3 Rivers Rundown 9/16/17: The Check Engine Light Is On

By Jaison Roberts, @Kratoslives

It's just one game into the season and the check engine light is on already? You've got to be kidding me.

Alright lets break it down...

We beat Cleveland on Sunday ✓.
Ben made it through the game with no injuries ✓.

Antonio Brown and the receivers made it through the game with no injuries and the tight ends are cool too. The O-line is healthy and they only gave up one sack

Now to check on the running back and oooh, there it is! That's what's setting off the check engine light. Now that we found the issue lets see what's going on with him.

Did he get hurt, nope. Did he fumble or miss a block. nope. He needs a tune up? And that's why you don't miss training camp. For all of Le'Veon Bell's greatness, there is one thing that he couldn't do while sitting out... taking a hit.

Since Le'Veon chose to sit out due to his contract, he gave up one thing that he couldn't get when sitting out, taking hits. Something that seems so small plagued him the whole game. He couldn't gage the hit speed of the defense. Yes he did get through the game with no injuries or fumbles, but he was completely off rhythm. That's why you don't sit out practice, even if he didn't play any preseason games, he would've had his game rhythm. This caused the NFL's most complete back to rush for only 35 yards on 10 carries and no this isn't a typing error. You could see that he was visibly off and had no rhythm for the game. So now he has the daunting task of getting his flow back while preparing to take on the Minnesota Vikings defense. I hate to say it, but thank goodness we played the Browns who were playing in a new defensive scheme or we would've had major trouble.

Now onto the defense. The played great for this unit especially since they committed some bone head penalties. Not to mention actively trying to keep the Browns in the game with freebie unnecessary roughing penalties. That means you Ryan Shazier, TJ Watt, JJ Wilcox, and an honorable mention Big Ben (even though he didn't get flagged). These penalties can't and shouldn't happen against the Vikings because if they do, they will put points on the board. Some of the highlights of the game belonged to the special teams and a rookie linebacker and 3rd year linebackers.

Lets start with Tyler Matakevich he set the tone by blocking the 1st punt attempt of the game, which led to Anthony Chickillo recovering the ball in the end zone for the game's 1st touchdown.

The front seven for the Steelers remained disruptive all game, recording 7 sacks which should've been 10 but 3 were taken away by penalties. Our front 3 recorded 2 of the 7 sacks thanks to Javone Hargrave and Cameron Heyward. The secondary also chipped in one sack by Joe Haden.

The stars on defense were Anthony Chickillo (2 sacks) & T.J. Watt (2 sacks and a interception). This was delivered with Stephon Tuitt on the sidelines with a bicep injury and Bud Dupree out with a shoulder injury. Not only did they respond to head coach Mike Tomlin's mantra "The Next Man Up", they delivered with big splash plays. Again major props to the special teams which kept the Browns at bay the whole game with great pressure on punts. Also great job by Antonio Brown for 11 catches and 184 yards, as well as Jesse James on the 2 red zone touchdowns.

This game still left me feeling cheated because of the Steelers past dominance of the Browns, but it should also be a warning for complacency. So now it's off to the Vikings, who is bringing in a tougher defense but a new O-line with 2 rookies starting and a first year player. And believe me they wont be laying down because they're playing the Steelers. They'll be more in the mood for a upset and to go 2-0 in the NFC North.

So Le'Veon, I hope you got some extra reps in practice this week and let's get this victory. My prediction for the game is 28-17 Steelers with another big helping of defense.

3 Rivers Rundown 9/8/17: Steelers In Mirror Are Closer Than They Appear

By Jaison Roberts, @Kratoslives


The object in the Steelers mirror is the 7th Lombardi trophy.

This 2017 Steelers team is on the cusp of making history or being tracked down. This may sound confusing but the Steelers have two options; win it all and be alone in the NFL history books, or move over and make room for the New England Patriots who can win their 6th trophy. Me as a Steelers fan, would prefer the 1st option and they can do it. We have a team right now that is the perfect blend of old and seasoned, with their leaders and captains.

The team is now built for multiple Super Bowl runs with the past 3 years of drafting. The team average age is 28 years old minus 8 players in their 30's. Their nucleus is all under 29 years old and they are in good position with the salary cap, with relief coming. All while being able to win and repeat as champions just as long Kevin Colbert & Mike Tomlin play their cards right. Let's look into the current state of the team starting with our QB's.

We all know the Steelers are being led by a hall of fame QB in Ben Roethlisberger. Quietly, he is back in the position as he was as a rookie. This team no longer needs Big Ben to win it all but just lead them like he did in his first 2 years. After Ben, the QB room lacks the talent to strike fear in opposing defenses. Landry Jones is a journeyman who has it from the neck up, just not physically. Josh Dobbs has both the smarts and physicality, but lacks the experience.

