Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Cleveland Browns: Coordinator’s Comments
The Pittsburgh Steelers open their season tomorrow against the Cleveland Browns. On Tuesday Mike Tomlin gave his weekly press conference, in which he broke down the matchup with the Browns, injuries, and some parts of the Steelers game plan. NPC’s Kim Myers gave an overview of the presser in Tomlin Tuesday. On Thursday both Dick LeBeau and Todd Haley gave quick interviews about how their unit is looking and what they are looking forward to come Sunday.
Dick LeBeau commented on two things. The first being Browns quarterback, Brian Hoyer. LeBeau gave Hoyer a lot of credit for playing efficiently in the Browns final two preseason games, going a combined 16 of 24 for 153 yards with a touchdown and an interception. LeBeau called Hoyer a good quarterback, who he respects a lot. Also, by the sounds of it LeBeau does not expect Hoyer to turn the ball over, calling Hoyer, “really efficient.” LeBeau was never asked, nor commented about Johnny Manziel.
The second topic LeBeau was asked about was a comment made by Ike Taylor on Ryan Shazier. Taylor said that the sky is the limit for Shazier but consistency is something that needs to be improved on. LeBeau simply answered the question by saying that Shazier, who turns 22 years old today, is still a rookie and every once in a while he goes the wrong way. But LeBeau agreed with Ike that Shazier has a ton of potential.
On Sunday Shazier, an Ohio State Buckeye just like LeBeau, will become the first rookie to start a season opener for 76 year old coach.
"“These rookies, I don’t mind starting them. They are ready to play.” – LeBeau"
Todd Haley talked about Ben Roethlisberger’s competitiveness, the running game, and Antonio Brown.
According to Haley, Ben Roethlisberger is not only competitive on the football field. The quarterback and offensive coordinator have met up on the golf course a few times this summer and Big Ben displays the same type of intensity trying to win on the links as he does on the football field. At least they are spending some quality time together right?
As for the running game, Haley is “very excited” about the talent in the backfield. Haley commented on all four running backs on the roster. He said Le’Veon Bell is ready and LeGarrette Blount is a guy who has proven he can play in this league. He gave Will Johnson some nice compliments for this effort in the final preseason game and he said the team is very excited to see what Dri Archer can do.
Finally, Haley was asked about Antonio Brown. Haley had only positive things to say about the pro bowl wide receiver, saying, “He’s an awesome guy and an awesome player.” Haley also expects AB to have another big season since he is now a “big dog.” As for the matchup against the Browns number one cornerback, Joe Haden, Haley expects it to be a great challenge for Brown, but also one that Antonio is looking forward to.
You can listen to LeBeau’s interview here and Haley’s here.