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Pittsburgh
Let's Get it Started
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OFFSEASON GAINS AND LOSSES The Steelers didn't really add anything except through the draft. Pittsburgh took a defensive tackle, Ziggy Hood, in hopes of bolstering their defensive line for the future. Receiver Mike Wallace gives the team a speedy, deep threat at receiver, but could take a year or two to blossom in the offense. The Steelers also added running back Frank Summers, who could become the top short-yardage option for Pittsburgh. Pittsburgh did lose a few key pieces to their team, though. Former starting cornerback Bryant McFadden left, leaving a whole in the secondary. No. 3 receiver Nate Washington became a top option in the passing game, but left for a chance to start. Lastly, the Steelers let go linebacker Larry Foote, who has been a solid contributor on the defensive side of the ball the last several seasons. STRENGTHS Pittsburgh has a potent rushing game with Willie Parker and Rashard Mendenhall serving as the one-two punch. Parker has been a little injury prone the last couple seasons, but produces big numbers when playing. Mendenhall had his rookie season shortened because of injury, but still has a lot of upside and promise. He has top speed and good moves, but also possesses pretty good size. And we can't forge Mewelde Moore, who did a more than admirable job in a starting role last season for the Steelers. He proved to be more than a change of pace back. The Steelers are stacked at linebacker. LaMarr Woodley, James Farrior, James Harrison and Lawrence Timmons give the Steelers four very good linebackers in their 3-4 scheme. All four are good athletes with speed, capable of rushing the passer or helping in coverage. These guys fly all over the field and make plays. WEAKNESSES The Steelers passing game can be up and down. Their receivers need to play more consistent. Santonio Holmes was the MVP of the Super Bowl, but needs to sustain that play over the course of a full season. He'll have some lapses, which hurts the Steelers. Hines Ward remains productive, but is getting older and probably has lost a little. Limas Sweed will be counted on to be the No. 3, but barely saw the field his rookie season. Sweed could have some struggles early. Wallace has a chance to earn some playing time, but he'll be a rookie and could take some time to adjust. The Steelers have some options in the passing game, but could struggle some weeks if these guys don't make some strides this season. OUTLOOK Pittsburgh has a Super Bowl caliber team. They have an unbelievable defense and solid running game, a good combo. If the passing game can be a little more consistent, the Steelers are likely the team to beat in the AFC. TEAM NOTES
Offseason Keys
2009 Draft Class
2009 Schedule
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