Through Super Bowl losses, teams facing penalties and hits during the off season, and impending lockouts have made this sports fan's soul extra weary. But a chance set of tickets to see my team play in the Pre-Season along with a quote that totally brought the world back to me has made this girl so excited to be a part of this all again.
I happened to watch One Tree Hill, My absolute favorite show ever! And it was the last game of the season, for the One Tree Hill Ravens- the State Championships! and Marvin "Mouth" McFadden states one of the best lines in my opinion and something that we really needed to hear in this up and down of the sports world currently. He states: "You know, say what you will about the ravages of sports in this corporate age where overpaid athletes expect prima donna treatment, but there is still something so unifying about sport in its purest form, when athletes rise above themselves and touch greatness and, in doing so, remind us all that we also have greatness inside of us." This last line- when athletes rise above themselves and touch greatness and, in doing so, remind us all that we also have greatness inside of us.. This is what I love about watching the sports that I love watching. Every game I watch, every play I see, every second that a clock ticks down allows us as fans to take yet another glimpse of the greatness that we love in a sport, it gives an athlete an opportunity to have a few seconds of magic moments, from a Michael Jordan soaring above the court, tongue out, ball in hand, above the roar of the crowd, signifying all that makes him a legend. To a Santonio Holmes- with his sweet feet creating one of the greatest moments in Football history, amidst the flash of lights from a camera's bulb again making that moment one that creates legends. These moments are ones that athletes love to make, these moments are what they spend two-a-days, countless hours in training, a lifetime of practice trying to create so many of these moments, not just for us the fans, but for themselves, to be a part of what makes legends. Special moments, 10 seconds of a play that solidifies what will be their legacy.
For a fan, it is in these magic moments that we get up every game day, brave the cold, brave the rain, brave long distances countless hours of travel, sleepless nights, lost voices, hangovers etc. These are the moments that we all fight for, that make the game worth it, that make me LOVE the game over any team or any player.
I live for these moments. Some people ask me why I love the game so much, I don't have a simple answer. My love of the game as you can see is wrapped up in so many little moments, so many great plays, cheers, crowds roaring, brief moments when the fans, the coaches, the staff and the players all make up one big family. Being a part of a team who wins a Super Bowl or a championship makes it all worth it.
I don't know what my greatest moments in life are going to be, but for some of these men and women, they live their greatest moments every time the put on those pads, those cleats, their shoes, their jerseys, uniforms etc, they live their greatest moments when the whistle blows, the lights turn on or the gun pops. It is the best feeling to be able to just catch a glimpse of it, to cheer at the right moment, to get a little excited and to be there when those moments happen.
So here is to me getting my mojo back (this time for real) and here is to an amazing season of sports and to those little magical moments that add to the greatness of an athletes lifespan.
8.14.2011
6.03.2011
In a rut...
Hey Y'all it's your girl SportsGal89 In the Building! I have to apologize, I have failed you and you are the reason I even started this blog game- why? because I wanted people to know my frustrations with "King James" and his cop-outs AND I actually cop-out on you. SORRY.
I have been in such a funk since the Steelers Lost the Super Bowl, my Lakers couldn't even make it to the Finals AND Ohio State just shoved a WHOPPER of disappointment to my love of the O-H!!
So all in all the 2011 Sports Season has not been good to this girl. Miami ACTUALLY made it to the finals and I haven't watched one game. I don't know if I am letting my absolute disdain of Lebron ruin my love for the one, the only FLASH, but I just feel that James ruined my love for him (Lebron not Wade). I was a huge fan, I loved watching him play, I loved what he brought to the game and he ruined it by not manning up and playing.
Well in a round about way, I don't want to be Lebron! I don't want to ruin what you all have come to love in my funny antics and the way I view the sports world. So for now I will say - It's good to be back. Bear with me as I get my sea-legs back and I hope that you enjoy this journey that we will both be on.
-- On to the next one!
I have been in such a funk since the Steelers Lost the Super Bowl, my Lakers couldn't even make it to the Finals AND Ohio State just shoved a WHOPPER of disappointment to my love of the O-H!!
So all in all the 2011 Sports Season has not been good to this girl. Miami ACTUALLY made it to the finals and I haven't watched one game. I don't know if I am letting my absolute disdain of Lebron ruin my love for the one, the only FLASH, but I just feel that James ruined my love for him (Lebron not Wade). I was a huge fan, I loved watching him play, I loved what he brought to the game and he ruined it by not manning up and playing.
Well in a round about way, I don't want to be Lebron! I don't want to ruin what you all have come to love in my funny antics and the way I view the sports world. So for now I will say - It's good to be back. Bear with me as I get my sea-legs back and I hope that you enjoy this journey that we will both be on.
-- On to the next one!
2.11.2011
What happens next?
Hey y'all it's your lovely SportsGal89 In the Building! I come to you with a heavy heart. A few weeks ago, I was riding high on the energy that my team the 6-time Super Bowl Champions, the Pittsburgh Steelers were heading to their 8th Super Bowl and possibly 7th victory leading the league with the most Super Bowl rings. However, that all changed on February 6th, 2011 with 3 Turnovers, 2 of them INT with returns for TDs and one fumble that cost the game and the championship.
