Posted on 12/31/2005 5:20:27 AM PST by beyond the sea
The record doesn't show it, but the Steelers unquestionably are better prepared for a playoff run than they were a season ago.
That doesn't mean they'll go further, or even as far as last year's team, which won 16-of-17 games before it was blown out of the AFC Championship Game. Once this team officially secures a playoff spot -- yeah, we're assuming as much -- it might not even make it out of the wild-card round, given the unusually strong field.
But the Steelers will be a tougher out than last year's team. They will play better.
Remember, the 2004 Steelers turned in one mediocre playoff performance -- they got lucky against the Jets -- and one abomination. That won't happen again.
Whether that means the Steelers become the only team besides the 1985 Patriots to advance to the Super Bowl via three road wins, who knows? As Bobby Bacala Baccilieri of "The Sopranos" might say, I'm no Notre Damus.
But I know this much: If the 2005 Steelers played the '04 Steelers in a New Year's Day bowl game, I'd give a couple points and take the '05 club.
Here's the seven-reason rationale:
(Excerpt) Read more at pittsburghlive.com ...
We won't be able to get the Steelers game tomorrow. We'll be seeing the Buffalo/Jets game, then the Seahawks at four.
Me too.
Btw, you can get a look at Denver later today.
More than likely, we won't get it either here in central NY State either. It's either Buffalo, Jets or Giants. My son has a subscription online where he can listen to the Steelers games. It's better than not getting it at all I guess.
Yes I hear you, he's not 100%. His thumb is still a problem and he's got some leg problems. But after playing a little and watching pro sports for five decades I have often noticed that some player play better when they are a little physically challenged. Sometimes it's best to be a little hurt. But saying that, I still would like Ben to be 100%.
Anyhow, we'll see.
Go Stillers.
I almost had a heart attack that game. That QB of theirs (Ferragammo) had a good game, and we were in trouble. That was one of the greatest Super Bowls ever.
"They're such a smart team."
And the refs love'em (no, I'm not talking about the Snow Job).
A couple of weeks ago, the Pats were playing a must win game. On a critical 3rd and short, Brady takes a quick snap and sneaks for the first down. The defense was caught flat footed and the announcers were squealing about what a genius play it was.
Just one problem, the O-line was not set, not even close. Illegal procedure call, right? Wrong. After that non-call, and about 55 others I've seen this year, it's apparent to me that the refs will do anything it takes to get the Pats to the AFC Championship Game.
Cincy is going to get pounded, but after that its a new season. Injuries can change the entire picture.
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