50-YARD LINE

     Well, boys and girls, it's time for another Super Bowl prediction from Mrs. Black-N-Gold. Even though our Pittsburgh Steelers aren't in the Big Game, people still want to know Mrs. Black-N-Gold's fearless prediction. Is it New England or Seattle?  Of course Mrs. Black-N-Gold has to weigh all the variables when picking the winner.

Party Favors-No Super Bowl party is complete without them. Easy winner here. New England may have Blount but you can REALLY have a blount in Seattle. Especially since LeGarrette's pot charges in Pittsburgh were just dropped. Nothing beats the real deal.
Advantage-Seattle

Music-Seattle gave us grunge music led by the likes of Nirvana, Mudhoney and Soundgarden. Seattle was also home to the late, great Mother Love Bone. Meanwhile, Boston has blessed us with The Cars, Aerosmith and The J. Geils Band. Boston also brings us the maniacal Dropkick Murphys. They both are home to a couple of anthemic classics. Washington once tried to make "Louie, Louie" the official state song. Mrs. Black-N-Gold loves that "Dirty Water" by the Standells. The magnificent blues singer/guitarist Susan Tedeschi hails from Boston. One of the greatest guitarists ever, Jimi Hendrix was a native of Seattle.
Advantage-Seattle

Caffeine-The Evil Empire Starbucks is based in Seattle. Dunkin' Donuts originated in Massachusetts. Mrs. Black-N-Gold is no fan of coffee. However, she does have a sweet tooth. Time to make the donuts....
Advantage-New England

Television-One of the most celebrated comedies of all time, "Cheers", took place in Boston. Bar owner Sam Malone even once played for the BoSox. The show spawned another hilarious comedy, "Frasier". Sam Malone can kick Frasier Crane's ass any day.
Advantage-New England

     Hmm.....Looks like we have a tie and will have to take it to OT. Get ready for the BIGGEST, BOLDEST prediction. EVER.

     I, Mrs. Black-N-Gold predict that the team that scores the most points, will win the game.

     How's that for a prophesy? Besides, who cares, your Pittsburgh Steelers aren't in it anyway. I'm watching "Puppy Bowl". Let's Go Steelers!!!!!!

      PS-Did you notice how I showed rare restraint and made no mention of Tom Brady's balls?

SLAP SHOTS

     Michael, Michael, motorcycle, it's a great day for hockey! Your Pittsburgh Penguins return to action tonight as they take their show on the road to New Jersery to faceoff against the Devils. These are your keys for tonight's game. 1)The Pens were roughed up in Wednesday's 4-0 loss at Washington. Hopefully, facing a Devils team that is 18-22-8 with 44 points will help light a fire under the lackluster Pens. Score early, score often, score BIG! 2)In their last 9 road games, the Pens are a putrid 4 for 30 on the power play. Take advantage of the man-advantage. Man-up! 3)The Pens have lost 11 of their last 16, averaging a mediocre 2.56 goals per game during that stretch. Fire up the Crue, break out the Goals, Goals, Goals! Let's Go Pens!!!

BLUES N'AT

     Recently Mrs. Black-N-Gold caught a concert of the Doors from the Hollywood Bowl on VH1 Classic. The group was a product of the Sunset Strip scene in Los Angeles. Singer Jim Morrison, keyboardist Ray Manzarek, guitarist Robby Krieger and drummer John Densmore first hooked up back in 1965. While many of their contemporaries were turning on, tuning in and dropping out, the Doors were not part of the hippie phase of the '60s. They didn't perform at Woodstock or even at Monterey. They had many hits to their name including "Light My Fire", "Love Me Two Times" and "LA Woman". But the Doors also carried a blues vibe.

     The Doors have been described as psychedelic rock, acid rock and hard rock but from their 1st album they also opened the doors to the blues. Their self-titled debut album featured the Willie Dixon hit "Back Door Man". The Doors also took a poem from Bertolt Brecht from 1927 and turned it into their own brand of boozy blues, "Alabama Song (Whisky Bar). These songs helped introduce the masses to The Doors and their love of the blues.

     The Doors also brought the blues to their 4th album, "Soft Parade" with "Shaman's Blues" and album #5 "Morrison Hotel" with "Roadhouse Blues" and "Talking Blues", respectively. However, mostly, up to this point, The Doors bag of tricks were typically about soft parades and peace frogs.

     It was on their 6th album that they really brought the blues to LA. "LA Woman" saw Jim Morrison go from "The Lizard King" to "The Crawling Kingsnake". Mrs. Black-N-Gold considers "The Changeling", "Been Down So Long" and "Riders On The Storm" to be about as bluesy as it gets with Manzarek's organ replicating a blues harp without missing a beat. Mr. Mojo Risin's low-down vocals help lift the songs into the far reaches of the blues. Robby Krieger and John Densmore were always underated in Mrs. Black-N-Gold's eyes.

     The Doors were great musicians who could jam in any genre and were led by one of the most enigmatic front men in history. They even performed with the great Albert King, proving they could hang with the best of them. The fact that they brought the Sunset Strip-blues to the masses just makes them that much cooler. Until next time, boys and girls. Keep It Bluesy!

    

SLAP SHOTS

     Call Arnold Slick from Turtle Crick, it's a great day for hockey! Your Pittsburgh Penguins take their show on the road tonight as they travel to the nation's capital to faceoff against the Craps. These are your keys for tonight's game. 1)The Pens are 10-5-5 on the road this season. The Craps home record this year is 12-5-5. Something's got to give. Time for a Black-N-Gold home invasion! 2)LW David Perron found the net in the Pens 5-3 win over Winnipeg. Since coming to Pittsburgh from Edmonton, he's collected six goals and three assists in nine games. Carry on, Perron! 3)Washington has dropped 4 in a row. #5 would not be jive on Rivalry Wednesday. Pack up the Crue and the Goals, Goals, Goals! Let's Go Pens!!

SLAP SHOTS

     I'll be cow-kicked, it's a hockey night in Pittsburgh! Your Pittsburgh Penguins return to action tonight at Consol Energy Center as they faceoff against the Winnipeg Jets. These are your keys for tonight's game. 1)The Pens desperately need to find the win column as they struggled into the All-Star break, going 4-4-3 in their last 10, 4-6-4 in their last 14 and have lost 4 in a row. The Jets have been flying high, going 7-2-1 in their last 10 on the way to winning 5 straight. #6 would not be great. Ground the Jets! 2)As if the Pens injury situation can't get worse, word came that C Evgeni Malkin would be out indefinitely due injury. C Sidney Crosby also missed the All-Star Game due to a lower-body injury. The NHL requires that he miss tonight's game because of his All-Star absence. What kind of ridiculous rule is that? This team needs to pull itself up, strap on the skates and get after it. Score early, score often, score BIG! 3)The Pens are 16-7-3 on home ice this season. Winnipeg is 14-5-5 on the road. The Pens have to take advantage of the home ice advantage and get the home crowd fired up. Crank up the Crue and the Goals, Goals, Goals! Let's Go Pens!!!

