The Morning Steel Mill

Summer Camp......

2011-05-31T23:33:00.003-04:00

Yinzers,
So we decided to show you where we got summer jobs! Enjoy the anthem!

I'm Rich Bitch!

2011-04-29T00:43:00.003-04:00

Yinzers,
The Pittsburgh Steelers with their 31st pick in the Draft, the Pittsburgh Steelers select son of former Atlanta Falcon Iron Head Heyward! DE Cameron Heyward.

http://youtu.be/J7qF6ioDj8U...... check it out here.

Things just got Nastier, " We attack the pack......big nasty D"

Here we go!

Football season is under way!

wade

Take him behind the barn

2011-04-28T09:57:00.003-04:00

End of a very difficult Pens season. -Pah do we really have to end the season?
( gun goes off)

Wade

Game 7 and the Kovi Code...

2011-04-27T08:25:00.003-04:00

Yinzers,

Who should sit and who should play is the big talk since yesterday afternoon. The answer is whomever.The hard facts of the matter is that we do not have the #1 ( Sid the Kid) and #2 (Geno Geno that is my name) players available in the Leauge, face it they are not coming back.

The Grind it out mentality of this squad has been very Pittsburgh Esq. They played the first 4 games like no other team I have seen . They were getting dirty goals and pucks were bouncing our way. Not so for the past two contests The pens were blown out as of 2pm on Saturday afternoon and the last game was desperation for the Bolts. So where does that leave us.......

The Alex Kovalev Factor. Kovi was with the Penguins on his forst go around the NHL 12 years ago when Mario and the Boys were doing playoff games regularly. Now an aged Kovi has slowed his game down and started to do the smart things like make the most out of his shifts. He is a smarter and more relaxed player, unlike the days when he would muscle a 2 on 1 in a heart beat. Kovi also has played in 6 game 7's. He is currently 6-0 with a point in all of them. That is quite significant. Kovi should not be sat for tonights game, I personally believe in second chances-except in this situation for Chris Conner. Conner has not done anything wrong but as the numbers tell us the Penguins are 1-30 on the power play this series. ( 3.3%)Worst in the Playoffs.We need the big body of Eric Tangradi to get the go for tonight and put the shadow on the Lightnings relic of a goaltender.
So this is it. It's a sexy as it's going to get. For all the First round Marbles.

Lets. GO. Pens.

Wade

PS: this is how we will get ready at the IGLOO CLUB 222 tonight:

2pm Vinnie and Cook show( sports Talk pittsburgh)

3pm to 6pm Mark Madden show(105.9 x pittsburgh)

7pm to 7:30 open bar and Muzack(igloo club 222 Columbia south carolina)

8pm destiny writes a new chapter at CEC(Pittsburgh Pa)

And so it begins......

2011-04-26T09:12:00.004-04:00

Yinzers,

So begins the 37 hour count down to the first game 7 at the Consol Energy Center. The Penguins have let a two game hold slip away and now have to deal with a very motivated lightning squad.

Is this when it starts to sink in about how we are really missing Crosby and Malkin .Is this when we realize that we don't have a definitive leader. Is this when we realize that there is no coming back.....hell no.

You know I have come to realize that listening to Pittsburgh Sports radio every day at lunch , and Every day at lunch Yinzers call in and bitch about how the defense is letting us down and how Jordan Stall is not scoring( he did last night) yeta. yeta. yeta. Here is the story the real story from my perspective- our Power play sucks. Our mid level guys are not performing at a mid level - level. James Neal and Kovi are not scoring...Ok the Pens are above average but that's it.

Fans quit ending the season when it's not done yet. If you show up on Wed do not boo the Penguins. I believe we are going to see a great win by the Penguins whom have been nonexistent for the past two games- I think that it will be close ( just like the series) But the pens will move on in the new barn.

Two game sevens on the table tonight , Flyers and Sabres and Chicago and Vancouver. Should be interesting.

Hope everyone has a good Tuesday!

Hold you head up Pens fans- it's not over till Elvis leaves the building.

Wade

A Case of 6's and 7's

2011-04-25T09:00:00.006-04:00

Yinzers,

In all my adult years I can never remember a time when I really payed attention to all the playoff Series for the NHL. This year I have been locked into most series. For the first time in a long time I have never seen most series go 6 or 7 games. The level of play in these playoffs is really something else. If you have not been watching you should probably start tonight when the pens take the ice against the Lightning.

Pens are coming off their worst loss in Playoff history to date. There may have been one worse game like a8-1 loss in the late 90's to the islanders, but in all honesty - what the hell?It's OK lots of positive numbers, I am not going to quote to the T, because that usually gets you into trouble.

Penguins History when Getting Blown out:( The Following game)

Flower has never dropped 3 games in a series to date.( in a row)

He rarely never drops two in a row(once)

The Pens are road warriors, nough said( most points on the road since 93)

Dan Bylsma is a sob when it comes to playoff games. ( most wins in pens history)

Lightning never strikes twice scientifically

Casket Match .....DO it( pens blog thanks)!!!!

Last but not least you have to remember that the penguins should not even be here to this level , let alone going to win the first round of the eastern conference playoffs. OK so now the fans are all up on Jordan Stall for not carrying the load. Um, excuse me he is not supposed to- he was brought in as a 3rd center for the third line whom matches up against the Number 1 and2 lines of the opposing team . He does that and continues to do that on a nightly basis.

I have one word for you, Flower. Marc Andre' chance of Flurries is going to brick wall the Lightning tonight. Face it they do not have the talent to get to the Pens. Just remember you still have a bunch of talent on this team from the cup in 2009. For all the Fans that booed the other night, get a grip. To all the Pens fan base that is legit through thick and thin.......Lets do it.

On a personal note the IGLOO club 222 should be filled tonight. Ready to light the New goal horn/light one more time tonight!(2-0 goal light, 11/12-0 Norris streak)
Join the Igloo Club 222 on Facebook

Tampa Bay is about to get Hoovered!

Lets go Pens.

Wade

A time of reflection....