I suffered through a few days of hibernation and was awoken by the fear that my favorite sport might be canceled next season and that my favorite team will have to wait longer to regain their victory, and sadly the last game remembered will be the fact that they blew it before this impending lockout.
So what's the problem? The NFL Owners and the NFL Player's Association haven't reached an agreement to various conditions that need to be established before March 4th at 12:01am. What does this mean, that the 2011-2012 season lies in the balance and the fans that have loyally stuck by their team and the organization over the years are left without that fall rush and the Gridiron Glory.
The issues, I think people need to remember that the reason they play this game, while the money is good is ultimately for entertainment, and while they might not be happy there won't be ANY money without the satisfaction of the fans. The other issue is that the player's safety needs to be a primary concern for the league, because without them there is no game. I do not think it is a lot to ask that the NFL put together some type of insurance policy for its players when the majority of these injuries are caused on the job. And if they are not prevalent now, they will start to show later down the line. I think if the NFL blindly allows this sport to continue without considering these aspects than they are just as bad as the Sweat shops we see herding young children into a never ending cycle of poverty.
I just hope they reach an agreement soon, when we have players to think about (like LaMarr Woodley and whether he will be franchised with the Steelers) and who will be our new class in the Black and GOLD!
I suffered through a few days of hibernation and was awoken by the fear that my favorite sport might be canceled next season and that my favorite team will have to wait longer to regain their victory, and sadly the last game remembered will be the fact that they blew it before this impending lockout.
So what's the problem? The NFL Owners and the NFL Player's Association haven't reached an agreement to various conditions that need to be established before March 4th at 12:01am. What does this mean, that the 2011-2012 season lies in the balance and the fans that have loyally stuck by their team and the organization over the years are left without that fall rush and the Gridiron Glory.
The issues, I think people need to remember that the reason they play this game, while the money is good is ultimately for entertainment, and while they might not be happy there won't be ANY money without the satisfaction of the fans. The other issue is that the player's safety needs to be a primary concern for the league, because without them there is no game. I do not think it is a lot to ask that the NFL put together some type of insurance policy for its players when the majority of these injuries are caused on the job. And if they are not prevalent now, they will start to show later down the line. I think if the NFL blindly allows this sport to continue without considering these aspects than they are just as bad as the Sweat shops we see herding young children into a never ending cycle of poverty.
I just hope they reach an agreement soon, when we have players to think about (like LaMarr Woodley and whether he will be franchised with the Steelers) and who will be our new class in the Black and GOLD!
1.23.2011
It's now or never AFC & NFC Championship day
Hey ya'll it's your one and only Sportsgal89 IN THE BUILDING on a lovely Sunday afternoon before the showdowns of the year which determine who will be entering the XLV Super Bowl! Despite the fact that these two games are the games that determine our Super Bowl XLV Contenders, these games are huge because the last time these four teams met the stakes were very different.
In the NFC we have the Packers and DA Bears in a showdown of the ages because for these two teams it is the SUPER BOWL, these two teams will NEVER meet in a Super Bowl unless for some reason they get redrawn in to another division (which won't happen). The last time these two teams had a show down in the playoffs was in 1941 and the Bears took home that win 33-14 and followed that with the Defeat of the NY Giants and their 4th title. Between these two teams is a history of greatness, amidst playoff wins, and championships the show down at Soldier Field is going to be a beautiful one.
The last time this team met this season was January 2, 2011 at Green Bay. The Pack won that low scoring game 10-3.
With all the tweets I am anxious to see the boys in Blue and Orange come out and dominate, but with Aaron Rodgers at the helm of the Pack, wow-- All I can say is today is going to be exciting and the magic well "Play until that whistle". Not to give away who I am going for, but all I can say is "BEAR DOWN!!"
And on the side of the AFC we have the one and only Sixburgh against the HardKnock Jets. My stomach is in knots! I just can't wait until that clock hits 6:30 and that first ball is let loose in Heinz. As I prepare for today I just remember that this is one more game, this is THE game. This is OUR Superbowl because once we get past this we get past it all. The last time the Steelers and the Jets played each other this season it was Week 15 (Santonio Holmes says "That was personal"- his first game in Pittsburgh since he was released)- I am a Green and White number 10 fan since before he was a Steeler while he was at Ohio State, so while I like hime right now he is the ENEMY well he and the JETS are the enemy. Like I was saying week 15 the Steelers saw their loss at home against the Jets, where the Jets pulled of a 22-17 win against the Steelers. It was disgustingly unexpected and something I hope we do NOT repeat!
While I have love for the Jets and their story the thing I have to say is that all the teams left weren't supposed to be here. And we beat the odds again and again. I'll give it to the Jets and the Packers, there is hope being a 6th Seed, but on this day greatness was born-- Myron Cope the creator of the legendary TERRIBLE TOWEL and as we wave them proudly we bring on all of Steeler Nation near and far, alive and dead to push our boys as we THE 12th MAN Cheer them on loudly and proudly. It is all or nothing on this Glorious Day!