BLUES N'AT

     Yesterday marked the birthday of the great Etta James, one of the most remarkable performers to ever grace the stage. Born Jamesetta Hawkins on January 25, 1938 in Los Angeles, Etta could do it all and do it with a style and grace all her own: blues, gospel, jazz, r&b, soul and rock & roll.

     Beginning at the age of 5, young Jamesetta started performing professionally at the St. Paul Baptist Church in LA. After moving to San Francisco as a teen, she began singing doo-woop with girl group the Creolettes. The 14 year old met legendary impresario Johnny Otis who re-named the group the Peaches and gave Jamesetta the stage name "Etta James" as well as getting them a deal with Modern Records. In 1955, their first song, "Dance With Me, Henry" was released and shot to the top of the Hot Rhythm and Blues chart. The group also earned an opening slot on tour with Little Richard.

     In 1960 Etta left the Peaches and Modern Records to sign with the Chess label. Her first solo effort, "All I Could Do Was Cry" reached #2 on the R&B charts. May 1960 saw the hit "My Dearest Darling" chart as high as #5. "At Last", her 1960 debut album for the Chess imprint Argo featured "A Sunday Kind of Love" and "I Just Want to Make Love to You", songs that would go on to become Etta classics. During the next several years, Etta continued to record R&B, soul, jazz and gospel hits.

     Her career eventually began to wane. But Etta came back strong in 1967, recording her hit "Tell Mama" at Fame Studios in Muscle Shoals, AL. The B-side, "I'd Rather Go Blind" became another signature track. During the 1970s Etta continued to tour and record to critical acclaim, opening for the Rolling Stones, earning Grammy nominations, and performing at the world-renowned Montreux Jazz Festival. She ultimately left Chess Records and the recording industry for a time to battle drug and alcohol addictions.

    Etta stepped back into the spotlight with her performance of "Rock & Roll Music" in the 1987 Chuck Berry documentary "Hail! Hail! Rock 'n' Roll". She released her comeback album 1989's "Seven Year Itch" on Island Records. In 1992 she worked with famed producer Jerry Wexler for the Elektra release "The Right Time".

     She was honored with her induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1993. 1993 also saw the release of her Billie Holiday tribute album, "Mystery Lady: Songs of Billie Holiday" which garnered Etta her 1st Grammy Award for 1994 Best Jazz Vocal Performance. In the mid '90s Etta's earlier music began re-entering the charts as many commercials incorporated her music.

    2001 marked Etta's induction to the Blues Hall of Fame. In 2003 the Grammys honored her with a Lifetime Achievement Award. Sadly, an April, 2009 appearance on "Dancing with the Stars" marked Etta's final television appearance. The Blues Foundation named her "Soul/Blues Female Artist of the Year" for the 9th time a month later.

     She ultimately had to retire from touring due to dementia and leukemia, passing away on January 20, 2012. The voice that spawned such hits as "Tell Mama", "At Last" and "I'd Rather Go Blind" continues to live on. Rolling Stone magazine ranked her 22nd of the "100 Greatest Singers of All-Time". They also placed her at #62 of the "100 Greatest Artists of All-Time". Etta's influence also spans generations, from the Rolling Stones to Bonnie Raitt to Rod Stewart on through to Christina Aguilera to Shemekia Copeland to Adele. Her beautiful, soulful voice will never be forgotten. Etta once sang "Something's Got a Hold on Me". Her voice has a hold on all of us. Until next time, boys and girls. Keep It Bluesy!

   

SLAP SHOTS

     The words "It's a hockey night in Pittsburgh" won't be uttered in these parts until Tuesday night but the puck does drop today in Columbus for the NHL All-Star Game. Since most of your Pittsburgh Penguins are taking a break, all except for G Marc-Andre Fluery who will be competing in the exhibition, Mrs. Black-N-Gold takes a look at the Boys of Winter.

     The Pens record at the break is 26-12-8, 60 points. Although they were tops in the Eastern Conference Metropolitan Division for most of the 1st half of the season, the Pens have fallen on hard times, of late, dropping them into 2nd place. Losing 4 in a row and going 4-3-3 in your last 10 has that effect of a team. They are still ranked in the top 10 of the NHL in goals per game, 7th at 3.0, goals against, #9 at 2.5, power play, 6th with 22.1% and penalty kill, 3rd with 87.1%.

     1st year coach Mike Johnston has had to juggle many a lineup as he's dealt with injury and illness. LW Pascal Dupuis and D Olli Maatta have both been lost for the season due to injuries. The Dupuis injury is all the more debilitating as Duper is looked upon as a guiding force in the locker room. The Pens had similar issues last season as they suffered through 523 games-worth of injuries. They may be well on their way to breaking that mark this season.

     The Baby Pens that have received the call to join the big club have done tried their best, to no avail, to keep the team pointing in the right direction. New GM Jim Rutherford has also tried his darnedest to bring in much-needed help. The problem is he's working with a salary-cap-strapped team that can ill-afford any missteps.

     Individual players have shone flashes of brilliance this season. The Flower's stellar play earned him his second career All-Star nod. C Evgeni Malkin was earning rave reviews as an MVP candidate early in the season but has tailed off of late. He and C Sidney Crosby will both miss All-Star weekend due to injury.

      "Due to injury". The phrase is constantly uttered when speaking of the Pens. In fact it's repeated so often that it should become the latest and greatest of the Pittsburgh faithful's drinking game. Every time someone says "due to injury" you must drink.

      The Pens situation as a whole is enough to make one drink. No one is stepping up to pick this team up. Not any of the stars and not any of the youngsters that are getting the call at WB/S and the opportunity to impress the Penguins brass. Their play has been sluggish, uninspired and downtrodden. These Penguins need to pick themselves up and re-invent themselves in the second half.

     Ever since they won the Stanley Cup in the 2008-2009 season, the Penguins have laid big eggs in big games. Any time they face a potential playoff opponent during the regular season, they choke. If the game is on Rivarly Wednesday, Hockey Night in Canada, or NBC, it seems like they falter. This was a trend that started in the Bylsma Era and is continuing under Coach Johnston. The Pens tend to sleep-walk through the games that matter. They're not playing up to the level of competition like they should.

     Mrs. Black-N-Gold hopes that MJ and his coaches see this disturbing pattern and nip it in the bud over the break. They'll face a tough Winnipeg team at home on Tuesday. Then it's another Rivalry Wednesday as they play their 2nd game in a row, facing off against Washington. They close out the week on Friday night at New Jersey.

     One time, several years ago, the Pens slogan was "Get Fired Up For The New Ice Age". It's time for your Pittsburgh Penguins to "Get Fired Up" again. Make it happen. Let's Go Pens!!!

BLUES N'AT

     It's time to pack up the hacky sacks, incense, and sun block, load up the VW van and hit the road this summer. The four core remaining members of the Grateful Dead have announced a set of shows to commemorate their 50th anniversary.

     Dubbed "Fare Thee Well: Celebrating 50 Years of Grateful Dead" the shows will run July 3, 4, 5 at Soldier Field in Chicago. Original members Bob Weir, Phil Lesh, Bill Kreutzmann and Mickey Hart will perform together as the Dead for the final time. They will be joined each night by Bruce Hornsby on piano, guitarist Trey Anastaio and keyboard player Jeff Chimenti. Each musician has a history of playing with the Dead or in a Grateful Dead-like project. The band promises to perform 2 sets each night.

