Probably the most anticipation I've had for a season since 2014!

Basically, the team that is most bold probably wins.

[955876]

This offense looks ready to go. If we come out playing ultra-safe, simplistic football it will prove beyond any doubt that Jibbs is a living in his fears blithering idiot.

I think these young guys want to move the ball and score points. Canada knows he’s on the hot seat. And Jibbs has certainly heard the chirping about how woeful our offense has been.

Plus, does KP want to be some stooge handoff monkey? Not likely.

These kids are excited and want the ball. Can’t just feed Najee when you have so many other hungry mouths.

I’m excited and have not been for a while. This team definitely has new life.

[Smashmouth21]

Strong defensive
Ascending, hungry young QB (“at least looks like he’s not a lost deer in the headlights” @B2B) with a plethora of playmakers
Future Hall of Fame head coach

That’s going to give the Steelers a legitimate shot in real games too. There is certainly reason for optimism.

[LakecrestSteeler]

Who could tell from this level of competition?

Looks like they had a good camp, they have some talented players, their QB at least looks like he’s not a lost deer in the headlights, their defense front 7 seems to be deep.

Just hard to know what they are until we see how they play the first month of the season. No way you can not have optimism, even though I have severe Tomlin PTSD which is a reason to not get too infatuated with what we’ve seen so far.

SF has more talent and is better coached. PIT will likely come out hot like it’s the Super Bowl. That game could go either way based on how each team would like to play, style wise. I think SF’s quick passing game and complex PA kinda neutralizes the Steelers aggression on D, but that’s provided Purdy plays like he did last year or better.

Can the Steelers resist their temptation to play safe attrition offense and have Najee touch it 60% of the time? If Pickett has to make 3rd down throws all game, the Steelers have a good chance of losing.

Basically, the team that is most bold probably wins.

The pump the brakes it’s preseason message is definitely needed after this ATL game more than the rest. They probably regressed a bit with how awful ATL was. The only good that could come of this was the prep for a Thursday game.

Here is to hoping this was not all a mirage and that it transfers to the regular season after the 17 day pause!

It is a big deal to have 1 of the heads of the Art, Tomlin, and Colbert triangle replaced with Khan. He is now fully in place after going through the draft. All we can hope for is that new ideas from Khan and his GM team resonate differently with Rooney, Tomlin and his coaches and players.

[jeemie]

No way you can not have optimism, even though I have severe Tomlin PTSD which is a reason to not get too infatuated with what we’ve seen so far.

This is me...and it's only going to get worse with the two week layoff.

[bradshaw2ben]

Listen, I’m not sour—Tomlin has just broken me. And if he does his usual routine this year, he’ll break anyone left who’s not broken.

[K_C_]

This is gonna be one seriously fun year.

[jeemie]

The one thing that gives me hope this offense can be even better is:

Connor Heyward appears to have Spider-Man hands…the football is just sticking to them
We haven’t really even used Washington yet…someone correct me if I’m wrong.

Pickens, Johnson, Robinson, Austin, Heyward. Freiermuth, Washington looks like the most talented group of receivers we have had in some time.

[Charles Demarr]

This is gonna be one seriously fun year.

Amen. I'm as realistic a fan as you'll meet. I'm more excited for this team than I've been in awhile. One of the best offseasons on paper in my lifetime and it's translating to the field.

I still think they add a piece or two during cutdowns. Khan has been 10x more aggressive than Colbert ever was.

10-11 wins and playoffs this year. Arrow is definitely pointing up.

[franco32]

We know Tomlin lives in his fears. That is a legit concern as is Canada.

BUT, Ben never really pushed back on Tomlin and Co. It was a big problem from an otherwise HOF stud QB. Will Kenny push them? We shall see.

One thing is for sure, we seemed to have a lot better attention to detail this preseason than I've seen in a long long time. When is the last time our offense has rushed a play to avoid replay and been in sync?? Kenny had them ready to go on that first TD. I like the attention to detail I'm seeing.

[Jizz Mop]

One thing for certain, the team is headed in the right direction.

That’s a good feeling.

[bradshaw2ben]

This is gonna be one seriously fun year.

Amen. I'm as realistic a fan as you'll meet. I'm more excited for this team than I've been in awhile. One of the best offseasons on paper in my lifetime and it's translating to the field.

I still think they add a piece or two during cutdowns. Khan has been 10x more aggressive than Colbert ever was.

