Steelers report card vs Vikings

The 6-0 Vikings came to town with a Steel Curtain standing between them and remaining undefeated. In a game you expected to be a shootout, it was exactly the opposite, both defenses held the other teams offense in check for most of the day. Two huge touchdowns by the Steelers defense at the end sealed the win for Pittsburgh 27-17.

The Report Card:

Quarterbacks: Roethlisberger had a quiet day for the first time this season, The Vikings defense held him in check as he only threw for 175 yards. He did have the big touchdown pass to Mike Wallace at the end of the first half, it was a beautiful pass. Several mistakes could have been made by Ben as he threw a few times while getting hit which almost turned into interceptions. We can't afford those mistakes, I'm surprised we got away with it. Ben did have a fumble late in the game as the defender came around the line behind Ben and knocked the ball loose, luckily it rolled out of bounds. C+

Runningbacks: Once again a big turnover by the running backs, this one could have cost us the game, luckily the defense made up for Mendenhalls mistake. After a huge play you need to punch the ball into the endzone or get a field goal at the very least, not dive like a dolphin and fumble when your still 7 yards away from the end zone. Outside of the error Mendenhall played well and ran hard, good holes for him to run through and the tackles & tight ends sealing off the edges was key. If the Steelers ran more Mendenhall could have a had a huge game no doubt. He rushed 69 yards on only 10 attempts. Willie Parker barely seen the field, and looked as bad as ever. Moore again got a few carries after Mendenhall's fumble, he rushed for 14 yards and surprisingly didn't have a reception, this guy just does what he's asked and doesn't complain got to love it. Mendenhall B- Parker D Moore B

Wide Receivers: Quiet day for the crew as the Steelers didn't see much action through the air, you have to be impressed with the Vikings gameplan as they came in and shut down a very dangerous passing attack up to this point. They held the leagues leading receiver Hines Ward to only 1 catch for 4 yards. The leading receiver was rookie Mike Wallace, who again is showing he was well worth that 3rd round pick in the draft. He caught 3 balls for 72 yards and a key catch and run touchdown before halftime. Wallace also ran the end around twice and was productive 2 weeks in a row in the running game. Holmes also had an awesome catch and run that will be forgotten thanks to Mendenhall's fumble. Sweed was again inactive. Ward C Holmes B Wallace A-

Tight Ends: You have to love the fact Miller is still being used in this offense, he didn't have a huge day but he did get thrown to more then anybody else, and had 6 catches on the day. Arians just needs to keep Miller in the offense, he's a huge weapon. David Johnson had a reception for 4 yards, I believe his first on the season. He also had a few good blocks when he was on the field. Miller B Johnson B

Offensive Line: This was the arguably the biggest test so far this season for the offensive line, and they responded. The run blocking was awesome against this great Vikings front. Probably because the Vikings expected pass, but either way the Steelers had plenty of push when they wanted to run the ball. The pass blocking wasn't bad either, particularly who did an excellent job against Pro bowler Jared Allen, Allen was rarely seen throughout the day. One of my fears coming into the game was how will Ben escape Allen's pressure, luckily I didn't even have to find out. Kudos Max. There were a few plays Ben needed more time, but thats with any offensive line in the league. A-

Defensive Line: The defensive line played awesome, I think we will be ok without Aaron Smith, he will definitely be missed and now with the injury to Kirshke it could hurt even more, but overall the job they did was magnificent. They had the key goal line stand, and almost had a second goal line stand. They kept the Vikings run game in check for the most part, and of course they gave up 2-3 big runs to AD, but who doesn't? Keisel forced one of the game winning touchdowns the Steelers defense had, he beat the tackle off the line and reached in behind Favre to knock the ball loose, it was picked up by Woodley and 7 hours later it was good for 6 points. What the hell was Fat Casey doing, 3 offsides penalties... REALLY?A-

Linebackers: Again leading the way was James "Silverback" Harrison, he had another 2 sacks and is just such a force rushing in from the outside. He also drew a key holding pl

• Previous
• 1
• 2
• Next

Single Page

This article is also featured on GridironFans.com NFL Blogs

The best Vikings newsletter on the web