The Motto: GO HARD OR STAY HOME!!
In the NFC we have the Packers and DA Bears in a showdown of the ages because for these two teams it is the SUPER BOWL, these two teams will NEVER meet in a Super Bowl unless for some reason they get redrawn in to another division (which won't happen). The last time these two teams had a show down in the playoffs was in 1941 and the Bears took home that win 33-14 and followed that with the Defeat of the NY Giants and their 4th title. Between these two teams is a history of greatness, amidst playoff wins, and championships the show down at Soldier Field is going to be a beautiful one.
The last time this team met this season was January 2, 2011 at Green Bay. The Pack won that low scoring game 10-3.
With all the tweets I am anxious to see the boys in Blue and Orange come out and dominate, but with Aaron Rodgers at the helm of the Pack, wow-- All I can say is today is going to be exciting and the magic well "Play until that whistle". Not to give away who I am going for, but all I can say is "BEAR DOWN!!"
And on the side of the AFC we have the one and only Sixburgh against the HardKnock Jets. My stomach is in knots! I just can't wait until that clock hits 6:30 and that first ball is let loose in Heinz. As I prepare for today I just remember that this is one more game, this is THE game. This is OUR Superbowl because once we get past this we get past it all. The last time the Steelers and the Jets played each other this season it was Week 15 (Santonio Holmes says "That was personal"- his first game in Pittsburgh since he was released)- I am a Green and White number 10 fan since before he was a Steeler while he was at Ohio State, so while I like hime right now he is the ENEMY well he and the JETS are the enemy. Like I was saying week 15 the Steelers saw their loss at home against the Jets, where the Jets pulled of a 22-17 win against the Steelers. It was disgustingly unexpected and something I hope we do NOT repeat!
While I have love for the Jets and their story the thing I have to say is that all the teams left weren't supposed to be here. And we beat the odds again and again. I'll give it to the Jets and the Packers, there is hope being a 6th Seed, but on this day greatness was born-- Myron Cope the creator of the legendary TERRIBLE TOWEL and as we wave them proudly we bring on all of Steeler Nation near and far, alive and dead to push our boys as we THE 12th MAN Cheer them on loudly and proudly. It is all or nothing on this Glorious Day!
The Motto: GO HARD OR STAY HOME!!
1.17.2011
NFL Playoffs 2010-2011 Season Round 2 part 2
Hello! It's your girl SportsGal89 in the building! And I'm back with another addition of my sports blog. I decided last minute that I was going to break up the two blogs of this round into their respective divisions as it will make the most sense for next week as well.
So now on to the game that I ACTUALLY had a stake in. The AFC Game between the NY JETS and the NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS. Why do I have a stake in this game, the winner determines who we play against in the AFC Division Title game. While I do not really care who we played, because either way the team is going to be one more STEP in the stairway to 7, the thing that I will say was I was leaning more towards being comfortable with home field advantage if we play the Jets.
But at any rate any game we had was going to be a retribution game because we lost to both teams in the regular season so beating them in their one game away from Superbowl XLV would be AMAZING!
So by now you probably already know the outcome, but I will keep moving as if you don't know. The week leading up to this game was a comical back and forth battle of words between members of the Jets (including "Sexy Rexy" and Pats Head Coach). So needless to say this was a highly anticipated game and one that at least for Steelers fans across the country determined who we would be facing in the AFC Championship game.
Now the Ken Doll didn't cease to amaze me with his wildly flowing hair... Let's get real.. It's the Patriots, you expect nothing less but greatness when you watch them play. Well except **COUGH**COUGH** 18-1!!
[Brief interruption by SportsGal89, hey y'all so today is 1-19-2011. I have been writing, or attempting to write this blog for the last 3 days and well with the AFC Championship and NFC Championship only a few days out, I have lost all drive to complete this blog in my regular fashion. So here is the following is my speed update]
If you don't already know and which I think you do: The JETS had in my opinion a SURPRISING upset of the Patriots. I know that for Jets fans this my opinion is the exact thought that motivates their team to come out and win, week after week. But here is the thing you take the Jets and you put them up against one of the best teams in the league and facing one of the, if not the best current QBs in the league and you really wonder if they are actually going to play ball- and let's not forget that A** Whopping they took the last time these two teams met up 45-3! My Lord!
While I didn't think the Jets were going to allow themselves to get owned again, I did think that the end result was going to be another loss to the Jets. So to all the Jets fans I am sorry for doubting you, but besides taking out Peyton and the Ken Doll at home, there hasn't been extreme moves that have made me feel like I could stand and all out support them the way I support other teams or my team.
But what I like about the Jets is when you think they've been backed against a corner they really come back and lay it on you. They slowly chip away at the Defense making moves up and down the field that says wow this team in the next year or two is going to be unstoppable. But I think our doubts, as fans of this sport are still valid. There are times when they aren't consistent, when their wins are closer to a luck of the draw, you see Sanchez perform better each week, developing into one heck of a commander on that field- and as a fan I love that. And I guess that is also what scares me and also makes me have my doubts.