10-11 wins and playoffs this year. Arrow is definitely pointing up.

The weakest spots from last year are still the weakest spots... faces have changed and perhaps young players have improved, but OL and DBs other than Minkah to my eye aren't quite there yet. And the coaches are still the coaches.

I hope they prove my fears wrong and come out completely changed humans come September... but I'm gonna have to see that to believe it.

[Jizz Mop]

B2B

Need more optimism and enthusiasm from the guy behind the scenes of Fury

If I wanted Debbie Downer running this site I’d choose STD

[K_C_]

This is gonna be one seriously fun year.

Amen. I'm as realistic a fan as you'll meet. I'm more excited for this team than I've been in awhile. One of the best offseasons on paper in my lifetime and it's translating to the field.

I still think they add a piece or two during cutdowns. Khan has been 10x more aggressive than Colbert ever was.

10-11 wins and playoffs this year. Arrow is definitely pointing up.

The weakest spots from last year are still the weakest spots... faces have changed and perhaps young players have improved, but OL and DBs other than Minkah to my eye aren't quite there yet. And the coaches are still the coaches.

I hope they prove my fears wrong and come out completely changed humans come September... but I'm gonna have to see that to believe it.

I think we're much improved from last season at ILB. Are the new additions elite? Oh hell no, but they are a lot better than what we've had since Shazier went down.

I'm somewhat concerned with the secondary. Not so much at safety where I think guys like Robinson and Neal will step up. Corner is my bigger concern but then I also remember that with the pass rushers the Steelers have, our corners aren't going to have to cover for very long. The 85 Bears had very ordinary corners who looked great because QB's were scared shitless of that Front 7.

[Charles Demarr]

I still say a vet CB will be added next week. Pierre stinks and is easily replaced. They will look to upgrade.

[Orangesteel]

Patrick Peterson still looks good and he’s mentoring the young guys.

He has likely lost a step but he’s got the smarts to be there in position. I’d like him to drop some knowledge on JP2.

[955876]

Listen, I’m not sour—Tomlin has just broken me. And if he does his usual routine this year, he’ll break anyone left who’s not broken.

This.

[Kodiak.]

Listen, I’m not sour—Tomlin has just broken me. And if he does his usual routine this year, he’ll break anyone left who’s not broken.

A good season that still results in Tomlin being fired.

That's what I would call a "soft landing".

[955876]

Amen. I'm as realistic a fan as you'll meet. I'm more excited for this team than I've been in awhile. One of the best offseasons on paper in my lifetime and it's translating to the field.

I still think they add a piece or two during cutdowns. Khan has been 10x more aggressive than Colbert ever was.

10-11 wins and playoffs this year. Arrow is definitely pointing up.

The weakest spots from last year are still the weakest spots... faces have changed and perhaps young players have improved, but OL and DBs other than Minkah to my eye aren't quite there yet. And the coaches are still the coaches.

I hope they prove my fears wrong and come out completely changed humans come September... but I'm gonna have to see that to believe it.

I think we're much improved from last season at ILB. Are the new additions elite? Oh hell no, but they are a lot better than what we've had since Shazier went down.

I'm somewhat concerned with the secondary. Not so much at safety where I think guys like Robinson and Neal will step up. Corner is my bigger concern but then I also remember that with the pass rushers the Steelers have, our corners aren't going to have to cover for very long. The 85 Bears had very ordinary corners who looked great because QB's were scared shitless of that Front 7.

Shame that the Trice went for or whatever his name was. Though a 7th rounder, thought he’d provide interesting g depth this year.

Hopefully he is back strong next year and can add some value.

JPJneeds to have an immediate impact and stay healthy. Without him in the lineup our corners (outside PP) are below the line if you will…

[gojira5150]

What do you guys think about trading for Trey Lance to be 2nd QB. Mitch & Mason stink and Trey can move and can throw better than the 2 we have. What's your thought

[K_C_]

The weakest spots from last year are still the weakest spots... faces have changed and perhaps young players have improved, but OL and DBs other than Minkah to my eye aren't quite there yet. And the coaches are still the coaches.

I hope they prove my fears wrong and come out completely changed humans come September... but I'm gonna have to see that to believe it.

I think we're much improved from last season at ILB. Are the new additions elite? Oh hell no, but they are a lot better than what we've had since Shazier went down.

