BLACKNGOLDNAT
Thursday, December 31, 2015
SLAP SHOTS
You gotta lose your mind in Detroit Rock City when it's a great day for hockey! Our Pittsburgh Penguins take their show on the road to the Motor City tonight to faceoff against the Detroit Red Wings. These are your keys for tonight's game. 1)Detroit has lost 2 in a row. If it's 3, it's for me! 2)The Pens have also lost 2 straight following last night's 3-2 shootout loss to Toronto. Since Coach Mike Sullivan took over, the Pens have gone 2-5-1. Find the win column! 3)The Pens have scored just 3 goals during their 2-game losing streak. We need some Goals, Goals, Goals! Let's Go Pens!!!
Wednesday, December 30, 2015
SLAP SHOTS
Great balls of fire, it's a hockey night in Pittsburgh! Our Pittsburgh Penguins return to their home ice of Consol Energy Center tonight to faceoff against the Toronto Maple Leafs. These are your keys for tonight's game. 1)In Sunday night's game at Winnipeg, the Pens were blanked by the Jets 1-0. Find the net and find the win column. Gimme a W! 2)The Pens have defeated the Leafs in 7 straight. #8 would be great! 3)The Pens continue to be among the bottom feeders in the league in offensive categories. They're near the bottom of NHL in goals per game with 2.23 and power play at 16.2%. Blow the Leafs away with Goals, Goals, Goals! Let's Go Pens!!!
Tuesday, December 29, 2015
TAKEAWAYS
It was a tough weekend for the Black-N-Gold Nation. Our Steelers and Pens both lost on Sunday. It wasn't a fun day. Meanwhile, our Pirates continue to look like the front office is abandoning ship instead of trying to load up for another run. Today Mrs. Black-N-Gold gives you her Takeaways on some of the hot topics that are on everyone's minds.
STEELERS
Our Steelers could be enjoying their offseason sooner than expected following Sunday's loss to the Baltimorons. With that stunning defeat, Mrs. Black-N-Gold has an observation about the Steelers defense: It's all smoke and mirrors. Sure they can make waves with the splash plays. But if they don't force a turnover or get after the quarterback, they make nary a ripple. The secondary continues to be suspect. The tackling lacks technique. And the big athletic tight ends continue to confound them. Until Head Coach Mike Tomlin, DC Keith Butler and the defensive assistants "tackle" these problems, teams all over the league will outplay them. Get it together, D. Let's Go Steelers!!!!!!
PENGUINS
Our Pens showed some improvement on their recent 2-game winning streak, only to fall back to earth in Sunday night's 1-0 loss to Winnipeg. Mrs. Black-N-Gold wonders what this team would have done had C Sidney Crosby been out of the lineup for an extended period of time. Yes, Sid was on the ice for the Pens 3-1 win over Minnesota on Saturday night. But he did not play in the 5-2 win last week versus Columbus, the Pens highest offensive output of the season. Then Mrs. Black-N-Gold got to thinking.....There were the rumors early this season about a rift between Sid and owner Mario Lemieux. And did you hear about the tiff between Sid and C Evgeni Malkin? Mrs. Black-N-Gold realizes this gossip is unfounded. However, what is the common denominator in all this brouhaha? Seems to me like it's Sid. And with the recent hiring of new Head Coach Mike Sullivan, how many coaches has Sid gone through in Pittsburgh? Is it 5? Pens need to get on the stick. Let's Go Pens!!!
PIRATES
It looks like our Pirates are going to try to do more with less this season, less talent, that is. For a team that was on the cusp last year with 98 wins, you'd think that they'd move heaven and earth to get over the hump and into a World Series. But no, it's a bridge year. The Pirates have decided to cut payroll and slam shut their window of opportunity. Mrs. Black-N-Gold is at a crossroads. She can't decide if these maddening moves (or lack thereof) are the edict of owner Bottom Dollar Bob Nutting or if Neal Huntington and his cronies believe their own hype and think every move they make will turn to gold. Maybe it's all of the above. I'll tell you this, it's not giving this Bucco fan a warm and fuzzy feeling. The Bucs need to stop pinching pennies and start spending some bucks. Let's Go Bucs!!!!!
STEELERS
Our Steelers could be enjoying their offseason sooner than expected following Sunday's loss to the Baltimorons. With that stunning defeat, Mrs. Black-N-Gold has an observation about the Steelers defense: It's all smoke and mirrors. Sure they can make waves with the splash plays. But if they don't force a turnover or get after the quarterback, they make nary a ripple. The secondary continues to be suspect. The tackling lacks technique. And the big athletic tight ends continue to confound them. Until Head Coach Mike Tomlin, DC Keith Butler and the defensive assistants "tackle" these problems, teams all over the league will outplay them. Get it together, D. Let's Go Steelers!!!!!!
PENGUINS
Our Pens showed some improvement on their recent 2-game winning streak, only to fall back to earth in Sunday night's 1-0 loss to Winnipeg. Mrs. Black-N-Gold wonders what this team would have done had C Sidney Crosby been out of the lineup for an extended period of time. Yes, Sid was on the ice for the Pens 3-1 win over Minnesota on Saturday night. But he did not play in the 5-2 win last week versus Columbus, the Pens highest offensive output of the season. Then Mrs. Black-N-Gold got to thinking.....There were the rumors early this season about a rift between Sid and owner Mario Lemieux. And did you hear about the tiff between Sid and C Evgeni Malkin? Mrs. Black-N-Gold realizes this gossip is unfounded. However, what is the common denominator in all this brouhaha? Seems to me like it's Sid. And with the recent hiring of new Head Coach Mike Sullivan, how many coaches has Sid gone through in Pittsburgh? Is it 5? Pens need to get on the stick. Let's Go Pens!!!
PIRATES
It looks like our Pirates are going to try to do more with less this season, less talent, that is. For a team that was on the cusp last year with 98 wins, you'd think that they'd move heaven and earth to get over the hump and into a World Series. But no, it's a bridge year. The Pirates have decided to cut payroll and slam shut their window of opportunity. Mrs. Black-N-Gold is at a crossroads. She can't decide if these maddening moves (or lack thereof) are the edict of owner Bottom Dollar Bob Nutting or if Neal Huntington and his cronies believe their own hype and think every move they make will turn to gold. Maybe it's all of the above. I'll tell you this, it's not giving this Bucco fan a warm and fuzzy feeling. The Bucs need to stop pinching pennies and start spending some bucks. Let's Go Bucs!!!!!
Monday, December 28, 2015
THE 50-YARD LINE
We're from the town with the great football team? That seems hard to believe following our Steelers putrid performance in the 20-17 loss to the Baltimorons yesterday. But win or lose, Mrs. Black-N-Gold will always bring to you The Good, The Bad & The Ugly from yesterday's game.
GOOD
Mrs. Black-N-Gold guesses that you could say that the Steelers still have a chance at making the playoffs with the final wild card going into next week. That is good but it's never good to rely on others to punch your ticket to the postseason. The only good thing on the field for the Black-N-Gold yesterday was RB DeAngelo Williams who continues to impress. DWill carried the ball 17 times for 100 yards and 2 touchdowns. He also caught 6 passes for 53 yards. This 32 year old does not look like the player the Steelers picked up off the scrap heap this offseason. The problem is, the Baltimorons were cutting off the deep threat so the Steelers had to settle for the run game and whatever they could get underneath. Hence, DWill's GOOD day.
BAD
Mallet, Allen, Juszczyk. Who are these guys? They're not you father's Baltimorons, that's for sure. They're a testament to how badly the Steelers played. QB Ryan Mallet was 28 for 41 for 274 yards and 1 touchdown. The Steelers forced no turnovers and only sacked the much-traveled QB once. His tenure in Baltimore was only all of 12 days. Then there's the offense.....QB Ben Roethlisberger threw 2 interceptions (a pick 6 was negated by an offsides penalty). Coming into this game, Baltimore only had 4 INTs all season. And the penalties that Baltimore racked up, especially in the 2nd half made it seem like they were trying to give the Steelers the game. But the Steelers wanted know part of it. That's BAD.
UGLY
Just think, yesterday morning, during all the pregame shows, many pundits predicted the Steelers could go all the way to the Super Bowl. Now, the only way they may get there is to purchase tickets. When you continue to play down to your level of competition, such as losing to a 4-10 team for the 2nd time this season, you really don't deserve to go to the playoffs. The only bowl you should see is the toilet bowl because you've flushed your season away. And if the Steelers don't make it to the postseason this year, or if they do but fail to win a game, it will be the 1st time since before the Chuck Noll era that they haven't won a playoff game in 5 years straight. Chew on that one for a while. That's almost 50 years. Ouch, that's UGLY.
Fret not, Steelers fans. Our favorite Black-N-Gold football team still has a shot to make the playoffs, no matter how slim. IF Buffalo beats the Jets next week and IF the Steelers don't play down to their competition again and clobber the Clowns, they're in. If not, it's time to draft that shutdown corner Mrs. Black-N-Gold wanted for Christmas and get everyone healthy for next year. Let's Go Steelers!!!!!!
GOOD
Mrs. Black-N-Gold guesses that you could say that the Steelers still have a chance at making the playoffs with the final wild card going into next week. That is good but it's never good to rely on others to punch your ticket to the postseason. The only good thing on the field for the Black-N-Gold yesterday was RB DeAngelo Williams who continues to impress. DWill carried the ball 17 times for 100 yards and 2 touchdowns. He also caught 6 passes for 53 yards. This 32 year old does not look like the player the Steelers picked up off the scrap heap this offseason. The problem is, the Baltimorons were cutting off the deep threat so the Steelers had to settle for the run game and whatever they could get underneath. Hence, DWill's GOOD day.
BAD
Mallet, Allen, Juszczyk. Who are these guys? They're not you father's Baltimorons, that's for sure. They're a testament to how badly the Steelers played. QB Ryan Mallet was 28 for 41 for 274 yards and 1 touchdown. The Steelers forced no turnovers and only sacked the much-traveled QB once. His tenure in Baltimore was only all of 12 days. Then there's the offense.....QB Ben Roethlisberger threw 2 interceptions (a pick 6 was negated by an offsides penalty). Coming into this game, Baltimore only had 4 INTs all season. And the penalties that Baltimore racked up, especially in the 2nd half made it seem like they were trying to give the Steelers the game. But the Steelers wanted know part of it. That's BAD.
UGLY
Just think, yesterday morning, during all the pregame shows, many pundits predicted the Steelers could go all the way to the Super Bowl. Now, the only way they may get there is to purchase tickets. When you continue to play down to your level of competition, such as losing to a 4-10 team for the 2nd time this season, you really don't deserve to go to the playoffs. The only bowl you should see is the toilet bowl because you've flushed your season away. And if the Steelers don't make it to the postseason this year, or if they do but fail to win a game, it will be the 1st time since before the Chuck Noll era that they haven't won a playoff game in 5 years straight. Chew on that one for a while. That's almost 50 years. Ouch, that's UGLY.
Fret not, Steelers fans. Our favorite Black-N-Gold football team still has a shot to make the playoffs, no matter how slim. IF Buffalo beats the Jets next week and IF the Steelers don't play down to their competition again and clobber the Clowns, they're in. If not, it's time to draft that shutdown corner Mrs. Black-N-Gold wanted for Christmas and get everyone healthy for next year. Let's Go Steelers!!!!!!
Sunday, December 27, 2015
SLAP SHOTS
Michael, Michael, motorcycle, it's a great day for hockey! Happy Pucks & Pigskins Day! Our Pittsburgh Penguins continue their road trip tonight when they faceoff against the Winnipeg Jets. These are you keys for tonight's game. 1)The Pens have won 2 in a row. If it's 3, it's for me! 2)In those 2 contests, including last night's 3-1 win over Minny, the Pens have put up 8 goals. Love the Goals, Goals, Goals! 3)The Pens have defeated the Jets in 6 straight. #7 would be great! Let's Go Pens!!!
THE 50-YARD LINE
Chew tobacco, chew tobacco, spit, spit, spit! Happy Pigskins & Pucks Day! Our Pittsburgh Steelers take their show on the road today when they battle the Baltimorons. These are your keys for today's game. 1)The Steelers have set a team record by putting up 30 points or more in 6 straight games. Take the Stairway to 7. Score early, score often, score BIG! 2)The Steelers have defeated 1st place teams the last 3 weeks. They can't suffer at letdown at the hands of the 4-10 Baltimorons. Hit them early, hit them often, hit them HARD! 3)Last time out, the Baltimorons came to our house and beat the Steelers. The Steelers are still fighting for their playoff lives. A win today and a Jets loss at New England punches our ticket for the postseason. Season's beatings, Baltimorons! Let's Go Steelers!!!!!!