Needless to say the Pats fell apart, 2 attempted onside kicks that did not work in their favor at all. Done well (by the Saints in 2009 Super Bowl) but done horribly in Sunday's game against the Jets. Looking at the closing stats of Sanchez and Brady, you are just wondering how this happened- Brady 299 yards 2 touchdown and 1 Int and Sanchez 194 yards, 3 TDs and 0 INT. It was a big game for the Jets D, bringing Brady down I think a total of 5 times, the Offense for the Jets gave Sanchez time to develop, time to make plays happen.
With that the Jets took the win 28-21 in one emotional and powerful game and week both on and off the field. The end of that game and watching Braylon's back flip and Scott's explosive conversation after- I have to say that this team is energetic and makes watching the game extremely fun.
So I'll apologize for not keeping up with my regular antics, but I am #gamedaymotivated. I cannot wait for Sunday and the showdown at Heinz.
I'll give you some feedback I have for the AFC Championship game before Sunday.
Also follow me on Twitter if you don't already: njc89
So now on to the game that I ACTUALLY had a stake in. The AFC Game between the NY JETS and the NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS. Why do I have a stake in this game, the winner determines who we play against in the AFC Division Title game. While I do not really care who we played, because either way the team is going to be one more STEP in the stairway to 7, the thing that I will say was I was leaning more towards being comfortable with home field advantage if we play the Jets.
But at any rate any game we had was going to be a retribution game because we lost to both teams in the regular season so beating them in their one game away from Superbowl XLV would be AMAZING!
So by now you probably already know the outcome, but I will keep moving as if you don't know. The week leading up to this game was a comical back and forth battle of words between members of the Jets (including "Sexy Rexy" and Pats Head Coach). So needless to say this was a highly anticipated game and one that at least for Steelers fans across the country determined who we would be facing in the AFC Championship game.
Now the Ken Doll didn't cease to amaze me with his wildly flowing hair... Let's get real.. It's the Patriots, you expect nothing less but greatness when you watch them play. Well except **COUGH**COUGH** 18-1!!
[Brief interruption by SportsGal89, hey y'all so today is 1-19-2011. I have been writing, or attempting to write this blog for the last 3 days and well with the AFC Championship and NFC Championship only a few days out, I have lost all drive to complete this blog in my regular fashion. So here is the following is my speed update]
If you don't already know and which I think you do: The JETS had in my opinion a SURPRISING upset of the Patriots. I know that for Jets fans this my opinion is the exact thought that motivates their team to come out and win, week after week. But here is the thing you take the Jets and you put them up against one of the best teams in the league and facing one of the, if not the best current QBs in the league and you really wonder if they are actually going to play ball- and let's not forget that A** Whopping they took the last time these two teams met up 45-3! My Lord!
While I didn't think the Jets were going to allow themselves to get owned again, I did think that the end result was going to be another loss to the Jets. So to all the Jets fans I am sorry for doubting you, but besides taking out Peyton and the Ken Doll at home, there hasn't been extreme moves that have made me feel like I could stand and all out support them the way I support other teams or my team.
But what I like about the Jets is when you think they've been backed against a corner they really come back and lay it on you. They slowly chip away at the Defense making moves up and down the field that says wow this team in the next year or two is going to be unstoppable. But I think our doubts, as fans of this sport are still valid. There are times when they aren't consistent, when their wins are closer to a luck of the draw, you see Sanchez perform better each week, developing into one heck of a commander on that field- and as a fan I love that. And I guess that is also what scares me and also makes me have my doubts.
Needless to say the Pats fell apart, 2 attempted onside kicks that did not work in their favor at all. Done well (by the Saints in 2009 Super Bowl) but done horribly in Sunday's game against the Jets. Looking at the closing stats of Sanchez and Brady, you are just wondering how this happened- Brady 299 yards 2 touchdown and 1 Int and Sanchez 194 yards, 3 TDs and 0 INT. It was a big game for the Jets D, bringing Brady down I think a total of 5 times, the Offense for the Jets gave Sanchez time to develop, time to make plays happen.
With that the Jets took the win 28-21 in one emotional and powerful game and week both on and off the field. The end of that game and watching Braylon's back flip and Scott's explosive conversation after- I have to say that this team is energetic and makes watching the game extremely fun.
So I'll apologize for not keeping up with my regular antics, but I am #gamedaymotivated. I cannot wait for Sunday and the showdown at Heinz.
I'll give you some feedback I have for the AFC Championship game before Sunday.
Also follow me on Twitter if you don't already: njc89
2010-2011 NFL Playoffs Round 2 part 2
Hey y'all it's your favorite sports fan SportsGal89 in the building... And here we go with another (I think) brilliant edition to this season NFL series.
We start this day's blog with the Chicago Bears match-up against the Seattle Seahawks. Jokingly on Saturday night I put up a FB status saying can we add the Seahawks to the bird epidemic sweeping across the league (and we actually were able to)! Not easily though however, but a win is a win.