2011-04-22T07:22:00.002-04:00

Yinzers,

Growing up in the Pittsburgh area the Easter Weekend was always big. From the Easter Dinner to Easter Baskets we always had a great Easter.Most importantly We always went to church like all weekend. Friday night we had Stations of the Cross then a huge Fish fry.

The Fish Fry was always jackpot. Haluski, Pirogi and Fish. Never mind the Fish two of my all time food staples especially during Football season. I always try to look back and think of when I really started liking something to the point of trying to recreate it. Through our local Pittsburgh Group we really do a great job of this when we get together.

Easter is a time for starting over and thinking about Why God's only son gave up everything for us. Be appreciative of what you have this holiday weekend. Yeah it may not be allot , or what you want right now but realize you have something.

Once again I am very thankful for our 7 readers and New Facebook following.

Happy Easter to you and your family I wish everyone safe travels.

Lets go Pens, wrap up the series tomorrow!

Wade

A cigar and goodnight....

2011-04-21T00:34:00.003-04:00

Yinzers,

Get off James Neal's Ass. Really. James Neal burried the Biscut in double OT to put the pens in a Position to wrap up the first round of the Playoffs come Saturday.

James Neal that hasn't scored in about a millon games heard the whispers of all of Pittsburgh asking why the hell they brought him here, well his answer was 1 goal. what a goal. Bottom Line is that the Pens are in the drivers seat come Sunday at Noon.

Pens still winning, very Charlie Sheen - esq.

Lets go one more time........Pens!

Wade

Hockey Hump Day

2011-04-20T08:17:00.003-04:00

Yinzers,

The Penguins look to take the proverbial hold (2-1)on the lightning tonight as they play game 4 at the Pete tonight. The Pens will be without center/forward Kris Kunitz and the Lightning will be without some other guy. The thing is- this team is priding themselves with getting the job done no matter what- and that is what they have been doing. There is a good chance that Erice Tangradi may be back in the lineup along with Nick johnson. Other than Sidney and Geno we will have to see what other guys can come back in time for this very long push to the Stanley Cup.

I am still not impressed by anyone elses play as a team so far in the Playoffs. The Caps are getting by, The Flyers are getting by but no one is wowing me to this point. In my opinon these first two rounds of the plaoffs are gritty and a crap shoot. Anyone and I mean Anyone can win.....

Lets Go Pens!

Bring IT!

FLower Power

Wade

Tuesday Morning Hangover

2011-04-19T00:12:00.003-04:00

Yinzers,

After multiple drinks and the new working goal horn and hockey goal in my home- It was quite a night! The Road warrior Pens are taking care of business( as usual) as they beat the Lightning on the road in game 3. This now pushes the all time record for game 3's in Pens history to 10-1.

The boys were absolutely on fire from the get go, and everyone favorite ex- flyer Arron Assham was putting on the Ritz. The most impressive stat of the Playoff so far is 5 points off the 4th line. The blue, or should I say black and blue grinders of the Penguins are taking their chances and getting points when needed. I once again am very impressed as the Crosby, Geno-less Penguins continue to win on the road in the Playoffs.

Looking forward to a great day off then back to the ice on Wed.

_-looking forward to NO suspension of Chris Kunitz.....

Have a great Tuesday! Way to go Flower!

Wade

Game 3

2011-04-18T08:35:00.003-04:00

Yinzers,

The Pens didn't bother to show up for their 5-1 shellacking on Friday night against the Tampa Bay Lightning- Wow thanks. But I will tell you that being a former athlete from many years removed it may have been the one thing that can help us.

Having that sense of Winning from the get go is a great feeling, but the truth sets in once you loose a game or two. The good tidings melt away and a sense of reality slips in.

So what am I rambling about, Game 3 of course. The Pens with their backs against the wall are on the road with something to prove. The Penguins have posted the 3rd highest point total on the road since 1993. This is very positive to know that the boys know how to win away from the old barn. I see a big night for the Pens middle/blue collar guys! Don't be surprised when we take these next two on the road.

In Rumor news, The New Batman film is being filmed in Pittsburgh this summer . The huge rumor from over the weekend is that in the filming and production of the film the Civic Arena is going to be blown up in the movie. Umm Awesome. Yes Please, and thank you for doing the job of the county and maybe picking up the bill on the Demolition charges.

I hope everyone can get this week Started with a huge road win!

Lets Go Pens, Lets Go Batman!

Wade

Let's Go Pens!

2011-04-16T12:41:00.000-04:00

Hola Yinz, This is a from last night at the game... I couldn't resist sharing it with you. Labuda

New Ink

2011-04-16T12:22:00.005-04:00

Hola Yinz!

Happy Saturday!! I had to find a way to comemorate the ending of my loosing streek! This is a huge moment in my life! So I figured what better way to celebrate than adorn my other foot with some Pittsburgh-ness! I got it done at Kyklops Tatoo on the South Side...by Erin (She was fabulous!)

Check it out... Let me know what you think?!

And, Yes... I know I'm crazy...That's what makes me LABUDA!

LETS GO PENS!

Labuda in the BURGH

Lets Go Pens

2011-04-15T18:07:00.001-04:00

Thanks to the KOP, Double N Lets Go Pens! Wade

Pens Friday

2011-04-15T08:56:00.003-04:00

Yinzers,

What's better than a Friday, a Pens Friday. Your Pittsburgh Penguins are hosting game 2 of the stanley Cup quarter finals tonight . Alot has gone on this past week with the Penugins. The pens had a very impressive Game 1 with ,Brooks Orpik , Jordan Stall and Marc Andre Flurey.

Two Streaks down( igloo club, Labuda......)

Bring it!

Pens 7pm-Do it!

Wade

Highlights: Penguins vs Lightning: Game 1 2011 Playoffs

2011-04-14T11:52:00.000-04:00

No Longer a Jinx!

2011-04-14T11:30:00.008-04:00

Hola Yinz!!

I'm here in the Burgh! I thought it would be fun to go watch the game on the screen outside Mellon Arena...that's when I searched for tickets. Well to my surprise, I was able to obtain them! You can imagine how stoked I was to be going to a Playoff Game, not to mention the FIRST Playoff Game in the Consol Energy Center!