Saturday, December 26, 2015
SLAP SHOTS
Hallelujah Hollywood, it's a great day for hockey! Our Pittsburgh Penguins return to the ice tonight when they take their show on the road to Minnesota to faceoff against the Wild. These are your keys for tonight's game. 1)The Pens scored a season high 5 goals in Monday night's 5-2 win over Columbus. Pack up the Goals, Goals, Goals for the road trip! 2)Minnesota has dropped 2 straight. #3 would be great! 3)The Pens have a 3 game-winning streak versus Minnesota. Tame the Wild! Let's Go Pens!!!
Thursday, December 24, 2015
MERRY BLACK-N-GOLD CHRISTMAS
Dear, Santa. How are you doing? I'm good, thanks. Say hello to Mrs. Claus and the elves for me. I tried to be nice all year (sometimes it's hard when dealing with Baltimorons and Cryers fans). Anyways, I'm not asking for much this year, Santa. Just a few items for our favorite Black-N-Gold teams. So sit back, relax, enjoy some periogies, Eat N' Park Smiley cookies and a few Ahrn City Beers (make sure you put the reindeer on cruise control on your way home).
STEELERS
First and foremost, please, please, please bring them a shutdown corner. You know, like other teams have, a guy who can seal off half the field for the rest of the defense. Imagine how good the D would be if they had one. Please give Coach Tomlin a watch so he can learn to tell time (I ask for this every year but it never happens. Don't you have any watchmaking elves at the North Pole?). Please continue to give WR Antonio Brown many more touchdown passes to catch from QB Ben Roethlisberger. And please give our Steelers their 7th Lombardi Trophy in February. Let's Go Steelers!!!!!!
PENGUINS
Santa, thank you for giving our Penguins an early Christmas present with Coach Sully. Coach Johnston just didn't seem like the right fit. Now please give the Pens some good health for Sid and Flower and Tanger and Beau (I know, Beau is always hurt). Please help F Phil Kessel find his way. He looks like he may have seen the light last Monday night. While you're at it, Santa, if you could give our guys some offensive punch, especially on the power play, that would be cool, too. And please give our Pens a 4th Stanley Cup come the spring. Let's Go Pens!!!
PIRATES
Let's be real here, Santa. Mrs. Black-N-Gold could ask for a power-hitting first baseman. She could ask you for some bullpen arms, too. She could even go so far as to ask for decent starting pitching. After all, the way our Pirates rotation stacks up now it's Liriano and Cole and we're in a big, fat hole. But you know and I know, Santa, that it just ain't gonna happen. At this point, it's probably even too late to find a decent left handed bat for the bench. Mrs. Black-N-Gold is realistic. She knows that as long as Bottom Dollar Bob Nutting runs the show, the only thing Pirates fans are getting this year is a lump of coal. So please, please, PLEASE, Santa, won't you please give Nutting a new toy to play with so he'll sell the Buccos. Because what Pirates fans really want for Christmas is a new owner who actually wants to win and is willing to spend a few bucks to do it. If you could express that package for us, asap, it would be greatly appreciated. Oh, and a 6th a World Series trophy, too, please. Let's Go Bucs!!!!!
And from Mrs. Black-N-Gold and all the rest of the Black-N-Gold Family, a Black-N-Gold Christmas to all and to all a good night!
STEELERS
First and foremost, please, please, please bring them a shutdown corner. You know, like other teams have, a guy who can seal off half the field for the rest of the defense. Imagine how good the D would be if they had one. Please give Coach Tomlin a watch so he can learn to tell time (I ask for this every year but it never happens. Don't you have any watchmaking elves at the North Pole?). Please continue to give WR Antonio Brown many more touchdown passes to catch from QB Ben Roethlisberger. And please give our Steelers their 7th Lombardi Trophy in February. Let's Go Steelers!!!!!!
PENGUINS
Santa, thank you for giving our Penguins an early Christmas present with Coach Sully. Coach Johnston just didn't seem like the right fit. Now please give the Pens some good health for Sid and Flower and Tanger and Beau (I know, Beau is always hurt). Please help F Phil Kessel find his way. He looks like he may have seen the light last Monday night. While you're at it, Santa, if you could give our guys some offensive punch, especially on the power play, that would be cool, too. And please give our Pens a 4th Stanley Cup come the spring. Let's Go Pens!!!
PIRATES
Let's be real here, Santa. Mrs. Black-N-Gold could ask for a power-hitting first baseman. She could ask you for some bullpen arms, too. She could even go so far as to ask for decent starting pitching. After all, the way our Pirates rotation stacks up now it's Liriano and Cole and we're in a big, fat hole. But you know and I know, Santa, that it just ain't gonna happen. At this point, it's probably even too late to find a decent left handed bat for the bench. Mrs. Black-N-Gold is realistic. She knows that as long as Bottom Dollar Bob Nutting runs the show, the only thing Pirates fans are getting this year is a lump of coal. So please, please, PLEASE, Santa, won't you please give Nutting a new toy to play with so he'll sell the Buccos. Because what Pirates fans really want for Christmas is a new owner who actually wants to win and is willing to spend a few bucks to do it. If you could express that package for us, asap, it would be greatly appreciated. Oh, and a 6th a World Series trophy, too, please. Let's Go Bucs!!!!!
And from Mrs. Black-N-Gold and all the rest of the Black-N-Gold Family, a Black-N-Gold Christmas to all and to all a good night!
Wednesday, December 23, 2015
THE BLACK-N-GOLD NEWS
Start spreading the news! Mrs. Black-N-Gold is back to give you all the information that is sweeping Black-N-Gold Nation, with updates on our Steelers, Penguins and Pirates. Yes, sports fans, it's time for another edition of The Black-N-Gold News.
THE BLACK-N-GOLD NEWS
STEELERS
The big news for our Steelers is that they battered the Denver Broncos in a 34-27 win on Sunday to close out their regular season home schedule. The win also moved the Steelers into the 2nd Wild Card spot in the AFC. A win on Sunday at the Baltimorons and a Jets loss to the Patriots officially gives the Black-N-Gold a trip to the postseason. That game is a 1pm kickoff so be ready Steelers fans. It's a chance for revenge for the game the Steelers gave away earlier in the year.
Pro Bowl selections were announced. 3 players will represent the Black-N-Gold. They are QB Ben Roethlisberger, WR Antonio Brown and G David DeCastro. Congrats to Big Ben, AB, and DeCastro. While it's a big honor, Mrs. Black-N-Gold hopes that they're too busy getting ready for the Super Bowl and have to sit out the Pro Bowl. Let's Go Steelers!!!!!!
PENS
Our Penguins spent most of the week searching. Searching for the net, searching for the win column and searching for Coach Mike Sullivan's first win behind the bench.
They suffered a beating from the Bruins on Friday night, 6-2. There were some firsts for the Black-N-Gold in this contest. F Conor Sheary scored his 1st NHL goal. D Trevor Daley recorded his first goal since joining the Pens. Congrats to Conor and Trevor! May they be the first of many.
Saturday brought roster moves for the Boys of Winter. F Daniel Sprong was sent to the Junior Hockey League. In the process, F Scott Wilson was re-called from Wilkes-Barre/Scranton. The moves didn't help as the Pens dropped another, 2-1 to Carolina.
The Pens also called up F Bryan Rust from WB/S when it was announced that G Marc-Andre Fleury was placed on IR due to concussion symptoms. The injury bug also bit C Sidney Crosby. He is now day-to-day with a lower-body injury.
Sid missed Monday's matchup versus Columbus due to his ailment. But the Pens finally got back in the win column, beating the Blue Jackets 5-2. Congrats to Sully for his first win. Congrats also to G Matt Murray for his 1st NHL victory.
More moves were made when Rust and Wilson were sent back to WB/S. Speaking of the Baby Penguins, the team announced that Clark Donatelli will take over head coaching duties now that Sully is Head Coach in Pittsburgh.
The Pens are off for the Christmas break until this weekend. They'll play back-to-back games on 12/26 and 12/27. They go on the road to Minnesota and Winnipeg. Stay in the win column and climb back into the playoff race. Let's Go Pens!!!
PIRATES
Our Pirates continue to make nary ripple in the free agent pool this offseason. They did make some moves this week, however insignificant. They traded a couple of minor leaguers to Milwaukee. OF Keon Broxton and RH Trey Supak where sent to the Brewers in exchange for INF Jason Rogers. Their BIG signing off the week came when they brought back graybearded RH Ryan Vogelsong on a 1 year deal. To make room for Vogelsong, they released RH Allen Webster. One more move was made to to finalize the 40-man roster. The Bucs acquired LH Kyle Lobstein from Detroit for cash considerations.
Mrs. Black-N-Gold has heard plenty of talk on local radio lately that the Buccos are calling this season a "bridge season". It looks like a bridge to nowhere to me. Mrs. Black-N-Gold hopes she's wrong. Let's Go Bucs!!!!!
THE BLACK-N-GOLD NEWS
STEELERS
The big news for our Steelers is that they battered the Denver Broncos in a 34-27 win on Sunday to close out their regular season home schedule. The win also moved the Steelers into the 2nd Wild Card spot in the AFC. A win on Sunday at the Baltimorons and a Jets loss to the Patriots officially gives the Black-N-Gold a trip to the postseason. That game is a 1pm kickoff so be ready Steelers fans. It's a chance for revenge for the game the Steelers gave away earlier in the year.
Pro Bowl selections were announced. 3 players will represent the Black-N-Gold. They are QB Ben Roethlisberger, WR Antonio Brown and G David DeCastro. Congrats to Big Ben, AB, and DeCastro. While it's a big honor, Mrs. Black-N-Gold hopes that they're too busy getting ready for the Super Bowl and have to sit out the Pro Bowl. Let's Go Steelers!!!!!!
PENS
Our Penguins spent most of the week searching. Searching for the net, searching for the win column and searching for Coach Mike Sullivan's first win behind the bench.
They suffered a beating from the Bruins on Friday night, 6-2. There were some firsts for the Black-N-Gold in this contest. F Conor Sheary scored his 1st NHL goal. D Trevor Daley recorded his first goal since joining the Pens. Congrats to Conor and Trevor! May they be the first of many.
Saturday brought roster moves for the Boys of Winter. F Daniel Sprong was sent to the Junior Hockey League. In the process, F Scott Wilson was re-called from Wilkes-Barre/Scranton. The moves didn't help as the Pens dropped another, 2-1 to Carolina.
The Pens also called up F Bryan Rust from WB/S when it was announced that G Marc-Andre Fleury was placed on IR due to concussion symptoms. The injury bug also bit C Sidney Crosby. He is now day-to-day with a lower-body injury.
Sid missed Monday's matchup versus Columbus due to his ailment. But the Pens finally got back in the win column, beating the Blue Jackets 5-2. Congrats to Sully for his first win. Congrats also to G Matt Murray for his 1st NHL victory.
More moves were made when Rust and Wilson were sent back to WB/S. Speaking of the Baby Penguins, the team announced that Clark Donatelli will take over head coaching duties now that Sully is Head Coach in Pittsburgh.
The Pens are off for the Christmas break until this weekend. They'll play back-to-back games on 12/26 and 12/27. They go on the road to Minnesota and Winnipeg. Stay in the win column and climb back into the playoff race. Let's Go Pens!!!
PIRATES
Our Pirates continue to make nary ripple in the free agent pool this offseason. They did make some moves this week, however insignificant. They traded a couple of minor leaguers to Milwaukee. OF Keon Broxton and RH Trey Supak where sent to the Brewers in exchange for INF Jason Rogers. Their BIG signing off the week came when they brought back graybearded RH Ryan Vogelsong on a 1 year deal. To make room for Vogelsong, they released RH Allen Webster. One more move was made to to finalize the 40-man roster. The Bucs acquired LH Kyle Lobstein from Detroit for cash considerations.
Mrs. Black-N-Gold has heard plenty of talk on local radio lately that the Buccos are calling this season a "bridge season". It looks like a bridge to nowhere to me. Mrs. Black-N-Gold hopes she's wrong. Let's Go Bucs!!!!!
Monday, December 21, 2015
SLAP SHOTS
Call Arnold Slick from Turtle Crick and tell him it's a hockey night in Pittsburgh! Our Penguins look to get Coach Mike Sullivan his first W tonight when they close out their homestand at Consol Energy Center against the Columbus Blue Jackets. These are your keys for tonight's game. 1)Poor Sully. Dear, Santa. Please give coach a win before Christmas. Find the win column! 2)In their last 4 games, all losses, the Pens have been outscored 15-4. Fill the net with Goals, Goals, Goals! 3)Columbus has won 2 straight. #3 would not be great! Let's Go Pens!!!
