Shocked

One of the most anticipated season openers in California Vulcans football history did not end the way the Cal U faithful anticipated. Hosting unranked Saginaw Valley (Mich), the Vulcans were upset on their home field by a score of 23-17. That marks just the second regular season loss for the Vulcans in the last three seasons.

California and Saginaw Valley were deadlocked at 7 early in the 2nd quarter. However, it wasn't a matter of two teams playing a chess match with each other. Cal was just hanging on.

Late in the second quarter it had looked like Cal got the break they needed. Dominique Curry blocked a Cardinals punt that rolled through the endzone for a safety. Cal took a 9-7 lead. Nevertheless, the slim lead and Cal's momentum were short lived. On the ensuing free kick, Saginaw Valley recovered a California fumble deep in Vulcan territory. Just a few short plays later, Saginaw Valley claimed the lead after tight end Galen Stone scored on a 12 yard reverse play. The score at the half read, Saginaw Valley 14, and California 9.

Early in the third quarter, the Vulcans running back Freddie Bacco cashed in on his second rushing touchdown of the game. With a successful two-point conversion, the Vulcans took a 17-14 lead. Saginaw Valley quickly responded by scoring a touchdown and recording a safety to take a 23-17 lead, with 5:04 remaining in the 4th quarter.

Cal drove down to the Cardinals 32 yard line before a Josh Portis pass was intercepted. That marked the first home opener loss in six seasons for the Vulcans.

Leaving the capacity crowd at Adamson Stadium, I can honestly tell you that the crowd was in total shock. You could just feel the energy leaving that field along with all of the fans. I have never heard that stadium so quiet. #8 California was knocked off on their home turf, by an unranked opponent.

Now it's time for Cal to man up, and play football. It won't get any easier when #11 Bloomsburg comes to "The Valley" next weekend. I know that the defense will be there, but it's just a matter of what offense shows up. After only one week, I can truthfully say that I am not sold on new QB Josh Portis. An entire O-Line that returned was manhandled all night by the Cardinals. The explosive receiving corps had a case of the drops, and did not impress in the season opener.

It's a long season, but I think we will find out what the Vulcans and this coaching are made of. Another tough game next weekend. Bloomsburg at California, 7:00 PM at Adamson Stadium.

2009 California Vulcans Preview

I would like to let everyone know of a new subject that I will be reporting to you, the readers. Something that I have fallen in love with over the past two years, will now be shared with you. Not many blogs cover division 2 football. So as the old saying goes, there's a first time for everything. In this case, we may have the first Pittsburgh based blog covering the local California Vulcans.

Anyone who has not attended Adamson Stadium, on the campus of California University, should most definitely get to a game this fall. You get great football, great atmosphere, and great fun, all for a very cheap price. Be sure to stop by the alumni tent on the way into the game for the scrumptious spread of free food.

I myself have fallen in love with this team. The team, is the California Vulcans. My sister is currently in her junior year at Cal, and with her being in the marching band, I actively attend as many Vulcan football games as possible. As I said before, these games are great. It truly is the college atmosphere, just packed into a smaller stadium. The kids still load up with antifreeze before the game, and those same students paint their chests and pack "Armenti's Army" to watch their beloved Vulcans.

Now let's talk some football. California plays in the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference, and have been crowned conference champions for the past two seasons. In the past two years, Coach John Luckhardt and his Vulcans have compiled quite the impressive resume. In the last two years, the Vulcans have compiled an impressive 25-3 record, two PSAC championships, and two straight trips to the NCAA Semifinals. The Vulcans quest for the national championship has ended at home the last two seasons, losing to the eventual champion both times. Valdosta State and Minnesota-Duluth respectively.

Above: Senior WR Marcel Pestano sits alone on the bench

as his dream for a national championship

ended on a snowy, Saturday afternoon last year

to eventual champ Minnesota-Duluth.

Looking to build off of the great 2007 and 2008 seasons, Cal begins the 2009 campaign as the 8th ranked team in the country. As usual, the PSAC competition will be tough again this season. Including the Vulcans, five teams are ranked in the preseason polls. Those teams are Bloomsburg(11), West Chester(20), Edinboro(21), and IUP(22). All of these four teams appear on the California schedule in 2009.

On offense the Vulcans will return seven starters, including the entire offensive line from last year. The 2008 offense averaged 35.6 points and 429.4 yards of total offense per game. New offensive coordinator Mike T. Jacobs brings nearly 30 years of college coaching experience to Cal. With increased depth at all spots, and new playmakers at all of the skilled positions, many believe that this will be the most explosive offense in school history.

Now let's take a look at the playmakers on offense...

Quarterback:

For the second straight year the Vulcans will be lead offensively by a division one transfer. Last year, Kevin McCabe came over from Virginia to lead the Vulcans to the national semifinals. This year, dual threat quarterback Josh Portis has transfered into Cal from Maryland. Josh is the cousin of Redskins running back Clinton Portis. Josh's goal this year is simple: lead the Vulcans to the national title game in Florence, Alabama. Portis was one of the most highly sought after quarterbacks in the nation coming out of high school in 2004. His senior year, Portis had a combined total of 49 touchdowns. Cal has excellent depth behind Portis, in the unfortunate event of an injury. That also bodes well for the coming years.

Above: Josh Portis bears a striking resemblance to former Pitt hoops

star Sam Young.