Remember going into this I was picking the Bears. And the Bears did not fail to disappoint with a sold-out stadium and impending snow Cutler and DA BEARS were one their game early. Took a lead 7-0, then an increase to 14-0. Second Quarter the Bears keep climbing 21-0 and I'm thinking this game is going to be a blowout. For the rest of the second quarter however, the scoreboard doesn't move. It sits still on 21-0 for a a good 10 minutes, the snow coming down harder but nothing else on a frigged Sunday Funday.
At the start of the 3rd quarter I found myself cleaning our staff office and logging into ESPN.Com for their Game Cast update of the game. But at the 12 minute mark The Bears led a remarkable 7 minute series to bring their lead up 28-0. But it seemed that despite their significant deficit, the Seahawks weren't going down without a fight. They quickly put some points on the board with a field goal followed by an unanswered series by the Bears, which followed with a touchdown by the SeaHawks bringing the score to 28-10 with a Bears lead. The next four series between the two teams produced nothing for either side.
I haven't really said it that much this year, but in yesterday's game it was fitting- "The magic of the game sets off in the 4th quarter." Bears with 6:17 remaining in my thoughts further solidify their lead by scoring yet another TD. I mean let's be reminded this game was won primarily on the arm of Cutler. Bringing the score to 35-10.
But the Seahawks came back fighting chomping slowly at a Bears lead.
With 4:40 eating away 2minutes the Seahawks score AGAIN. Bringing the scoreboard to 35-17 Bears. 2 minutes remaining and the Bears manage to do nothing with one of their last drives. But the Seahawks in the fourth quarter they came to play- A little to late, but at least they showed up.
Scoring a TD late bringing the board 35-24 Bears. While they had a good run, it wasn't good enough. I don't know what to make of the Seahawks run at the playoffs. Like whether it can be attributed to Pete Carroll's arrival, or the fact that the West is just slipping in this arena. But whatever it was you have to give the Seahawks some credit, I mean the took on the 09-10 Superbowl Champs and beat them. So while their season didn't end on such a high not it did end with, I guess, a lot to be proud of.
With that, Da Bears advance to play against the Pack. And while I have love for the Bears and would like to see Tomlin and Lovie have a match up, the Bears inconsistency worries me a little bit- who am I kidding a LOT!
But with a healthy team, I think they will be a great challenge for the Pack. We'll see what happens on Sunday.
We start this day's blog with the Chicago Bears match-up against the Seattle Seahawks. Jokingly on Saturday night I put up a FB status saying can we add the Seahawks to the bird epidemic sweeping across the league (and we actually were able to)! Not easily though however, but a win is a win.
Remember going into this I was picking the Bears. And the Bears did not fail to disappoint with a sold-out stadium and impending snow Cutler and DA BEARS were one their game early. Took a lead 7-0, then an increase to 14-0. Second Quarter the Bears keep climbing 21-0 and I'm thinking this game is going to be a blowout. For the rest of the second quarter however, the scoreboard doesn't move. It sits still on 21-0 for a a good 10 minutes, the snow coming down harder but nothing else on a frigged Sunday Funday.
At the start of the 3rd quarter I found myself cleaning our staff office and logging into ESPN.Com for their Game Cast update of the game. But at the 12 minute mark The Bears led a remarkable 7 minute series to bring their lead up 28-0. But it seemed that despite their significant deficit, the Seahawks weren't going down without a fight. They quickly put some points on the board with a field goal followed by an unanswered series by the Bears, which followed with a touchdown by the SeaHawks bringing the score to 28-10 with a Bears lead. The next four series between the two teams produced nothing for either side.
I haven't really said it that much this year, but in yesterday's game it was fitting- "The magic of the game sets off in the 4th quarter." Bears with 6:17 remaining in my thoughts further solidify their lead by scoring yet another TD. I mean let's be reminded this game was won primarily on the arm of Cutler. Bringing the score to 35-10.
But the Seahawks came back fighting chomping slowly at a Bears lead.
With 4:40 eating away 2minutes the Seahawks score AGAIN. Bringing the scoreboard to 35-17 Bears. 2 minutes remaining and the Bears manage to do nothing with one of their last drives. But the Seahawks in the fourth quarter they came to play- A little to late, but at least they showed up.
Scoring a TD late bringing the board 35-24 Bears. While they had a good run, it wasn't good enough. I don't know what to make of the Seahawks run at the playoffs. Like whether it can be attributed to Pete Carroll's arrival, or the fact that the West is just slipping in this arena. But whatever it was you have to give the Seahawks some credit, I mean the took on the 09-10 Superbowl Champs and beat them. So while their season didn't end on such a high not it did end with, I guess, a lot to be proud of.
With that, Da Bears advance to play against the Pack. And while I have love for the Bears and would like to see Tomlin and Lovie have a match up, the Bears inconsistency worries me a little bit- who am I kidding a LOT!
But with a healthy team, I think they will be a great challenge for the Pack. We'll see what happens on Sunday.