Sunday, December 20, 2015
THE 50-YARD LINE
Down but never out! Our Pittsburgh Steelers came back with 24 unanswered points to defeat the Denver Broncos on Sunday 34-27. It was a tale of 2 halves when the Steelers looked flat on both sides of the ball in the first half but came storming back in the second half to move into the 2nd wild card spot in the AFC. Today, Mrs. Black-N-Gold brings you The Good, The Bad & The Ugly from Sunday's thrilling victory.
GOOD
If you missed the 1st half of this game, that was good for you. But if you missed the 2nd half, then shame on you. That's when the Steelers really turned it on. Mrs. Black-N-Gold doesn't know if it was a case of the coaches making the correct adjustments or the players executing the plays or both. All Mrs. Black-N-Gold knows is that after the defense allowed Denver backup QB Brock Osweiler and former Steelers WR Emmanuel Sanders to run all over them in the 1st half, the D tightened up. They were blanketing receivers, getting after the quarterback and forcing turnovers. They also allowed Denver to convert just 1 3rd down while blanking the Broncos in the 2nd half. And when Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger made an ill-advised pass right into the arms of Denver LB Brandon Marshall late in the game with the Steelers clinging to a 34-27 lead, the defense came out and stopped Denver on all 4 downs. With this win the Steelers moved into the 2nd AFC wild card spot, to boot.
Let us not forget the offense, too. After putting up only 10 points in the first half, the Steelers exploded for 24 unanswered points thanks to Big Ben and his wondrous wide receivers. Ben connected on 40 of 55 for 380 yards, 3 TDs and 2 INTs. WR Markus Wheaton caught 6 catches for 62 yards and a touchdown. WR Martavis Bryant hauled in 10 catches for 87 yards. But the Grand Poobah, the Big Kahuna, the Numero Uno of them all was WR Antonio Brown. AB was his usual bad ass-self, catching 16 of 18 passes for 189 yards and 2 touchdowns. Those 2 TDs came at the expense of Denver CB Chris Harris, Jr., who hadn't allowed a TD pass in 2 years. Now that's damn good!
BAD
What exactly did the Steelers coaches do to warrant this miraculous turnaround, especially with the defense? Mrs. Black-N-Gold doesn't really know. All she can say is that little-used CB Brandon Boykin saw the field in the 2nd half, taking snaps away from the often-targeted, often-burned CB Antwon Blake. Now Mrs. Black-N-Gold realizes that Boykin is far from the 2nd coming of Rod Woodson or Mel Blount. Thankfully, he won't be mistaken for Blake, either. What exactly did Boykin do to continue to live in Coach Mike Tomlin's doghouse? Did he steal the coaches parking space? And what did Blake do to continue to earn more playing time than Boykin? Did the Coach lose a bet to him?
Another bad thing that occurred in this meeting was the penalties, 9 for 63 yards to be exact. Mrs. Black-N-Gold noticed a pattern developing here. C Cody Wallace was penalized after jumping onto a pile after the play was clearly ruled dead. The pattern is Wallace does this repeatedly. He is the Chris Kemoeatu of this generation's offensive line, always jumping into the fray well after the play. The Steelers can ill-afford to penalize themselves out of a playoff game let alone lose their center to an ejection and/or suspension. Wallace has done a great job filling in for injured C Maurkice Pouncey. Don't ruin it by making ridiculous penatlies.
Bottom line: the next time Mrs. Black-N-Gold sees Blake successfully defend and/or tackle someone it will, indeed, be a Christmas miracle. And the next time Cody Wallace doesn't jump into a pile after the whistle blows, it will be the first time Cody Wallace doesn't jump into a pile after the whistle blows.
Seriously. Stop it. You're killing us.
UGLY
As good as the 2nd half was, the 1st half was just as ugly. The offense could only muster 10 points. The defense could not get off the field on 3rd down, allowing the Broncos to convert on 7 of 7.
There was a lapse by the (not so)special teams in the 3rd quarter that could have been a 71-yard punt return had Denver not been penalized for illegal substitutions.
And of course, there were the multitudes of penalties.
You can't play good football in just half of the game. It won't wash in the playoffs. The Steelers need to return to the days of the "60 Minute Men". If you can't play the entire game, chances are you won't win the game. It could get ugly.
Meanwhile, in the AFC North.....Cincy won and continue to lead the division. There is still a slim chance that the Steelers could take the North if Cincy loses out and the Steelers win out. The Baltimorons did us no favors when they let KC come into their house and crush them. The Clowns also were losers, no big surprise there.
Next week the Steelers take their show on the road to face the Baltimorons. Sure Flacco is out and Jimmy Clausen is in. But you have to look out for the letdown. After beating 3 1st place teams in the last 3 weeks, don't take the Baltimorons too lightly. The playoff ticket is not officially punched. Stay focused and stay in the win column. Let's Go Steelers!!!!!!
GOOD
If you missed the 1st half of this game, that was good for you. But if you missed the 2nd half, then shame on you. That's when the Steelers really turned it on. Mrs. Black-N-Gold doesn't know if it was a case of the coaches making the correct adjustments or the players executing the plays or both. All Mrs. Black-N-Gold knows is that after the defense allowed Denver backup QB Brock Osweiler and former Steelers WR Emmanuel Sanders to run all over them in the 1st half, the D tightened up. They were blanketing receivers, getting after the quarterback and forcing turnovers. They also allowed Denver to convert just 1 3rd down while blanking the Broncos in the 2nd half. And when Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger made an ill-advised pass right into the arms of Denver LB Brandon Marshall late in the game with the Steelers clinging to a 34-27 lead, the defense came out and stopped Denver on all 4 downs. With this win the Steelers moved into the 2nd AFC wild card spot, to boot.
Let us not forget the offense, too. After putting up only 10 points in the first half, the Steelers exploded for 24 unanswered points thanks to Big Ben and his wondrous wide receivers. Ben connected on 40 of 55 for 380 yards, 3 TDs and 2 INTs. WR Markus Wheaton caught 6 catches for 62 yards and a touchdown. WR Martavis Bryant hauled in 10 catches for 87 yards. But the Grand Poobah, the Big Kahuna, the Numero Uno of them all was WR Antonio Brown. AB was his usual bad ass-self, catching 16 of 18 passes for 189 yards and 2 touchdowns. Those 2 TDs came at the expense of Denver CB Chris Harris, Jr., who hadn't allowed a TD pass in 2 years. Now that's damn good!
BAD
What exactly did the Steelers coaches do to warrant this miraculous turnaround, especially with the defense? Mrs. Black-N-Gold doesn't really know. All she can say is that little-used CB Brandon Boykin saw the field in the 2nd half, taking snaps away from the often-targeted, often-burned CB Antwon Blake. Now Mrs. Black-N-Gold realizes that Boykin is far from the 2nd coming of Rod Woodson or Mel Blount. Thankfully, he won't be mistaken for Blake, either. What exactly did Boykin do to continue to live in Coach Mike Tomlin's doghouse? Did he steal the coaches parking space? And what did Blake do to continue to earn more playing time than Boykin? Did the Coach lose a bet to him?
Another bad thing that occurred in this meeting was the penalties, 9 for 63 yards to be exact. Mrs. Black-N-Gold noticed a pattern developing here. C Cody Wallace was penalized after jumping onto a pile after the play was clearly ruled dead. The pattern is Wallace does this repeatedly. He is the Chris Kemoeatu of this generation's offensive line, always jumping into the fray well after the play. The Steelers can ill-afford to penalize themselves out of a playoff game let alone lose their center to an ejection and/or suspension. Wallace has done a great job filling in for injured C Maurkice Pouncey. Don't ruin it by making ridiculous penatlies.
Bottom line: the next time Mrs. Black-N-Gold sees Blake successfully defend and/or tackle someone it will, indeed, be a Christmas miracle. And the next time Cody Wallace doesn't jump into a pile after the whistle blows, it will be the first time Cody Wallace doesn't jump into a pile after the whistle blows.
Seriously. Stop it. You're killing us.
UGLY
As good as the 2nd half was, the 1st half was just as ugly. The offense could only muster 10 points. The defense could not get off the field on 3rd down, allowing the Broncos to convert on 7 of 7.
There was a lapse by the (not so)special teams in the 3rd quarter that could have been a 71-yard punt return had Denver not been penalized for illegal substitutions.
And of course, there were the multitudes of penalties.
You can't play good football in just half of the game. It won't wash in the playoffs. The Steelers need to return to the days of the "60 Minute Men". If you can't play the entire game, chances are you won't win the game. It could get ugly.
Meanwhile, in the AFC North.....Cincy won and continue to lead the division. There is still a slim chance that the Steelers could take the North if Cincy loses out and the Steelers win out. The Baltimorons did us no favors when they let KC come into their house and crush them. The Clowns also were losers, no big surprise there.
Next week the Steelers take their show on the road to face the Baltimorons. Sure Flacco is out and Jimmy Clausen is in. But you have to look out for the letdown. After beating 3 1st place teams in the last 3 weeks, don't take the Baltimorons too lightly. The playoff ticket is not officially punched. Stay focused and stay in the win column. Let's Go Steelers!!!!!!
THE 50-YARD LINE
Deck the Broncos, they're just yonkos! (sung to the tune of Deck the Halls. Thanks to the late, great, Myron Cope.) Our Pittsburgh Steelers return home for their final regular season game this afternoon as they battle the Denver Broncos at Heinz Field. These are your keys for today's game. 1)We've heard all week how great Denver's defense is. They're #1 in total defense, passing defense, sacks and defensive touchdowns. What's the best way to beat that? Score early, score often, score BIG! 2)Broncos QB Brock Osweiler will get the start again this week in place of Peyton Manning. Osweiler has gone 3-1 as a starter but has been sacked 17 times in 17 quarters. Last week, Khalil Mack of the Raiders tagged him 5 times. Hit him early, hit him often, hit him HARD! 3)The Steelers are still on the outside of the playoff picture and need to win out just to get a chance. Mrs. Black-N-Gold has said it before and she'll say it again: You've go to win to get in! Let's Go Steelers!!!!!!
Saturday, December 19, 2015
SLAP SHOTS
Let's go hunt moose on a Harley; it's a hockey night in Pittsburgh! Our Pittsburgh Penguins continue their homestand tonight when they faceoff against the Carolina Hurricanes at Consol Energy Center. These are your keys for tonight's game. 1)Following last night's 6-2 beating by Boston, the Pens have lost 4 straight. #5 would not be great! 2)The Pens continue to struggle on the power play. They're 0 for their last 19 and have fallen to 29th in the league at 14.2%. Good news could be on the horizon. The Hurricanes have a horrendous penalty kill. They're ranked #26 at 76.9%. Power up that power play! 3)The Pens scored more than 1 goal for the first time in a week last night. The lack of offense has been offensive. Fire up some Motley Crue and the Goals, Goals, Goals! Let's Go Pens!!!
Friday, December 18, 2015
SLAP SHOTS
Scratch my back with a hacksaw, it's a hockey night in Pittsburgh! Our Pittsburgh Penguins return to the home ice of Consol Energy Center tonight to faceoff against the Boston Bruins. These are your keys for tonight's game. 1)In the 2 games since new Head Coach Mike Sullivan was brought on board, the Pens have mustered just 1 goal, including Wednesday's shutout at the hands of the Bruins. First things first, find the net. Light up Boston and light the lamp! 2)How do the Pens get back in the win column? Goals, Goals, Goals, baby! 3)Too many players are underperforming this year, especially star centers Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin. Slap me silly and make me a milkshake! Let's Go Pens!!!
Thursday, December 17, 2015
THE BLACK-N-GOLD NEWS
Have you heard the news? It's all over town. Mrs. Black-N-Gold is back to give you the latest on our favorite Black-N-Gold teams, the Steelers, Penguins and Pirates. Yes, Black-N-Gold Nation, it's time for another edition of The Black-N-Gold News.
THE BLACK-N-GOLD NEWS
STEELERS
Steelers WR/PR Antonio Brown received some good news and bad news last week, all in the same day. The good news? AB was named AFC Special Teams Player of the Week. Congrats, to #84! The bad news? The NFL fined him $11,576 for his dry hump of the goal post following the touchdown on his punt return vs Indy. Ouch!
The Steelers had British rugby star Tom Burgess in for a visit and a tryout. No word yet on a contract.