     This event also marks, almost 20 years to the day, the final concert of the Grateful Dead with Jerry Garcia, also at Soldier Field. Captain Trips passed on about a month after the last curtain call. The remaining musicians carried on in one form or another for the past 20 years but decided on this one last hurrah to celebrate their golden anniversary with one last trip down the Golden Road to Unlimited Devotion.

     Although it certainly won't be the same without Jerry, you know he will be smiling down upon the throngs of Deadheads in attendance along with Pigpen and Brent and Keith and Vince. There will be a hell of a jam going on in Heaven to match the twirling transcendence going on down in Chi Town. So break out the tie-dyes one last time. It's going to be a trip like no other. Until next time, boys and girls. Peace.

THE BULLPEN

     Mrs. Black-N-Gold closes out her series of 6 Players To Watch This Season for your Pittsburgh Pirates. These are all players that our Buccos are depending on to help them get to the top of the NL Central and on to a World Series victory. Today we finish up with a man who says he is finishing up his MLB career in Pittsburgh this season, RH AJ Burnett.

      The 38 year old made headlines this offseason by turning down more money in Philly and returning to PNC Park to help the Pirates settle unfinished business. AJ brings with him a championship-caliber pedigree, having won a championship while with the New York Yankees in 2009.

     AJ's career has taken him all over the place, Florida, Toronto, New York, Pittsburgh, Philly and back to the 'Burgh, where he has enjoyed his most recent success. In 2012, AJ had a 16-10 mark for the Bucs with a 3.51 ERA, 180 strikeouts, 62 base on balls and a WHIP of 1.241 in 202 1/3 innings. AJ's 2013 numbers were a record of 10-11, a 3.30 ERA, 209 strikeouts, 67 walks and a 1.215 WHIP with 192 innings pitched.

     Last year, AJ did not do as well across the state. His record fell to 8-18, his ERA rose to 4.59 as did his walk total of 96. His losses and walks led the Majors. Of course, Philly's team was atrocious  and playing in a hitter's park such as Citizens Bank didn't help matters. Neither did the fact that AJ played with a hernia injury for much of the season.

     AJ is no longer a frontline starter but the Pirates are counting on his innings and to help along the younger pitchers in the organization. It always seemed like AJ bristled under the bright lights, big city. He is better suited as the big fish in the small pond, or river as it is in Pittsburgh. He excels out of the spotlight.

     However, the Pirates are hoping there is one more moment in the sun available this season for AJ Burnett to help the Buccos get over the hump  and to the top of the NL Central, leading them to a 6th World Championship. Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

THE BULLPEN

     It's time to call to The Bullpen again and see who Mrs. Black-N-Gold has as #5 of the 6 Players To Watch This Season for your Pittsburgh Pirates. Today we'll go behind the plate for a look at newly acquired catcher Francisco Cervelli.

     Francisco came to Pittsburgh in November in a trade with the New York Yankees for LH Justin Wilson to replace free agent C Russell Martin. Francisco was signed by the Yanks as an international free agent in 2008. Prior to signing with New York, Cervelli played second base, shortstop and pitched in his native Venezuela. The Yankees brought him on board as a catcher. The 28 year old was a member of the Yankees championship team of 2009.

     With a career batting average of .278, 10 HRs, 92 RBI and a .348 OBP, Francisco has never played more than 93 games in a season. Dealing with various injuries, including a concussion, fractured foot, broken right hand, hamstring issue, has slowed the youngster's progress on the field.

      The Pirates insist that Francisco is not expected to post Martin-like numbers. However, many of the talking heads feel that he could be the "steal" (pun intended) of the offseason. Francisco brings with him a career 22% caught stealing mark. He has been complemented for his handling of pitchers and his pitch framing, also favorable attributes of Martin's game. Former and current teammate AJ Burnett gives him glowing recommendations.

      Sometimes a change of scenery can do a player good. Francisco gets a fresh start at PNC and a chance to shake the injury bug. If he can "catch" on in Pittsburgh, he can help the Buccos capture the NL Central crown and a world championship. Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

SLAP SHOTS

Michael, Michael, motorcycle, it's a hockey night in Pittsburgh. Your Pittsburgh Penguins are back on the home ice of Consol Energy Center as they faceoff for Rivalry Wednesday against the Chicago Blackhawks. These are your keys for tonight's game. 1)The Pens are reeling, losing 3 games in a row following last night's OT loss to Philly 3-2. They're 4-4-2 in their last 10. Chicago is 5-5-0 in their last 10. This is a Rivalry Wednesday game on NBC Sports tonight. The Pens have laid big eggs on the big stage. Time to put one in the win column before the All-Star break. Break out the Motley Crue and the Goals, Goals, Goals! 2)The Pens failed to find the net on 6 power plays last night against the league's worst penalty kill. Don't let yourselves get manhandled. Man-up! 3)The Pens are 10-5-5 at home this season. There's no place like home! Let's Go Pens!!!

SLAP SHOTS

Scractch my back with a hacksaw, it's a great day for hockey! Your Pittsburgh Penguins take their show on the road to Philly tonight to face the Cryers. These are your keys to tonight's game. 1)Following Sunday's 5-2 pasting at the hands of the Strangers, the Pens have dropped 2 in a row and are a paltry 4-5-1 in their last 10 games. The Pens have had problems with potential playoff opponents in recent years.  Philly is no exception having lost 6 straight to the Cryers. Come out swinging, dictate the tempo of the game, get out of this phunk. Score early, score often, score BIG! 2)Philly's penalty kill is a putrid 73.4%, good for 30th in the league. Hopefully this will help the Pens kickstart the power play which has fallen to 5th in the NHL at 23.4%. Take advantage of the man-advantage! 3)The Cryers goals against average, 23rd overall at 2.9 per game may help pick up the Pens offense. Still ranked at #5 with 3.0 per game, the Pens need to find the net. Break out the Goals, Goals, Goals! Let's Go Pens!!!

BLUES N'AT

     This week blues performers from across the globe will pack their instruments and suitcases as they make the pilgrimage to the blues Mecca of the World, Memphis, TN. Artists, recording industry insiders and fans alike will all thrill to the sounds of the International Blues Challenge as blues abounds. For 5 days, January 20-24, 250 of the best blues has to offer will perform in the categories of best band, best solo/duo act and youth showcase.

     The Blues Society of Western Pennsylvania has entrants in each category: The Bo' Hog Brothers will compete for best band in the International Showcase. Eugene Morgan and the Junkman are the BSWPA's duo representative. And Jason Born will participate in the Youth Showcase.

     Musicians from all over the world converge to perform, network and enjoy the musical stylings of their fellow artists. Many industry insiders are on hand as judges, evaluating the talent to find the next Albert Castiglia or Teeny Tucker. They also are interested in finding the next big thing for their labels. It's a chance to see and hear firsthand some of the up-and-comers in the blues.

      Of course, many followers from blues societies the world over will be there to cheer on their representatives as well as soak up the sounds of all of the talented artists. It's also a great time to forge new friendships with fellow blues enthusiasts.