Running Back

The Vulcans lost two All PSAC-West running backs last year in Daine Williams and Brandon Lombardy. However, the Vulcans will display enormous amounts of talent this season. After two seasons of mainly being a third down and short yardage back, Windell Brown returns as the starting RB. Brown has rushed for 969 yards and 12 touchdowns in his career, and amazingly he has not even surpassed the 150 carries mark yet. Let me tell you folks, Brown is a physical specimen. He completely runs over defenders, but can make anyone miss in the open field. He is worth the price of admission. Along side Brown in the backfield, will once again be senior Freddie Bacco. The senior rushed for 6 touchdowns last year. A third player expected to see extended action in the backfield is Junior Cody Wilson. Wilson transfered from divison 1, The Citadel. Wilson is the prototypical power back, who adds great depth to the position. The last player to fit into the running back mix is sophomore Dane Conwell, who transfered from division 1 Indiana. Conwell played linebacker for the Hoosiers, but will be on the offensive side of the ball for the Vulcans. Because of depth and versatility, Wilson and Conwell are expected to see action as a fullback.

Above: Windell Brown scores the game winning touchdown

against Edinboro last season.

Wide Receivers

The Vulcans suffered the loss of record setting receiver, Marcel Pestano to graduation. However, this year Cal features more depth and speed at the position. Leading the way will be preseason All-American AJ Jackson. Jackson, a senior, caught ten touchdown passes last year. Also returning will be Blackhawk alum, Josh Gumbert and South Florida transfer Chedrick Cherry. Gumbert and Cherry are both sophomores. Last year as a freshman, Josh Gumbert saw extended playing time and was a huge piece of the Vulcans offense. His role will increase this year with the Vulcans. California has also brought in two legitimate playmaking transfers at the position. Dominique Curry comes to Cal after being a basketball star at Cheyney University, and JUCO transfer Terrance Moore will bring some blazing speed to the offense.

All and all, California will feature a plethora of talent on the offensive side of the ball this year. They have a great blend of veterans, mixed in with some very talented newcomers. The Vulcans have two players on offense that are listed on the preseason All-PSAC team, OL Nate Nurse and WR AJ Jackson. Factor in the return of the entire offensive line and you can easily realize that this will be an explosive unit.

Defense

It was only two short years ago that California's defense lead the country in three of the major statistical categories in 2007. This year, the defense features more speed and leadership than last year. In 2007, the defense lost many to graduation, but now two years later, the defense looks poised for a huge year. The Vulcans will return 8 starters on the defensive side of the ball. The defense will be led by All-American cornerback Terrence Johnson, and Gene Upshaw Award finalist, defensive end Willie Walker. The Gene Upshaw Award is given to the best defensive lineman in division 2 football. Johnson is a four year starter, and Walker is a three year starter.

Below: All-American Senior CB Terrance Johnson.

Defensive Line

The Vulcans return all three starters up front including three time All-PSAC selection, Willie Walker. Walker was third on the team in tackles in 2008. Another senior, Brandon Gordon returns with Walker. Gordon led the team with 8.5 tackles for loss last year, along with 4.5 sacks. Second year starter Sam Fikaris comes back to the d-line also. Fikaris has started all 28 games in his career at California. Seeing limited action last year, junior Gabe Hernandez will have a new role this year. Hernandez will be used mostly as a rush linebacker. He ranked amongst the team leaders with 7.0 tackles for a loss last year. With Hernandez's versatility, he adds quality depth to the Vulcans defense up front. Another key piece on the D-Line is Steve Santia. He provides good experience and depth. Santia played in all 14 games last year as a redshirt freshman.

Above: The Cal U defensive line is looking to make shambles

out of their PSAC opponents.

Linebackers

Another defensive position that Cal is loaded at, will be linebacker. Cal brings back several experienced players at the position. The talented trio of Dontey Brown, Brett Diamond, Matt McClellan, will bring great leadership to the defense. Diamond started the final eight games of the 2008 season as a true freshman. In that span he recorded 37 tackles. Penn State transfer Dontey Brown had a stellar first season with Cal last year. Brown registered 43 tackles last season. Matt McClellan ranked fifth on the team in total tackles with 46 in his first year as a starter. Cal also displays great depth at this position. Sophomores Terrance Hemsley, and James Lipsey, have both developed very nicely this offseason. Both saw spot duties last year as true freshmen. Also redshirt freshman Shawn Patil and Iowa Central transfer Anthony Roberts, showed great potential in camp.

Cornerbacks

The Vulcan defense also be experienced and deep at the cornerback position. All-American Terrence Johnson returns as one of the nations top playmakers on defense. Johnson has totaled 13 interceptions in his career. Junior Patrick Swearinger will start opposite Johnson for the second straight year. Swearinger proved to be a clutch defender last year, as all three of his interceptions came against nationally ranked opponents. Senior Trey Allen provides some veteran depth to the secondary. Cal also brought in a pair of division one transfers who will be lobbying for playing time. Mike Brown from Virginia, and Derek Bailey from Syracuse.

Safeties

The only defensive position to feature two new starters is at safety. Senior Josh Menendez will start at free safety this year. Sophomore Shawn Anderson as moved to free safety this spring, he adds quality depth to the last line of defense. Erik Harris was a special teams ace last year for the Vulcans. He looks to be challenging for the starting strong safety spot with Rontez Miles

California looks like a very, very dangerous team on paper. With experience watching this team play the last two years, I know that they will not disappoint on the field. The coaching staff will have this team ready to play week in and week out.

The Vulcans showcase a rare blend of tremendous talent, leadership, depth, and speed on both sides of the ball, that might be unmatched by any other school in the PSAC, or division 2 for that matter. Cal U totals six players selected to the All-PSAC Preseason team.

Looking at the Vulcans schedule, we will see what they are made of in the first three weeks. Cal opens at home with talented Saginaw Valley (Mich.), hosts #11 Bloomsburg in week 2, and travels to #20 West Chester in week 3.

Saginaw Valley is coming off of a great 2008 season, and would like nothing more than to spoil the Vulcans home opener. Coach John Luckhardt went out of Pennsylvania to schedule this non -conference game against a team out the tough Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference.

Last year California split in two games with Bloomsburg. The Huskies took the week 2 contest last year, but Cal won the more important match up in the Super Region One Final. Playing Bloomsburg at home is a definite advantage for Cal, but this game is still not an easy win.