More awards were handed out to Steelers players this week. QB Ben Roethlisberger was named FedEx Air Player of the Week for his game against Indy. RB DeAngelo Williams also earned accolades for his play in the Indy game when he was named FedEx Ground Player of the Week. Congrats to Big Ben and DeWill!
The Steelers continued to keep their playoff hopes alive when they stomped Cincy on Sunday, 33-20. Coach Mike Tomlin picked up his 90th regular season win. The Steelers are the only NFL franchise with 3 head coaches that have collected 90 regular season wins (Coach Noll and Coach Cowher are the other 2). Congrats to Coach!
The Steelers have a schedule change for their December 27 game at the Baltimorons. It was announced that the kickoff for this game would be moved to 1pm.
Our Steelers will now get ready for their final regular season home game on Sunday as they face another division leader, the West-leading Denver Broncos. Stay focused and stay in the win column. Let's Go Steelers!!!!!!
PENGUINS
Our Pens lost a leader on the ice and in the locker room this week. F Pascal Dupuis announced he would no longer play hockey due to his blood clot condition. He is expected to remain with the team in some type of off-ice capacity. We'll miss you, Duper.
The Pens responded to Duper's announcement by defeating the Avalanche in Colorado 4-2. Unfortunately, they could not keep the momentum going. They returned home on Friday night and lost to the Kings 3-2 in a shootout.
That loss may have been the straw that broke the camel's back. Head Coach Mike Johnston was relieved of his duties along with assistant Gary Agnew. The Pens promoted WB/S Head Coach Mike Sullivan to man the bench and made Jacques Martin an assistant.
The change didn't help on Monday night. The Pens lost Sully's debut 4-1 in front of the home crowd. During the game, the Pens traded D Rob Scuderi to the Blackhawks for D Trevor Daley. Scuderi never did fit in well on his 2nd go-round with the team. Take care, Scuds. Also in the game, F Beau Bennett left with an upper-body injury. He is expected to miss 4-6 weeks.
The Pens reported more injury news this week. G Marc-Andre Fleury was suffering from concussion symptoms. He missed last night's game in Boston. It is not known when Flower suffered the concussion. He could be out a few weeks. Get well soon, Flower!
Meanwhile the Pens have called up some players from WB/S: G Matt Murray and Fs Conor Sheary and Kevin Porter. Welcome to the Black-N-Gold!
The Pens dropped Sully's 2nd game, too. On Wednesday they were blanked in Boston 3-0. They'll come home tomorrow night and try to get that 1st win for their new coach against the same Bruins team. They'll follow that up with a contest against Carolina on Saturday.
Find that win column and stay there. Let's Go Pens!!!
PIRATES
Our Pirates are trying some new math this offseason. It's called addition by subtraction. What does Mrs. Black-N-Gold mean? Well, they lost RH Joakim Soria when he signed a 3 year deal with KC. They made a move at the winter meetings by trading 2B Neil Walker to the Mets for LH Jon Niese. They lost RH Deolis Guerra to the Angels in the Rule 5 draft. They signed RH Juan Nicasio to a 1 year deal. They traded RH Charlie Morton to Philly for minor league RH David Whitehead. But wait! They re-signed utility man Sean Rodriguez to a 1 year contract. Get the picture?
The Bucs also named former MLB INF Joey Cora the manager of the double A Altoona Curve this season.
Mrs. Black-N-Gold hopes the Pirates aren't done with the roster yet. But remember, you don't win the World Series in December. Let's Go Bucs!!!!!
THE BLACK-N-GOLD NEWS
STEELERS
Steelers WR/PR Antonio Brown received some good news and bad news last week, all in the same day. The good news? AB was named AFC Special Teams Player of the Week. Congrats, to #84! The bad news? The NFL fined him $11,576 for his dry hump of the goal post following the touchdown on his punt return vs Indy. Ouch!
The Steelers had British rugby star Tom Burgess in for a visit and a tryout. No word yet on a contract.
More awards were handed out to Steelers players this week. QB Ben Roethlisberger was named FedEx Air Player of the Week for his game against Indy. RB DeAngelo Williams also earned accolades for his play in the Indy game when he was named FedEx Ground Player of the Week. Congrats to Big Ben and DeWill!
The Steelers continued to keep their playoff hopes alive when they stomped Cincy on Sunday, 33-20. Coach Mike Tomlin picked up his 90th regular season win. The Steelers are the only NFL franchise with 3 head coaches that have collected 90 regular season wins (Coach Noll and Coach Cowher are the other 2). Congrats to Coach!
The Steelers have a schedule change for their December 27 game at the Baltimorons. It was announced that the kickoff for this game would be moved to 1pm.
Our Steelers will now get ready for their final regular season home game on Sunday as they face another division leader, the West-leading Denver Broncos. Stay focused and stay in the win column. Let's Go Steelers!!!!!!
PENGUINS
Our Pens lost a leader on the ice and in the locker room this week. F Pascal Dupuis announced he would no longer play hockey due to his blood clot condition. He is expected to remain with the team in some type of off-ice capacity. We'll miss you, Duper.
The Pens responded to Duper's announcement by defeating the Avalanche in Colorado 4-2. Unfortunately, they could not keep the momentum going. They returned home on Friday night and lost to the Kings 3-2 in a shootout.
That loss may have been the straw that broke the camel's back. Head Coach Mike Johnston was relieved of his duties along with assistant Gary Agnew. The Pens promoted WB/S Head Coach Mike Sullivan to man the bench and made Jacques Martin an assistant.
The change didn't help on Monday night. The Pens lost Sully's debut 4-1 in front of the home crowd. During the game, the Pens traded D Rob Scuderi to the Blackhawks for D Trevor Daley. Scuderi never did fit in well on his 2nd go-round with the team. Take care, Scuds. Also in the game, F Beau Bennett left with an upper-body injury. He is expected to miss 4-6 weeks.
The Pens reported more injury news this week. G Marc-Andre Fleury was suffering from concussion symptoms. He missed last night's game in Boston. It is not known when Flower suffered the concussion. He could be out a few weeks. Get well soon, Flower!
Meanwhile the Pens have called up some players from WB/S: G Matt Murray and Fs Conor Sheary and Kevin Porter. Welcome to the Black-N-Gold!
The Pens dropped Sully's 2nd game, too. On Wednesday they were blanked in Boston 3-0. They'll come home tomorrow night and try to get that 1st win for their new coach against the same Bruins team. They'll follow that up with a contest against Carolina on Saturday.
Find that win column and stay there. Let's Go Pens!!!
PIRATES
Our Pirates are trying some new math this offseason. It's called addition by subtraction. What does Mrs. Black-N-Gold mean? Well, they lost RH Joakim Soria when he signed a 3 year deal with KC. They made a move at the winter meetings by trading 2B Neil Walker to the Mets for LH Jon Niese. They lost RH Deolis Guerra to the Angels in the Rule 5 draft. They signed RH Juan Nicasio to a 1 year deal. They traded RH Charlie Morton to Philly for minor league RH David Whitehead. But wait! They re-signed utility man Sean Rodriguez to a 1 year contract. Get the picture?
The Bucs also named former MLB INF Joey Cora the manager of the double A Altoona Curve this season.
Mrs. Black-N-Gold hopes the Pirates aren't done with the roster yet. But remember, you don't win the World Series in December. Let's Go Bucs!!!!!
Wednesday, December 16, 2015
SLAP SHOTS
Michael, Michael, motorcycle, it's a great day for hockey! Our Pittsburgh Penguins take their show on the road tonight to faceoff against the Boston Bruins. These are your keys for tonight's game. 1)The Pens registered 45 shots on goal Monday night but still lost to Washington 4-1. Coach Mike Sullivan is looking for his first win behind the Black-N-Gold bench. Find the net and find the win column! 2)The Pens 8th ranked penalty kill (83.8%) faces the #1 power play in the league in Boston at 29.6%. Man-up and don't let them take advantage of the man-advantage! 3)The Bruins are 21st in the NHL in goals against at 2.7. Hopefully the Pens #27 ranking in goals per game, 2.3, sees some improvement. It's all about the Goals, Goals, Goals, baby! Let's Go Pens!!!
Tuesday, December 15, 2015
THE 50-YARD LINE
Winner, winner, chicken dinner! Our Pittsburgh Steelers stomped the Cincy Bungles 33-20 on Sunday, keeping their playoff hopes alive while shedding a glimmer of light on the possibility of winning the AFC North. Mrs. Black-N-Gold takes a look at The Good, The Bad & The Ugly from Sunday's win.
GOOD
No doubt about it, this was a good one. A big win, too. It was a total team effort as well. While the secondary continues to have coverage and tackling issues, the defense does keep coming up with game-changing plays. They registered 3 sacks on the day. They also nabbed 3 interceptions, one a pick-6 by CB Willie Gay. But today QB Ben Roethlisberger gets the GOOD award. Ben was a very efficient 30 for 39 passing, good for 282 yards. He threw one pick and no TDs but was able to distribute the ball to 5 different players. Although the offense only scored 14 of the 33 points Ben had control of this game from the opening drive. He continued to dominate teams in his home state of Ohio while defeating the division leaders in a resounding fashion. He's playing some of the best football of his illustrious career When his teammates vote for team MVP, they would do very well to consider Big Ben. Without him, this team would be in serious trouble.
BAD
The officials had their work cut out for them even before kickoff, when players got into a scrum at midfield during pregame. It was a sign of things to come as players were chippy with each other throughout the game. The Steelers were not always able to keep their composure. S Mike Mitchell was flagged for a personal foul in the 1st quarter. WR Antonio Brown was also guilty of this infraction. CB Antown Blake would make it a hat trick of personal foul penalties. But the one most guilty of dirty play was Cincy LB Vontaze Burfict. He was constantly trying to stir the pot after the play, going so far as to cheap-shot Ben at the knees on one play. The Steelers were lucky Ben wasn't seriously injured. Was he flagged for it? No way. The refs should have nipped things in the bud early, before it got out of hand. If it was Peyton Manning or Tom Brady, you'd better believe a flag would have been thrown. Burfict may have been tossed, too. He's a thug, a menace and a disgrace to the game. And he'd better watch his back. Especially if the Steelers meet Cincy in the playoffs. Oh, that's for dang sure.
UGLY
Again, Mrs. Black-N-Gold would like to point out that the Steelers were also guilty of ugly infractions on Sunday. The ugliest was the penalty Gay earned during his "celebration" of his pick 6. Sure he was excited. However, it as a 15-yard penalty for a ridiculous move by a veteran who has been there many times before. Coach Mike Tomlin can't continue to look the other way when his players act the fool. Cincy didn't take advantage of the opportunity. But don't you think Manning or Brady would? Just try something like that next week versus Denver or if/when we're in the playoffs. It could get UGLY. How many times does Mrs. Black-N-Gold have to say it? Act like you've been there before.
With Sunday's win and Cincy's loss, the Bungles are now at 10-3 but have not yet clinched the AFC North. The Steelers are 8-5 and would have to win out and still get some help to win the division. Word is Cincy QB Andy Dalton suffered a broken thumb in Sunday's game and is gone for the rest of the regular season. That may be the "break" the Steelers need. Still they're on the outside looking in at the wild card and need to stay in the win column, anyway. They'll face their 3rd division leader in 3 weeks when Denver comes to town on Sunday. After that they're on the road against the Baltimorons, who lost on Sunday, and the Clowns (ditto). Careful not to suffer a letdown with Denver. Stay focused and keep stacking wins. Let's Go Steelers!!!!!!
GOOD
No doubt about it, this was a good one. A big win, too. It was a total team effort as well. While the secondary continues to have coverage and tackling issues, the defense does keep coming up with game-changing plays. They registered 3 sacks on the day. They also nabbed 3 interceptions, one a pick-6 by CB Willie Gay. But today QB Ben Roethlisberger gets the GOOD award. Ben was a very efficient 30 for 39 passing, good for 282 yards. He threw one pick and no TDs but was able to distribute the ball to 5 different players. Although the offense only scored 14 of the 33 points Ben had control of this game from the opening drive. He continued to dominate teams in his home state of Ohio while defeating the division leaders in a resounding fashion. He's playing some of the best football of his illustrious career When his teammates vote for team MVP, they would do very well to consider Big Ben. Without him, this team would be in serious trouble.
