Ray Fittipaldo's Steelers chat: 09.17.26
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Ray Fittipaldo
12:28
I'd say right now he's definitely a more accomplished run defender than a pass rusher. He's only in his second year and he dealt with the death of his mother as a rookie.
Greenwood
12:28
Hey, Ray, I saw Yahya Black and Benton both play NT during the game. I love having the bigger body in there for run stuffing. Curious, did Benton also rotate in at DE any?
Also, did Rubio get any plays?
Ray Fittipaldo
12:29
Rubio was inactive. And yes, Benton did bump out to play defensive tackle in sub-packages.
Footballtahn
12:29
did you see anything sunday that makes you think the Steelers are better or worse than your 8-9 prediction
Ray Fittipaldo
12:30
Not really. I don't think the Falcons are very good, and they were playing with a third-string QB. I was impressed with the defense. The stars stepped up and made the plays they had to make. That didn't happen for the offense The highest-paid player on offense was dropping balls and getting called for pass interference.
Patrick from Peters Township
12:31
What's the full story behind the Steelers allowing Joey Porter Jr. to sit out Week 1 with an "injury" only to tell the press that he's healthy enough to play?

If a player claims to be injured, can the player use that as an excuse to sit out games during a contract dispute while avoiding the collectively bargained fines associated with sitting out/refusing to play?
Ray Fittipaldo
12:32
When Porter was removed from PUP it signaled he was healthy enough to play. This whole ramp-up thing, as was suggested above, seems to be the Steelers accommodating Porter to a point. Not sure they'll keep doing this, but they have to this point.
Richard Coastal Bend
12:33
Good morning Ray, If Darnell Washington is such a good blocker that he is described as an extra offensive lineman then why aren't we seeing the results in the run game. Thanks much
Ray Fittipaldo
12:33
One breakdown from one blocker can kill a running play.
Buffalo Joe
12:34
Hey Ray. Who you putting onto the all hands team if the Steelers are receiving an onside kick. DK or TJ.
Ray Fittipaldo
12:34
T.J. for sure.
Sunner in Orlando from Lebo
12:34
Hi Ray! Thanks for the chats! I am very concerned about the run game and the lack of good blocking by the O line. If the Steelers can't run the ball Sunday, they become too predictable and the Pats will bring the heat, and Rodgers will be running for his life. Do you share the same concerns?
Ray Fittipaldo
12:35
I do, but I also know the Patriots will be playing without AJ Brown and didn't exactly look like world beaters in their opener against Seattle. First one to 20 might win this game on Sunday.
MIKEC3
12:35
Hi Ray. I really haven't paid attention but did Watt get defensive player of the week for his outstanding game against the Falcons?
Ray Fittipaldo
12:35
Yes he was named AFC defensive player of the week.
Corey
12:36
Good day Mr. Fittipaldo, thank you for all you do! Overall, what did you think of the play from Benton and Harmon this past Sunday?
Ray Fittipaldo
12:36
Not a lot of stats for either, but Bijan Robinson was held in check for the most part as a runner. The D-line played a big part in that success.
Wiscoken
12:37
Hi Ray, Peyton Wilson sure looked good this past week.  While only one game, makes you wonder if he has what it takes to be a more elite type ILB.
Ray Fittipaldo
12:37
He was out there playing fast and making plays. Definitely a good start for Wilson.
Swannie88
12:37
Hi Ray - How long before Germie B gets some quality time on the field?
Ray Fittipaldo
12:37
When Aaron Rodgers deems he is ready for a bigger role.
Footballtahn
12:38
When does omar start getting blame for poor drafts and mediocre roster construction?  Could the steelers make a gm change?
Ray Fittipaldo
12:38
Khan just signed a contract extension last year. He's not going anywhere anytime soon.
Footballtahn
12:39
Is this the longest stretch of steelers sub par oline play in modern times ?  I cant remember the last time they were a strength of this team.
Ray Fittipaldo
12:39
Not since the days of Pouncey and Co. That was an elite O-line from I'd say 2014-18.
Stuck in Lowly Raven Land
12:40
To your knowledge, are the Steelers actually receiving offers for JPJ or is that just his agent in the media speculating?
Ray Fittipaldo
12:40
I think that's stuff coming from his agent.
Jim
12:41
What is your prediction on how the JPJ saga will end? Thank you
Ray Fittipaldo
12:41
I think he ends up playing. It would be a tremendously dumb move to sit out.
Sunner in Orlando from Lebo
12:42
Do you think the number of targets for DK decreases or stays the same Sunday with his drops? Does Rodgers still have 100% confidence in DK or might he be looking more to Pitttman and Freiermuth?
Ray Fittipaldo
12:42
Rodgers said yesterday he's going to keep feeding him. And if the Patriots play as much single coverage as the Falcons did I think Rodgers would be foolish not to target Metcalf. He's going to make some of those plays.
Footballtahn
12:43
doesnt sound like jpj agent is doing him any favors.
Ray Fittipaldo
12:43
I would agree.
Paul
12:43
Ray, without getting 5 turnovers again Sunday, do you think Steelers can play competively vs Patriots Sunday? Assuming turnover battle is even.
Ray Fittipaldo
12:44
I'm not picking the Steelers, but I don't think it will be a blowout.
OK that's all the time I have this week. We'll do another chat next Thursday.
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