The running backs are led by Le'Veon Bell. The only thing he can't do so far is stay on the field for all 16 games of a season. If he can stay healthy or avoid suspension, he's a threat to all past NFL rushing records. When you look at this man, the only thing that comes to mind is, "Did Barry Sanders and Marshall Faulk combine their DNA?" After him, here comes James Conner & Terrell Watson the Steelers prototypical RB. They're big, they're fast, but the knock on them is they're green so expect some mistakes when Bell finally needs a rest.

The receivers are a pure nightmare with the talent sitting in that room, led by Antonio Brown. When you have a number one receiver in Martavius Bryant as your number two, you know your unit is a problem for the opposition. This is followed up with Darrius Heyward-Bey, Justin Hunter, Eli Rogers and Ju Ju Smith-Schuster. I guess this isn't fair but I'm not complaining. It's my team we're talking about.

The tight ends leave a semi-sweet taste in your mouth. Not just mine but the staff, which led to the team trading for Vance McDonald from the San Francisco 49ers. Jesse James and Xavier Grimble both who know the playbook, but haven't seized the #1 spot. So this may be the only weakness on the offense, but the receivers make up for it.

As far as the O-Line is concerned, there are two things; they are healthy for once and Mike Munchak. Thank you again Tennessee Titans for firing him. After Mike's arrival, the O-Line had lived up to the billing. The wild part is now injures don't phase them because of the coaching.

The defensive line is just nasty with the return of Cameron Heyward and the play of Stephon Tuitt and Javon Hargrave. This will be the best front three since Brett Keisel, Casey Hampton and Aaron Smith, who used to wreck havoc on offensive lines, which these three can do.

Now for the freaks of the defense, the linebackers are going to feast this year. With the front three so disruptive, you now have Ryan Shazier, Vince Williams, Bud Dupree and T.J. Watt hunting in your back field. All while having James Harrison resting and preparing for a strong Super Bowl run. All of this can happen while having the young guns being lead by Arthur Moats. This unit has the chance to have three people with double digit sacks.

Now here comes the black sheep of the family: the secondary.

Arty Burns & Sean Davis both had solid rookie seasons and both got better in the 2nd half, including the playoffs. However, that still didn't stop the Steelers from seeking and getting help in the form of Coty Sensabaugh, J.J. Wilcox and the big prize, Joe Haden. This unit should all thrive with the front seven pressuring the QB. Mike Mitchell should be free to help on blitzes and run support as well.

The special teams should be solid again especially if Todd Haley's offense is scoring tons of points. This team should be able to go 13-3, but I'm going with my gut with a 1 game improvement. So, I'm giving the 2017 Steelers 12-4 record with a Super Bowl win.

#HereWeGo

Browns Preview 12.30.16: Cleveland Browns @ Pittsburgh Steelers

By Katelin Marshall, @KatelinKnowsCLE

The (1-15) Cleveland Browns travel to Pittsburgh to take on the (10-5) Steelers. This is going to be a weird game for a few reasons. First off, the Steelers are expected to sit Ben Roethlisberger, Le'Veon Bell, and Antonio Brown this week since they already clinched the third seed in the AFC playoff standings. On the other hand if the Browns lose this week, they will clinch the 1st overall pick for the first time since 2000.


Browns Offense vs Steelers Defense

It sounds like Robert Griffin III will start this week, since he was cleared to be taken out of Concussion protocol. If Griffin doesn't start, Cody Kessler will start in place of him. Another a few other shifts on the offensive line. Jonathan Cooper was released this week and Alvin Bailey was activated off of the suspension list and will start this week. Cam Erving will shift over to right tackle in place of Austin Pasztor and either Anthony Fabiano or Gabe Ikard will start at center this week.

The game plan this week should be the same as the past few weeks with Griffin at quarterback. Use Griffin's legs to set up the zone-read running game for Isaiah Crowell. The Browns should run the ball a lot to the right to test Cam Erving at right tackle. It will be interesting to see if the Browns active Darius Jackson this week. Jackson was claimed a few weeks ago from Dallas and has yet to be activated for a game.

The passing game should be the same also. Take some shots down field to keep the defense honest, but overall just take what the defense gives Griffin. Corey Coleman should get a lot of targets since Terrelle Pryor is still banged up. Duke Johnson should get his normal touches out of the backfield in the check down game.