1.15.2011
Playoff Opener Round 2!!
Hey y'all it's your favorite sports blogger SportsGal89 in the building and I am SUPER Stoked to bring you this special edition of the playoff analysis of the 2011 season!!
This will be a little bit of notes from the game/stream of consciousness and an actual analysis of the game! So here goes nothing, I hope you enjoy. But first let me say that one your girl was rocking her FULL Steelers gear in practically Ravens country. I mean I was wearing the Steelers scarf, the Bettis Jersey, the Steeler Coat EVERYTHING! I was ready to go and was excited. I had some people talk crap to me before the game but I was still confident that our team would come back strong.
However, before I get into this whole thing, while I never said it, OF COURSE I WAS NERVOUS. There are a few things I go into when I think about my teams in the big game- one play to the whistle and most importantly play as if this game was your last. Do not give up, or I will be on the first plane to whoop all ya'll behinds!
So now to the game!
"5 minutes to kickoff and I am feeling a bit nervous in my stomach, but fully confident that we can kick some butt tonight! Let's Go!
First Quarter:
Kickoff! And it's GAME TIME! Suisham kicks the punt and also makes the tackle KILLING a 52 yard punt return by the Ravens Webb. And ALREADY seeing the black and purple makes me want to yack! I cannot express how much I despise this team and how much I thrive on this particular battle and rivalry. For the record I love TOMLIN! Why, because although he challenged early, I LIKE that he challenged early.. It means that he's not going to wait until he has more time, but actually look at the play on the field and make strong decisions in order to bring his team closer to victory.
Game continues:
So Ed Reed has a hold of Ward's face mask and we get the penalty. I don't mind Ward getting a penalty, I mean it was a hard hit, but it was a legitimate hit, it wasn't anything that wouldn't have been cleared. But the problem, you have Hines by himself defending his QB and after he body slams the defender to the ground a whistle blows and Hines is ATTACKED by 3 other Ravens defenders-- not to mention Ed Reed's clear grab of the face mask! And as I watch the replay I get infuriated even more! Dang it! Some BS!
Moving on I realize that while this is a battle, we still have to play. We need to figure out how to break out and actually pull away from this Ravens D. And clearly we did and do, with 6:18 left in the first quarter, we drive to the Ravens endzone, pass interference on the Ravens and we get in enough movement for a touchdown! SWEET!
So early on there is a battle, Ike Taylor takes on the Housh with a headbuttt that doesn't cost a penalty but will surely cost him cash in the end.
2nd Quarter: I am tight! Why? BECAUSE I SAY IT ALL THE TIME- PLAY TO THE WHISTLE. Off some dumbness that even I MISSED.. Cory Redding picks up a forced fumble by Ben and runs it in for a TD. It was so slow motion that even I turned my head from the TV thinking we are going to commercial, only to find out that no, actually Redding was the bright one in the crayon box and scored a legit touchdown. 1) how did I miss that and 2) how does the team not play to the whistle?! Reminds me of the Oregon vs. Auburn game and the crazy Dyer run. So now the game is 14-7 and I am like okay we have an all out battle!
I am not sure what the time was, but we got beaten with our penalties.. One in particular Keenan Lewis pushes a guy in the back and then immediately threw his arms up as if he didn't do anything wrong. Clearly he did! And my thoughts, clearly the Steelers are playing as if they don't want a Superbowl (yeah I said it, SUPERBOWL- my feelings you get into the playoffs in the position that the Steelers are in and while I say you focus one game at a time, the Steelers are a caliber team that the final game, the Superbowl is the one that they should be focused on). While I always say play each game as one game at a time, this is not the time! FOR SURE! It IS the playoffs! This is the time that you play with all you got.
There was a HUGE 14yard play from Ben to Sanders for a first down. Moore rushed again for a first down and the Steelers are back in this game. While I am pleased with this drive, I notice the clock and I think dang, we DEFINITELY need to score before the half. There was a HUGE 14 yard play by Ben to Sanders for a first down and then Moore had another quick rush for a first down shortly after. However,Suisham misses the field goal, sadly we do not produce and we end up going into the Half down by 14 21-7.
Coach Cohwer during the halftime show stated that if he was in the locker room, he would tell his guys to play ball and DON'T PANIC. And going into the second half I wonder if Tomlin told HIS boys the same thing. And boy do the boys settle down! Ahh Mr. Ryan Clark is up against Ray Rice and forces Rice's fumble (which he rarely makes). But AGAIN nothing is worth a turnover if you can't produce, AND boy do my boys produce. A sweet TD to Heath Miller puts the game at 21-14. I write: Steelers find our rhythm, so let's hope it sticks and we can take the win.
Clark ends up being the BIG play maker in the 3rd quarter!! Shortly following the Heath Miller TD, Flacco throws a pass intended for Heap, BUT Ryan Clark is there for the pick and Steelers get the ball back!! Ben connects a sweet little bullet to #86 Hines Ward- our 2006 Superbowl MVP, for a TD. And now we HAVE a ball game 21-21! Let's Go STEELERS, WOOOOOO!
