49ers 20 Steelers 3

Well that was ugly. Bad ugly.

There are a long list of excuses from injuries and suspensions, but at the heart of the matter, the Steelers were unable to execute. A missed field goal, turnovers, penalties, poor clock management. This is not Steeler football.

Roethlisberger played the entire game on a bum ankle. There are gritty performances, and then there’s trying to do too much. Roethlisberger is guilty of the latter. Big Ben was responsible for all four of the team’s turnovers and was lucky that a couple of questionable throws weren’t picked off as well. Roethlisberger’s competitive spirit got the better of him.

On defense the Steelers were less than spectacular. While they did an admirable job considering the 49ers consistently had great starting field position, the defense gave up a lot of yards and wasn’t able to put much pressure on Alex Smith. Ryan Clark and Troy Polamalu stepped up by making great tackles to stop drives short.

For the Steelers it’s time to refocus and get ready for the Rams on Saturday. They no longer control their playoff destiny and they shouldn’t worry about it. They’re in the playoffs and that’s all that matters.

As for the 49ers? Pay your electric bill. It’s embarrassing.

Week 15

Pittsburgh Steelers @ San Francisco 49ers

Time: 8:30 PM

TV: ESPN

Site: Candlestick Park

Last Meeting: 9/23/07, W 37-16

Thanks to the San Diego Chargers, the Steelers are once again in charge of their own playoff fate. The Steelers have a shot at the number 1 seed and a first round bye, but in order for that to happen they must win out.

Of course, that’s easier said than done as the Steelers take on the 10-3 San Francisco 49ers in primetime. While the Steelers are 3-1 in primetime games this season, all three of those wins have been rather ugly. The lone loss came at the hands of the Baltimore Ravens when the Steelers’ defense allowed Joe Flacco, of all people, to go 92 yards for the game-winning touchdown.

I have a funny feeling I’m going to be doing a lot of yelling at the TV tonight.

» Continue reading “Week 15 Preview: Pittsburgh Steelers @ San Francisco 49ers”