You are viewing the chat in desktop mode. Click here to switch to mobile view.
X
Brian Batko's Steelers chat: 01.13.20
powered byJotCast
Prev Page View Full Chat
OHIO412FAN
12:43
Brian, thanks for doing the chats! Appreciate you doing them. Anyways, is there any way possible the Steelers could retain Dupree and Hargrave? I know they’ll be more likely to keep one, but would they have to do to make that happen?
Brian Batko
12:44
Thanks! They'd have to shed a lot of cap space by cutting guys still under contract, and even then, they might have to get Javon Hargrave to settle for less than he'll be worth on the open market. There always seems to be a way to make it work, but it would take getting pretty creative to make your wish come true.
j davenjay
12:45
A solid offensive line is paramount and is the key for a good running game and play action passes.  Our receivers did not get separation from the defenders this year and the QBs were constantly under pressure.  A talented offensive line that can run and pass block is the key with a reliable running back and speedy receiver.
Brian Batko
12:45
Yes, and the Steelers used play action less than any team this season, by a fairly wide margin. But hey, every team out there is trying to assemble a talented offensive line that can run and pass block, a reliable running back and a speedy wideout. The other front offices get paid to do this, too.
Smilin Jack Lambert
12:46
I like the college OT format, but with one change - you must go for 2 if you score a TD. Do you think that could work in the NFL?
Brian Batko
12:47
Actually, yes, I would prefer the college format to how the NFL does it. Just think it would be a lot more enjoyable, but I know the traditionalists would hate it.
Lloyd's 3-Count
12:49
Hey B. What was your biggest surprise covering the Steelers in your first year?
Brian Batko
12:52
Nothing too surprising. I guess maybe how challenging it can be to report on this league. For the most part, coaches and players are savvy enough to know what you're getting at with a question and how to avoid it, if they choose to. Obviously, not every guy is like that, but I found myself at times trying to think of the best way to ask something to Mike Tomlin that would produce a useful answer.
James Conner
12:52
Any chance of me being traded in order for the Black ‘n’ Gold to move up in the draft?
Brian Batko
12:52
Sorry, but doubtful
rman
12:53
Hello Brian,  As I've watched the playoff games over the past two weekends it seems to me that there is a big difference in the way that the games are being officiated in comparison to the regular season.  Less holding calls on both offense and defense....hands to the face not being called too often..etc.  The games seem much more enjoyable to watch.  What is your take on this?
Brian Batko
12:53
Can't say I've really noticed that, rman, but then again, I'm not watching these games as closely as the ones I cover.
Alan in Nashville
12:54
Hi Brian...Strange question. The Steelers for years have always had a high-profile succession plan. The Chief to Dan to Art II. That doesn’t seem to be the case right now. God forbid something would happen to Art II today, who would actually run the organization on a day-to-day basis? Would it be Danny Rooney? If so, why is he not more visible in the operation of the team? Also, why haven’t the wives been considered? Thanks!
Brian Batko
12:55
Art II's son Danny Rooney has been considered the heir apparent for years now. I'd recommend reading this story from our Ray Fittipaldo a few seasons back https://newsinteractive.post-gazette.com/steelers/2016-preview/heir-ap...
Franco
12:56
I know you were joking about trading for a first round pick every year until the NFL folds but as you said that I began to think, since technically our SB "window" is open assuming Ben is coming back, why not stock up on guys who can help now and then when hes gone and the window is "closed" deal with the fact we are short a first rounder?
Brian Batko
12:57
Hey, maybe they will. I think we saw in September that the Steelers are indeed thinking along these lines with the Minkah Fitzpatrick trade.
Glad you liked my master plan, though.
This Guy
12:58
Think we can find someone like Taysom Hill in the draft...or UFA?
Brian Batko
12:59
How about the actual Taysom Hill? He's a UFA himself. But I think there are rumblings out of NO that the Saints actually want to keep him and maybe even groom him for a world without Drew Brees. And yeah, I do wonder if more teams might see his success and try to find gadget-type players similar to him. I like the idea.
BB
1:00
College OT format is ridiculous for the NFL.  NFL format is fine.
Brian Batko
1:00
Aaaand that's the game. We're out of time, as I'd like to go have some lunch. But as always, thanks for hanging out and chopping it up for a while. Somehow, doing these chats seems less stressful once the season is over. I wonder why. Have a nice week, all.
Connecting…