BAD
The officials had their work cut out for them even before kickoff, when players got into a scrum at midfield during pregame. It was a sign of things to come as players were chippy with each other throughout the game. The Steelers were not always able to keep their composure. S Mike Mitchell was flagged for a personal foul in the 1st quarter. WR Antonio Brown was also guilty of this infraction. CB Antown Blake would make it a hat trick of personal foul penalties. But the one most guilty of dirty play was Cincy LB Vontaze Burfict. He was constantly trying to stir the pot after the play, going so far as to cheap-shot Ben at the knees on one play. The Steelers were lucky Ben wasn't seriously injured. Was he flagged for it? No way. The refs should have nipped things in the bud early, before it got out of hand. If it was Peyton Manning or Tom Brady, you'd better believe a flag would have been thrown. Burfict may have been tossed, too. He's a thug, a menace and a disgrace to the game. And he'd better watch his back. Especially if the Steelers meet Cincy in the playoffs. Oh, that's for dang sure.
UGLY
Again, Mrs. Black-N-Gold would like to point out that the Steelers were also guilty of ugly infractions on Sunday. The ugliest was the penalty Gay earned during his "celebration" of his pick 6. Sure he was excited. However, it as a 15-yard penalty for a ridiculous move by a veteran who has been there many times before. Coach Mike Tomlin can't continue to look the other way when his players act the fool. Cincy didn't take advantage of the opportunity. But don't you think Manning or Brady would? Just try something like that next week versus Denver or if/when we're in the playoffs. It could get UGLY. How many times does Mrs. Black-N-Gold have to say it? Act like you've been there before.
With Sunday's win and Cincy's loss, the Bungles are now at 10-3 but have not yet clinched the AFC North. The Steelers are 8-5 and would have to win out and still get some help to win the division. Word is Cincy QB Andy Dalton suffered a broken thumb in Sunday's game and is gone for the rest of the regular season. That may be the "break" the Steelers need. Still they're on the outside looking in at the wild card and need to stay in the win column, anyway. They'll face their 3rd division leader in 3 weeks when Denver comes to town on Sunday. After that they're on the road against the Baltimorons, who lost on Sunday, and the Clowns (ditto). Careful not to suffer a letdown with Denver. Stay focused and keep stacking wins. Let's Go Steelers!!!!!!
Monday, December 14, 2015
SLAP SHOTS
Scratch my back with a hacksaw, it's a hockey night in Pittsburgh! Our Pittsburgh Penguins, with newly-minted Head Coach Mike Sullivan, faceoff against the Washington Craps tonight at Consol Energy Center. These are your keys for tonight's game. 1)No doubt Sullivan was brought on board to help the Pens with their lack of offense. They rank a paltry 26th in goals per game at 2.4. Fire up the Crue with Goals, Goals Goals, baby! 2)The Pens power play is equally unimpressive, ranking 27th at 15.5%. Man-up! 3)The Craps are 3rd in the league in goals per game, averaging 3.0. The Pens are 6th in goals against, giving up 2.3 per game. What better way to start the Mike Sullivan Era than in the win column. Gimme a W! Let's Go Pens!!!
Sunday, December 13, 2015
THE 50-YARD LINE
Yoi to the world! Our Pittsburgh Steelers are fighting for their playoff lives when they look to exact some revenge at Cincy this afternoon. These are your keys for today's game. 1)Cincy's defense leads the NFL in points allowed, giving up an average of just 16.3 points per game. Meanwhile, the Steelers have scored 30 or more points in 4 straight games. Score early, score often, score BIG! 2)The Steelers held Indy to 10 points with 5 sacks, 2 interceptions and a forced fumble last week. They look to stop a Cincy offense that is averaging 27.8 points per game. Hit 'em early, hit 'em often, hit 'em HARD! 3)At 7-5, the Steelers find themselves on the outside looking in for the playoffs. You gotta win to get in! Let's Go Steelers!!!!!!
Saturday, December 12, 2015
SLAP SHOTS MEETS THE THE BULLPEN
This week Black-N-Gold Nation lost 2 icons. No, they did not pass away. They just turned the page on another chapter in the lives. It was announced this week that Pens F Pascal Dupuis has decided to longer continue his professional hockey career due to his blood clot condition. And the Pirates made the unpopular decision to trade 2B Neil Walker to the Mets.
Although both men took different paths in their professional careers to Pittsburgh, both were embraced by Black-N-Gold Nation for their grit, intestinal fortitude and their determination. In other words, Duper and The Real Deal were gamers, in every sense of the word. And both men will be greatly missed by their teams, their fans and their city.
When the Atlanta Thrashers traded Duper to the Pens in 2008, not many fans knew who the forward was. They figured he was a throw-in on the Marion Hossa deal. Boy, were they wrong. He was a major contributor to that team that reached the Stanley Cup finals that year. And he went on to help the Pens win the Cup the following season. Through the years, Duper has been lauded for his strong presence in the Pens locker room. Whether someone needed a pat on the back or a kick in the butt, Duper was there to assist. The fans sensed this all along, welcoming him to the team and the community with open arms. Unfortunately, injury issues had plagued Duper the past few seasons. First it was a torn ACL in 2014. Last year it was the problems with the blood clots that would ultimately end his career. But fear not, Black-N-Gold Nation. Duper may have ended his tenure on the ice but he is expected to remain with the Pens in some front office capacity. And, who knows, he may come down into the room and kick a butt or two if need be. Take care, Duper, and thank you!
You could say that Walker was born into the Pirates. His father, Tom Walker, played baseball with Roberto Clemente. Neil was born and raised in Pittsburgh, attending Pirates games with family at Three Rivers Stadium. It was like his birthright to be a Pittsburgh Pirate. Imagine his elation when the Bucs took him in the first round out of Pine-Richland High School in 2004. It was an arduous journey to the Bigs but the Homeboy stayed the course, exhibiting a ferocity won the hearts of Black-N-Gold Nation. No matter where the Pirates put him on the diamond or in the batting order, The Pittsburgh Kid produced, sometimes with award-winning, record-breaking numbers. He lead the way to the Pirates resurgence and return to relevance in these parts. Unfortunately, his career in Pittsburgh was not as story-book as Duper's. He wasn't able to bring a Championship back to the 'Burgh. And he didn't want to leave, either. But while he was here, he gave it his all. That's all anyone can ever ask. Best wishes to you, Homeboy and thank you!
Although both men took different paths in their professional careers to Pittsburgh, both were embraced by Black-N-Gold Nation for their grit, intestinal fortitude and their determination. In other words, Duper and The Real Deal were gamers, in every sense of the word. And both men will be greatly missed by their teams, their fans and their city.
When the Atlanta Thrashers traded Duper to the Pens in 2008, not many fans knew who the forward was. They figured he was a throw-in on the Marion Hossa deal. Boy, were they wrong. He was a major contributor to that team that reached the Stanley Cup finals that year. And he went on to help the Pens win the Cup the following season. Through the years, Duper has been lauded for his strong presence in the Pens locker room. Whether someone needed a pat on the back or a kick in the butt, Duper was there to assist. The fans sensed this all along, welcoming him to the team and the community with open arms. Unfortunately, injury issues had plagued Duper the past few seasons. First it was a torn ACL in 2014. Last year it was the problems with the blood clots that would ultimately end his career. But fear not, Black-N-Gold Nation. Duper may have ended his tenure on the ice but he is expected to remain with the Pens in some front office capacity. And, who knows, he may come down into the room and kick a butt or two if need be. Take care, Duper, and thank you!
You could say that Walker was born into the Pirates. His father, Tom Walker, played baseball with Roberto Clemente. Neil was born and raised in Pittsburgh, attending Pirates games with family at Three Rivers Stadium. It was like his birthright to be a Pittsburgh Pirate. Imagine his elation when the Bucs took him in the first round out of Pine-Richland High School in 2004. It was an arduous journey to the Bigs but the Homeboy stayed the course, exhibiting a ferocity won the hearts of Black-N-Gold Nation. No matter where the Pirates put him on the diamond or in the batting order, The Pittsburgh Kid produced, sometimes with award-winning, record-breaking numbers. He lead the way to the Pirates resurgence and return to relevance in these parts. Unfortunately, his career in Pittsburgh was not as story-book as Duper's. He wasn't able to bring a Championship back to the 'Burgh. And he didn't want to leave, either. But while he was here, he gave it his all. That's all anyone can ever ask. Best wishes to you, Homeboy and thank you!
Friday, December 11, 2015
SLAP SHOTS
Hop in the Cordova, we're going bowling 'cause it's a hockey night in Pittsburgh! Our Pittsburgh Penguins are back on the home ice of Consol Energy Center tonight when they faceoff against the Los Angeles Kings. These are your keys for tonight's game. 1)The Pens will have their work cut out for them. They're ranked 23rd in the league in goals per game with a 2.4 average. LA is 2nd in the NHL in goals against at 2.1. Crank up the Crue with some Goals, Goals, Goals! 2)The Pens also continue to struggle on the power play. They're ranked 26th with 16.1%. The Kings penalty kill is 5th at 84.2%. Take advantage of the man-advantage and man-up! 3)The Pens lost on LA's ice last week, 5-3. The Kings have won 5 straight. #6 would not be great! Let's Go Pens!!!
Thursday, December 10, 2015
TAKEAWAYS
Happy Thursday, Black-N-Gold Nation! One more day to go till the weekend. No games tonight so Mrs. Black-N-Gold thought she'd give you another edition of her Takeaways. This segment is where Mrs. Black-N-Gold gives you her humble opinion on some of the hot topics surrounding our favorite Black-N-Gold Teams, the Steelers, Pens and Pirates. See if you and your Black-N-Gold-loving friends agree.
STEELERS
In Sunday night's win over Indy, return man Jacoby Jones fumbled away his job. It wasn't the first time Jones has fumbled a return in his brief tenure with our Steelers but it looks like it's his last. Although he hasn't yet been released, Coach Mike Tomlin said that Jones "is done" on returns. Who will replace the butterfingered one? It looks like emerging WR Markus Wheaton will return kicks and All-World WR Antonio Brown will be the return man on punts. AB returned (pun always intended) to this role in style, taking one to the house late in the Indy game.
But is this really the best move for the Black-N-Gold? No, Mrs. Black-N-Gold doesn't want to see Jones back there. Ever. At this point she's almost willing to welcome Dri Archer back to the fold. Almost. Why not put WR Darrius Heyward-Bey back there? Or how about RB Jordan Todman? Mrs. Black-N-Gold heard on the radio the other day that Todman was a return man at UConn.
Yes, AB won AFC Special Teams Player of the Week for his 71-yard return Sunday night. Congrats on that. But do the Steelers really need to lose their best receiver if he gets hurt on a return? Sure he can light a fire with a big return late in a game but is it worth the risk? And Wheaton seems to be catching (again, punny) on, of late. Does Tomlin really want to roll the dice and gamble with both men's health?
PENGUINS
In the midst of a 2-game losing streak on a road trip out west, our Pens received some news that might not have been shocking but was sad nonetheless. F Pascal Dupuis announced that he is stepping away from the game due to the blood clot condition that cut his season short last year. Recent health scares related to this issue led Duper to make this announcement.
He may not have been a superstar, not like a Sidney Crosby or an Evgeni Malkin. But he was to everyone in the Pens locker room, the Pens organization and the fans. He didn't wear a letter on his sweater but he didn't need to. He always commanded the respect of the entire roster and he'll be greatly missed. The Pens stated that they would like Duper to remain with the club in some capacity.
From the time he came to the Pens from Atlanta in the Marion Hossa-deal, Duper was one of us. He was a blue-collar, hard-working kind of grinder who wore his heart on his sleeve. We'll miss you, Duper. Here's to your health.
PIRATES
Yesterday, our Pirates, finally, made move at MLB's winter meetings. Only, it wasn't the move that the fans wanted, even if everyone did expect it. As the Buccos have threatened to do for quite some time now, they ran the Homeboy, 2B Neil Walker, out of town. The Pirates never made much of an attempt to keep the Real Deal, no matter how well he played. What did the Bucs get back? The Mets sent them LH Jon Niese, a career .500 pitcher. They're trying to spin him as this year's JA Happ. Hopefully he will be. But it won't be the same.
We all loved Neil Walker. It was the classic story of hometown boy does good. Drafted the in 1st round of the 2004 draft as a catcher from Pine-Richland, Neil worked his way up the ladder in the Pirates organization. They moved him to 3B. He busted his butt. They, finally, promoted him to the Show in 2009, moving him to 2B. He busted his butt. He broke records, won awards and always gave his all.
For some reason, the Pirates were never that interested in retaining his services. They screwed him to the wall every chance they got. Yes, it's a business but it seemed like Neal Huntington and his minions made this one personal.
We'll miss you, Neil. Thank you for all that you've done for the Pittsburgh Baseball Club and the City of Pittsburgh. You did right by us fans. Enjoy your stay in New York. Best to you in your endeavors as long as your business doesn't conflict with our business.