Browns Defense vs Steelers Offense

Landry Jones will be starting this week for the Steelers. He has a career record of 1-2. And the one win was against the Browns last year when he got hurt and Big Ben replaced him. DeAngelo Williams will start and get the bulk of the carries with Bell out.

The Steelers should play conservatively. They don't want anyone to get hurt this game, whether its a backup or a starting offensive lineman. So heavy running, winning the time of possession, and limiting turnovers is going to be their game plan for this week,

The Browns will need to force a turnover or two to be able to pull out this game. And to do that they need to get pressure on Jones. Jamar Taylor should get multiple opportunities to make a play this.  On the run defense side, Shelton needs to set the tone at the line of scrimmage since DeAngelo Williams will get the start and many carries.


Five Guys to Watch

Cam Erving: Cam's is getting his first start at right tackle and it sounds like he could be the right tackle in 2017.

Robert Griffin III: This could be his last start in a Browns uniform. The Browns will need to make a decision about him this off-season and depending how things go, Griffin could be out of the NFL.

Isaiah Crowell: It will be interesting to see how the running game will play with a new look offensive line. Crowell is 200 yards away from 1000 for the season. Yes it seems unlikely but hey...its something to watch out for.

Emmanual Ogbah: Ogbah will need to get to the quarterback this week. Hopefully Ogbah can close out this year on a high note. He's played really well since moving to the defensive line.

Danny Shelton: The Steelers are going to run the ball with Williams a lot this week. Shelton is an easy pick this week. He needs to set the line of scrimmage and can't let the Steelers running game get into a rhythm.


Injury Report
Weather
Betting Line: Pittsburgh -6


Prediction: 24-17 Steelers

Don't worry Browns fans, they clinch the number one overall pick and draft talk can begin next week. The only good thing about this week 17 is that no changes should be made on "Black Monday". The Browns didn't go 1-15, aren't firing coaches, and clinched the number one overall pick...I'd say that a fairly successful "try-out" year.

3 Rivers Rundown: 7 Is The Gateway To NFL Immortality

By Jaison Roberts, @Kratoslives


As the Pittsburgh Steelers set out to start the NFL 2016 season, something should be on the minds of fans and the NFL.

If the Steelers win their seventh Lombardi Trophy, they will be widely viewed as the New York Yankees of the NFL. They will represent everything the NFL wants it's fans to believe in. That any team, no matter what city, big or small, your team is in it every year.

With a group of wide receivers that can do anything on the field, this team's aerial attack may become historic, especially with Antonio Brown leading the charge. He alone with Big Ben staying healthy may be the NFL's first 2000 yard receiver. He has proven that he can't be covered all the time, whether its in single or double coverage. Also with second year receiver Sammie Coates and Darius Heyward-Bey stretching the field, Brown and Markus Wheaton will be open for quick hitters. Even with the retirement of Heath Miller, this offense may be just to much for the league to handle.

The run game isn't going to be any type of cupcake either. With Le'Veon Bell and DeAngelo Williams, they are going to force defensive coordinators into cold sweats. In my opinion, you are looking at the best overall back in the league when on the field in Bell. The only thing that seems to stop him are horse collar tackles and drug suspensions. Bell might miss the first four games this season, but could win his appeal on August 18, and be ready to go in Week 1. This could be scary for other teams but with Williams' rebirth at the age of 33, there should be no offensive worries.

Future Hall of Fame Ben Roethlisberger is showing no signs of letting up either. Even though he can't run like he used to, his mind has sped up and he now carves up your defense from the neck up. So other than bringing his new tight ends up to speed, Jesse James and Ladrius Green, he will be driving a Bugatti-type custom-made offense, just for him.

Now to the defensive side of the ball, which was last year's albatross, mainly the secondary. It will be extremely difficult to handle with a very disruptive front seven led by defensive ends Cam Heyward and Stephon Tuitt. Tuitt has become just as violent at the point of attack as Cam and they both get after your quarterback with a vengeance. The linebacker crew is on the way up, once again led by "Deebo" aka James Harrison and Lawrence Timmons. They had the third most sacks in the league last year, even though no one had more than 7 sacks.

The secondary is rebuilt with young talent, other than seven-year veteran free safety Mike Mitchell. This unit will be tested early and often this year. Which also could be a make or break year for defensive backs coach Carnell Lake. If this unit can't produce take aways, I feel that Coach Lake is gone.

So with the first preseason game coming this Friday (versus the Detroit Lions), answers should start to be given to fans as the ride to immortality and title number seven.