     Now in it's 31st year, the International Blues Challenge is an event like no other. Where else can you get this much blues in one fell swoop? So load up the minivan, pack up your dancing shoes and head to Beale Street. It's IBC Week in Memphis, baby! Best of luck to all! Until next time boys and girls. Keep It Bluesy!

    

SLAP SHOTS

Great balls of fire, it's a great day for hockey! Your Pittsburgh Penguins look to get back in the win column this afternoon on the home ice of Consol Energy Center as they battle the New York Strangers. These are your keys for today's game. 1)The Strangers are coming off a 2-1 win over Columbus on Friday night. The Pens need a win after their 6-3 drubbing at the hands of the Isles on Friday. Pittsburgh has had a problem with potential playoff opponents all season: the Isles, the Habs, the Strangers, etc. This was also an issue during the Bylsma era. Time to get the monkey off their back. Find the net and find the W! 2)The Pens are 10-5-4 at home this season. We must protect this house! 3)The Strangers are 4th in the league in goals against giving up an average of 2.3 per game. The Pens rank 5th overall in goals per game at 3.0. Get fired up, crank up the Crue and the Goals, Goals, Goals! Let's Go Pens!!!

THE BULLPEN

     Mrs. Black-N-Gold has been hearing and reading many comments from Black-N-Gold Nation regarding your Pittsburgh Pirates latest acquisition, INF Jung Ho Kang. Many of the remarks have been negative. Mrs. Black-N-Gold is a bit disappointed in the Pirates faithful. Look, this kid hasn't even fielded one grounder or taken a swing yet for our Buccos and the negativity is raining down on him like a thunderstorm on the fields of Bradenton. Can we at least reserve judgment until Kang has played in a game, please? Until then, we don't really know much about him.

     What we do know is that your Pittsburgh Pirates won the right to negotiate with Kang back in December by posting $5,002,015 for said rights. If Kang were the second-coming of Derek Jeter, the Pirates posting fee wouldn't have even been in the same ballpark as teams like the Yankees, the Dodgers and the Red Sox. Look at how Bob Nutting's Bucs are never able to compete with the big-money teams when it comes to the Yasiel Puigs of the world. I say "Kudos" to the Buccos for thinking outside the box and attempting to make Kang the first position player to make the move from the Korean Baseball Organization to the Majors.

     This week the Pirates and Kang agreed to a 4-year deal with $11 million guaranteed and a club option for 2019. True, Kang is an unproven commodity. This scares most fans as an unnecessary risk for the cost-conscious Pirates. Do they not take the same risks when singing their picks from MLB's amateur draft? For every Andrew McCutchen, the Pirates have had at least twice as many Bryan Bullingtons. Nothing is a sure thing. Kang's numbers last season with the Nexen Heroes make him an intriguing option. Jung Ho hit .356 with 40 home runs (2nd) and 117 RBI (3rd). He also led his league in slugging at .739 and OPS at 1.198.

      Most talking heads don't project Kang as a Major League shortstop, saying he may be better off at third or second base. At Kang's press conference he was quoted as saying he can do better than incumbent Pirates SS Jordy Mercer. This rubbed the Bucco faithful the wrong way. The attitude from Pirates fans was "How dare he say he's better than our shortstop". Consider that Kang is from South Korea. Perhaps something was lost in the translation. Maybe he meant he wanted to play better than he did last season? Even if it were true that Kang thinks he can unseat Mercer at short, is that a bad thing? Jordy himself didn't get bent out of shape over the remarks. He welcomes the competition. That's the type of attitude you want from your ballplayers. You want men who want to compete against each other for the better of the team.

      If Kang doesn't beat out Jordy, then what? Pirates GM Neal Huntington has made it clear that the Pirates are not paying Kang to leave his country, family and team to come to America to play minor league ball. There will be plenty of room in the lineup for Kang throughout the 162-game season and beyond. When he comes to spring training in February, Kang will be given every opportunity to show the fans what all the fuss is about. Even if he is one of the Pirates bench players, he can't be any worse then Jayson Nix, Micheal Martinez or Brett Morel, can he? All Mrs. Black-N-Gold is asking is that fans give Jung Ho a chance before they give him the heave-ho. Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

SLAP SHOTS

Shave my face with a rusty razor, it's a great day for hockey! Your Pittsburgh Penguins hit the road tonight as they faceoff against the New York Islanders out on Long Island. These are your keys for tonight's game. 1)This game promises to be a real dogfight as the Pens (26-10-6, 58 points) are right on the Isles (29-13-1, 59 points) tail for 1st place in the Eastern Conference Metropolitan Division. Take a bite out of New York! 2)After whitewashing the Wild on Tuesday 7-2, the Pens have won 2 straight. #3 would be great! 3)The Isles are coming off a 3-0 shutout of the Strangers on Tuesday and have won 3 in a row. Just say No to 4 in a row with Goals, Goals, Goals! Let's Go Pens!!!

THE BULLPEN

     Mrs. Black-N-Gold opens up The Bullpen doors again today to bring you the 4th player on her 6 Players To Watch list for your Pittsburgh Pirates. These are players the Buccos need to lean on big time if they're going to leapfrog the St Louie Cardinals this season and win the NL Central and a 6th World Series for the City of Champions.

      Today we look at RF Gregory Polanco. El Coffe gets an incomplete for last season through no fault of his own. Even though he had a strong spring training, the Pirates sent him to Triple A Indy for more at bats and seasoning (some feel it was done to slow the clock on Polanco's eventual arbitration).

      On June 9, 2014 the Pirates called-up the highly-touted rookie to fill the void in right field at PNC Park. He collected his first major league hit, off Cubs starter Travis Wood, in his first game in the bigs and scored his first run in the majors. On June 13 Polanco pounded out 5 hits, including his first major league home run. On June 17 Polanco joined some elite company, becoming only the third Pirates player to hit safely in his first 7 games. He was the first to do so since Roberto Clemente back in 1955. Polanco took it a step further, becoming the first Pirate to hit in 8 straight games to start his career in MLB.

     Unfortunately, the wear and tear of the big league season began to take it's toll and Polanco was optioned back to Triple A in late August. He re-joined the club a week later when the rosters were expanded. El Coffee finished his first season in Pittsburgh with a .235 batting average, collecting 65 hits, 7 homers, 33 RBI and 14 stolen bases.

     This year Polanco will enter training camp as the Pirates regular right fielder. He'll be expected to build on last season's cup of coffee in the big leagues and help the Buccos get something brewing in the NL Central. The Pirates are counting on him to help them win the division and, ultimately, the World Series. Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

THE BULLPEN

     Now that voluntary mini-camp is in full swing for your Pittsburgh Pirates in Bradenton, Mrs. Black-N-Gold looks at Player #3 of the 6 Players To Watch This Season. How appropriate that "#3" is Pirates 3rd baseman Josh Harrison.

     JHay really came into his own last season. Typically the last man on the roster in season's past, Harrison couldn't even crack the starting lineup in the first month of the season. But when he did get penciled in, he made sure his name was never out of the lineup again. JHay started out filling the right field spot that Travis Snider and Jose Tabata were holding for Gregory Polanco. Then he flipped over to left field, filling in for the injured Starling Marte.