Just after I bought my tickets...my heart began to sink. (For those of you who don't know...I'm a total Jinx!) I've, never in my life, got to see a LIVE Pens win! I usually go to about two games a year...this was my 3rd this year.

Anywho...THEY WON! (just in case you weren't paying attention or you were out grocery shopping during the game). I finally got to end my 10+ years of Pens losses...might be the longest Jinx ever!

Me and Ted (a childhood friend)

The win was followed by a small celebration on the South Side...WHOO HOO!

Me and Lisa (Madre Número Dos)

I AM NO LONGER A JINX! And sorry for your tears Malone! Labuda in the BURGH!

Playoff Hot

2011-04-12T21:22:00.003-04:00

Yinzers,

So the 2011 playoffs start today and I want to count my blessings! Not only did the Pens make the playoffs they have home ice throughout the First round! "Oh please lord Baby Jesus....we want to thank you for one of the most rewarding regular seasons with all it's ups and downs we are still Cup contenders!"

Oh and the Cannuks have got a lot of work to do!........

....Well She doesn't.

Lets GO PENS!!!!

And so it begins.......

2011-04-12T10:57:00.003-04:00

Yinzers,

Great Weekend in Atlanta with the IGloo Club 222. And now the MSM is at Fever pitch to start the 2011 Playoffs. ( first ever win) I know that we don't have SId and Geno but the truth of the matter is we tied for the division, and we have home ice advantage for the remainder of the playoffs. Now lady luck will have to do her part- but just realize how gritty and blue collar this team is.

I am also not surprised by all the Sidney Crosby bashing that has begun. Oh well lets just bash the best player in the world. Classy. Hey here's something to think about - The penguins were supposed to crash right the day after Geno went down with the double leg injury- infact they posted for the second time in the clubs history ( a tie) with most wins on the road. Impressive. I think that going into someone elses barn and winning especially the last 20 games of the season is not a fluke.

Just remember the last time a pens team had to overcome and push into the playoffs?

Get in the fast lane grandma, beacuse the Bingo game is ready to roll!!!!!!

Lets GO Pens!

On the Road Again............

2011-04-08T13:40:00.003-04:00

Yinzers,

The Igloo Club 222 is heading toward the Heart of the Southeast.....Atlanta, we are adventuring on our Yearly Homage to watch the Penguins play the Thrashers. We Are( I AM ) Excited!

There is alot riding on this upcoming trip not only for the Penguins but for the peeps of the Igloo Club. For the Penguins , they have to win the remaining two games of the Regular Season vs the Islanders( tonight at 7pm) and Sunday in Atlanta vs the Thrashers. Now with those 4 points the Penguins would surpass the Philadelphia Flyers to Overtake and win the Atlantic Division. This would be an unbelievable feat and you understand what the Penguins have gone through since the Winter Classic. Without Geno and Sid the Penguins have done the unthinkable and found multiple ways to win game after game. As the Season has progressed I have come to the conclusion that this team right now even though they are not polished are a serious contender in the playoffs.

Now there is considerable speculation about how far the pens can go in these playoffs. Who cares. As long as they show up and Fluery gives it more than he ever has, our defense will hold us in really tight games and there should be some exciting times. Exciting times meaning= whom the hell is going to score on a regular basis. whew.

In all seriousness it is any ones game, I have not been impressed with any team out there- hell the Black hawks whom won the whole thing are struggling at the 8th seed to get into the playoffs.

All i have to say is Lets Go Pens!

Now for the important part. Since the Igloo Club was formed a little over a year and a Half ago- we have never seen one of our teams win . ....Ever. We are currently 0-2 with the penguins and 0-3 with the Gamecocks. So this has to change. This is a big game for us as a group because as the Igloo Club gets another year older the Members become more and more involved,I have to say it one more time but Pittsburgh Sports is allot more than sports, it gives you life long friendships and memories that you can never put a price on!

( get ready for secret handshakes and Hot-Lanta)Lets go PENS!

( If you feel like joining Face book us At Igloo club 222)

Wade

2011-04-07T21:32:00.006-04:00

So the Sox are off to an 0-6 start which is leaving 5 states and Half of Connecticut collectively and nonsensically uttering, "Bucky F***ing Dent," it's like a default setting. You would never know that Boston is regularly voted one of the top sports cities in the country if you ever talk to a New England sports fan. There is always something to criticize if it's not the actually performance of the team or the players it's someones hair cut, a pony tail Tom... Really a pony tail. But the thing of it is being the team or the favorite player of a New England sports fan is liking being the fat younger sibling of the not quite popular Goth kid in high school, if you trash talk or lay a finger on their team they will cut you.

Plus look at retarded quotes like this one from Kevin Youkillis after losing to the Tribe by single damn run, "It can't get any worse than this and there's only one way to go, That's up."

Red Sox Worst Starts in History:

Year	Start	Final W-L
1945	0-8	71-83
1927	0-6	51-103
1905	0-6	78-74
2011	0-6	?
1996	0-5	85-77
1966	0-5	72-90

How bout we break that 1945 streak huh?!

Who's Classier?

Batter Up...

2011-04-06T23:48:00.003-04:00

This is the kind of girl that doesn't really exist in New England. We just hit April and in fact this is one that got out Dorchester (Door-Chestah) and went to college down in florida... And by college I mean she followed some mook down to Central Florida because he couldn't get into a real school in Boston, he flunked out, moved back to his mothers triple decker in East Boston where he works on his six pack dreaming of being on the "Jersey Shore". They broke up. Now she's left slinging wings at Hooters after she moved to Fort Myers to be closer to spring training, where he left her with a burning sensation when she pees. She is currently attending classes at the Florida School of Massage and Skin Care. Say hello to Marcelle!

National Disssssapointment

2011-04-05T08:23:00.002-04:00

Yinzers,

So the NCAA basketball championship came to a close in riveting fashion last night as the UCONN huskies( not talking about Butlers Cheerleaders) Won their 3rd National Championship since Jim Calhoun Took over the head coaching position. Whatever. It was absolutely boring- one of most boring things I have ever watched. Wow It was like I was saying to College basketball as a whole " get over already".

