As I said last night, the drastic decline has been hard to watch. If you're stunned or in shock of what's happening, overall, then you haven't been paying attention. This happens to all the great teams. #Steelers model of consistency since 2004 is second to only the Patriots.
I'm no apologist nor am I happy with what's unfolding. It sucks knowing it's over. But it's been over. The writing has been on the wall for years now. The Steelers just didn't want to read it. It's fine. Everything is fine. Nothing to see here.
I wasn't alive in the '70s but I've heard the stories. That was 50 years ago. I was alive for these recent SBs. That was 10+ years ago. Because something worked for years doesn't mean it always will. Can't be stubborn. You have to adapt in this league.
For years the Steelers have had the fewest coaches in the NFL, and still might. I'm not saying add 20 coaches. But it's time to look at your weaknesses and bring in professionals to help. Quantity is one thing. Quality is another. It's okay to look outside for DC/OC candidates.
Clock management, when to challenge, when to go for it, etc. Most teams have staff that assist with these tasks. It's not like their track record is good in these areas. But they scoff when asked. Whether you believe it or not, the game isn't waiting for you to catch up.
Steelers have an incredible scouting pedigree. Next man up can only take you so far though. Steelers have star power but lack depth. Cap finally caught up with them.
Where's the Tylenol?
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The last time the #Steelers played at Lambeau thread. 2013. Longest season ever. 0-4, 2-6, and then 6-8 heading into Green Bay on Dec. 22. Windy, snowy, freezing. Brutal, but absolutely perfect. Dick LeBeau is about to recite The Night Before Christmas at the team meeting.
After Coach LeBeau was done, Coach T spots me and gives me a nod. What’s up coach? I need you to print out the article that says, ‘We can beat Pittsburgh with Matt Flynn’ and slide it under every defensive player’s door. I head to the hotel lobby and print 40 copies.
Door by door I go. Polamalu. Clark. Keisel. Ike. Heyward. About to run through a wall as I recall this. 15 minutes later the assignment was complete. I tell coach that it’s done and go on my way. The next day it’s even colder, windier and snowier. What more could you ask for?