Pittsburgh Steelers 2007-2008

Coming off what might have been a fluke 8-8 season, the Pittsburgh Steelers enter their 75th season under new authority, Head Coach Mike Tomlin. For only the 2nd time in what seems to be the last millenium, the Steelers were in search of a new coach. When Mike Tomlin was interviewed for the job, many fans assumed it was only because of the Rooney Rule, which states that all franchises must interview a minority when seeking a new head coach. To the Rooney's however, they took the interview much more seriously. The leading candidates appeared to be Offensive Coordinater Ken Whisenhunt, or Offensive Line Coach Russ Grimm. But, after Tomlin's interview, they knew that they had found their man, and at 35 years of age, Mike Tomlin became one of the youngest coaches in professional sports. Contorversy immidiately arose about the hire, because Tomlin wanted to introduce a 4-3 defensive set, instead of the Steelers traditional 3-4. Many also feeled as if Whisenhunt and Grimm would have been better suited for the job.
More controversy that arose across Steeler nation was the departure of Joey Porter, the teams emotional leader and star linebacker. After a lackluster season by Porter, the Steelers had to part ways with "da boot," who would eventually sign with the Miami Dolphins. Another loss was veteran Center Jeff Hartings, who retired after 10 seasons in the NFL, the last 6 being with the Steelers. To fill the void left by Porter, the Steelers chose Lawrence Timmons, a linebacker from Florida State University. They also drafted Lamarr Woodley, a defensive end from Michigan, who can also play outside linebacker. To add on to the notable draftpicks was Matt Sepulveda, a 2-time punter of the year from Baylor. This meant that Chris Gardocki's time with the Steelers would be coming to an end.
The Steelers have one of the most difficult schedules in the NFL this season, playing Cincinnati and Baltimore twice, as well as Denver, New England, Jacksonville, Seattle, and St. Louis, all being extremely tallented opponents.
Some other questions entering the season are if Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger can rebound from his NFL leading 24 interceptions. Also, how would the blending of the 3-4 and 4-3 pan out with a mix of veterans and youngsters on the talented defense.
The Steelers went 4-1 in their extended preseason. As good as the record was, we all know that the preseason means nothing, due to the fact that the Steelers went 0-4 in 2005, when they won Superbowl XL. The offense only scored 7 TD's in 5 preseason games, with Roethlisberger passing for 0. But, with the return of Pro-Bowl Running Back Willie Parker, the Steelers should have an explosove running game.
In week 1, the Steelers (and myself) will travel to Cleveland, to face the hated Browns. The Steelers are a very healthy team heading into the opening weekend, with big expectations against the Browns. The Browns will not start rookie QB Brady Quinn, chosing Charlie Frye to lead to offense against the Steelers defense. Some players to watch are: Steelers RB Willie Parker, who had 2 good games against the Browns last season. Also, watch out for Braylon Edwards, WR of the Browns, who is expected to have a big season in Cleveland. The Steelers vs. Browns all-time record (including playoffs) currently stands at 55-55.
Prediction: Steelers 31, Browns 16

Stay tuned for Week 1 recap and Week 2 (vs. Buffalo Bills) outlook.