So now after being down by 14 before the half, we make it all up in the second half. So thank you Tomlin and Coach Cohwer for making it clear to our boys that this IS just another game, don;t panic and let's get the win!!
So now all of a sudden the game takes an amazing turn for the better (as a Steeler fan!!) Flacco fumbles the snap and it's recovered by the Steelers. What I like about the Steelers, they make the most of the forced turnovers. We get in good field goal range and Suisham for the kick and we take the lead 24-21. What is amazing is that we are down by 14 and we don't even let that phase us in the second half, it was almost like 2 complete different games. We hold the Ravens to a total of 3 points in the second half! Ravens answer our kick with one of their own and now the game is 24-24. There was a sweet little pass to Antonio Brown for 58 yards, that was a reminder fo the Justin Tuck helmet grab in the Giants Superbowl win against the Pats.
Mendenhall digs for a TD and KEMO doesn't go a game without disappointing and drawing a penalty, but at least now the game is 31-24 with a minute and change remaining. Flacco does nothing with their possession of the ball and the Steelers get the ball back, with Big Ben kneeling and the Steelers moving on in this playoff run. "
But don't take my word for it watch the footage:
http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-game-highlights/09000d5d81db3c64/GameDay-Ravens-vs-Steelers-highlights
What I liked and where I think the Steelers were successful:
Ryan Clark! Ziggy Hood and the sack against Flacco. Our ability to keep our heads in the game and not get discouraged, after the first half. Keeping the ball out of Bouldin's hands was crucial!
One thing we have to look at for next game, T.P #43, there were some plays that he didn't follow through, it wasn't like him. So hopefully his connections are a little tighter next week.
It's funny how after watching the game that matters to me, the game I thought lasted forever. That watching the game that doesn't matter to me seems to go by so quickly. I liked the Falcons, I thought they played very well, but up against the Pack and Aaron Rodgers OUCH! Tonight was definitely the night that the "Bird Epidemic" continues! 48-21 the Pack stops the Falcons and advances. I would say that I was going to be surprised, but Aaron Rodgers is the man that Green Bay needed after releasing Brett Favre. And the best thing is, with Favre ending his career the way he is, the Pack can move forward into a new era and a new legacy under Rodgers.
So what I gave my predictions last week Steelers, Pack, Jets(Pats)and the Bears. So for I am up 2 we'll see how the next 2 goes. But I will be rooting for the J-E-T-S Jets, Jets, Jets. Why? The Jets owe it to themselves after that horrible 45-3 and to be honest I want home field advantage moving forward to drop the Jets after they BEST us!
So here is to the next set of games!
This will be a little bit of notes from the game/stream of consciousness and an actual analysis of the game! So here goes nothing, I hope you enjoy. But first let me say that one your girl was rocking her FULL Steelers gear in practically Ravens country. I mean I was wearing the Steelers scarf, the Bettis Jersey, the Steeler Coat EVERYTHING! I was ready to go and was excited. I had some people talk crap to me before the game but I was still confident that our team would come back strong.
However, before I get into this whole thing, while I never said it, OF COURSE I WAS NERVOUS. There are a few things I go into when I think about my teams in the big game- one play to the whistle and most importantly play as if this game was your last. Do not give up, or I will be on the first plane to whoop all ya'll behinds!
So now to the game!
"5 minutes to kickoff and I am feeling a bit nervous in my stomach, but fully confident that we can kick some butt tonight! Let's Go!
First Quarter:
Kickoff! And it's GAME TIME! Suisham kicks the punt and also makes the tackle KILLING a 52 yard punt return by the Ravens Webb. And ALREADY seeing the black and purple makes me want to yack! I cannot express how much I despise this team and how much I thrive on this particular battle and rivalry. For the record I love TOMLIN! Why, because although he challenged early, I LIKE that he challenged early.. It means that he's not going to wait until he has more time, but actually look at the play on the field and make strong decisions in order to bring his team closer to victory.
Game continues:
So Ed Reed has a hold of Ward's face mask and we get the penalty. I don't mind Ward getting a penalty, I mean it was a hard hit, but it was a legitimate hit, it wasn't anything that wouldn't have been cleared. But the problem, you have Hines by himself defending his QB and after he body slams the defender to the ground a whistle blows and Hines is ATTACKED by 3 other Ravens defenders-- not to mention Ed Reed's clear grab of the face mask! And as I watch the replay I get infuriated even more! Dang it! Some BS!
Moving on I realize that while this is a battle, we still have to play. We need to figure out how to break out and actually pull away from this Ravens D. And clearly we did and do, with 6:18 left in the first quarter, we drive to the Ravens endzone, pass interference on the Ravens and we get in enough movement for a touchdown! SWEET!
So early on there is a battle, Ike Taylor takes on the Housh with a headbuttt that doesn't cost a penalty but will surely cost him cash in the end.