     Josh also got his starts in the infield, spelling for Neil Walker, Jordy Mercer and Pedro Alvarez. When Walker went down with appendicitis, there was JHay at second base. It was a testament to his versatility and his ability as a sparkplug at the top of the batting order that got Josh into the lineup to stay. This also led to his spot on the NL All-Star team, his first time on the squad.

     When the Pirates needed Josh to man the hot corner regularly, JHay was there everyday. Whether it was making spectacular plays with his glove, avoiding rundowns on the basepaths or challenging for the NL batting title, Josh became a fan favorite of the PNC faithful with his all-out, hard-charging style. He so impressed the rest of MLB that his name was also mentioned as an MVP candidate.

      The former 6th round pick of the Cubs finished the season with a .315 batting average, 13 homers, 52 RBI and 18 steals. He also had a .347 OBP, .490 SLB, and .837 OPS. Now comes the hard part, showing that Josh is no mere flash-in-the-pan. JHay will need to quite his critics once again and show that he can not only go "all day" but an entire season.

     The Pirates are counting on Josh to man 3rd base for them for this year and years to come as he's not eligible for free agency until 2018. Another big season from Harrison will most definitely help the Pirates get over the wildcard hump and to the top of the NL Central division and the World Series. Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

SLAP SHOTS

Hop in the Cordova, we're going bowling 'cause it's a hockey night in Pittsburgh! Your Pittsburgh Penguins are back on the home ice of Consol Energy Center tonight as they faceoff against the Minnesota Wild. These are your keys for tonight's game. 1)Minnesota is ranked 24th in the league in goals against, giving up 2.9 per game. The Pens are ranked #10 in the NHL in goals per game at 2.9. Put it on the puckin' net with some Goals, Goals, Goals! 2)Minny's power play is 25th overall at 14.3%. The Pens penalty kill is 2nd in the league at 88.2%. Don't let them take advantage of the man-advantage. Go for the kill! 3)Minny is 8-12-0 on the road, and has lost 5 in a row. The Pens are 15-6-2 at home. Tame the Wild! Let's Go Pens!!!

50-YARD LINE

     Now that the dust has cleared from this weekend's bombshell that the Steelers and Dick LeBeau have parted ways, it's time for Mrs. Black-N-Gold to look at what the Steelers need to concentrate on in the offseason to help them get that ever-elusive 7th Lombardi Trophy.

1)Most definitely find a new Defensive Coordinator. As Mrs. Black-N-Gold went to press there was no announcement for Dick LeBeau's replacement. It's expected that LB coach Keith Butler is the frontrunner. Which makes it all the more interesting that no statement hasn't yet to be made. Hmmm.

2)Sign QB Ben Roethlisberger to an extension. The Steelers didn't ink Ben to a new deal this past season with 2 years left on his current contract, as is usually the custom with the Steelers and their QBs. The implication was that they'd take care of Ben this offseason. Well, Ben went out and set new team records, made the Pro Bowl and became the first Steelers QB to lead the league (co-lead with Drew Brees) in passing yardage. The ball is now in the Steelers court.

3)Say goodbye to more old friends. No matter how much it pains us, it's time to let DE Brett Keisel, CB Ike Taylor, LB James Harrison and S Troy Polamalu ride off into the sunset. It was a good run but now they're done. You can't move forward if you keep holding onto the past. The Steelers cut the cord on Coach LeBeau, it's time to do the same with these gentlemen.

4)Find a backup for RB Le'Veon Bell. I think this point was made during the wildcard loss to the Baltimorons, don't you? Who knows, Josh Harris may be that backup but the Steelers are going to have to give Harris an opportunity to earn that role by not giving Bell each and every carry. They may also want to consider building some running back depth through the draft.

5)Fix the defense. There continues to be a complete lack of depth on the defensive side of the ball, especially at outside linebacker and in the secondary. Retaining LB Jason Worilds and giving CB Cortez Allen won't patch all the holes on this defense. Go big for defense in the draft.

6)It's time to find the next Heath Miller. Here's another grizzled veteran who is on the wrong side of his career. We may still get another year or two out of Heeeath but it's time to start grooming his replacement.

7)Find someone else to return punts. Having your best wide receiver, Antonio Brown, back to field punts is a very dangerous game, Mike Tomlin. If he goes down, you're not only out a return man, you're also out the best receiver in the NFL. Get someone else back there.

     The Steelers breathed new life after returning to the postseason this year. They need to continue moving upward by getting some more young blood pumping through their veins and getting them acclimated. The sooner they do so, the better. Let's Go Steelers!!!!!!

50-YARD LINE

     As she sits and types these letters Mrs. Black-N-Gold is in a state of Black-N-Gold shock. Changes were expected with your Pittsburgh Steelers this offseason. Rare is the occasion that an organization/team does not undergo some type of change from one season to the next, be it in the front office, the coaching staff and/or the roster.

     Much change was expected of the Steelers defense even as the final whistle was blown in last week's playoff loss to the Baltimorons. The most talked about moves for the defense where what the Steelers would do with the four graybeards of the defense, DL Brett Keisel, CB Ike Taylor, LB James Harrison and S Troy Polamalu. Mrs. Black-N-Gold had even braced herself for the eventual departure of the Best Safety To Play The Game. Ever.

     Just a few days ago the announcement was made that the Steelers and Offensive Coordinator Todd Haley agreed on a 2 year contract. And then, the bombshell. Ok, maybe it wasn't that much of an earth-shattering surprise that Defensive Coordinator Dick LeBeau would not return. After all, Coach LeBeau has worked on a year-to-year basis for the past several seasons. At 77 years of age, it was never a question of "if" he retires, but "when".

     The thing is, the Steelers and Coach LeBeau made it known in their announcement that this is a mutual parting of the ways. Coach LeBeau said that this does not mean he's retiring. Apparently the Steelers have decided to take the defense in a different direction and wanted to spare themselves another Bruce Arians "retirement"-type embarrassment.

     The question is, "Now what"? It' always been implied that longtime, ever-loyal LB Coach Keith Butler was the heir apparent. Ever the conspiracy-theorist, Mrs. Black-N-Gold wonders if that's truly the case. Was the writing on the wall for both Coach LeBeau and Coach Butler when the Steelers brought in former LB Joey Porter this season? Porter holds the title "Defensive Assistant" but it's always been described as LB Coach. Waitaminute! Isn't that Coach Butler's title? See what I mean? Sounds like mixed signals to me.

     And should one wonder where Coach LeBeau will land? He made a point of saying that this is not a retirement. If he did decide to "retire", Arizona could be a nice destination point. Cardinals DC Todd Bowles has been busy on the interview circuit, in search of a head coaching gig. The Cardinals love to collect Black-N-Gold pieces in the desert. It would give Coach LeBeau an opportunity to reunite with another Steelers retiree, the aforementioned Arians.

     Whatever the outcome, you can't blame Coach LeBeau if he continues his illustrious coaching career. He was revered in Pittsburgh for many seasons by his charges. They always listened intently as he recited "The Night Before Christmas" to them every holiday season. They also showed the ultimate respect when Coach LeBeau was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. The entire Steelers team left training camp for the road trip to Canton, with many of his players donning Dick LeBeau Lions jerseys in honor of their leader.