So how do you explain the Pirates on this big two game win streak( 3-1 overall) ? You can't, I Can't Charlie Morton Can't . I guess the theme here is Jsut go with it. We all know that the Wheels are going to come off at some point I guess just do the best you can and keep hoping that we continue to keep raising the Jolly Rodger.

Last regular Home game of the season at the Consol energy Center. Penguins need to Win the last three games to secure Home Ice for the First round of the Playoffs. Devils, Isles and Thrashers all three teams that are not going to the Playoffs.

I hope everyone has a great Tuesday, Lets Go Pens/Bucs!

Wade

Sunset on the Regular Season.

2011-04-04T13:17:00.005-04:00

Yinzers,

First of all congrats to the BUCO's as they won the Opening Weekend Series in Chicago. Wow for Chicago Fans are really not happy considering that the Pirates came back in 2 of 3 . To be honest with you I really think this is the year that we will beat .500. I hope that Clint Hurdle hasn't Popped the Champagin Bottle yet- cause the Boys are in St. Louis tonight. Cards are an early season Banged up Club. Hopefully with the return of McKlutchen we can go two for two on the year!

Three games remain in the regular season for the Pittsburgh Penguins. Tomorrow is the final home game of the season in the First year at Consol energy Center. I have to tell you that I miss the Civic Arena and I have allot of memories there, but the Fuse Box is very impressive. I really hope that the Penguins can somehow muster those 3 points in the last three games to win the division. I know , I know it's petty to win the Atlantic in the grand Scheme of things but the Pens with out their two biggest superstars - amazing.

Pens host the Devil tomorrow night, they are not going to the playoffs but will try to play spoiler on the second place pens( 4th overall) . All signs point to Tampa Bay in the first round playoff series. Hopefully it will be better outcome than last years game 7 with the HABS.

Finally the Weather has been so nice lately that College Baseball fever is sweeping the South East. We have attended Two Gamecock baseball outings int he past week. Now before you attack me for following College Baseball realize that the Gamecocks are ranked #3 in the Nation and are the reigning NCAA Champions. Lets go Game....Cocks!

Final note, good luck to Butler tonight on your second straight attempt to win the NCAA basketball championship! Go Bulldogs.

Have a great Munday!

Wade

Sunday Funday , Times are a changing!

2011-04-03T08:02:00.005-04:00

Yinzers,

Good Morning. First off My thank you to all that have joined us on Facebook. We realize that trying to put together a Blog with some substance and consistency is quite difficult. Lately it has been hit or miss I apologise for that. The Staff right now is kind of in remission. Some of us are moving, post surgery recovery and a new job. In all honesty I can't believe that we have kept this Blog going for such a long time.

I believe it is time for a change.

A change like after 4 years of being sold in Pittsburgh, Fox Sports Pittsburgh along with several other Fox Sports Affiliates has changed. It is now called ROOT Sports. It is going to focus on the Pirates and the Penguins. First thing that comes to mind is what the hell is going to happen to Steelers Coverage. I really hope they don't do the split of they are only going to cover 2 out of the 3 Major sports in Pittsburgh. dumb.

We will have to see. I do not know alot of Info on it other than they hit the air on April 1st, and from the sounds of it-it may be another regeneration of KBL sports.

BUCOS:

Pirates opened up the Regular season this past weekend in Chicago. They won their first game of the season in dramatic fashion with a Grand Slam Home run! Then yesterday they petered a lead away in the 8th inning. Oh well What do you expect, we finally have a starting young core that we could develop and build around but I am sure that by the All-Star break there will be some blockbuster deal that brings the Hansons to Town.

Pens:

As we prepare to wind down on the 2010- 2011 regular season, I am fearing the wake of the Playoffs. At the time when the Pens were featured on that Winter Classic Series on HBO. I really thought that we were invincible. Well injuries and a slew of things have happened, but the truth is we are still only 2 games out of first place with 4 to play. Not to shabby. What people need to realize is that the Penguins as a whole are a pretty good team, and without two superstars they are holding their own!

Side note: the Igloo club 222( our Pens group) is Heading to Atlanta this upcoming weekend for the last regular season game of the Season. I am really looking forward to this week getting over so that we can get to Hotlanta.

You stay classy Blog readers!

Wade

Get Your Day Started!

2011-03-31T11:57:00.001-04:00

Hola Yinz, Well out here in San Diego, Charger fans just don't understand loyalty, they are so flippy floppy (like their shoes). (I know the season is over, but I live in a fantasy land where there is always Steeler football.) My classroom is decorated with a Terrible Towel, a Steeler calendar, and I have a Steeler lanyard for my id (not to mention I now have a sweet Steeler tattoo on my foot).... I get the strangest looks; it has become a weekly occurrence. It's like I'm crazy, and I just say, "Yes, I might be a crazy fan, but I would like to emphasize the word FAN!" I figure once a fan always a fan... not just between the months of August-Early February. So, I love this video... Just to get my day started! (yes it is early here in San Diego :) Heres to a great... Thursday?! LETS GO PENS! Labuda on the Left Coast

Sorry Guys...

2011-03-30T12:14:00.003-04:00

A little something for our ladies this Wednesday :)

Labuda on the Left Coast

Tis the Season

2011-03-23T17:57:00.003-04:00

Yinzers,

As the Playoffs get closer, So does Debra's love for Hockey. Debra's gets all hot and bothered when someone mentions action going on between the pipes..... Oh I wonder if Deborah has a hard left hook like Brent Johnson?

Does it really matter?

Wade

His Bottom's on TOP!

2011-03-22T13:28:00.002-04:00

Hola Yinz...

I in fact, watched Dancing With The Stars Last Night... for the first time ever just to see our very own Hines Ward. I wanted to know if he was light in his loafers, and I was indeed impressed. But as Bruno would say, "You've go to get that piston moving!"

Just an embarrassing update (I voted for him)

Labuda on the Left Coast

March Sadness

2011-03-18T18:24:00.004-04:00

Yinzers,

Day two of the Brackets and Oh how the Mighty have fallen.In fact I do one bracket a year and it I won the head to head with my bracket against Travis Day in Louisville KY. It will go down in history as the First time in our Bracket challenge that I won the Bet in the first day of the Tournament.