2nd Quarter: I am tight! Why? BECAUSE I SAY IT ALL THE TIME- PLAY TO THE WHISTLE. Off some dumbness that even I MISSED.. Cory Redding picks up a forced fumble by Ben and runs it in for a TD. It was so slow motion that even I turned my head from the TV thinking we are going to commercial, only to find out that no, actually Redding was the bright one in the crayon box and scored a legit touchdown. 1) how did I miss that and 2) how does the team not play to the whistle?! Reminds me of the Oregon vs. Auburn game and the crazy Dyer run. So now the game is 14-7 and I am like okay we have an all out battle!
I am not sure what the time was, but we got beaten with our penalties.. One in particular Keenan Lewis pushes a guy in the back and then immediately threw his arms up as if he didn't do anything wrong. Clearly he did! And my thoughts, clearly the Steelers are playing as if they don't want a Superbowl (yeah I said it, SUPERBOWL- my feelings you get into the playoffs in the position that the Steelers are in and while I say you focus one game at a time, the Steelers are a caliber team that the final game, the Superbowl is the one that they should be focused on). While I always say play each game as one game at a time, this is not the time! FOR SURE! It IS the playoffs! This is the time that you play with all you got.
There was a HUGE 14yard play from Ben to Sanders for a first down. Moore rushed again for a first down and the Steelers are back in this game. While I am pleased with this drive, I notice the clock and I think dang, we DEFINITELY need to score before the half. There was a HUGE 14 yard play by Ben to Sanders for a first down and then Moore had another quick rush for a first down shortly after. However,Suisham misses the field goal, sadly we do not produce and we end up going into the Half down by 14 21-7.
Coach Cohwer during the halftime show stated that if he was in the locker room, he would tell his guys to play ball and DON'T PANIC. And going into the second half I wonder if Tomlin told HIS boys the same thing. And boy do the boys settle down! Ahh Mr. Ryan Clark is up against Ray Rice and forces Rice's fumble (which he rarely makes). But AGAIN nothing is worth a turnover if you can't produce, AND boy do my boys produce. A sweet TD to Heath Miller puts the game at 21-14. I write: Steelers find our rhythm, so let's hope it sticks and we can take the win.
Clark ends up being the BIG play maker in the 3rd quarter!! Shortly following the Heath Miller TD, Flacco throws a pass intended for Heap, BUT Ryan Clark is there for the pick and Steelers get the ball back!! Ben connects a sweet little bullet to #86 Hines Ward- our 2006 Superbowl MVP, for a TD. And now we HAVE a ball game 21-21! Let's Go STEELERS, WOOOOOO!
So now after being down by 14 before the half, we make it all up in the second half. So thank you Tomlin and Coach Cohwer for making it clear to our boys that this IS just another game, don;t panic and let's get the win!!
So now all of a sudden the game takes an amazing turn for the better (as a Steeler fan!!) Flacco fumbles the snap and it's recovered by the Steelers. What I like about the Steelers, they make the most of the forced turnovers. We get in good field goal range and Suisham for the kick and we take the lead 24-21. What is amazing is that we are down by 14 and we don't even let that phase us in the second half, it was almost like 2 complete different games. We hold the Ravens to a total of 3 points in the second half! Ravens answer our kick with one of their own and now the game is 24-24. There was a sweet little pass to Antonio Brown for 58 yards, that was a reminder fo the Justin Tuck helmet grab in the Giants Superbowl win against the Pats.
Mendenhall digs for a TD and KEMO doesn't go a game without disappointing and drawing a penalty, but at least now the game is 31-24 with a minute and change remaining. Flacco does nothing with their possession of the ball and the Steelers get the ball back, with Big Ben kneeling and the Steelers moving on in this playoff run. "
But don't take my word for it watch the footage:
http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-game-highlights/09000d5d81db3c64/GameDay-Ravens-vs-Steelers-highlights
What I liked and where I think the Steelers were successful:
Ryan Clark! Ziggy Hood and the sack against Flacco. Our ability to keep our heads in the game and not get discouraged, after the first half. Keeping the ball out of Bouldin's hands was crucial!
One thing we have to look at for next game, T.P #43, there were some plays that he didn't follow through, it wasn't like him. So hopefully his connections are a little tighter next week.
It's funny how after watching the game that matters to me, the game I thought lasted forever. That watching the game that doesn't matter to me seems to go by so quickly. I liked the Falcons, I thought they played very well, but up against the Pack and Aaron Rodgers OUCH! Tonight was definitely the night that the "Bird Epidemic" continues! 48-21 the Pack stops the Falcons and advances. I would say that I was going to be surprised, but Aaron Rodgers is the man that Green Bay needed after releasing Brett Favre. And the best thing is, with Favre ending his career the way he is, the Pack can move forward into a new era and a new legacy under Rodgers.
So what I gave my predictions last week Steelers, Pack, Jets(Pats)and the Bears. So for I am up 2 we'll see how the next 2 goes. But I will be rooting for the J-E-T-S Jets, Jets, Jets. Why? The Jets owe it to themselves after that horrible 45-3 and to be honest I want home field advantage moving forward to drop the Jets after they BEST us!
So here is to the next set of games!
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