West Chester lost three times to Cal in the year of 2008. The Vulcans and Coach John Luckhardt are a team that just has the Golden Rams' number. Even though WCU is ranked in the top 25, I am not fully sold on a team that has lost four straight game to the Vulcans. I see Cal easily taking care of business on the road.

Another game to look out for is in week 6 at IUP. Cal has played IUP extremely close the last two years. The Vulcans have taken the last two in this rivalry game, but for it to be a rivalry game both teams need to win. I think that this might be the year that the Crimson Hawks can upset their hated rivals. Not a definite loss, but certainly not an easy win either.

The only other tough game that the Vulcans might see is out of Edinboro. The Fighting Scots' played Cal a tough game at home against Cal last year. The Vulcans won a tight contest on the road 35-31. I must admit, I am not sold on Edinboro this year. The Fighting Scots' are going to come to "The Valley" and I see Cal making quick work of them.

So I have counted five tough games this year for the Vulcans. Saginaw Valley, Bloomsburg, West Chester, IUP, and Edinboro. I think the Vulcans will escape this tough trek mostly unscathed. I see Cal losing only one of these five games. My gut tells me that they will lose to IUP this year.

So I see Cal going 9-1 in the regular season, and winning the PSAC Championship game on November 7. The last two seasons, the Vulcans have made a postseason run to the National Semifinals. This year the Vulcans have a team that is deeper and more talented than those previous two teams. The Sky is the Limit for the 2009 California Vulcans.

Could an Undrafted Rookie, Be a Huge key to the Steelers Ground Game?

Isaac Redman ended last fall as the all time leading rusher in Bowie State University history. Bowie State University is a division 2 school that plays in the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association. After the NFL draft in April, Isaac Redman was left undrafted and without a job. A first team CIAA player, it appeared that Redman's football career was all but over.

That all changed when the World Champion Pittsburgh Steelers decided to give Redman a shot. Redman's unusual blend of size, footwork, speed, work ethic, and determination was what really attracted head coach Mike Tomlin. Redman was one of 22 rookies the Steelers added to their offseason roster. Now Redman is one of the few that stand poised to make the final roster. Redman certainly has the resume to make it in the NFL. He possess good size at 6'0, 230 pounds, but honestly, he resembles #36 in the way that he refuses to go down.

Isaac Redman accumulated quite a resume while at Bowie State. In 2004, Redman was named to the CIAA All-Rookie Team. That same year, he was named offensive player of year for Bulldogs. The next three seasons at Bowie State, Redman was named to the All-CIAA First Team, while also being named to the All-Southeast Region Team in 2005. Redman, the schools all-time leading rusher, ran for 3,300 total yards from scrimmage.

The Steelers drafted RB Frank Summers 5'10, 240lbs, to fill the role of the short yardage back. Redman has definitely given Summers, and other backs a run for their money for the job. In the first preseason game against Arizona, Redman first opened the coaches eyes. He scored twice on runs of three and five yards to help the Steelers edge the Cards. Now I do understand that this was against what was mostly the second and third teams of Arizona. While most of us ponder that thought, so did head coach Mike Tomlin. Hoping to see if the preseason scores were just a fluke, Tomlin threw Redman into the fire of the goal line test. Isaac Redman did not disappoint, as he scored three times against the Steelers number one defense, which needless to say opened a lot of eyes. One very impressed Steeler is center, Justin Hartwig. "He really just has a knack of knowing where the hole is," Hartwig said. "As lineman we really appreciate the way he's running the ball."

After the stellar preseason game, and so far training camp, Redman is being given the majority of the carriers in the short yardage drills. This might tell you who the leading candidate is for that open spot.

Watching some of Redman's highlight videos on YouTube, I really was blown away. As stated earlier, Redman has a rare blend of size, speed, and agility, but he never goes down easy. This could be a gem of a find for the Steelers. Redman appears to be an athlete with an extremely high ceiling.

It certainly isn't everyday that undrafted rookies steal the spotlight. An even rarer occurrence is when the undrafted player actually makes a name for himself in the NFL. Isaac Redman looks poised to do just that; and even more amazing is that this undrafted rookie attended a division 2 school. Small schoolers in the NFL certainly do not dominate most rosters, however there are always the occasional few that can become a rarity. For example, Redskins linebacker London Fletcher attended division 3 John Carroll University. Fletcher was also undrafted.

Above: London Fletcher at D3 John Carroll

Now the great thing about the preseason and training camp is that the coaches have a chance to experiment with different schemes, strategies, and players. With three preseason games left, I anticipate Isaac Redman to be given more reps. Not only in the second half, but I would like to see Redman going with the first team offense. If this kid is the real deal, the only way to tell for sure is to send him out against 1st team defenses. Who knows, maybe #33 can become the next #36.

Summerville High School's Storybook Season

We now introduce the second installment Pittsburgh Fever Amazing Sports Stories. Our last story was about how Bryan Fuller pitched 21 innings shutout innings in 24 hours. If your a new reader, I truly suggest reading this amazing story. If you are someone who does not believe in miracles or don't believe how God has a hand in things, I do not suggest reading this. So sit back and enjoy the emotional journey of the Summerville High School Basketball team that they had during the 2007-2008 season.

In the town of Charleston, SC there is one man who goes by two titles. Coach and Captain. That man's name is Louis Mulkey. When Mulkey is not at his day job on Engine #15 for the Charleston Fire Department, he is at the football field and basketball court at Summerville High School. Mulkey is an assistant coach for the Summerville football team, but it is basketball that was his true passion. Along with his wife, basketball and the boys he coached at Summerville was his love. Louis Mulkey did not have kids. His basketball team was his children. Coach Mulkey was such a father figure to some players that he often lent them money. If one of his kids needed to eat before a game, he would pick them up and buy them dinner so that they would have food prior to playing.