Oh how I want Morehead(state University).......

Lets Go Pitt and Duquense!

Have a Great Celebration Weekend!

Wade

Lá Fhéile Pádraig... That’s Gaelic for Amature Night.

2011-03-17T15:23:00.006-04:00

While you light beer swilling scullery maids are adding green food coloring to your $2.50 draft beers us real Irish are left with nothing but a Holy of day obligation. Hey but at least us Irish Catholics didn’t have to plead with the pope for a special dispensation because it didn’t land on friday during lent this year so raise your glass to that. But mines filled with single malt Tullemore Dew, I’ll switch to beer later while I am stuffing my face with a nice brisket and some over cooked cabbage to try and quell the impending gas that is sure to follow.

So there are no snakes in Ireland... And today has Nothing to do with snakes. Snakes are a metaphor for the practitioners of pagan religions. St. Patrick, guess what not even Irish, Dude’s British. He was once kidnapped by a bunch Irish guys, so he may have a had a little bit of something to grind. So what does this guy do? That’s right, aligns himself with the most powerful organization in the world during the 4th century The Roman Catholic Church and decides hey I am going to become Priest go back to Ireland and Kick some Celtic ass... Please don’t confuse my use of the term Celtic ass with pedophilia, at this point that hadn’t happened Catholics were to busy force converting people different from them and killing Muslims... So long story short because the ice has melted in my glass and I can finish the single malt off in one gulp now. St. Patrick not Irish, kidnapped by the Irish he’s actually British, Paddy get’s pissed becomes a priest comes back to the Emerald Isle says convert or die you nature worshipping heathens oh and guess what every Sunday you have to give a guy with a funny hat 15% of your gross income not net income, some time passes by the King of England get’s a divorce people start wearing Orange, the Irish and Chinese build the Railroads, The IRA starts blowing up the English, U2, people think it’s cool to celebrate genocide, Bill Clinton-Peace accords.

I am off to take advantage to see if I can some college girls that think they are drunk off Guinness to show me their bare chests. It’s 4.5% alcohol you have to drink at least 8 to get hammered so that half of one you muscled down to try and look impressive probably didn’ do anything for you. No Fat Chicks Please!

Erin Go Bragh Everybody... Sláinte

-Jim

May the road rise up to meet you.
May the wind always be at your back.
May the sun shine warm upon your face,
and rains fall soft upon your fields.
And until we meet again,
May God hold you in the palm of His hand.

I love and miss you Granma.

Happy St. Patricks Day!

2011-03-17T00:02:00.004-04:00

Yinzers,

Saint Patrick, the holy and tutelar man;His beard down his bosom like Aaron's ran.Some from Scotland, some from Wales,will declare that's from where he came,But I care not, now he's risen to fame.The pride of the world and his enemies scorning,I will drink to St Patrick, today, in the morning!

May God Bless you and keep you this Weekend of Glad tidings!

Here we Go!

Wade

Eve of all Eve's

2011-03-16T08:26:00.003-04:00

Yinzers,

NO, not that EVE....

Tonight is St. Patricks Day and March Madness Eve. It is absolutley the greatest time of the year. Tommorow also starts the Party Weekend. For anyone whom is Irish or has used Irish spring maybe once in their lives will claim to be Irish on the Death of St. Patrick. Time for Drunk white people everywhere to unite. oh boy.

Spring Break is Over and the Girls are back on the Links in the Midlands , that is where we Caught up with Super Senior( 6th year veteran) Carla. Carla has just dusted off that old set of Clubs from the closet and is getting back into the swing of things. She is very Excited to Get you in a Forsome for this upcoming Weekend of St Pats Shennanigans. When Carla is not on the course she is looking for Her skirt and or Pants. Carla wanted me to tell you that her main goal in life is not to see as many birdies as she can- but just to remain a little above Par.

Erin go Bragh, and Feck off

Wade

15

2011-03-15T14:51:00.003-04:00

Hola Yinz!

A painting of Rembrandt's The Return of the Prodigal Son in honor of Sid the Kid's 15 minutes of skating yesterday.

Happy Tuesday...Looking forward to Hump Day!
Labuda on the Left Coast

Its a HOCKEY NIGHT in PITTSBURGH!

2011-03-12T13:06:00.005-05:00

Hola Yinz,

So I've safely made it back to the left coast, and as would be the norm... My life is an adventure. I met a few characters on my travels back to my resident city. EVERYONE is connected to Pittsburgh in some way. But is seems that everyone is connected to San Diego in the same way...

Years ago, the city of San Diego had a minor league hockey team (hard to believe I know!)...The San Diego GULLS!

San Diego Gulls...Logo?!

Well, Mike Lange "served as the play-by-play voice of the San Diego Gulls (WHL) in 1973-74 before joining the Penguins." I had no idea... I read this in ICETIME!

And upon further research of Mr. Lange...We share the same birthday! So Happy belated Birthday to MR. MICHAEL MICHAEL MOTORCYCLE HIMSELF!

Buy Sam a drink and get his dog one, too!

LETS GO PENS & Happy Saturday YINZ!

Labuda on the Left Coast

Go to Hail

2011-03-11T08:20:00.004-05:00

Yinzers,

So as usual the Pitt Panthers exited stage right yesterday losing their first round game against UCONN yesterday. What's new? Pitt went 26-4 in the regular season , and they are still a Number one rank overall for the NCAA tournament. WHY Bother to get excited? So now the waiting game goes into effect until 6pm on Selection Sunday!

Penguins went the other way this week giving a 3 year extension to Head Coach Disco Dan Billy-smith. He is also up for Coach of the year , as he continues to Push the Superstar-less Penguins on this drive toward the Playoffs. ( 2pm vs Habs on Saturday,1pm on Sunday) Matinee Weekend.

Kind of a Short Blog Today, I hope Everyone has a great weekend!

St. Patricks Day right around the corner, Basketball Brackets come out and Charlie Sheen still Winning.

Wade

Can't see a Tan line can you Russ?

