RIP Pittsburgh Steelers

Or rest uncomfortably and agitated, it doesn't really matter to me.

Last night, the high energy (?) Cleveland Browns put a dagger through the heart of the Steel City, ending a 12-game losing streak against the Steelers, as well as effectively ending any chance of a playoff birth.  I'm usually sad at funerals, but this one is funny in a Mr. Bean kind of way.

The problem on both sides of the ball were the lines.  The Browns did all the heavy lifting and the Steelers just didn't seem to be prepared for it.  Mendenhall could barely get out of the backfield, and the Steelers D apparently was unaware that Joshua Cribbs played for the other team.  You have to wonder if the Steelers middle-aged identity crisis is to blame.  The Steelers have made a living out of being a smashmouth unit for, well, ever.  And now, with the emergence of Santionio Holmes, the Steelers spend more time stretching the field, than ever before.  More often than not, a pass was called on any 3rd down even in short yardage situations... Not necessarily a vote of confidence for the offensive line.

A 9-7 squad seems destined to make the playoffs in the AFC, so all is not lost just yet.  However, if the Browns are causing problems for the Steelers, then they don't stand much of a chance against teams like the Packers and Ravens.  I just hope Big Boy can find some constructive things to do with his time outside of settling the occasional alleged rape case.