Mulkey began coaching at Summerville as the 8th grade boys basketball coach. As the 8th grade coach Mulkey made a prediction to his team. Mulkey told his team that when they were seniors in 2008, they would win a state championship. According to his wife Lauren, all Mulkey would talk about was how these boys could get a ring before they graduated Summerville High School. Mulkey preached and preached to the group that they would win state as seniors until the summer before their senior season.

June 18, 2007. There was a local furniture store that caught on fire. Mulkey and his fellow firefighters on Engine 15 were called into work. The blaze was terrible. Many described the smoke as going on for miles. Charleston firefighter Billy Perez, who was off duty, called into an engine that was on the scene. Perez heard fear in a friend's voice on the phone of the engine that he called. That man then told Perez that he needed to get on the scene. Once Perez arrived he heard what the fearful news was. Louis Mulkey was missing. At 7:32 PM, 24 minutes after the initial blaze started, a mayday call from Mulkey came over the radio from the inside of the burning building. Mulkey's final words over the radio, "Tell my wife I said I love you."

One day after his first wedding anniversary, Louis Mulkey was dead. He was only 34. In all there were 9 men, who are now know as the Charleston 9, died that day. It was the nation's worst firefighter tragedy since September 11.

Summerville basketball players were shocked. AJ Greene said, "I just couldn't believe it at first...then it just hit me and I started crying." Matt-Matt Galbreath told himself that Mulkey was only on vacation and coming back. The coach who believed in them, the coach he guided them, the man who acted like a father was gone.

Six months later, Summerville High Schools basketball team took the floor....without him. The Summerville team banded together and decided not to mourn. They found that the best way to heal was to play, and they best way to honor was to win the state title that their coach had predicted five seasons ago. The Charleston fire department had a black fire helmet with a number 15 on it. Engraved on the helmet, was Coach Mulkey. Fully knowing and understanding the whole situation, the Charleston Fire Department presented the Summerville basketball

team with the helmet so Louis Mulkey was always on the bench, right there with them.

The team carried the helmet to every single game. They placed it on the fourth seat of the bench, where Mulkey sat for every game. Summerville High School had never won a state title in basketball ever before. But by time the playoffs rolled around the Green Wave had amassed a record of 20-3, and were hitting their stride. Three straight playoff wins carried Summerville to the State Semifinals where they would have to play Sumter High School. As the game got deeper, the game got tighter. Then the crowd and the spirit of Louis Mulkey began to come alive. The Summerville faithful chanted "Lou-is Mul-key" over and over and over. Summerville fed off of the crowd and grabbed the lead, and kept it for good. Summerville had made it to the state championship game.

February 29, 2008, the biggest game in Summerville High School history. The mission: Beat Spartanburg and win the state title for Louis Mulkey. From the opening tip the game was close. Exchanging baskets, and the lead multiple times. It came down to the final minute when Summerville's Bruce Haynes gave the Green Wave the lead. Lauren Mulkey was ecstatic. She thought right there that Summerville had won state. With 1.2 seconds to go and up by 2 points, Haynes was at the free throw line shooting a one and one, with a chance to ice the game for Mulkey and Summerville High School. Haynes missed the front end of the one and one. A Spartanburg player grabbed the rebound, took two dribbles, and heaved a 65 foot shot down the court. They red light on the backboard lit up signaling time had expired. Not long after, the shot went in. Just like that, it was all over. The team who had gone through so much, got all this way and lost the state championship game. They collapsed on the court in tears, in disbelief, and watched somebody else celebrate their own miracle. The final score, Spartanburg 51, Summerville 50.

But maybe it wasn't supposed to end this way. What if there was still hope left? There was. The referees got together for a conference. And then the celebration began. The meeting was broken and one of the officials signaled that the buzzer sounded before the ball left the player's hand. Summerville 50, Spartanburg 48. As predicted five years ago, Summerville had won the South Carolina 4A state championship. The players in disbelief, shed tears of joy, together. Just minutes after the game, Lauren Mulkey came on the court to join her kids in celebration.

The season was not over yet. At 1:00 AM on their way back from winning the State Championship, there was one more stop to make. The team stopped at the grave of Louis Mulkey. They gathered around the grave in a circle and said a prayer for him. Some players even left their state championship medals at the grave with Mulkey. What happened on February 29, 2008 was more than just a game. That my friends, was a miracle

Outside the Lines did a report on this last year. It's a two part video so here are the links to watch the whole story.

Part 1

Part 2

2009 Pittsburgh Steelers Preview

Today marks the first stepping stone for the Super Bowl Champs in their quest to repeat. The Pittsburgh Steelers will take the field of competition for the first time since that unforgettable 60 minutes last February. Returning 20 of 22 starters from last year and with a very favorable schedule, it is not unrealistic to believe that the Steelers can repeat. Also punter Daniel Sepulveda is fully recovered from a torn ACL last year. This addition will be a huge lift to a very inconsistent Steelers' special teams. Possibly the biggest question mark going into the 2009 campaign is the offensive line. The offensive front will be in charge of protecting $100 million dollar quarterback Ben Roethlisberger and making room for last years inconsistent running game.

In the offseason, the Steelers inked both starters on Ben's blind side of the O-line to long-term contracts. Left tackle Max Starks and left guard Chris Kemoeatu. Kemoeatu is quickly becoming one of the games most dominant offensive lineman. Another reason to feel better about the 2009 offensive line is the age factor. Four of the five projected starters are in their mid 20s. Right tackle Willie Colon is another Steeler lineman poised for a big season. At 6'3, 315 pounds Colon came to camp in great shape and Mike Tomlin feels that along with Kemoeatu, Colon is one of the game's best O-lineman.

The run game last year was ranked 23rd in the NFL. This year with a determined offensive line, that ranking should improve. Willie Parker leads a healthy trio of running backs this season. Mewelde Moore will be an elusive 3rd down back, and now that Rashard Mendenhall is recovered from a shoulder injury last year, there should be a healthy competition for the top running back spot.