2011-03-09T08:12:00.004-05:00

Yinzers,

At most Major Universities this is the week of Spring Break. How do I know this , there is Parking available everywhere downtown, and it is relatively quiet. Having the Start of Major Baskball confrence tournaments, Mardi Gras and now Spring Break this has become quite the Party Week!

This is Ruby, Ruby is currently putting herself through school as a Chimney Sweep in North Rutherford NJ. She is a current JR at Rutgers University and Never takes her lucky Dew Rag off. Ruby is currently looking for a run of the Mill Heating and Air guy that she can settle down with. No matter what the tempature is Ruby is one hot number.

Don't get to crazy out there yinz kids!

Wade

Last Day to let it all hang out....

2011-03-08T08:33:00.005-05:00

Yinzers,

As of Midnight it is now Mardi Gras. I think that one bar in Columbia they are celebrating it. dumb. I was at Mardi Gras in 2003, right down in the middle of it all.The only thing that I can remember is that I stayed on Pennsylvania avenue , I saw a naked jogger and The Food was unbelievable.

If you are not from New Orleans or Mississippi or any French part of the United States( St. Louis) Today is just another Tuesday.

This Tuesday marks the Start of the Major Basketball confrences tournaments to see whom will get into the feild of 68 come this weekend. The Mid Majors that played there way into tournament last weekend were the games to watch... these today not so much.

The Penguins whom are starting to heat up have one player schedualed back in the lineup this evening. K. Kunitz is supposed to return to the confines of the Consol Energy Center as the Pens take on the Sabres. If the Pens Win, they will tie the Phlyers for phirst place in the Atlantic Divison.

Everyone Enjoy Mardi Gras Someway, Lets go Pens.

Wade

Straight Jackets and Basketball Brackets.....

2011-03-07T08:09:00.008-05:00

Yinzers,

Let the Madness Begin. So when I was growing up I never had a good experience with Basketball. I tried out for the 6th Grade Team at St. Michael's Elementary and was cut. I couldn't understand it- but I was bummed. It turned out that my teacher and the rest of the guys on that team would turn out to be complete losers.(most of them in jail on internet porn convictions) Wow Glad I didn't make it.......

As I went to college and spent allot of time in Louisville KY, it was a Basketball town.( Pittsburgh a Football town) This was a new experience and I liked it.Lots of Games, lots of drinking and lots of Fun. The tradition of filling out the March Madness Brackets has become a staple this time of year with friends, and in offices around the nation. Trying to come up with every big upset is almost impossible/ but for my Best friend Travis and I it is all winning the bracket and about a 5th of Wild turkey.

Then came my YMCA coaching days in St. Louis Missouri. I coached two undefeated Seasons,and then was recruited to come down and Coach the St. Elizabeth Tournament in Louisville Kentucky. I coached and am still under contract to this Day. In 2005 we won our First and only Title. It was one of the most fullfilling things I have ever done in my Life. I still carry a peice of the Net In my Daytimer to this Day. ( Coaching Career Record 31-9-0)

March Madness is the purest form of Competition, there is a tournament ( like Karate Kid) that anyone from any conference can play into ,to become the National Champion. We have seen some of these Cinderella stories as the smaller conference teams are now competing with better players and better coaches every year. Then there is my team....

The Pitt Panthers are unbelievable in the regular season,(26-4 , First in the Big east, two First round byes) this year Pitt won the regular season title in the Big East. The Big East in my Opinon is the toughest confrence in the Nation. Many people will fight me that the ACC is the toughest year in and year out. But the level of play on any night in the Big East can not be compared to . ( Wake Forest and Clemson not entertaining)

http://www.bigeast.org/Sports/BasketballChampionshipCentral/20102011MensBBallChampCentral.aspx

Pitt Enters the Big East tournament Thursday at Noon. I have seen them win this tournament and then go on to the NCAA tournament and lay an egg at the elite 8 many times. So Do I want the Big East title.....for a kid that couldn't make the 6th Grade team bet your Ass I do!

Hail to Pitt

Wade

Chernobyl

2011-03-03T08:13:00.003-05:00

Yinzers,

So the Penguins are starting to look pretty ordinary. Lets Just say that the Month of February was a rough one for the Boys of Winter. Without the Likes of Geno Malkin and Sidney Crosby the Penguins except for between the pipes look pretty normal. Now Normal is not a bad thing and in Hockey you can get on Streaks. A Streak is something that can help in any sports that can propel a team to a championship. Ray Shero is a managing Genius, yeah he is. He has put together quite a team over the last 6 years and he still has the means to improve his product. With these last trades and the three players brought in making immediate impact the Penguins will be alright. But they won't be if they have another February.

We are also on the verge of an NFL Lock out. Ah Greed has overcome both sides of the negotiation process. This could be the beginning of the end for the 2011 NFL season. Chernobyl.

On the other end of the situation the Pittsburgh Panthers are still wining and still heading for that big showdown this weekend vs. Villanova for the Big East Regular season championship. If not the Irish will get that honor.

Penguins hockey , End of the NCAA regular season this weekend, and possibly the end of NFL for next year.

Alot to take in, better start a Backup plan.........

Wade

Blog me, why yes you can!

2011-03-02T07:55:00.006-05:00

Yinzers,

Hit that low point in your week? Boss getting you down- do you know someone from Cleavland? All legitimate reasons for you to need a little Sexy Wednesday.

Back when this Blog was started in 1908 The Fore, Fore Pittsburgh Fore fathers whom used Buffalo skin and early ink to write this Blog would state how they loved the City of Pittsburgh and how Cleavland not even founded yet would Suck.

As the years passed, the Wednesdays became a real pain in the ass. That is where Sexy Wed was started. Legitimate tale A MSM Alum Alex Luchsinger started Sexy Wed when this Blog Started. I will up hold his tradition of Fake Text under a scantly clad Chica.

Luck of The Irish:

As you can see we are painting the MSM Green for the Rest of March for my Favorite Holiday( well # 3 behins Christmas and Halloween) St. Patricks Day. Our Lovelies for St. Patricks day are well dressed for the occasion.