     No doubt about it, Coach LeBeau will be missed in these parts. Unfortunately, through no fault of his own, the defense had fallen out of their usual position as one of the top defenses in the league, in recent years. He could thank the Steelers failure to upgrade several defensive positions through the draft for that. Shame on Mrs. Black-N-Gold, she had even queried in this very column this season regarding Coach LeBeau's abilities. There had also been those in the street that suggested that players hadn't developed in recent years due to the degree of difficulty in learning Coach LeBeau's defense. Some people wonder if this gives the Steelers the opportunity to abandon the long-used 3-4 defense and make the switch to the 4-3.

     It's hard to believe Coach LeBeau won't be involved with an NFL organization in some form this coming season. He's been in the league as a player/coach since 1959. Coach's first stint in Pittsburgh was as a defensive backfield coach from 1992-1994 under Bill Cowher, becoming Defensive Coordinator for the first time for 1995-1996. After time with the Bungles and Bills, Coach returned to the Black-N-Gold sideline, again as Defensive Coordinator, with Cowher and then with Mike Tomlin, from 2004-2014.

     Under Coach Lebeau's watch, the Steelers D ranked #1 in the NFL 5 times, in the top 5 in the league 10 times. His defenses led the Steelers to 2 Super Bowl wins and a 3rd appearance in the Big Game. Sporting News named him 2008 Coordinator of the Year. All of this came on the heals of a Hall of Fame career as a cornerback for the Detroit Lions. He was enshrined in Canton in 2010.

     Mrs. Black-N-Gold and the Black-N-Gold Nation wishes Coach LeBeau nothing but the best. Thank you for bringing Blitzburgh to Pittsburgh and putting the "D" back in the defense, Coach.

    

      

SLAP SHOTS

Mrs. Black-N-Gold is smiling like a butcher's dog 'cause it's a great day for hockey! Your Pittsburgh Penguins take their show on the road to Montreal tonight as they faceoff against the Canadiens. These are your keys for tonight's game. 1)The Pens are mired in a slump, losing 2 straight, going 4-4-2 in their last 10 games, including a loss to Montreal last week. The Habs have lost 1 but are 8-2-0 in their last 10. Break out of this funk. Bring home a W! 2)Both teams are in the top 5 in the league in goals against. Montreal is 3rd allowing 2.3 goals per game. The Pens are #5, giving up 2.4 goals per game. Pack up the Motley Crue for some Goals, Goals, Goals! 3)The Pens continue to be stingy on the penalty kill, ranking 2nd in the NHL at 87.9%. The Habs have the 27th power play at 14.2%. Don't let them take advantage of the man-advantage. Man-up! Let's Go Pens!!!

THE BULLPEN

     Today The Bullpen doors swing open again as Mrs. Black-N-Gold brings you the second player on her list of 6 Players To Watch This Season for your Pittsburgh Pirates. What better #2 than 2B Neil Walker?

     The Pittsburgh native enjoyed one of his finest seasons for the hometown Pirates, breaking the mark for home runs from second basemen with 23 as well as winning his first Silver Slugger award. In the field the Homeboy continued to flash good leather with a .992 field percentage. Problem is, Walker only appeared in 137 games, suffering through appendicitis and a bum back. There are rumors that the Bucs have been wary of signing Walker to a long-term deal due to his durability issues.

     Walker earned a $5,750,000 contract in arbitration last season and is expected to pull another big payday at the arbitrator's table again this year. The Real Deal is due to hit free agency in 2017. This offseason, word on the street was that the Pirates were opening negotiations on a long-term deal for the former 1st round pick from Pine-Richland High School. That was before the Pirates won the right to negotiate with South Korean INF Jung-ho Kang. Some feel that the Pirates may be so gung-ho on Jung-ho that they let Walker go either via trade or in free agency. Still there are others that suggest that if the Pedro experiment doesn't work, Kang will play 2nd and Walker will move to 1B.

      Although Walker has shown much versatility throughout his career, getting drafted as a catcher, moving to third base and now as one of the league's top second basemen, why mess with a good thing? If it ain't broke, don't fix it. And don't break it by trying to move Walker yet again. Many hope that the Pirates and the Hometown Kid can work out a deal that will see him retire in the Black-N-Gold. Perhaps the Pirates want to wait another season, to be sure the power stroke is still there and that he can stay on the field. Walker will turn 30 this September. They may be apprehensive about a long-term deal and the rumors of one may have just been lip-service.

       Mrs. Black-N-Gold certainly hopes that's not the case. The Pittsburgh Kid has given them everything they've asked for and more. He's turned himself into one of their most reliable offensive weapons. When people came down on the switch-hitter for his lack of offense against lefties, Neil showed them that, given the opportunity, he is way more than a platoon-player, battering lefthanders and righthanders alike last year. Every time he was asked to change positions, he picked up his glove and excelled at his new spot. He is the epitome of the consummate professional. The Pirates would be lucky to have him finish his career where it began, on the friendly confines of the Three Rivers.

       Now the Pirates need  Homeboy to step up to the plate again this year and quite his critics once and for all. It's time the Real Deal get the deal and the accolades that he so richly deserves as he helps the hometown team get their 6th World Series trophy. "Local Boy Makes Good". What a headline that would be. Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

  
    

THE BULLPEN

     Root Sports Pittsburgh has started their Pirates Playback for the offseason. It's a chance to relive some of the great moments of last season and get you warmed up for the coming season. As Mrs. Black-N-Gold watched 2B Neil Walker's Opening-Day walkoff homer clear the deck at PNC Park, she got to thinking about what lies ahead for our Buccos in 2015. Thus, as the Piratest begin a quest for their 6th World Series trophy, Mrs. Black-N-Gold will bring you 6 players to watch this year. We'll make our first player the Pirates new first baseman, Pedro Alvarez.

     Petey has a long way to go to get back to where he once belonged. He'll have to do it by way of first base as he threw away his chances to be the Pirates everday third baseman last season, committing 25 errors at the hot corner. The majority of those errors were throwing related as Pedro forget how to throw the ball across the diamond. In the process, he also forgot how to hit home runs, knocking just 18 of them last year to go with 56 RBIs.

     That's a far cry from his All-Star season of 2013. Pedro tied for the league lead with 36 home runs and recorded his first 100 RBI season. Those are stats worthy of the 2nd overall pick of the 2008 draft. Pedro's teammate, CF Andrew McCutchen has expressed an interest in the Pirates finally settling on an everyday first baseman instead of the platoon system employed in years past. If Pedro is to be that man, he'll have to work to improve his performance against lefthanders, especially. Last season Petey had just 2 homers and 12 RBIs versus lefties with a batting line of .175/.241/.263 and an OPS of .504.

     There his been talk that Petey and his agent, Scott Boras, are against the move to first. They feel Pedro can pull bigger money on the third base bag.  For Pedro to succeed and find treasure on the open market when he hits free agency in 2017, he'll need to fully embrace the position switch, relax and get outside of his head. He should be going full steam ahead with gusto when he hits Bradenton for spring training, instead of chugging along like a busto. Get out there early, taking extra grounders at first. Take as many at bats as you can, especially against southpaws, even if it means going to the minor league camp for extra BP.

