Summer brings high temperatures, family vacations, barbecues and, of course, Steelers training camp. No wonder it is my favorite season of the year! It is normal for fans to be excited when camp rolls around, but I am sensing a higher level of excitement this season, for obvious reasons.
The Steelers have a new offensive coordinator, and Todd Haley is promising changes. Haley is a proponent of the hard-core running game. It appears his plan is to resurrect the pound-it-out running style that the Steelers were once known for, which will allow Roethlisberger and company to open up the air attack via play action. How great would it be to see that plan come together?
On the defensive side, the Steelers are poised to dominate once again. In 2011, they led the league in scoring defense and opponents’ yards per game. New, quality players have been added to a roster which still includes James Harrison, Troy Polamalu and LaMarr Woodley, and there is no reason I can see for their defensive domination and excellence to wane.
Pittsburgh’s obvious weakness in years past has been their offensive line. With Big Ben being sacked nearly 125 times in three seasons, extensive research was not required to determine what needed to be done. Through the draft, the Steelers grabbed David DeCastro, a top-notch guard, to provide stability to a line that will, due to it’s outstanding potential, be under the microscope once the season begins. I expect great things from this line and believe they will deliver.
Things look good for the Steelers. Ben should enter camp 100% healthy, the offense will have a new look, the defense will remain strong and some new faces should provide extra strength and stability. The way I see it, there is not much more a football fan could ask for.
So hit the beach, the sand, the pool and fire up the grill! Enjoy your summer and remember, football season is just around the corner, and the Steelers are looking hot!
Until next time, the best to you and yours – AND THE BEST TO THE BEST – OUR PITTSBURGH STEELERS!