/
STEELERS
In Sunday night's win over Indy, return man Jacoby Jones fumbled away his job. It wasn't the first time Jones has fumbled a return in his brief tenure with our Steelers but it looks like it's his last. Although he hasn't yet been released, Coach Mike Tomlin said that Jones "is done" on returns. Who will replace the butterfingered one? It looks like emerging WR Markus Wheaton will return kicks and All-World WR Antonio Brown will be the return man on punts. AB returned (pun always intended) to this role in style, taking one to the house late in the Indy game.
But is this really the best move for the Black-N-Gold? No, Mrs. Black-N-Gold doesn't want to see Jones back there. Ever. At this point she's almost willing to welcome Dri Archer back to the fold. Almost. Why not put WR Darrius Heyward-Bey back there? Or how about RB Jordan Todman? Mrs. Black-N-Gold heard on the radio the other day that Todman was a return man at UConn.
Yes, AB won AFC Special Teams Player of the Week for his 71-yard return Sunday night. Congrats on that. But do the Steelers really need to lose their best receiver if he gets hurt on a return? Sure he can light a fire with a big return late in a game but is it worth the risk? And Wheaton seems to be catching (again, punny) on, of late. Does Tomlin really want to roll the dice and gamble with both men's health?
PENGUINS
In the midst of a 2-game losing streak on a road trip out west, our Pens received some news that might not have been shocking but was sad nonetheless. F Pascal Dupuis announced that he is stepping away from the game due to the blood clot condition that cut his season short last year. Recent health scares related to this issue led Duper to make this announcement.
He may not have been a superstar, not like a Sidney Crosby or an Evgeni Malkin. But he was to everyone in the Pens locker room, the Pens organization and the fans. He didn't wear a letter on his sweater but he didn't need to. He always commanded the respect of the entire roster and he'll be greatly missed. The Pens stated that they would like Duper to remain with the club in some capacity.
From the time he came to the Pens from Atlanta in the Marion Hossa-deal, Duper was one of us. He was a blue-collar, hard-working kind of grinder who wore his heart on his sleeve. We'll miss you, Duper. Here's to your health.
PIRATES
Yesterday, our Pirates, finally, made move at MLB's winter meetings. Only, it wasn't the move that the fans wanted, even if everyone did expect it. As the Buccos have threatened to do for quite some time now, they ran the Homeboy, 2B Neil Walker, out of town. The Pirates never made much of an attempt to keep the Real Deal, no matter how well he played. What did the Bucs get back? The Mets sent them LH Jon Niese, a career .500 pitcher. They're trying to spin him as this year's JA Happ. Hopefully he will be. But it won't be the same.
We all loved Neil Walker. It was the classic story of hometown boy does good. Drafted the in 1st round of the 2004 draft as a catcher from Pine-Richland, Neil worked his way up the ladder in the Pirates organization. They moved him to 3B. He busted his butt. They, finally, promoted him to the Show in 2009, moving him to 2B. He busted his butt. He broke records, won awards and always gave his all.
For some reason, the Pirates were never that interested in retaining his services. They screwed him to the wall every chance they got. Yes, it's a business but it seemed like Neal Huntington and his minions made this one personal.
We'll miss you, Neil. Thank you for all that you've done for the Pittsburgh Baseball Club and the City of Pittsburgh. You did right by us fans. Enjoy your stay in New York. Best to you in your endeavors as long as your business doesn't conflict with our business.
/
Wednesday, December 9, 2015
SLAP SHOTS
How much friend chicken can you it when it's a great day for hockey? Our Pittsburgh Penguins close out their road trip tonight in Colorado when they faceoff against the Avalanche. These are your keys for tonight's game. 1)Following Sunday's 2-1 defeat at Anaheim, the Pens have lost 2 straight. #3 would not be great! 2)The Pens need to find the net and find the win column. Give Colorado an avalanche of Goals, Goals, Goals! 3)In case you haven't heard, F Pascal Dupuis has announced that he will no longer play hockey due to his blood clot condition. It is with a heavy heart that we say "So long, Duper" but he is expected to stay with the team in some capacity. Win it for Duper! Let's Go Pens!!!
Tuesday, December 8, 2015
THE 50-YARD LINE
We have a winner! Not only did our Pittsburgh Steelers find the win column on Sunday Night Football against the Indy Dolts. They also found the end zone. Several times. Yes, the offense and defense both looked stellar on their way to a 45-10 thumping of the Dolts. Now that Mrs. Black-N-Gold has gotten a good night's sleep (she was way too amped Sunday night to get any), she's ready and more than willing to give you The Good, The Bad and The Ugly from Sunday's victory.
GOOD
It wasn't all good on Sunday night but most of it was. The offense continued to click on all cylinders. QB Ben Roethlisberger was 24 for 39 for 364 yards with 4 TDs and 0 interceptions. WR Martavis Bryant continues to blossom. He hauled in 4 passes for 114 yards and 1 TD. The offensive line only gave up 1 sack but it was negated by a penalty.
The defense put last week's debacle in Seattle in the rear view mirror. They held Indy to just 10 points, allowed only 2 of 10 3rd down conversions, recorded 5 sacks, 2 interceptions and a fumble recovery. LB James Harrison found the fountain of youth with 3 sacks and 2 TFLs. Little-used CB Brandon Boykin showed why he should be in the lineup, picking off his first INT of the season.
But Mrs. Black-N-Gold is going to give "The Good" to RB De Angelo Williams. The 32-year old came to the Steelers as a free agent pick up in the offseason with a tag as injury-prone. He's been anything but, picking up the workload for the suspended, then injured L Bell. The O-Line gets credit, too, clearing the way for DWill on 26 rushes for 134 yards. This guy is a great teammate, a great citizen and a great pick up for our Steelers.
BAD
This week, Mrs. Black-N-Gold is going to switch things up a bit. Usually "The Bad" is something awful that occurred during the game, be it a play, a penalty or some other type of boner by The Black-N-Gold. Not this week. To paraphrase those great American poets Run-DMC, this week it's not "bad meaning bad, but bad meaning good" Actually, it's "great". WR Antonio Brown is, hands-down, the best WR in the friggin' world. Yes, he was relatively quite vs Richard Sherman in Seattle. This week AB was his usual badda$$ self. He caught 8 passes for 118 yards and 2 touchdowns. And filling in on punt return for the ineffective and soon-to-be unemployed Jacoby Jones, AB took one 71 yards to the house. To top it off he celebrated by dry-humping the goalpost. Not the most mature of moves, to be sure, especially when it was flagged 15 yards. But when that happens late in a game on the way to a 45-10 win, Mrs. Black-N-Gold is able to laugh and look the other way. What can't Brown do for you?
UGLY
It's time to pile on the not-so-special teams and most certainly the aforementioned, better-update-his-resume Jones. At one point in his career, Jones was one of the premier return men in the game. Not any more. You can't return something that you can't hold onto. His fumble on the opening kickoff could have cost the Steelers dearly. And just for good measure, he nearly tried to give it away again on a muffed punt return. This isn't the first time this has occurred but let it be the last. Mrs. Black-N-Gold never thought she'd type these words but maybe it's time to call Dri Archer again. Apart from K Chris Boswell (Boz is boss!), the special teams suck. There's really no other way to put it. They continuously give up way too much field position on returns. A prime example was a 60-yard kickoff return by Indy. The special teams needs to hold up their end of the bargain. The offense and defense can't do it all. If they don't, it could get very, very ugly.
Sunday's win helps put the Steelers back in the playoff picture but nothing is etched in stone. Next week, they're on the road to Cincy to exact some revenge for the loss earlier in the season. Cincy has run away with the AFC North and stands at 10-2 with Sunday's win over the Clowns. The Baltimorons fell to 4-8 with their latest loss. And speaking of the Clowns, they're bringing up their rear with their loss to fall to 2-10. Time to keep stacking wins and improve on that playoff position. Let's Go Steelers!!!!!!
GOOD
It wasn't all good on Sunday night but most of it was. The offense continued to click on all cylinders. QB Ben Roethlisberger was 24 for 39 for 364 yards with 4 TDs and 0 interceptions. WR Martavis Bryant continues to blossom. He hauled in 4 passes for 114 yards and 1 TD. The offensive line only gave up 1 sack but it was negated by a penalty.
The defense put last week's debacle in Seattle in the rear view mirror. They held Indy to just 10 points, allowed only 2 of 10 3rd down conversions, recorded 5 sacks, 2 interceptions and a fumble recovery. LB James Harrison found the fountain of youth with 3 sacks and 2 TFLs. Little-used CB Brandon Boykin showed why he should be in the lineup, picking off his first INT of the season.
But Mrs. Black-N-Gold is going to give "The Good" to RB De Angelo Williams. The 32-year old came to the Steelers as a free agent pick up in the offseason with a tag as injury-prone. He's been anything but, picking up the workload for the suspended, then injured L Bell. The O-Line gets credit, too, clearing the way for DWill on 26 rushes for 134 yards. This guy is a great teammate, a great citizen and a great pick up for our Steelers.
BAD
This week, Mrs. Black-N-Gold is going to switch things up a bit. Usually "The Bad" is something awful that occurred during the game, be it a play, a penalty or some other type of boner by The Black-N-Gold. Not this week. To paraphrase those great American poets Run-DMC, this week it's not "bad meaning bad, but bad meaning good" Actually, it's "great". WR Antonio Brown is, hands-down, the best WR in the friggin' world. Yes, he was relatively quite vs Richard Sherman in Seattle. This week AB was his usual badda$$ self. He caught 8 passes for 118 yards and 2 touchdowns. And filling in on punt return for the ineffective and soon-to-be unemployed Jacoby Jones, AB took one 71 yards to the house. To top it off he celebrated by dry-humping the goalpost. Not the most mature of moves, to be sure, especially when it was flagged 15 yards. But when that happens late in a game on the way to a 45-10 win, Mrs. Black-N-Gold is able to laugh and look the other way. What can't Brown do for you?
UGLY
It's time to pile on the not-so-special teams and most certainly the aforementioned, better-update-his-resume Jones. At one point in his career, Jones was one of the premier return men in the game. Not any more. You can't return something that you can't hold onto. His fumble on the opening kickoff could have cost the Steelers dearly. And just for good measure, he nearly tried to give it away again on a muffed punt return. This isn't the first time this has occurred but let it be the last. Mrs. Black-N-Gold never thought she'd type these words but maybe it's time to call Dri Archer again. Apart from K Chris Boswell (Boz is boss!), the special teams suck. There's really no other way to put it. They continuously give up way too much field position on returns. A prime example was a 60-yard kickoff return by Indy. The special teams needs to hold up their end of the bargain. The offense and defense can't do it all. If they don't, it could get very, very ugly.
Sunday's win helps put the Steelers back in the playoff picture but nothing is etched in stone. Next week, they're on the road to Cincy to exact some revenge for the loss earlier in the season. Cincy has run away with the AFC North and stands at 10-2 with Sunday's win over the Clowns. The Baltimorons fell to 4-8 with their latest loss. And speaking of the Clowns, they're bringing up their rear with their loss to fall to 2-10. Time to keep stacking wins and improve on that playoff position. Let's Go Steelers!!!!!!
Monday, December 7, 2015
THE BLACK-N-GOLD NEWS
What's the news across Black-N-Gold Nation? Mrs. Black-N-Gold has the information, the latest on our Steelers, Pens and Pirates. She has for you The Black-N-Gold News.
THE BLACK-N-GOLD NEWS
STEELERS
Congrats to DE Cam Heyward. The Man was named the team's nominee for the Walter Payton Man of the Year Award. A great player and a great person, too. What a wonderful combination.
Doctors cleared both QB Ben Roethlisberger and LB Ryan Shazier to practice and participate in last night's game vs. Indy. Both players were in the NFL's concussion protocol due to injuries sustained last week in Seattle.
Congrats also to WR Antonio Brown. AB was honored as the AFC Offensive Player of the Month for November. AB is a BA!
Our Steelers squared off against the AFC South-leading Indy Dolts last night on Sunday Night Football from Heinz Field. The Steelers were looking to get back in the win column and back in the playoff hunt. The Steelers lit up the night under the lights with a 45-10 win over Indy.
Next Sunday they'll continue to fight for their playoff lives. They travel to Cincy to face the AFC North leaders. It will be a chance to exact some revenge on the loss they suffered earlier in the season. Keep finding the win column. Let's Go Steelers!!!!!!
PENGUINS
On Tuesday night, our Penguins began a road trip that took them way out west. The started off on the right foot with 5-1 win over San Jose. That was their first win in San Jose since 1997.
