Steelers Report Card vs. the Cleveland Browns

While the Steelers did turn the ball over several times, they were in control of this game the whole time. The offense scored any time they needed to, and the defense made plays when it was necessary.

The Report Card:

Quarterbacks: Roethlisberger had a huge day through the air, throwing for a monster 417 yards. He hooked up with Hines Ward and Heath Miller for his two touchdown receptions.

While Ben had his way with the Browns defense for most of the day, he was far from flawless. He had a fumble under the center for an early turnover that went to the Browns. He also overthrew Hines Ward, which resulted in an interception.

He could have easily thrown four interceptions, but luckily the Browns couldn't haul them in. Two of them were in scoring range—we have to get points when we are in range, not take big risks. You can't throw the ball into the endzone with the defense hanging on you. Bite the bullet, Ben. B

Running backs: Welcome back, Willie Parker. You had one of the most embarrasing fumbles I've ever seen. The ball was coming out before you were even touched. He did hit the line of scrimmage fast at times, gaining four or five yards, which is what we have been needing him to do. Still, I wasn't too impressed.

Mendenhall once again looked good, hitting the line hard and making the defense feel it the next day. He also had a fumble when he found himself lying on a defender's body and another defender ripped the ball out. You have to tuck the ball away no matter the situation and hold onto it with your life. Moore had 20 rushing yards on five carries and, surprisingly, no receptions. Mendenhall led with running backs with 62 yards.
Mendenhall B , Parker C- , Moore B+

Wide Receivers: The wideouts have to be satisfied so far this year, as they are getting plenty of opportunities. Once again, the old veteran led the way. Hines Ward had eight receptions (seems to be the magic number) for 159 yards, He looked to have jumped in front of a pass that was intended for Holmes and took it to the house for 52 yards, putting the Steelers up 14-0.

Santonio Holmes had a very productive day, going for 100-plus yards and plenty of them coming after the catch. He was making big plays all over the field. Mike Wallace once again played his role and was big when called upon. He caught two balls for 50 yards.

He also ran a nice end \[around after a key block from Roethlisberger. Wallace took the ball for 21 yards and showed his physical side, breaking two tackles. McDonald was rarely seen. Ward A Holmes A Wallace B+ McDonald Inc .

Tight Ends: It's nice to see Heath Miller being as involved in the offense as he should be this year. Anyone who didn't know who Miller was before defintely knows who he is this year ,and he should have been used like this since he came into the league, not just once every five games. Miller once again had a touchdown to go with his 80 yards on the day. Spaeth was seldom seen, but he didn't have many screw-ups—which is progress. Miller A+ Spaeth Inc

Offensive Line: The offensive line gave up plenty of pressure early on, especially after Max Starks went out with an injury. Luckily, he returned shortly after that. The run blocking won the battle at the line of scrimmage, opening plenty of running lanes when the Steelers chose to ran the ball.

The pass defense was shaky. I haven't seen them give up this much pressure this year, they have to be more consistent. Part of it, of course, was Ben holding the ball too much, but even the offensive line this game looked leaps and bounds better then they did last season. On some plays Ben had a ridiculous amount of time to sit in the pocket. C+

Defensive Line:

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