#Browns Preview 1.3.16: Pittsburgh #Steelers @ Cleveland Browns

By @mrgroce

Happy New Year Browns' fans!!!! We have finally reached the final week of the season and it could not have come at a better time. For the third season in a row the Browns will be have their third string quarterback behind center. Austin Davis gets the opportunity to keep the Pittsburgh Steelers out of the playoffs. Pittsburgh needs a victory and a Jets loss to make clinch a spot in the postseason. Since 2008, the Browns and Steelers have faced off against each other five times with Pittsburgh winning every single contest. 

The Browns will be without both of their starting corner backs this week and might be forced to start Justin Gilbert and Pierre Desir against Antonio Brown and Martavis Bryant. That's gonna get ugly. The last time these two teams faced each other, Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger came off of the bench and threw for 379 yards and 3 touchdowns. Running back DeAngelo Williams was held to 54 yards on 17 carries, which was one of the best performances by the Browns' run defense this season. 

As stated earlier, Austin Davis will get his second start of the season. In his lone start against the Bengals in early December, Davis threw for  230 yards with one interception. Like the other quarterbacks before him, it's really hard to get a read on the man behind center when he doesn't have any weapons to help him win. Add Marlon Moore to the list of receivers who who will be out this week for the Browns. That could lead to more playing time for Terrelle Pryor or Dwayne Bowe, maybe. One thing to look out for is the fact that Travis Benjamin is only 87 yards short of the 1000 yard mark. 

Personally, I'll have my eyes on Cameron Erving, Danny Shelton and Nate Orchard. They are the rookies who've had the most playing time lately and I'd like to see how hard they compete in the final game that means nothing overall, but hopefully will one day in their futures as members of the Cleveland Browns. Rumors have swirled all week stating that GM Ray Farmer will be fired and coach Pettine will be retained followed by another rumor that both men will be let go after the season ends. I'm not a fan of either guy but whatever happens I don't wish for any man to lose his job. I am a fan of the Cleveland Browns though, and whatever is best for the team will hopefully get figured out by Jimmy Haslem quickly. 

What: Pittsburgh Steelers at Cleveland Browns
When: Sunday January 3, 2015 1:00 PM
Where: FirstEnergy Stadium Cleveland, Ohio
TV/Radio: CBS/ 850 ESPN Cleveland, 92.3 The Fan, 98.5 WNCX

3 Rivers Rundown With Jaison (@Kratoslives)

A Tale Of 2 Teams (Fighting For Control)
By @Kratoslives

Welcome to the Pittsburgh Steelers starring Big Ben, Antonio "Wiggle" Brown, Heath Miller, Markus Wheaton, Martavis Bryant and guest starring Le'Veon Bell. This is the new air force just ask the Colts secondary, which is now part of the NFL's record breaking game, even though they weren't too happy with their part in it.

Now hold on, this is about 2 teams as I stated in my title. Welcome to the Pittsburgh Steelers starring Le'Veon Bell, LeGarette Blount, Will Johnson & Dri Archer, guest starring Big Ben. This unit will haunt "River Boat" Ron Rivera and the Carolina Panthers front seven for a long time. Bell & Blount may still be running wild in their minds. I know the fans won't forget them no time soon.

These 2 teams are fighting for control of the Pittsburgh Steelers fan base, and for control of the team itself. Which in turn is driving me and the rest of the fan base insane. I'm cracking up right now doing this article. Quit laughing I'm not kidding I'm going nuts about this. Don't believe, me check this out.

Week 1 vs the Browns, the first half was EUPHORIA! I'm jumping screaming and partying like a fool. Now something has happened during halftime to my emotions, 1000% pure DYSPHORIA, stunned silence. I'm searching for a boulder to hide under. How? Really, how could this have happened, I was on cloud nine 15 minutes ago. Could someone have kidnapped our entire offense during halftime. Is Ashton Kutcher shooting a new episode of Punked? That's it, both teams ran into the locker room and switched uniforms, but Ashton still hasn't showed his face pointing at hidden cameras.

Man I feel like I have a split personality, wait a minute that's it. The Pittsburgh Steelers has a split personality. One game they are running the ball down their opponents throats. The next game they are airing it out, too the point they need their own airport. But then it's the second game against the Brown's where nobody showed up except the Brown's. Now that we have found the problem may I make a suggestion, stop over thinking! Your putting yourself in the lost column when you over think.

Stick with what's working, if the passing game is working don't stop. Make them stop you, and if the running game is clicking then ride our horses. Just don't take your foot off your opponents neck until you see this on the game clock 00:00. Now that we have come to a understanding, Mike Tomlin here's my bill, $150. I take pay pal, checks, cash or tickets to a home game. Just remember don't let up on your opponent until the game is over. I'm going to check in on you.

Your buddy, Jaison from Warrensville Hts.

P.S. I now accept all major credit cards.