The Pens were off until Saturday night when they suffered a 5-3 loss to the LA Kings. That was not the only loss they suffered. D Kris Letang was out of the lineup vs both LA and Anaheim with an undisclosed injury. The Pens did welcome back D Olli Maatta to the ice. Olli saw his first action since suffering an injury against Minnesota a few weeks back.
The Pens looked to get back in the win column last night at Anaheim. But it wasn't meant to be. The Pens dropped their 2nd straight, 2-1.
They'll continue their road show on Wednesday night when they travel to Colorado. Get back in that win column. Let's Go Pens!!!
PIRATES
Our Pirates cut ties with much-maligned 1B Pedro Alvarez when they did not tender him an offer for salary arbitration. It would have been Petey's final year of arbitration eligibility. He now becomes a free agent. The Pirates also did not tender OF Jaff Decker.
Today the winter meetings get under way in Nashville. Hopefully Neal Huntington will come home with a 1B, a starting pitcher, relief help or any combo of the 3 that can help get the Bucs to the World Series in 2016. Let's Go Bucs!!!!!
THE BLACK-N-GOLD NEWS
STEELERS
Congrats to DE Cam Heyward. The Man was named the team's nominee for the Walter Payton Man of the Year Award. A great player and a great person, too. What a wonderful combination.
Doctors cleared both QB Ben Roethlisberger and LB Ryan Shazier to practice and participate in last night's game vs. Indy. Both players were in the NFL's concussion protocol due to injuries sustained last week in Seattle.
Congrats also to WR Antonio Brown. AB was honored as the AFC Offensive Player of the Month for November. AB is a BA!
Our Steelers squared off against the AFC South-leading Indy Dolts last night on Sunday Night Football from Heinz Field. The Steelers were looking to get back in the win column and back in the playoff hunt. The Steelers lit up the night under the lights with a 45-10 win over Indy.
Next Sunday they'll continue to fight for their playoff lives. They travel to Cincy to face the AFC North leaders. It will be a chance to exact some revenge on the loss they suffered earlier in the season. Keep finding the win column. Let's Go Steelers!!!!!!
PENGUINS
On Tuesday night, our Penguins began a road trip that took them way out west. The started off on the right foot with 5-1 win over San Jose. That was their first win in San Jose since 1997.
The Pens were off until Saturday night when they suffered a 5-3 loss to the LA Kings. That was not the only loss they suffered. D Kris Letang was out of the lineup vs both LA and Anaheim with an undisclosed injury. The Pens did welcome back D Olli Maatta to the ice. Olli saw his first action since suffering an injury against Minnesota a few weeks back.
The Pens looked to get back in the win column last night at Anaheim. But it wasn't meant to be. The Pens dropped their 2nd straight, 2-1.
They'll continue their road show on Wednesday night when they travel to Colorado. Get back in that win column. Let's Go Pens!!!
PIRATES
Our Pirates cut ties with much-maligned 1B Pedro Alvarez when they did not tender him an offer for salary arbitration. It would have been Petey's final year of arbitration eligibility. He now becomes a free agent. The Pirates also did not tender OF Jaff Decker.
Today the winter meetings get under way in Nashville. Hopefully Neal Huntington will come home with a 1B, a starting pitcher, relief help or any combo of the 3 that can help get the Bucs to the World Series in 2016. Let's Go Bucs!!!!!
Sunday, December 6, 2015
THE 50-YARD LINE
Chew tobacco, chew tobacco, spit, spit, spit! Holy pigskins and pucks! Our Pittsburgh Steelers return to the home turf of Heinz Field for Sunday Night Football and look to get back in the win column and the playoff picture versus the Indy Dolts. These are your keys for tonight's game. 1)Indy QB Matt Hasselbeck has guided the Dolts to a 4-0 run in place of injured starter Andrew Luck. Hit him early, hit him often, hit him HARD! 2)Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger is expected back in the lineup following last week's concussion (?) scare. Good thing. In a matchup with Indy last season, Ben completed 40 of 49 passes for 522 yards and 6 TDs as the offense put 51 points on the board on the way to a win. Score early, score often, score BIG! 3)Mrs. Black-N-Gold feels the need to remind the Steelers defense, especially the secondary, that the opponent is given more than 2 downs per possession. After allowing Seattle to convert 7 of 13 3rd downs, maybe the Steelers forgot this. Get off the field on 3rd down! Let's Go Steelers!!!!!!
SLAP SHOTS
Welcome to the Hotel California. It's a great day for hockey and pucks and pigskins! Our Pittsburgh Penguins finish up the California-leg of their road trip tonight when they faceoff against the Anaheim Ducks. These are your keys for tonight's game. 1)The Pens are looking for the win column following yesterday's 5-3 loss to the Kings. Gimme a W! 2)The Pens have beaten the Ducks 4 straight. #5 would be great! 3)The Pens have lost 4 of their last 5 road games. In yesterday's contest they were outshot 37-20. Go from road weary to Road Warriors with Goals, Goals, Goals! Let's Go Pens!!!
Saturday, December 5, 2015
SLAP SHOTS
Hallelujah Hollywood, it's a great day for hockey! Our Pittsburgh Penguins continue their road show today when they faceoff against the Kings in Los Angeles. These are your keys for today's game. 1)The Pens sank the San Jose Sharks 5-1 on Tuesday to start the road trip. It was the first time this season they've put 5 on the net. Keep the Goals, Goals, Goals coming! 2)The Pens have also scored power play goals in 7 straight games. Take advantage of the man-advantage! 3)In his last 7 games, C Evgeni Malkin has 8 goals and 13 points. Go, Go, Geno! Let's Go Pens!!!
Friday, December 4, 2015
THE BULLPEN
Well, Black-N-Gold fans, our Buccos cut the cord on Wednesday night with slugger Pedro Alvarez by non-tendering him a contract. This sets El Toro up as a free agent. Free to go and play for whatever team he chooses. If any team will have him. According to Pirates GM Neal Huntington, the Bucs tried to trade Pedro leading up to the tender deadline and received nary an offer. Could it be that no team has use for a man who once led the NL with 36 home runs? Or is it that no team wants a player who led Major League 1B last season with 23 errors? Today, Mrs. Black-N-Gold takes a look at the Black-N-Gold career of one, Pedro Alvarez.
THE PUZZLING PARADIGM OF PEDRO
Pedro Alvarez. One of the most polarizing sports figures to ever wear the Black-N-Gold. Day and night. Black and white. Love and hate. Especially love and hate. Fans loved El Toro or they hated him. Or they loved to hate him. They would love it when he'd launch a cannonball into the Allegheny. They'd hate it when he'd launch a throw from third into the third row behind first base. They'd love his tremendous power and potential. They'd hate what they perceived as apathy and aloofness.
Pedro's career in the Black-N-Gold began awash in controversy from the beginning. After the Buccos drafted him #2 overall in the 2008 MLB Amateur Draft, it appeared that they managed to sign him at the 11th hour before the signing deadline had passed. Not so said Super Agent Scott Boras. Thus began The Puzzling Paradigm of Pedro. Following a grievance filed by the Players Association, agent and team reached a deal. Pedro's career would be delayed due to the process getting under way the following season.
Pedro's stay in Pittsburgh was a veritable emotional rollercoaster. From strikeouts to grand salamis we had it all. He refused to play winter ball. Yet he was the Pirates best player in the 2013 NL Division Series versus St. Louie. He lost his ability to throw the ball across the diamond from third base. He could hit the ball a country mile. He chose not to attend voluntary workouts to help him acclimate to the switch to first base.
Through it all, Pedro's demeanor remained, pretty much, the same. He could go 0-for-4 with 3 strikeouts. He could hit a solo homer in the 7th. He'd give you the lead with a tape-measure tater in one inning and make a 2-run error the next. Pedro was always Pedro. He'd rarely speak to the media, win or lose. Some say he has a disorder of some kind. In Mrs. Black-N-Gold's day it was considered being introverted or shy.
Pedro Alvarez. All-Star. Silver Slugger. Home run champ. Clumsy. Error-prone. Bull in a china shop. Say what you will. Mrs. Black-N-Gold will miss his 27 home runs. What she won't miss are the 23 errors.
Since the Pirates didn't want to pay Pedro's projected $8 million salary, maybe they'll settle for a smaller version of Pedro for half the price. Where is that Mini-Pedro kid when you need him? Let's Go Bucs!!!!!
THE PUZZLING PARADIGM OF PEDRO
Pedro Alvarez. One of the most polarizing sports figures to ever wear the Black-N-Gold. Day and night. Black and white. Love and hate. Especially love and hate. Fans loved El Toro or they hated him. Or they loved to hate him. They would love it when he'd launch a cannonball into the Allegheny. They'd hate it when he'd launch a throw from third into the third row behind first base. They'd love his tremendous power and potential. They'd hate what they perceived as apathy and aloofness.
Pedro's career in the Black-N-Gold began awash in controversy from the beginning. After the Buccos drafted him #2 overall in the 2008 MLB Amateur Draft, it appeared that they managed to sign him at the 11th hour before the signing deadline had passed. Not so said Super Agent Scott Boras. Thus began The Puzzling Paradigm of Pedro. Following a grievance filed by the Players Association, agent and team reached a deal. Pedro's career would be delayed due to the process getting under way the following season.
Pedro's stay in Pittsburgh was a veritable emotional rollercoaster. From strikeouts to grand salamis we had it all. He refused to play winter ball. Yet he was the Pirates best player in the 2013 NL Division Series versus St. Louie. He lost his ability to throw the ball across the diamond from third base. He could hit the ball a country mile. He chose not to attend voluntary workouts to help him acclimate to the switch to first base.
Through it all, Pedro's demeanor remained, pretty much, the same. He could go 0-for-4 with 3 strikeouts. He could hit a solo homer in the 7th. He'd give you the lead with a tape-measure tater in one inning and make a 2-run error the next. Pedro was always Pedro. He'd rarely speak to the media, win or lose. Some say he has a disorder of some kind. In Mrs. Black-N-Gold's day it was considered being introverted or shy.
Pedro Alvarez. All-Star. Silver Slugger. Home run champ. Clumsy. Error-prone. Bull in a china shop. Say what you will. Mrs. Black-N-Gold will miss his 27 home runs. What she won't miss are the 23 errors.
Since the Pirates didn't want to pay Pedro's projected $8 million salary, maybe they'll settle for a smaller version of Pedro for half the price. Where is that Mini-Pedro kid when you need him? Let's Go Bucs!!!!!
Thursday, December 3, 2015
TAKEAWAYS
Today Mrs. Black-N-Gold gives you her Takeaways, her look at the hot topics surrounding our Steelers, Pens and Pirates. These are you subjects that are on the minds of all of Black-N-Gold Nation. See what Mrs. Black-N-Gold thinks and see if you agree. ]
STEELERS
This past Sunday, our Steelers managed to snatch defeat from the hands of victory again. Really, if you think about it, of the Steelers 5 losses, at least 4 of them were games they should have won (Cincy, KC, Baltimorons and now, Seattle). Who knows? If they had good secondary, they may have even shut down New England in the first game. A good secondary. That's not a phrase that you hear around these parts lately. Unless someone is saying "boy, I wish we had a good secondary." And it's just getting worse. The Steelers passing defense has been passive at best. In their last 3 games, they've allowed QBs to put up over 300 yards passing per game. They've also surrendered 10 touchdowns in the span. The play of CBs Antwon Blake and Ross Cockrell has been especially horrendous. Which begs the question that is on all of Black-N-Gold Nation's lips: "Where is Brandon Boykin?". It's not like Boykin is the second coming of Darrelle Revise. At least you don't think so. How could anyone know. He's barely seen the field since they traded a draft pick for him back in August (except on special teams). The Steelers tried using the excuse that because Boykin was obtained late in preseason, he needed time to get acclimated to the defense. Well, guess what? Cockrell was picked up on waivers at the beginning of September and he's on the field. At his weekly press conference, Coach Tomlin implied that a change may be coming in the secondary. Hopefully that change is to the cornerback position. Maybe rookie CB Doran Grant may even get some playing time. But come Sunday night against Indy, we'll see if Boykin has worked his way out of Tomlin's doghouse and into the lineup. Let's Go Steelers!!!!!!