Above: Rookie Mike Wallace takes it all in from

Super Bowl hero Santonio Holmes at training camp.

Behind Hines Ward and Santonio Holmes, the 3rd wide receiver spot is wide open. That spot on the depth chart looks to be down to a three horse race between Limas Sweed, Mike Wallace, and Shaun McDonald. Limas Sweed says that he is ready to step up and fill that void in the Steelers passing attack. At 6'4, 220 pounds Sweed could be a very good possession receiver if he has a nice preseason. Rookie Mike Wallace is an intriguing player out of Ole Miss. At 6'0, Wallace displays excellent speed and is dynamic in the return game. Even if Wallace does not win the job for the number three wide receiver, he should stay on the active roster as a special teams player. One thing Shaun McDonald has over both Sweed and Wallace is 7 years of experience in the NFL. No matter who wins the position battle, McDonald will stay on the active roster and add depth and experience to the Steelers wide receivers.

On defense there is not much too worry about. 10 of 11 starters return. The only loss is cornerback Bryant McFadden to the runners up of the NFL just a short year ago. James Harrison and ageless vet James Farrior are back to lead the Blitzburgh linebackers. LaMarr Woodley has reported to camp in tip top shape, and is poised for another huge year. Woodley himself says that he wants to better his impressive stats that he put up a year ago. With Lawrence Timmons picked as the AFC North breakout player of the year, there shouldn't be many defensive lapses this year.

Above: Casey Hampton has reportedly

come to camp in great shape this year.

The defensive line will once again be amongst the league's best run stoppers. The D-line did not lose a single player and with the addition of Ziggy Hood, it only makes matters worse for the rest of the league.

Willis McGahee still feels the hit from last year's AFC Championship Game

The secondary will be rough, tough, and hard hitting once again. Troy Polamalu and Ryan Clark will both be patrolling the field from the safety position. The loss of McFadden might hurt a little, but that gives the opportunity for third year man out of Louisville William Gay to become a full time starter. I have no worries for the Steeler D in 2009.

So that is the breakdown of the roster on both sides of the ball for 2009. As I said before the Steelers have a favorable schedule for this season. A year ago Pittsburgh had the #1 toughest NFL schedule. Fresh off their 6th Super Bowl victory, Pittsburgh has the 29th easiest schedule in 2009. Last year, the tough regular season had the Steelers battle tested and playoff ready. Let's hope that the champs don't get too high on themselves with an easy regular season schedule.

Now it's time to break down the schedule week by week. I'll give my thoughts on how I feel the Steelers will finish up this season.

Week 1

Thursday, September 10

8:30 pm NBC

vs Tennessee

So the Steelers start out with a tough foe to kick off the season. The Titans should once again have a good defense. Although I would take Dick LeBeau and his boys any day of the week. I feel that Pittsburgh has the offensive advantage in this game. Pittsburgh has a better quarterback and better receivers, even with the Titans addition of Nate "don't drop me" Washington. Tennessee definitely has the advantage in the run game, with upstart ECU alumni Chris Johnson. However, I don't think the ground game will play much of a factor. When you have two teams who can play defense and stop the run this well, points will be hard to come by. I think this game will be won on defense. It's gonna a tough, grind it out contest. Also referred to as Steeler Football. I think the big play Pittsburgh D wins the game for the Steelers in a tight 17-13 week one victory.

Week 2

Sunday, September 20

4:15 CBS

AT Chicago

Even with the addition of Jay Cutler, the Bears just don't have the offensive capabilities to beat most good defenses. Other than Cutler, one of the few other bright spots in the Bears is second year man out of Tulane, RB Matt Forte. Last year, Forte was not only counted on as a running back, but he was also a huge part of the passing game. The lack of a true wide receiver that can take over the passing game will hurt Chicago this year, and in this match up. I anticipate the Steelers to shut down Chicago on the road at Soldier Field. I have no worries at all about the offense in this game. The Bears defense is aging more and more every single season, and they are not that #1 Defense from the 2005-2006 season anymore. Expect a nice game out of Willie Parker and Big Ben. Steelers win 24-10.

Week 3

Sunday, September 27

4:15 CBS

AT Cincinnati

The fans of Cincinnati will once again have to deal with a dismal season. The loss of TJ Houshmandzadeh will certainly weaken the Bengals passing attack. The Bengals return with a lackluster defense and running game. Just about the lone bright spot is QB Carson Palmer. With the only established deep threat being Chad Ochocinco, Cincy will struggle offensively. It definitely is not risky to say that the Bengals will finish in the AFC North cellar once again. I honestly can't see Cincy making a game of it. Steelers roll 34-13.

Week 4

Sunday, October 4

8:20 NBC

VS San Diego

At this stage in the season I have the Steelers 3-0. This looks to be a very intriguing match up. The late night start will not at all affect a team coming over from the West Coast. Offensively the Chargers are loaded. With a great decision maker in Phillip Rivers and big, tall, playmaking receivers, San Diego has a very potent passing game. Also factor in a great running back looking to have a big bounce back year. Which team is better to make a statement against than Pittsburgh? San Diego's defense is a question mark because of injuries. This game looks great on paper. Last year the Steelers won the low scoring slugfest and the divisional playoff game against San Diego. A tough game for both teams. I see the Steelers tasting defeat in this game by the score of 24-20.

Week 5

Sunday, October 11

1:00 CBS

AT Detroit

The Lions. Where do I start? Well let's just say that even with Matthew Stafford, they virtually have a 1.4537% chance at emerging victorious in this game. If the golden boy (Stafford) is under center by then, I feel he will get his "welcome to the NFL moment" once James Harrison blind sides him for a huge sack. Look at the match ups on paper. The only cause for concern that Lions can give the Steelers is Calvin Johnson. Pittsburgh is just WAY too much for the Detroit Lions in this one. Pittsburgh routs Detroit 41-14.

