1)The Roethlisberger/Haley Dynamic. Alot of coverage was given in the media last year regarding QB Big Ben Roethlisberger and OC Todd Haley's relationship. "Do they get along or don't they?" "Will they be friends or won't they?" The thing is, the media and fans also made a big deal out of the friendship that Ben had with his former OC, Bruce Arians. There was also much harping on the "dink and dunk" offense. I think the dink and dunk was fine and dandy until Ben went down with an injury. He was on his way to one of his best seasons and was mentioned in both Pro Bowl and MVP conversations. Ben had knee surgery in the off-season and is said to be in the best shape of his career. At 31 years old, he's in his prime and is primed for another run at a Super Bowl. Haley has a younger, more physical offensive line to protect his franchise QB. I think as long as these 2 work together, they can have a long, productive working relationship. You don't have to be besties to win championships.
2)Youth. The Steelers have been trying to get younger on both sides of the ball for the past few seasons. It's time some of these youngsters step up and become the next generation of great Steelers. That means keep your head on straight, play the game the way it's supposed to be played and when you make a great play, act like you've been there before.
3)Lack of Depth. If you look at the depth chart, there doesn't seem to be a whole lot there. This is an opportunity for some guys looking to make names for themselves to get noticed. Otherwise, an injury or two to any unit, and it could all fall apart. The Steelers will need alot of good health and good luck to make it back to the Super Bowl unless some unknowns emerge.
4)Turnovers. Turnovers are a two-way street. It's great when your defense creates them. It sucks when your offense creates them. How many times did the Steelers need a big play on either side of the ball, last season, only to see it slip out of a receiver or defensive backs hands? The Steelers need to learn when and when not to turn the ball over.
5)No playmakers. This goes hand-in-hand with the turnovers. The Steelers need players who are going to step up and make the "splash" play as Coach Tomlin likes to call it. There weren't enough of those last season.
6)AFC North Division. Need I remind you that the defending Super Bowl Champion, Baltimorons, play in the Steelers division? Also, the Steelers were on the outside, looking in, last season as the Bungles went to the playoffs, too. Heck, even the lowly Clowns were able to beat the Steelers. Sweep your division and you're assured of the playoffs.
7)Coach Tomlin. Or as I like to call him Coach "Cliche". Tomlin has been called a player's coach. That may work to his disadvantage as he can be too much buddy and not enough coach. Leadership starts at the top. He needs to instill focus, discipline and professionalism in his young charges if the Steelers are to get back to the Promised Land.
Let's Go Steelers!!!!!!
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