Are Steelers Unfairly Singled Out?

Before I start this article, let me say that I'm pleased with the exceptionally good feedback I receive from illustrious editors, fans and readers. I've been on Bleacher Report for about a month and I'm grateful with the good things I've obtained from all of you.

Now, let's move to business. ESPN's Mike Tirico, who always does a solid job on his Monday Night Football broadcasts suggested after James Farrior's late hit of Redskins signal-caller Jason Campbell that the Steelers believe they're being unfairly singled out.

I know that there's always conspiracy theorists out there and assuredly there are some conspiracies that exist (if you doubt the veracity of my words, I give you the BCS...) but I'd like to debunk them in this regard.

To me there is no empirical evidence which suggests that the Steelers are being unjustly singled out because of the numerous personal foul penalties they've incurred this season. The last time I checked, the United States is the land of the free, so while I'm sure Commissioner Goodell isn't pleased to hear inflammatory comments from the likes of Troy Polamalu and Hines Ward, they have every right to express their opinion.

A similar situation occurred with the Ravens several years ago and then-NFL commissioner Paul Tagliabue talked to them and primarily informed them about why the flags were thrown. Football is a game of aggression and will always be but I'll admit that the Farrior hit was excessive only because it came late. The Steelers are the top-ranked defense in the league as they surrender only 234 yards a game and can stifle any prolific offensive player or team.

If you have doubts about that assessment, just ask Clinton Portis. In my humble opinion, this is what the true story of Pittsburgh is, not the inflammatory comments concerning officiating we hear in the media.

Sadly, the more the Steelers complain and feel that they're being singled out, the more "fans" will fail to see the true excellence of this squad. What a tragedy.