Week 6

Sunday, October 18

1:00 CBS

VS Cleveland

Now that the Mangenius is at the helm in Cleveland, Browns fans are hoping for a quick turnaround. I feel differently. As we speak, Derek Anderson and Brady Quinn, are locked in a position battle for the starting quarterback job. And as the old saying goes, "when you have two quarterbacks, you have no quarterback." The defense is not there for the Browns to make any sort of run this season. Much like the Lions and Bengals, Cleveland just does not match up with Pittsburgh. So the winning streak vs. the Browns rolls on. Pittsburgh wins 31-10.

Week 7

Sunday, October 25

1:00 FOX

VS Minnesota

Much like in week 4, the Steelers will have a tough opponent coming into Heinz Field. Another very good match up on paper. The biggest story will be Adrian Peterson trying to run over the Steeler D. Minnesota has a great, and I mean great offensive line, so I would not say that it is not possible for Peterson to have a nice afternoon. One cause for concern I have is the Vikings receivers. When you look across the board, everyone of them are tall, but posses great speed and catching abilities. At 6'4, Sidney Rice could definitely cause a problem for the Steelers. However, the lack of a game changing quarterback could be the demise of the Vikings in some games this season. Defensively, both teams are solid, but I would take the Steeler defense over the Viking defense any day of the week. I anticipate a well played, evenly matched game on both sides of the ball. Steelers pull out a close one 23-20.

Week 8

BYE

The bye week comes at week 9 this season. I have the Steelers rolling into their week off with a 7-1 record. The lone loss coming at home to the San Diego Chargers.

Week 9

Monday, November 9

8:30 ESPN

AT Denver

In week 9 we will witness the Steelers only Monday Night Football game of the season. Now I in a way understand what Josh McDaniels is doing in Denver. I feel that what he is trying to do is install the mindset that this is now HIS team, and if you don't like it get out. That act eventually wheres thin on players. To be quite honest, I think that it already has. Losing Jay Cutler is a huge loss. Contrary to what McDaniels says, I am sure that he wishes he had Jay Cutler under center for his team. I can honestly sense a lot of dissension on that team. That being said, I see a dismal season in the future for the Broncos. I am not even gonna get into match ups for this game. Steelers win on the road, 31-17.

Week 10

Sunday, November 15

1:00 CBS

VS Cincinnati

With a short week after playing on Monday Night Football, I can't think of a better opponent to have on your schedule for week 10. The Steelers have the joyous pleasure of hosting the Cincinnati Bengals. At this point in the season Chad Ochocinco's act of being the attention whore will get under his teammates skin. Cincinnati is another divided team. I went over all of the on paper match ups in week 3. Not a surprising pick, Steelers win 27-7.

Week 11

Sunday, November 22

1:00 CBS

AT Kansas City

As the old cliche goes, a chain is only as strong as its weakest link. Well in this case we have the World Champion Steelers, matched up once again with a sub par opponent. In a rebuilding process, the Chiefs are starting to put together a fairly decent offensive line. But is it gonna be good enough to stop this Steelers pass rush? Or, will we see a repeat of last year when the Steelers were the first team to actually welcome Matt Cassel to the NFL. Defensively, the lone bright spot is DE Tamba Hali. This is not a good match up for KC at all. Steelers win 28-10.

Week 12

Sunday, November 29

8:20 NBC

AT Baltimore

Well Steeler, fans this was the game we all have been waiting for. The first game of the season against the Ravens comes in week 12. Baltimore will have second year man, Joe Flacco leading the charge. Like Pittsburgh, Baltimore has an easy schedule as well, which tells me that both teams will come into this game with a great record. If that is true, this might turn out to be more than just a game. Now last season, Pittsburgh completed the 3-game sweep of Baltimore. The third and final game, clinched a trip to Super Bowl 43 for the winners, and I think we all know how that turned out. Baltimore does not hide the fact that they do not like the Steelers, especially on the defensive side of the ball. I can see this Sunday night game being played in a very hostile environment. We all know the match ups both teams have on each other. Ward-Rolle, Holmes-Ivy, Steelers O-line-against Ravens linebackers, and the list goes on and on. Now make no mistake about it, Baltimore needs this game more than the Steelers. The second meeting in a few weeks between the two teams is at the friendly confines of Heinz Field, which tells me that Baltimore is gonna at least try to split with the Steelers, by taking one game. Backed by the hostile crowd, I pick the Ravens in a close one 21-17.

Week 13

Sunday, December 6

1:00 CBS

VS Oakland

At this point it's still unclear of who will be starting at quarterback when week one rolls around for the Raiders. Now factor in a new receiving target in Darrius Heyward-Bey for the Raiders, and you could have a tough match up. Heyward-Bay, the Raiders first round pick this year, has excellent speed, and is very good out of his breaks when running routes. I would expect RB Darren McFadden to have a very good season this year. With a year under his belt, McFadden should be more of a threat in the run game. With all of this talk, the Raiders are still, just that...the Raiders. Plus this is a team from the West Coast coming East for a 1:00 start. That's a 10:00 start in California. Not gonna work. Steelers win 23-14.

Week 14

Thursday, December 10

8:20 NFL Network

AT Cleveland

Coming off a short week, Pittsburgh has to travel to the city that, for some unknown reason, is not on the map. At this point in the season there is not much more to say for this game. The Steelers are the Steelers. And the Browns, well.....they're still the Browns. I can't see the Steelers losing in this game. Check the match up if you want from week 6. Steelers win 38-14.