This is Venessa whom is going to Celebrate St. Patricks day near the Ocean Front. Vanessa really Doesn't know anything about St. Pats. Ireland or the numerous Drinking Songs that make you feel bad or Drunk...........V Is just looking for a 3rd year Oceanographer Student whom can show her where the end of the Rainbow may be. No pun intended, she wants to know about her Porpoise in Life........

Have a Great week!

Wade

March Madness Begins

2011-03-01T07:58:00.003-05:00

Yinzers,

March Madness is a Win , Win for any sports fan. It doesn't matter if you are die hard into College ball or not . Everyone is a March Madness Fan. Gambling with Brackets helps too.

So are you a Basketball Fan? Not NBA but College? I am of sorts,when I was in College yes I was a Die Hard Basketball Fan . DI , DII you name it- I knew the record , seating in the tournament what their chances are and usually 8-10 times I could pick the winner. But as my Twilight years approach( 34) I am not as interested in putting that much time into Basketball as years before.

My last Live game was a Pre-season shoot around this year for South Carolina. Not that interesting any more. I notice that as the March Madness Begins I have watched PITT play 7 times in the last 3 weeks, so it's peaking my Interest. But here is my dilemma.

PITT plays games with my Heart.

Panthers Fans Know that if we every get close to the Elite 8 or ( god forbid) the Final 4 they are going to leave me at the Prom holding my dates flowers again. So like every year I am going to put on my PITT stuff and watch the BIG EAST tournament live from NEW YORK's Madison Square Garden( 1 week) ,they are going to fight to the Championship or not, but they will have me right then.Then I am going to invest the rest of the month Pulling , watching the tournament and raising absolute hell when they leave me at the prom again.

....Guess who rented his tux?

Wade

City of Dreams and Bridges

2011-02-25T08:33:00.011-05:00

Hola Yinz!

It was free advertising...what can I say?!

The past two days have been magnificent! I am on a totally unplanned trip to the Burgh, but I am enjoying every Pittsburgh moment.

The Pens game (Wednesday) was my first stop; It was my first time to the new Consol Energy Center, and I have to say it was pretty RAD! If any of you know my history with the Pens....My curse continues...

On a more exciting note, I got to see Keisel Shear the Beard. It was a monumental, historical moment in Pittsburgh history. (this will be one story I WILL be telling my grandkids.)

Before

After

My night ended in a traditional feast of Pittsburgh...A Primanti sandwich (a #2 best seller), a Yuengling, cheese fries, and an Eat'n Park cookie :)

PS... I was interviewed by Steelers.com...So we'll have to stay tuned to see if I make the cut :) ... I did....Check it out!
http://www.steelers.com/video-and-audio/videos/Brett-Keisels-Shear-The-Beard/d0a65cfa-4291-46f4-b567-09463392efbf

Labuda in the BURGH!

Manatees, Beards and Pens!

2011-02-25T08:00:00.005-05:00

Yinzers,

So It has been a long time coming for consistency on this blog in a long time. We have a few writers on Hiatus along with getting my computer finally fixed. Thanks to a member of our Steelers group(David Strum) we are now up and Running like brand new.

Alot has happened in the last little bit in Pittsburgh Sports News......

Franchise Tag: Lamar Woodley has been tagged. Bottom line is Woodley has more sacks in his first three years than former Steeler great Greg Lloyd. You know you can start with all these other stats but that is the one that comes home. Plus he is Bad ace.

Good Bye to GOGO: Eric Gologoski was traded to the Dallas Stars for James Neal and a man that we will call Niskanen. The word on the ice is James Neal is that real deal. Niskanen is a grinder and will fit right in. Good job Ray Shero , once again you will amaze us in this unruly time of injuries.

The Bell Strikes: One time Penguin Alex Kovalev is back. This is as big as Gary Roberts or Billy Guerin. AK-27 ( if you do not know) is a sound bite machine. Along with his golden set of hands he loves the Penguins and said that these were his most productive years of his career. Kovi is like an angry version of Geno.....well Kinda. Welcome home Kovi.

F'n Pirates: Bob Nuttin' Gave a speech to the Pirates during practice in Bradenton this week and set Pirate city on fire. He basically said get over .500 for god sake. I really hope that i can wear my new bucos jersey this year without taking crap from every Braves fan I see.

I hope that the Pirates beat Manatee Community College today! Raise the Jolly Rodger!

Looking forward to get back into the swing of things on the MSM. Thanks to all the continued support from great Yinzers like you!

We are now on Facebook, Twitter in the future. Check out and join Igloo Club 222, Morning Steel mill pages.

Wade

Shear the BEARD!!

2011-02-23T12:08:00.002-05:00

Hola Yinz!?!?!!

Yours truly will be in attendance!!!??! (just bought my ticket!)
Labuda in the BURGH!

Truffle Shuffle

2011-02-19T14:21:00.005-05:00

Hola Yinz,

Happy Saturday to you! I would like to introduce you to my new little buddy, Gus. A strapping young lad, and one of the biggest Steeler fans I know. Just the other day he was telling me how much he loved the Steelers and all things Pittsburgh. His parents sure are raising this boy with some sense.

I can only guess what might be in his future...

On another note, I've been really down and out with all the Pittsburgh disappointments and all. I would just like to say that I truly love my city and any true Pittsburgher with stick with it, through thick and thin!

So what better way to heal my pains then to go to Pittsburgh! SO I booked a flight and am planning a get-a-way to the Mecca, and the future looks bright.

Labuda on the Left Coast.....soon to be on the Right Coast

Fan-A-TICKS

2011-02-17T08:12:00.003-05:00

Yinzers,

Definition of a Fan is someone whom loves,lives breathes and follows his Team or someone throughout their lives.

A fan at the University of Alabama may have given all Fanatics a bad name from here on out. Yesterday on local radio in bama someone claimed to poison the ground and the Trees at Auburn's Toomers Corner. For those who don't know Toomers corner in Auburn Alabama is filled with 85 year old oak trees that after significant sporting event wins the teams go down and toilet paper the trees in Victory. This is a long standing tradition.

So some jack wagon decides to go and poison the trees so that he can live in infamy. This would be the equivalent of someone stealing Steeley McBeam.....Wait wait a minute, that isn't that bad.......