     If Pedro succeeds in re-inventing himself, it could be a win, win, win for everyone, Pedro, Boras and the Buccos. He may get an early ticket out of Pittsburgh if he increases his trade value, in the process, gaining an opportunity for a big payday. Meanwhile, he can help the Pirates get over the Wild Card hump and win the NL Central this season on the way to a championship. Don't be bullheaded, El Toro. Take first base by the horns. Let's Go Bucs!!!!!

SLAP SHOTS

Eddie Spaghetti, it's a hockey night in Pittsburgh! Your Pittsburgh Penguins are back in action tonight at Consol Energy Center as they faceoff against the Boston Bruins for Rivaly Wednesday. These are your keys for tonight's game. 1)At 19-15-6 and 44 points, Boston is pretty much middle of the pack with the league statistics-wise. They're 21st in goals with 2.6 per game. They're #16 in goals against, also at 2.6. They are ranked 17th in the NHL on the power play at 18.5% and 18th on the penalty kill at 79.8%. Batter the Bruins! 2)Although the Pens have slipped of late due to injuries and illness, they've still managed to remain among the upper echelon in the league. They're #6 in goals per game at 3.0. They rank 5th in goals against with 2.3. Their power play is ranked #5 at 22.2% and the penalty kill is 2nd at 87.8%. Now they're getting somewhat healthy, and the addition of LW David Perron should help get their motor running again. Break out the Motley Crue for some Goals, Goals, Goals! 3)The Pens are coming off a Saturday night clobbering at the hands of the Canadiens, 4-1. The Bruins fared not better in their last matchup, dropping a 2-1 shootout in Carolina on Sunday. The Bruins also ride into Pittsburgh losers of 3 in a row. Give them more with loss #4! Let's Go Pens!!!

50-YARD LINE

     This past weekend, the spotlight was shining down on the NFL as the first round of the playoffs kicked off. Unfortunately, the ineptitude of the league and their officials glared more brightly than the games themselves. Calls and non-calls alike marred wildcard weekend.

     The questionable officiating is not anything knew as many NFL fans can attest. For far too many seasons now, the league has sent mixed messages in regards to flags, play reviews and fines. This weekend, it finally came down to an official determining the outcome of a game in Dallas versus the Lions. Many are saying that the pass interference flag that was overturned by the referees only cements the fact that Roger Godell & Company have a hand in the outcome of the games, ala the WWE.

     For those that didn't see it or have been under a rock for the past 24-48 hours, the Lions had a 3rd in 7 late in the game and looked to convert a first down when the flag was thrown on pass interference by the Cowboys. The officials picked up the flag, waving it off without any clear-cut explanation as to why. It all happened in The House That Jerry Built, deep in the heart of Texas.

      Referees are supposed to be rewarded for their excellence of execution during the regular season by working the postseason. If these refs are the best the NFL has to offer, then that speaks volumes to the porous performances of the remaining referees around the league. For several seasons now, the teams, players and fans have been subjected to controversial, contradictory calls. It is not unusual for a player to be fined for a play that was not flagged the week before. Just as it's a regular occurrence for the questionable interpretations of offensive holding, helmet-to-helmet and roughing the passer penalties.

      How can the players and coaches effectively do their jobs when the league and their officials are constantly undermining them? How about fining the refs when they blow a call, same as fining players when they play outside the rules? Perhaps that will lessen the increasingly bad officiating that continues to plague the league.

     And while we're at it, I realize player safety is at an all-time high in the league. However, it is likely to get to the point where the defense is eliminated from the game completely. They'll just have 2 offenses competing to score the most points in a game, with no defense on the other side of the ball. If you think Godell does this strictly for the good of the players, you're smoking something. The way Rog sees it, the higher the point total, the bigger the profit margin. Let's not go there. If the NFL continues to regulate the defense out of the game, then the NFL will be one-dimensional. Imagine an NFL without greats such as Ray Nitschke, Dick Butkus, Merlin Olsen, Alex Karras, and Deacon Jones. Not to mention "Mean" Joe Greene, Mel Blount, Jack Lambert, Lawrence Taylor and Brian Urlacher. There would be no "No-Name Defense", no "Purple People Eaters" , no "Orange Crush" and no "Steel Curtain".

     Don't allow Roger Godell and his minions to take the football out of the National Football League. Let them play. And call it consistently. My name is Mrs. Black-N-Gold and I paid for this announcement. Thank you.
    

     

BLUES N'AT

     One of the hot, young guns of the blues is coming to the Pittsburgh area. Guitarist/lap steel guitarist Selwyn Birchwood is bringing his style of old-school Chicago blues and funky, soulful, new blues to Moondog's in Blawnox on Friday, January 30 at 8:30 pm

     Born in Orlando, FL in 1985, Selwyn was the product of a father from Tobago and mother that hailed from the United Kingdom. Young Selwyn starting playing guitar the age of 13. As a teenager, he was introduced to the music of Jimi Hendrix. He began following Jimi's path to the blues, finding Muddy Waters, Albert King, Lightnin' Hopkins, Freddie King and Albert Collins, along the way. At 18 Selwyn attended a Buddy Guy concert that transformed his life into the blues.

     A friend introduced Selwyn to Texas bluesman Sonny Rhodes. Sonny was so impressed with Selwyn's playing that he encouraged the youngster by taking him on tour as a member of his band. He also taught Selywn the lap steel guitar and the ways of life on the road. 19 year old Selwyn soaked up all the information he could but also took Rhodes' advice in earning a college degree. He has an MBA from the University of Tampa.

     In 2010 Selwyn formed the current version of the Selwyn Birchwood Band featuring Regi Oliver on horns, drummer Curtis Nutall and bass player Donald Wright. The band competed in 2012 and 2013 at the International Blues Challenge in Memphis, besting over 125 bands to take the title in 2013. Selwyn won the Albert King Guitarist of the Year award at the 2013 IBCs, as well.

     Alligator Records president Bruce Iglauer was so impressed, he signed them to his label. Their Alligator debut, "Don't Call No Ambulance" was released in 2014. They've performed all over the globe at various blues festivals, joining such luminaries as Robert Cray, label-mate Joe Louis Walker and Selwyn's idol, Buddy Guy.

     January 30, at 8:30 pm, you'll have a case of the blues, courtesy of the Selwyn Birchwood Band. But "Don't Call No Ambulance". Selwyn Birchwood is just what the doctor ordered. Until next time, boys and girls. Keep It Bluesy!

50-YARD LINE

     Oh, the humanity! You're Pittsburgh Steelers watched their season come to an end with a resounding thud last night in their wildcard playoff against the Baltimorons at Heinz Field, 30-17. As much as it pains Mrs. Black-N-Gold, she has The Good (a little bit), The Bad (oh, there was ALOT of that) and The Ugly (I'm afraid so) from last night's defeat.