Week 15

Sunday, December 20

1:00 FOX

VS Green Bay

Coming off a Thursday night contest, the Steelers have ten days off to prepare for a tough home contest with Green Bay. This is a game that really peaks my interest. When I look at Green Bay I can see a great offensive line, that helps to lead an explosive offense. As us fantasy owners know, quarterback Aaron Rogers did not disappoint us last year. I see know reason to say that he can not do that again this year. Factor in having WR Greg Jennings as your number one target, you can pile up the passing yards easily. Ryan Grant is probably one of the most underrated starting running backs in football. The guy can run outside, and he can run between the tackles. With the type of offensive line he has, Grant can easily take over a game. Defensively, Green Bay is very quick at the linebacker position. Their secondary covers great ground and has great speed. Now when I put both teams on paper Pittsburgh is definitely the better team. The Steelers, who I have in a playoff spot already, might get lulled to sleep a little in this contest. I think that Green Bay, who might not have their post season fate yet, will treat this as a must win. I expect to see Pittsburgh come out slow and sluggish in this game. Green Bay will take advantage. Pittsburgh loses 28-17.

Week 16

Sunday, December 27

1:00 CBS

VS Baltimore

Well here is the rubber match between the two contenders. Have no fear Yinzer Nation, Coach Tomlin will have the boys ready to play coming off a surprising loss. This would probably be a must win for Pittsburgh if they want a division championship. I expect renegade to be blasted a few times in this one. Pittsburgh wins 20-14.

Week 17

Sunday, January 3

1:00 CBS

AT Miami

Well it's the regular season finale for the champs. What a great place to spend your New Year. Well one thing is for sure, the Wildcat won't work against Pittsburgh. Miami took a huge step into becoming a good team last year. Now there is a quantum leap that the Dolphins need to take to get to the level that Pittsburgh is at. Offensively, Miami is on their way, but on defense is where they need some work. Pittsburgh more than likely has everything they need locked up for the post season. If that is true I would expect the starters to only play about half the game. That being said I think that Pittsburgh still emerges victorious 23-17.

So I have the Steelers going 13-3 in the regular season. With losses coming to San Diego, Baltimore, and a surprising home loss to Green Bay. When I honestly look at the schedule, I feel with confidence, that Pittsburgh can win at least 14 or 15 games. But this is the NFL. Any given Sunday, something can happen. You have to be realistic. Now remember, all of this is being predicted as if the Steelers are injury free throughout the whole season. A lot can change if Ben goes down in week 3. (Knock on Wood)

When I do look at the schedule, it is truly amazing to look at how many breaks they get. With a short week after the Monday night game with Denver, they play the Bengals. The same can be said that in the span of five days they will play both Oakland and Cleveland, two teams as of now who show no shot at knocking off the Steelers this year. Even after the Thursday night game, they have ten days to prepare for one of their tougher games against Green Bay. The schedule is filled with breaks.

As we all know, predictions mean nothing. So it's a long season. Players are gonna get hurt, and strange things might happen. Until then, enjoy the preseason. Any feedback and your thoughts on the 2009 Steelers are greatly appreciated. Just leave me a comment or send me an email at pghfever@yahoo.com.

In the News

-Pitt football will sport new home uniforms in 2009. Any harsh responses Penn State fans? (WTAE)

-Blackhawks Patrick Kane was arrested on Sunday at about 5 a.m. after allegedly punching a cab driver, and taking the $15 fare he had given him. (ESPN)

-37 year old Pedro Martinez is scheduled to start for the Phillies Wednesday night against the Cubs. In three minor league starts in the past few weeks, Martinez went 1-1 with a 5.11 ERA. Jamie Moyer will move to the bullpen. Prediction time: After 3 innings pitched on Wednesday, Pedro will land on the 15-day DL with a hangnail.

-Jim Balsillie has failed at buying an NHL team for the third time now. (USA TODAY)

-Four Panthers landed on Collegefootballnews.com's All-Big East Preseason team. TE Nate Byham is the only offensive player to make the first team. DL Greg Romeus and DB Aaron Berry both made the squad, and the final Panther on the list is TJ Porter, who made the team as a punt returner.

-The Pirates two Indian prospects Rinku Singh and Dinesh Patel, are actually holding their own in the Gulf Coast League in Bradenton. Maybe this won't turn out to be such a joke after all. (Bleacher Report)

Pirate's Alderson, and Orioles' Matusz go toe to toe in 2013 World Series Game 7

I recently got my hands on a copy of the "Grays Sports Almanac" and what I am about to share with you is something completely top secret. Top secret to the point that most teams will be wishing that they hadn't traded away their top prospects to the worst team in baseball at that time.

In the last decade both the Pittsburgh Pirates and Baltimore Orioles have been two of the worst franchises in professional baseball. However, both of these teams recently have been making a commitment to building through the draft, and solidifying their farm systems from the ground up. With Pirates prospects such as Pedro Alvarez and Jose Tabata, and Orioles prospects such as should be Pirate, Matt Wieters and pitcher Brian Matusz show that the future of both clubs look bright. Could a seven game series be in the cards in a few years between the two teams? Maybe.

Folks, while reading through the outcomes of future sporting events I nearly lost my lunch out of disbelief. What I was reading seemed so surreal, that it was like someone was reading me a bedtime story from my childhood days. In plain words, it was almost like a fairy tale. I read that in 2013, the Pirates and Orioles will play each other for the right to be declared, World Series Champions. But it wasn't just any World Series. 2013 featured two young teams, playing on the biggest stage. Two teams who were a laughing stock for so long, finally had their teams who they assembled by great drafting and smart trades out on the field. Both squads filled with young guns excelled in the spotlight with great defense, clutch hitting, and overpowering pitching. It amazingly turned out to be one of the greatest World Series ever. I will now turn it over to the "Grays Sports Almanac" and let them tell you the rest of the story.

We skip ahead to the top of the 9th inning in game 7 of the 2013 World Series, at the beautiful PNC Park. The score is deadlocked at 0-0. The Pirates right hander, Tim Alderson has struck out 13, allowed just 2 hits, and did not issue a free pass in his 8 innings of work. His counterpart, southpaw Brian Matusz has nearly matched him out for out in this game 7. In Matusz's 8 innings he has also thrown up 8 zeros on the scoreboard, along with 14 strikeouts, and two walks.

