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Brian Batko's Steelers chat: 01.08.24
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Brian Batko
2:41
Really leaning that way given how he's been running lately. In a vacuum, I could make the argument that it's just never wise to pick up a fifth-year option on a running back, partially because it means you drafted a running back in the first round in the first place, but I think this is a situation where he and Jaylen Warren make each other better in their roles. So it's not just about what you're paying him in '25, it's also how he wears down a defense and makes it look like fast-forward when Warren checks in.
NY Steel
2:42
I am surprised by people belittling Rudolph’s accomplishments by pointing to the weak quality of the Bengals and Seattle defenses.  Pickett and Trubisky have also faced weak defenses over the last two years and not really taken advantage. In addition, when Pickett faced the Bengals this year, Btowning had just taken over and the Bengals were a bit rattled.  When Rudolph faced them, they were coming off a 3-game win streak with Browning and quite confident. Why is it so hard to admit Rudolph is the Steeler’s best QB and that Tomlin has badly managed the offensive coaching staff and QB development for years? We have had 2 mediocre coordinators, a rotating turnstile at o-line coach, and uncertainty at QB.  Doesn’t this team also need a coach that understands offense for its rebuild?
Brian Batko
2:42
Let me say this: Rudolph has been the Steelers' best QB this season and Tomlin has badly managed the offensive coaching staff and QB development for years. That good?
TX Pressure
2:43
Rudolph playing a top NFL D this week, if he can put up 24+ and play a solid game and even if they lose but Rudolph makes it competitive will AR2/Tomlin create a LEGIT Open QB competition next year?
Brian Batko
2:44
I believe he would, yes. And that may be the case regardless at this point - if Rudolph returns. If he doesn't, well, Pickett's competition and the legitimacy of it depends on who else is here. If it's Mitch Trubisky? No competition! If it's just about any other reasonable option? Don't just hand the job back to Pickett.
Nick
2:45
Is Elaondon Roberts okay to play?
Brian Batko
2:46
Yeah, he said after the game he's always going to consider whether he can still help the team enough when playing hurt, and I wouldn't doubt him on that front. He only played 22 snaps Saturday, fewer than Myles Jack and Mykal Walker, but that's one tough dude.
KC
2:47
BB, not one to gloat, but I did have that first round grade on a certain former 3rd stringer. Just saying. Take care.
Brian Batko
2:47
Nice job, Kev. But why'd you sign Trubisky and draft another QB in the first round?
Sport
2:48
Our punter is a great snap holder for Boz, but he is not a good kicker. Should he be replaced before next season?
Brian Batko
2:48
Probably, yes.
Booie
2:48
Will we see more multiple safety looks on defense vs the Bills.  Someone has to mirror Allen…thoughts?
Brian Batko
2:49
Those two tight ends aren't easy to deal with, either. Dalton Kincaid and Dawson Knox. Could be a big game for the safeties, suddenly healthier and unsuspended.
TP
2:49
10 point underdogs.  Is that enough motivation for an upset victory?
Brian Batko
2:49
I don't think motivation alone will get the job done, TP.
Doyle37
2:49
I appreciate the smarts of the Steelers special teams fielding a ball while out of bounds, but this rule stinks. I imagine the rules committee will be looking into this. I have two problems with the rule...1) illegal touching and 2) it borders on unsportsmanlike conduct. I believe the rule is for balls kicked out of bounds not fielded out of bounds. What say you ?
Brian Batko
2:51
Godwin Igwebuike did indeed make a mockery of a loophole, and it was one of the most purely savvy plays I've seen. I love making a mockery of loopholes. But yeah, they should change that one. Call it the Godwin Igwebuike Rule.
MS
2:51
Suddenly a lot of love to MT, but my question is , who chose the QB KP?
Brian Batko
2:52
I suppose it was a collective, collaborative decision.
San Diego Stiller
2:52
The Bills keep their opponents in games with a lot of mistakes.  Does this pave the road for a close game Stiller victory?
Brian Batko
2:53
It's as hopeful a formula as any for the Steelers, who we know prioritize taking care of the ball and taking it away. They're tied for third in the NFL with a +11 turnover margin. The Bills are only +2.
TJ's MCL
2:54
I checked the box scores and TJ and his healthy MCL played in all three recent playoff losses where the Steelers allowed 40+ points in each. Do they allow 50+ Sunday?
Brian Batko
2:54
My guess is no
Hillbilly
2:55
Thanks for the chat. Do you know what Chuks said to be in the doghouse??  I can’t help but think that the line would be better with Chuks at RT and Jones at LT.
Brian Batko
2:56
Rough sack allowed by Dan Moore Jr. in Baltimore but not sure I agree with you on that, Hillbilly. Although it's worth re-examining that left-right personnel this offseason, especially given that Broderick Jones clearly prefers the left side where he played in college.
mrbig
2:57
after 17 games... it's the same thing: lose games we should win, sneak in with a low playoff spot. If we're one & done again, I still think Tomlin should go.... your thoughts?
Brian Batko
2:57
Who do you think you are?
J$Money
2:58
Brian, who votes on DPOY award and when will that be announced? Do the Steelers put on any PR campaign to promote TJ for the award? I think he should be the hands down winner over Garrett and Parsons just looking at the stats and his importance to the team. Thank you
Brian Batko
3:00
Steelers PR has been putting out a lot of compelling stats in favor of TJ Watt, at least on social media. Associated Press voters are making the call there, but that won't be announced until right before the Super Bowl. I have a vote for the Pro Football Writers of America awards, and I'll be giving mine to Watt.
3:01
And just like that, an hour has flown by. We'll do this again next week, win or lose, I reckon. Enjoy the game.
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