PENGUINS
Mrs. Black-N-Gold has always heard that Pens C Sidney Crosby is the consumate professional. As the Captain he's always expected to conduct himself in the most businesslike fashion. However, Sid has been mired in a slump that stems back to last season. Of course there were rumors that he dictates where he is positioned on the power play. There has also been word that Sid wants specific players to play on the top line with him. This week, Sid got his wish. Head Coach Mike Johnston has returned both Pascal Dupuis and now, Chris Kunitz to play alongside Sid on the top line. Mrs. Black-N-Gold can't help but wonder, was Sid's slump really just a ruse all along, intended to get Duper and Kuni back on his line? Will the fans and the media harp on this subject if Sid's continues to play down to his abilities? Mrs. Black-N-Gold doesn't want to see this come to a head. She wants Sid to get on the stick and return to his form as the Best Player in the NHL. Let's Go Pens!!!
PIRATES
Our Pirates have made nary a ripple in the free agent pool, thus far. That's really no big deal considering the GM meetings in Nashville don't begin until next week. Some big ticket pitchers have already been taken off the market in Jordan Zimmerman and David Price. We can't forget the Bucs were losers in the JA Happ sweepstakes, either. How many of you really expected the Bucs to be in on the bidding for Zimmerman and/or Price. Not to mention Grienke, Cueto, Chris Davis, etc. But fans did hope they were able to bring back Happ. Conventional wisdom says the Blue Jays overpaid for the lefty. When is the last time you heard anyone accuse the Pirates of overspending? It was probably a few years ago when they brought C Russell Martin into the fold. Since then? Nothing. Zero. Zilch. It is completely Buccos owner Bob Nutting's right not to spend copious amounts of cash on players. It's a free country. He may do with his/our money as he sees fit. And that's the point. Mrs. Black-N-Gold certainly tries to look at things through Black-N-Gold colored glasses but to think, no, EXPECT the Pirates to break the bank in free agency or even on their own players is just not realistic. They never have. They never will. It's sad but true. These fans that demand the Pirates to go out and bring in Davis to play 1B or expect the Pirates to land a big fish like Price are just living a pipe dream (better lay off that pipe!). Mrs. Black-N-Gold would love nothing more than to see the Pirates when a playoff series, a divsion title, and especially a World Series before she leaves this earth. It's not going to happen with Bottom Dollar Bob. And he's duped Andrew McCutchen, Starling Marte, Josh Harrison and Francisco Liriano into believing he wants to win. That's why the Bucs were able to low-ball these players into long-term contracts. Not so with Neil Walker. Not so with Gerrit Cole. And they're scared to break the glass on their farm system because they don't want the arbitration clock to start with those players, either. It's a sad fact of life. The sooner we all realize this and just enjoy the ride, the better off we'll all be. If the Pirates should win a World Series in the process, we'll be all the more happier. Happy Hot Stove! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!
STEELERS
This past Sunday, our Steelers managed to snatch defeat from the hands of victory again. Really, if you think about it, of the Steelers 5 losses, at least 4 of them were games they should have won (Cincy, KC, Baltimorons and now, Seattle). Who knows? If they had good secondary, they may have even shut down New England in the first game. A good secondary. That's not a phrase that you hear around these parts lately. Unless someone is saying "boy, I wish we had a good secondary." And it's just getting worse. The Steelers passing defense has been passive at best. In their last 3 games, they've allowed QBs to put up over 300 yards passing per game. They've also surrendered 10 touchdowns in the span. The play of CBs Antwon Blake and Ross Cockrell has been especially horrendous. Which begs the question that is on all of Black-N-Gold Nation's lips: "Where is Brandon Boykin?". It's not like Boykin is the second coming of Darrelle Revise. At least you don't think so. How could anyone know. He's barely seen the field since they traded a draft pick for him back in August (except on special teams). The Steelers tried using the excuse that because Boykin was obtained late in preseason, he needed time to get acclimated to the defense. Well, guess what? Cockrell was picked up on waivers at the beginning of September and he's on the field. At his weekly press conference, Coach Tomlin implied that a change may be coming in the secondary. Hopefully that change is to the cornerback position. Maybe rookie CB Doran Grant may even get some playing time. But come Sunday night against Indy, we'll see if Boykin has worked his way out of Tomlin's doghouse and into the lineup. Let's Go Steelers!!!!!!
PENGUINS
Mrs. Black-N-Gold has always heard that Pens C Sidney Crosby is the consumate professional. As the Captain he's always expected to conduct himself in the most businesslike fashion. However, Sid has been mired in a slump that stems back to last season. Of course there were rumors that he dictates where he is positioned on the power play. There has also been word that Sid wants specific players to play on the top line with him. This week, Sid got his wish. Head Coach Mike Johnston has returned both Pascal Dupuis and now, Chris Kunitz to play alongside Sid on the top line. Mrs. Black-N-Gold can't help but wonder, was Sid's slump really just a ruse all along, intended to get Duper and Kuni back on his line? Will the fans and the media harp on this subject if Sid's continues to play down to his abilities? Mrs. Black-N-Gold doesn't want to see this come to a head. She wants Sid to get on the stick and return to his form as the Best Player in the NHL. Let's Go Pens!!!
PIRATES
Our Pirates have made nary a ripple in the free agent pool, thus far. That's really no big deal considering the GM meetings in Nashville don't begin until next week. Some big ticket pitchers have already been taken off the market in Jordan Zimmerman and David Price. We can't forget the Bucs were losers in the JA Happ sweepstakes, either. How many of you really expected the Bucs to be in on the bidding for Zimmerman and/or Price. Not to mention Grienke, Cueto, Chris Davis, etc. But fans did hope they were able to bring back Happ. Conventional wisdom says the Blue Jays overpaid for the lefty. When is the last time you heard anyone accuse the Pirates of overspending? It was probably a few years ago when they brought C Russell Martin into the fold. Since then? Nothing. Zero. Zilch. It is completely Buccos owner Bob Nutting's right not to spend copious amounts of cash on players. It's a free country. He may do with his/our money as he sees fit. And that's the point. Mrs. Black-N-Gold certainly tries to look at things through Black-N-Gold colored glasses but to think, no, EXPECT the Pirates to break the bank in free agency or even on their own players is just not realistic. They never have. They never will. It's sad but true. These fans that demand the Pirates to go out and bring in Davis to play 1B or expect the Pirates to land a big fish like Price are just living a pipe dream (better lay off that pipe!). Mrs. Black-N-Gold would love nothing more than to see the Pirates when a playoff series, a divsion title, and especially a World Series before she leaves this earth. It's not going to happen with Bottom Dollar Bob. And he's duped Andrew McCutchen, Starling Marte, Josh Harrison and Francisco Liriano into believing he wants to win. That's why the Bucs were able to low-ball these players into long-term contracts. Not so with Neil Walker. Not so with Gerrit Cole. And they're scared to break the glass on their farm system because they don't want the arbitration clock to start with those players, either. It's a sad fact of life. The sooner we all realize this and just enjoy the ride, the better off we'll all be. If the Pirates should win a World Series in the process, we'll be all the more happier. Happy Hot Stove! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!
Wednesday, December 2, 2015
THE BLACK-N-GOLD NEWS
Start spreading the news! Yes, it was a bit of a rough week for our favorite Black-N-Gold teams, the Steelers, Pens and Pirates. But Mrs. Black-N-Gold remains ever-faithful, forever bleeding Black-N-Gold. Did you miss some of the action? Do you need to get caught up? Mrs. Black-N-Gold has just the thing for you: The Black-N-Gold News.
THE BLACK-N-GOLD NEWS
STEELERS
Our Steelers started out the week with some good news when it was announced that G Alan Faneca and LB Kevin Greene were named semi-finalists for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Best of luck to both. Hope to see you inducted into Canton in 2016.
A roster move was made this week when the team cut RB Isaiah Pead and promoted RB Fitzgerald Toussaint from the practice squad.
The Steelers returned to the field on Sunday in Seattle to battle the NFC Champion Seahawks. The Black-N-Gold came up short in the back-and-forth game, losing 39-30. To add insult to injury, QB Ben Roethlisberger left late in the 4th quarter due to concussion-like symptoms. Ben and LB Ryan Shazier (who left earlier in the contest) are no undergoing the NFL's "concussion protocol" to determine the extent of their injuries. Speaking of injuries, TE Heath Miller also left the game Sunday with a rib injury.
The Steelers are now on the outside looking in as a far as the playoff picture goes. They'll try to claw their way back in this Sunday night when they face the Indy Colts at Heinz Field. Let's Go Steelers!!!!!!
PENGUINS
Our Pens edged the Blues 4-3 in OT on Thanksgiving eve. They weren't so lucky the rest of the weekend. On Friday they lost 2-1 to Columbus in overtime. C Sidney Crosby was crosschecked to the back of the head by longtime nemisis and jagoff Brandon Dubinsky. Dubinsky was given a slap on the wrist by the NHL with only a 1-game suspension. On Saturday night the Pens suffered a shootout loss to Edmonton, 3-2. The Pens began a west cost swing last night on a winning note. They sunk the San Jose Sharks 5-1. They'll return to the ice this weekend when they play LA and Anaheim of Saturday and Sunday (programmer's note: work those thumb muscles for that remote Pens and Steelers both play Sunday night). Let's Go Pens!!!
PIRATES
Our Pirates did some roster shuffling. They obtained RH Allen Webster from Arizona for cash considerations. They also signed former Padres 1B/OF Jake Goebbert and added him to the 40-man roster. The Pirates lost out in the JA Happ sweepstakes. The lefthander returned to the Toronto Blue Jays on a 3-year $36 million deal.
Still, the Bucs were named by Baseball America as the 2015 Organization of the Year. Congrats to the Pirates Baseball Club. Celebrate this distinction by winning a World Series in 2016. Let's Go Bucs!!!!!
THE BLACK-N-GOLD NEWS
STEELERS
Our Steelers started out the week with some good news when it was announced that G Alan Faneca and LB Kevin Greene were named semi-finalists for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Best of luck to both. Hope to see you inducted into Canton in 2016.
A roster move was made this week when the team cut RB Isaiah Pead and promoted RB Fitzgerald Toussaint from the practice squad.
The Steelers returned to the field on Sunday in Seattle to battle the NFC Champion Seahawks. The Black-N-Gold came up short in the back-and-forth game, losing 39-30. To add insult to injury, QB Ben Roethlisberger left late in the 4th quarter due to concussion-like symptoms. Ben and LB Ryan Shazier (who left earlier in the contest) are no undergoing the NFL's "concussion protocol" to determine the extent of their injuries. Speaking of injuries, TE Heath Miller also left the game Sunday with a rib injury.
The Steelers are now on the outside looking in as a far as the playoff picture goes. They'll try to claw their way back in this Sunday night when they face the Indy Colts at Heinz Field. Let's Go Steelers!!!!!!
PENGUINS
Our Pens edged the Blues 4-3 in OT on Thanksgiving eve. They weren't so lucky the rest of the weekend. On Friday they lost 2-1 to Columbus in overtime. C Sidney Crosby was crosschecked to the back of the head by longtime nemisis and jagoff Brandon Dubinsky. Dubinsky was given a slap on the wrist by the NHL with only a 1-game suspension. On Saturday night the Pens suffered a shootout loss to Edmonton, 3-2. The Pens began a west cost swing last night on a winning note. They sunk the San Jose Sharks 5-1. They'll return to the ice this weekend when they play LA and Anaheim of Saturday and Sunday (programmer's note: work those thumb muscles for that remote Pens and Steelers both play Sunday night). Let's Go Pens!!!
PIRATES
Our Pirates did some roster shuffling. They obtained RH Allen Webster from Arizona for cash considerations. They also signed former Padres 1B/OF Jake Goebbert and added him to the 40-man roster. The Pirates lost out in the JA Happ sweepstakes. The lefthander returned to the Toronto Blue Jays on a 3-year $36 million deal.
Still, the Bucs were named by Baseball America as the 2015 Organization of the Year. Congrats to the Pirates Baseball Club. Celebrate this distinction by winning a World Series in 2016. Let's Go Bucs!!!!!
Tuesday, December 1, 2015
SLAP SHOTS
Call Arnold Slick from Turtle Crick and tell him it's a great day for hockey! Our Pittsburgh Penguins take their show on the road to the west coast where they open up their road trip tonight in San Jose to faceoff against the Sharks. These are your keys for tonight's game. 1)The Pens have played to OT in 3 straight games, losing the last 2. To add insult to injury, the losses were to NHL bottom-feeders. Get on the stick and get back in the win column! 2)The Pens face someone that has a worse power play percentage than they do. The Pens are 23rd in the league at 16.5%. Believer it or not, San Jose is 24th at a 16.4% clip. Man-up and sink the Sharks! 3)The Pens are a platry 25th in the NHL in goals per game at 2.2. Break out the Goals, Goals, Goals! Let's Go Pens!!!
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