Pirates skipper, John Russell has now decided to put the game in his bullpen's hands. With one on and two outs, Baltimore catcher Matt Wieters smacked a Daniel McCutchen fastball over the left-centerfield wall for a 2-0 lead. McCutchen got out of the inning and it was now up to the Pirates to finally score some runs to keep their season alive.

Above: Matt Wieters smacks

a two run homer in game 7

that looked to be the spark

for the Orioles to be crowned

champions.

The Pirates had the top of the order due up to start the 9th. Baltimore closer Troy Patton comes in looking for the biggest three outs of his life. The cold, October night along with a hostile crowd at PNC Park did not give Patton a friendly welcome. Andrew McCutchen drew a walk with a clutch, ten pitch at-bat. Immediately speed was on the basepaths. On the very next pitch McCutchen easily stole second base, and just like that the Buccos had a runner in scoring position.

Below: CF Andrew McCutchen wastes

no time by getting into scoring position

with nobody out.

With a runner on second base and nobody out it was now time for RF Starling Marte to step up. Marte delivered an 0-2 pitch into the gap in right center for a double to cut the Orioles lead in half. Now striding to the plate was the man who no pitcher wanted to see with the game on the line this year. Third baseman, Pedro Alvarez. Alvarez who was awarded the triple crown in the 2013 regular stood in to face Patton. With a 2-0 count, Patton left a fastball over the middle of the plate. Pedro Alvarez did not miss it. With one swing of the bat, Pedro Alvarez took a 93 mph, Troy Patton fastball into the Allegheny River. The Pirates were World Series Champions.

Above: 3B Pedro Alvarez

delivers with the game on the

line, smacking a two run walk-

off home run to win the World

Series.

2013 World Series Leftovers: Pirates Tim Alderson was named World Series MVP, posting a 2-0 record, 24 strikouts, 1 walk, and a 0.86 ERA. Pedro Alvarez and Matt Wieters both tied for the playoff lead in home runs with 7. Pirates CF Andrew McCutchen had five stolen bases in the World Series. The Pirates defense only committed one error throughout the playoffs. OF Starling Marte led all players in doubles throughout the playoffs with 5.

There you have it! Wow, sorry if I spoiled what will be the Pirates first winning season since 92, but I felt it was something all of the fellow Pittsburghers needed to hear. Ok so realistically speaking now, the Pirates aren't far away. As a matter of fact, neither are the Baltimore Orioles. That organization is doing just what Pittsburgh is doing. Seeing some of the talent both franchise are bringing in doesn't make it farfetched to think that this scenario could actually happen in a few years. It sort of reminds me of how in the NHL, teams like the Penguins and Blackhawks just keep stockpiling young talent via trades and the draft.

Now in the grand scheme of things, both of these teams are quickly becoming some of the deepest farm systems in professional baseball. The Pirates keep adding more and more depth at multiple positions in their system. As a fan, if you sit here and look at what could possibly be the World Series lineup for the Pirates in 2013, you begin to realize that the Pirates now have something in their farm system that they have not had in years past. OPTIONS. The added depth at positions such as third base, only add to the value of some prospects. So for example, if the Pirates have the great problem of having three big league ready third baseman, they can turnaround and trade one of them away to get what could be a huge piece to the puzzle. Whether that could be a quality reliever or starting pitcher, or a utility player. The Pirates now have different things they can do with each of their top prospects.

I recently just looked at the new, revised top 30 prospects for the Pirates, and it's truly incredible how two short years a team can nearly do a 180 degree turn. So once again, I salute the job of Neal Huntington and everyone involved with scouting and player development in the organization. You all are truly doing an incredible job.

A great 2008 and 2009 draft class, factored in with all of the trades make for something special. Of course prospects are just that, prospects, but the front office is now committed to bringing in players who want to win. If in a few years the Buccos are contenders, that's great. I would anticipate them making noise with the majority of their top prospects in the lineup.

The Pirates only weakness in their system is a possible cause for concern, middle infield. Sure, Ronny Cedeno has played well since being brought here, but he is not the answer for the long haul. Second base appears to be a little stronger of a position than SS. Former Pitt standout Jim Negrych and Shelby Ford should be locked in a position battle at next year's Spring Training to see who gets the job. Right now at SS, former Rice University star Brian Friday looks to be winning the race to PNC Park, as far as Pirates shortstop prospects go. Friday is currently playing for AAA Indianapolis. Other shortstops hoping to get a shot at the Major League club are Jordy Mercer and Chase D'Arnaud. Both are playing in High-A Lynchburg this season. Another player that you should not sleep on is Jarek Cunningham. Cunningham was drafted last year out of high school and played in the Gulf Coast Rookie League. While there, he displayed tremendous power and hitting abilities. Cunningham suffered a torn ACL in spring training before the start of this season and will be out the entire year. Also throw into the mix South African signee, Gift Ngoepe who can play both shortstop and second base. From what I have read and researched, Cunningham looks like he is the best prospect off all for shortstop. He displays a good glove, and should be a very good offensive player who posses excellent power for a middle infielder. However, from what I have heard, the recent knee injury could cause him to move to third base, but no one is completely sure just yet. I think the Pirates should be safe and just sign Miguel Angel Sano.

Despite what many fans may think, I am entitled to my opinion. This front office staff is doing it right. Building from the ground up to create a winner. And a winner they will create. No im not crazy. And no I'm not coo coo for Cocoa Puffs. In three seasons this organization will be in playoff contention. Who knows, maybe the year after that they will be in the pennant race. But in a perfect world, the 2013 Pirates will be the ones that didn't make history for all the wrong reasons. They will be the group to play hard and play together for a full 162 games. And they will be the team that will bring the World Series back to Pittsburgh.