I'm somewhat concerned with the secondary. Not so much at safety where I think guys like Robinson and Neal will step up. Corner is my bigger concern but then I also remember that with the pass rushers the Steelers have, our corners aren't going to have to cover for very long. The 85 Bears had very ordinary corners who looked great because QB's were scared shitless of that Front 7.

Shame that the Trice went for or whatever his name was. Though a 7th rounder, thought he’d provide interesting g depth this year.

Hopefully he is back strong next year and can add some value.

JPJneeds to have an immediate impact and stay healthy. Without him in the lineup our corners (outside PP) are below the line if you will…

I wouldn't count on Trice ever staying healthy. It'd be great if that happened because he has a SHITLOAD of talent, but that was always the knock on him at Purdue.

If Trice stayed healthy while at Purdue, he would have been a much, much higher pick. He has everything you want in a corner.

[955876]

What do you guys think about trading for Trey Lance to be 2nd QB. Mitch & Mason stink and Trey can move and can throw better than the 2 we have. What's your thought

Not on board at all.

Especially if we have to give up any sort of decent draft capital.

I think Shanahan is one of the best play designers in the game. The 49ers gave up a shit load to move up and get Lance so they were going to do all they could do to justify that move.

If Shanahan couldn’t get Lance to look like an NFL QB you think Jibbs and Canada will?

Kid has physical tools. But he has not been a good QB. Not even close.

Waiver wire? 5th rounder? Sure. Bring him him.

Giving up something good? Count me out.

I think Trubisky leaves after this year and Rudolph settles in as veteran back-up.

The team will draft guys in the mid to late rounds so they have that extra camp arm trying to hit on a guy that could unseat Rudolph.

Plus if you trade for him, don’t you need to carry him on your roster?

There is value in the fact both Rudolph and Trubisky know the offense should they need to start a game or a few.

[DP39]

What do you guys think about trading for Trey Lance to be 2nd QB. Mitch & Mason stink and Trey can move and can throw better than the 2 we have. What's your thought

Not on board at all.

Especially if we have to give up any sort of decent draft capital.

I think Shanahan is one of the best play designers in the game. The 49ers gave up a shit load to move up and get Lance so they were going to do all they could do to justify that move.

If Shanahan couldn’t get Lance to look like an NFL QB you think Jibbs and Canada will?

Kid has physical tools. But he has not been a good QB. Not even close.

Waiver wire? 5th rounder? Sure. Bring him him.

Giving up something good? Count me out.

I think Trubisky leaves after this year and Rudolph settles in as veteran back-up.

The team will draft guys in the mid to late rounds so they have that extra camp arm trying to hit on a guy that could unseat Rudolph.

Plus if you trade for him, don’t you need to carry him on your roster?

There is value in the fact both Rudolph and Trubisky know the offense should they need to start a game or a few.

This. PLUS, Lance has a G$ cap hit of $20M+ over the next 2 years. Now (won't happen, but), if the 49ers somehow paid off $12M of that, I would maybe consider it, AND it didn't cost us more than, say, a 6th rounder (will never happen though).

[jeemie]

Let’s just deal with the fact that if Kenny gets injured for any length of time, the Steelers are sunk.

We aren’t going to get anyone better than Trubisky or Rudolph as a backup. We just aren’t.

[gojira5150]

What do you guys think about trading for Trey Lance to be 2nd QB. Mitch & Mason stink and Trey can move and can throw better than the 2 we have. What's your thought

Not on board at all.

Especially if we have to give up any sort of decent draft capital.

I think Shanahan is one of the best play designers in the game. The 49ers gave up a shit load to move up and get Lance so they were going to do all they could do to justify that move.

If Shanahan couldn’t get Lance to look like an NFL QB you think Jibbs and Canada will?

Kid has physical tools. But he has not been a good QB. Not even close.

Waiver wire? 5th rounder? Sure. Bring him him.

Giving up something good? Count me out.

I think Trubisky leaves after this year and Rudolph settles in as veteran back-up.

The team will draft guys in the mid to late rounds so they have that extra camp arm trying to hit on a guy that could unseat Rudolph.

Plus if you trade for him, don’t you need to carry him on your roster?

There is value in the fact both Rudolph and Trubisky know the offense should they need to start a game or a few.

Very valid points. I know you live up there in Niners country so you'd have the best seat to watch him play.

I agree. A 5th or 6th but anything other than that is a No. Just throwing it out there