View topic - stillers O Line off on the right foot

[Hi5Steeler Profile]

Steelers' oft-criticized offensive line gets off on the right foot
By Mike Wilkening
Sept. 11, 2008 •

Updated at 9:09 a.m. EDT Monday, Sept. 15

The Steelers’ offensive line was one of the league’s most scrutinized position groups entering this season after not playing up to its high standards in 2007 and the offseason departure of OLG Alan Faneca. But the early returns in ’08 have been positive, with C Justin Hartwig and ORG Kendall Simmons especially getting high marks for their performances in a dominant win vs. Houston in Week One, the way we hear it. Solid play from Hartwig is particularly important, given the problems predecessor Sean Mahan had last season. Another positive sign: OLT Marvel Smith’s strong play in the running game. The line didn’t fare quite as well in Week Two, surrendering three sacks at Cleveland, but the Steelers ground out an important win in windy, wet conditions.

[thesteelhammer Profile]

Better than last year, but Ben is still getting hit too much.

[lloydrules Profile]

Better than last year, but Ben is still getting hit too much.

He is, but some are his fault for holding the ball too long

[Steeledge Profile]

Better than last year, but Ben is still getting hit too much.

He is, but some are his fault for holding the ball too long

...let's not absolve Ariens in this.
He could be sending in more of these quicker-hitting pass plays to TE's and RB's we heard so much about all pre-season.
This would take a lot of that pressure off of the OL and Ben, but we still have yet to see them.

it's not like he doesn't have the weapons at his disposal to make this happen, either...

[Steeledge Profile]

...OLG Alan Faneca...

...who?...

Haven't heard much about him up there in Old York, other than the Jets OL is turning out to be a bit of a disappointment.

...surprise, surprise...

[jstallworth82 Profile]

I agree with steeledge the so called quick pass plays havent showed up yet. And though they are playing better than expected 4 sacks and 7 more hits in 33 pass attempts is not real good. But some think it is great. I dont think they are among the upper half. Hopefully they continue to improve though.