See also, lackluster.
See also, ugly.
Alright, I guess there are indeed several ways to describe how the Steelers played, but they all boil down to the same essential idea: if the Steelers play like they did against the Ravens, they will not last long in the playoffs.
Speaking of the post-season, the Steelers are heavy underdogs...and, rightfully so. The defense that was so vaunted earlier in the year, has turned into a sieve. For example, the Ravens (who cannot score on anyone) had one of their best offensive games in recent history. In fact, at one point in the game, Baltimore posted their biggest lead of the season (20 points). And, Pittsburgh's offense played about as poorly as their defense.
I understand that Ben Roethlisberger, Troy Polamamlu, and Hines Ward were not playing in the game. Yet, at the same time, even if those three aforementioned stars had been out there, I am not sure how different the game would have unfolded. Simply, the Steelers (both offensively and defensively) looked as though they did not want to be out on that field...and their play was evidence of that fact.
Then, Santonio Holmes caught a 59 yard touchdown pass.
All of a sudden, the Steelers sidelines showed some energy. The players were excited. And, the Steelers came to life. Within two minutes, the 27-6 deficit was cut to 27-20. It was almost as if Pittsburgh had awoken from a slumber.
With a 1:36 left in the game, the Steelers had the ball in the shadow of their own goal posts, and every Steeler player, coach, and fan knew that the Steelers were going to drive down the field and score. From his end zone, Charlie Batch launched a pass to a streaking Nate Washington. There was no safety over top...and if Batch had led Washington, it would have been a ninety-eight yard touchdown. Alas, Charlie underthrew the ball, and the cornerback broke up the play. Two plays later, Batch learned from his previous mistake, and led Santonio Holmes on a deep route. Except, this time, there was indeed a safety playing deep; ergo, when Batch led Holmes, the ball went right into the awaiting safety's arms.
While the Steelers might have lost this game, what is important to note is how well they played towards the end. For as poorly as Pittsburgh played in the first three quarters, they played inspired football for the final quarter. In other words, for most of the game, the Steelers appeared to be heading for a trouncing by the Jaguars next week. Then, all of a sudden, Pittsburgh made a complete 180...and Jacksonville had better take notice, because Pittsburgh has regained its swagger.
Speaking of swagger, during Pittsburgh's Super Bowl run, in a regular season game against the Bears, Jerome Bettis ran over Brian Urlacher for a touchdown. The play invigorated the Steelers. From that point on, the Steelers did not lose another game. Similarly, the moment that Santonio sprinted past the entire Baltimore secondary, a switch was thrown...and the Steelers came alive.
I have said it before, but it bears repeating: this season reminds me eerily of the 2005 season. In 2005, Pittsburgh lost to Cincinnati, Indianapolis, and Denver in the regular season...and avenged those losses. This season, the Steelers lost to the Jaguars and Patriots (and to the Chargers in 1994)...and the Steelers have the talent to avenge all three of those losses. In other words, everyone has already counted the Steelers out of this year's play offs, and that is exactly why I think that Pittsburgh has a legitimate shot at success: the Steelers play well with a "chip on their shoulders."
See also, "bunker mentality."
See also, "us against the world."
In short, there is every reason not to believe in the Steelers this post season. Willie Parker and Aaron Smith are both out. Pittsburgh's defense has forgotten how to cover receivers and stop the run. And, Mike Tomlin is a first-year head coach. Yet, Santonio Holmes caught that touchdown. Analysts are always talking about how one play does not make a difference in a game. Well, my friends, in my opinion, one play can make a difference in an entire season.
