- I contemplated simply re-submitting the article I wrote
last week and changing the date, but then I wouldn't get to talk about the
interesting new statistics like how Maddox has thrown 3 of the 10 picks
returned for TDs this year (4 of 11 if you count the one returned to the � yard
line against the Titans).� But pretty
much everything else stated last week still holds true.� For instance, Chad Scott is at a major
disadvantage in reaching his goal of returning picks for TDs by not being able
to play against Maddox.� The Steelers
redzone offense continues their scintillating performance, and of course
Burress is nowhere to be found.� Atleast
one thing can be stated with assurance, Mike Mularkey does not read this column
or this website, as the "dink and dump" (that one's for you Mill)
offense is running full force.
- Fortunately the Steelers paid little heed to the M&M combo (McElroy and
Maddox) this offseason regarding the temporary starter's claim that he deserves
to be paid more money.
- Much of the defense you'll hear for Maddox this week will center around the
deficiencies of the offensive line.�
Shall I be the first to invoke the term "Tommy Apologists."
- Someone on the message board actually stated that we
should go after Kurt Warner for next season.�
Actually we shouldn't because Warner's current contract would destroy
our cap, and we already have an immobile, ox at QB, whose only redeeming
quality is that he'll make you pay if you give him 10 seconds unfettered in the
pocket.� Besides how would the 'burgh
take to an ugly ass wife of a grocery bagger having her own segment on the Mark
Madden show.
- For a true definition of pocket poise watch Drew Bledsoe or Peyton Manning
play.� I know Manning has a reputation
for not being able to win the big game, but atleast he's got the moxie to stand
in the pocket and make the throws.� I'm
sure he'll be harassed in tonight's Monday night affair against the stellar
Bucs defense, but I don't expect to see any "deer in the headlights, gotta
protect my nuts" type throws that we have seen all to often from Maddox
both this year and last.� Maybe Maddox
hasn't fully recovered from his near paralysis in Tennessee last year, since
this alarming trend of cowardice pretty much dates back to his return from that
injury.� Whatever the reason, the
coaching staff must identify if Maddox is willing to stand in the pocket and
take some shots.
- It seems the secondary has become public enemy #1 in town
(most probably because the fans don't have Kordell to point to at QB anymore),
though Maddox is becoming a close 2nd.� I haven't been enamored with their play at all, but I don't think
many secondaries can compete when asked to cover WRs for 5-6 seconds.
- Tim Lewis will have a busy week trying to prepare for a
Broncos offense that can beat you with the run (Portis) or the pass (Plummer to
Smith/Lelie/McAffrey).� Check that�this
week shouldn't be much different from any other for Lewis, judging by his
pre-game preparation.� He'll either
isolate to shutting down the passing game, in which case Portis will run
roughshod over and around the defense, or he'll isolate to shutting down the
running game, in which case Plummer will execute some simple play-action passes
and look for the fleet footed Lelie streaking downfield.