The Good-Truth be told, Mrs. Black-N-Gold didn't even expect the Steelers to finish as good as they did. She thought it was a stretch for them to go 10-6 this season, let alone 11-5 and win the AFC North title. And although QB Ben Roethlisberger had a very sub-par game, going 31 of 45 for 334 yards with 1 touchdown and 2 interceptions for a 79.3 passer rating, Ben did put together a Pro Bowl season. As did WR Antonio (Best WR in the NFL) Brown, RB Le'Veon (Team MVP) Bell and C Maurkice Pouncey. Kudos to those gentleman for their wonderful seasons. Also, take heart, Black-N-Gold Lovers, 11-5 is certainly something to build on for next season. Don't forget some of the youngsters who came on during the year to make the future look bright: WR Martavis Bryant, DL Stephon Tuitt, LB Vince Williams, and CR Antwon Blake.

The Bad-Unfortunately, there was plenty of "bad" to go around. After looking so good in the final games of the regular season, both the offensive line and the defense fell apart. The O-Line surrendered 5 sacks, 7 tackles for loss, and 5 QB hits. It seemed like they regressed. Speaking of regressing, the offense that pasted Baltimore back in November could only muster 1 touchdown in this playoff tilt. True, they were without Bell, but what happened to the next man up mentality? The Steelers could never get the running game going, turned the ball over and could not get open against a banged-up Baltimore secondary. The defense was no better. Missed tackles and ridiculous penalties allowed the Baltimorons to score on the Steelers at will. The coaching also placed the Steelers in a precarious position as they were playing not to lose, instead of playing to win.

The Ugly-Mrs. Black-N-Gold can't help but wonder what could have been. Had the Steelers not suffered ugly losses to Cleveland, Tampa Bay, the Jets and New Orleans earlier in the season, they could have secured themselves a bye week and we wouldn't have suffered through last night's indignity. Losing ugly to losing teams is a hideous trait for a football. The Steelers have worn their inconsistency like a badge of honor for far too many seasons. The organization, the coaching staff and the players are all responsible. It's time for a makeover. Not necessarily a major overhaul, but something definitely needs to be done to correct this blemish on the face of the franchise.

In closing, the Steelers now must go forward without some of the many greats who helped them to 2 Lombardi trophies. Prepare for some changes in the offseason. S Troy Polamalu, CB Ike Taylor, LB James Harrison and DL Brett Keisel may have all played their last games in Black-N-Gold. TE Heath Miller may not be far behind. Defensive coordinator Dick LeBeau may make way for some new blood, too. There are also those who didn't contribute enough during their tenure to warrant a return. Offensive coordinator Todd Haley, S Mike Mitchell, LB Jason Worilds, DL Cam Thomas, OL Marcus Gilbert, OL Mike Adams and CB Cortez Allen may want to update their resumes.

The Steeler do have a foundation on which to build. The defense has LB Lawrence Timmons, and DL Cam Heyward. The offense has Bell, Brown, Bryant, Pouncey, OL Ramon Foster and OL Kelvin Beachum. The Steelers are expected to bring back Roethisberger, as well. There are also players that need to decide whether they're a boon for the Steelers or a bust. I'm talking to you LB Jarvis Jones, WR Markus Wheaton and LB Ryan Shazier. It's sad to see the season end but excitement is in the air for what lies ahead. Let's wipe away our tears with our Terrible Towels and wave them wide and high next year. Let's Go Steelers!!!!!!

50-YARD LINE

We're from the town with the great football team! Your Pittsburgh Steelers, AFC North division winners, hit the gridiron of Heinz Field tonight as they battle the Baltimorons in an AFC wildcard game. These are your keys for tonight's game. 1)The Baltimorons have traveled to Pittsburgh 3 times for playoff football and their season has ended every time. They don't like us. We don't like them. Get some more with win #4! 2)In their last matchup, a 43-23 Steelers win at Heinz Field, QB Ben Roethlisberger feasted on the Baltimoron secondary to the tune of 6 touchdowns. Put the ball in the hands of your playmakers. Score early, score often, score BIG! 3)Baltimoron QB Joe Flacco posted his first 300 yard game since Week 9, in the final week of the season. Against the Clowns, Flacco threw for 312 yards and 2 touchdowns. Like I said, it was against the Clowns. He can be pressured into mistakes. Sacco Flacco. Hit him early, hit him often hit him HARD! It's one and done this week, go hard or go home. You gotta want it to win it!  Let's Go Steelers!!!!!!

SLAP SHOTS

Call Arnold Slick from Turtle Crick 'cause it's a hockey night in Pittsburgh! Your Pittsburgh Penguins faceoff against the Montreal Canadiens tonight at Consol Energy Center. These are your keys for tonight's game. 1)The Canadiens have won 5 in a row. The Pens look to make it 3 straight wins. If it's 3, it's for me! 2)The Pens are expected to start Marc-Andre Fleury in goal tonight. MAF is 7-1-2 in his last 10 starts vs. Montreal, including 27 saves in a 4-0 shutout of the Habs back in November. The puck stops here. Flower Power! 3)Montreal is coming off a 4-2 Friday night win over New Jersey. The Pens were also winners last night, breaking out for 6 goals in a 6-3 romp over Tampa Bay. Crank up the Crue and the Goals, Goals, Goals! Let's Go Pens!!!

SLAP SHOTS

Buy Sam and drink and get his dog one, too, it's a hockey night in Pittsburgh! Your Pittsburgh Penguins faceoff against the Tampa Bay Lightning tonight at Consol Energy Center. These are your keys for tonight's game. 1)Tampa Bay rides into Pittsburgh winning 4 straight. #5 would not be great! 2)Tampa Bay is on top of the Eastern Conference at 39-24-11 with 52 points. The Pens are hot on their trail at 37-23-9 and 51 points. Light up the Lightning with the Goals, Goals, Goals! 3)Tampa Bay are 2nd in the league in goals per game with a 3.2 average. The Pens are #3 in the NHL in goals against, allowing a 2.3 average. Lights out for the Lightning! Let's Go Pens!!!

HAPPY BLACK-N-GOLD NEW YEAR

Happy Black-N-Gold New Year from Mrs. Black-N-Gold and the Big Bossman! New Year is a time for renewal, to look ahead to all the things you'll resolve in your life for the next 365 days. Mrs. Black-N-Gold takes a look at some New Year's resolutions for her favorite sports teams.

1)The Penguins-Resolve to be healthy, both injury- and illness-wise. Wrap yourselves in bubblewrap and douse yourselves in Purell hand sanitizer if you have to. Resolve not to have an early exit from the playoffs this spring. Resolve to bring a 4th Stanley Cup to the 'Burgh. Let's Go Pens!!!

2)The Steelers-Resolve to stop wasting draft picks on the likes of Dri Archer. Don't put Archer into the lineup. Ever. Resolve not to try a fake punt on 4th and 9 when you're on the opponents 45 yard line while clinging to a 4th quarter 20-17 lead with the division title hanging in the balance. Resolve to add depth to a very thin roster, especially at running back. Resolve to bring a 7th Super Bowl trophy to the 'Burgh. Let's Go Steelers!!!!!!

3)The Pirates-Resolve to win the NL Central title, instead of settling for another wild card spot. Resolve to add depth to the bench and bullpen. Resolve to find an everyday first baseman if/when the Pedro experiement doesn't work. Resolve to bring a 6th World Series trophy to the 'Burgh. Let's Go Bucs!!!!!