I hope they find him and do street justice to him , for all the Auburn Tiger fans I am sorry, and For all the Alabama fans that did not do this act of injustice I am sorry for you also.

Iron Bowl just got a little more Bitter....

wade

All Hands on deck....

2011-02-15T08:40:00.003-05:00

Yinzers,

Did you know that there are 3 major teams in Pittsburgh? The Steelers, the Penguins and the Pittsburgh Power indoor Football team( owned by Lynn Swann) . Just kidding the Pittsburgh Pirates started Spring training in Bradenton Florida yesterday and with a new roster, new manager and same management the Pirates are headed for their 18Th losing season.

I have always loved the Pirates and still do. When I lived in St. Louis I never missed a Bucos game when they came to town. I really wish that they would spend some money and get some talent and break .500 this year. That is my wish for the Pirates break .500

Raise the Jolly Rodger!

I'm with you Bucos( for god sake do something)

wade

St. Valentines day Massacre

2011-02-14T23:09:00.002-05:00

Yinzers,

Holidays are a dime a dozen, Valentines day is the largest Hallmark Holiday out there. But Valentines day is mostly for women. Not so fast Yinzers, Tell me what other Holiday out there has a great Massacre attached to it's name?

The valentines day massacre is not in reference to the 9-2 schelacking of the Penguins from the Islanders a few days ago. In 1929 AL Capone sent out a hit in the Lincoln Park Neighborhood in Chicago. The target Bugs Moran and 5 other mobsters were knocked off. Tell me why when I went looking for Al Capone cards at Hallmark, they had none.....

Tell me why?

Wade

We are Now on Facebook!

2011-02-12T19:11:00.002-05:00

YINZERS,

We are now on Facebook. Just do a search for Morning Steel Mill. Add yourself and hopefully follow our best year yet. Same staff, New stuff. Pittsburgh .

***Don't forget about Igloo Club 222 also*****

MSM staff

Black and Gold Memories

2011-02-05T14:38:00.010-05:00

Hola Yinzers,

I just wanted to share one of my favorite Black and Gold memories with you; this week I've been feeling very nostalgic. I spent my week watching Pittsburgh related things (the Top 10 Pittsburgh Steelers, the Road to Superbowl XL). It just reminds me how much I love the City and being apart of the Steeler Nation.

My all time favorite memory of my Steelers is Superbowl XL; this is the first time I've seen my beloved team with the Superbowl...yes I'm only 25...

Let me set the scene for you... It was a small dingy dark (I'm sure there are more things I could insert here) bar on Broad River Road in Columbia, South Carolina. I was sitting at Table 1 (were the best of the best sat), and have been sitting there for the past 6 or so seasons. All the regulars were there in there as well as those fair-weather part timers :/ REGARDLESS, We were there for one reason and one reason only... TO SEE THE STEELERS WIN!!

And, of course (you know the outcome) THEY DID! (but not without giving us a few heart attacks along the way.)

I'm so looking forward to another Winning Repeat! And as my mom (and Wade's hairdresser) have been saying all season, "WE ARE GOING TO DALLAS TO STOMP ON THE STAR AND WIN!"

I couldn't find anyone stepping on the star, But I thought that you would like this one better :)

FEAR THE BEARD!!! HERE WE GO!!!

Labuda on the Left Coast

PS. I've been giving my students a good Steeler Education this week at School :)

(almost) Live Super bowl updates

2011-02-05T02:36:00.003-05:00

YInzers,

I have arrived.
Here We GO STEELERS!

hwg

WADE

(almost) Live updates from Superbowl 45 #7

2011-02-03T23:11:00.008-05:00

Yinzers,

Everyone has Super Bowl Traditions. If you are lucky to have a team in your lifetime reach the super bowl at one time you may have started a tradition or two. My Traditions throughout the Season are many, but my Super Bowl Tradition has been Very Special.

David Freiss and I met in St. Louis Missouri in 2003/2004 and With Travis Day started one of the most successful Steeler Groups I have ever been apart of. David and I are 2-0 in Playoff games and 2-0 in Super Bowls. I am leaving for Washington DC Friday afternoon to see if we can continue our Super Bowl Tradition. David has even taken it a step further to only invite the same people we partied with two years ago for Super bowl 43.

Like I have said before the Steelers are so much more than football, it is getting together with old friends and family to pull for something that you hold dear to your heart.

For my South Carolina family of Matt n Chuck- I will miss you * Wally's crew included. .......

But for the Sake of the Seventh Super Bowl ..... I must go.

Here we go.

Wade

(almost) Live Updates from the SuperBowl #6

2011-02-02T08:24:00.003-05:00

*****Breaking News******

Pittsburgh Steelers James Harrison(92) Is pissed. Yesterday Harrison cracked a joke and a smile for the first time in his adult life.

I am very scared for anyone whom has to line up to James Harrison this week.

Scary, very Scary.

HWG.......

Wade

(almost) Live Steelers Updates #5

2011-02-02T07:55:00.002-05:00

Mother of Pearl,

Yinzers, How much motivation do you need to win a Super Bowl? Well don't worry about The Pittsburgh Steelers after Media day at the Super Bowl. The weather was not the only dark and Dreary theme of the day, NFL commish Rodger( i love the patroits) goddell brought his two sense to the table when asked about the Big Ben Georgia incident.

Thank you for inciting a War between Steeler Nation and the NFL. Max Starks, Keisel, Ryan Clark etc etc. Are pissed. I guess that making the steelers -2 underdogs wasn't enough. I would personally thank Rodger for giving the Steelers more Bulletin Board material for this week.

It just amazes me if you are not in the Steeler Nation, You really don't get it. Also on a Personal note I am not watching any National Media this week. It is only WDVE every morning and the MSM for my Super Bowl Coverage.

Midweek, Almost there!

Here we GO!

Wade

(almost) Live Super Bowl Updates#4

2011-02-01T07:32:00.006-05:00

Yinzers,

Being a Steeler Fan we always have some sort of Diversity. When I awoke to the Comments made by NFL Commissioner Rodger Godell I am not surprised again. The Comish whom is not a public fan of the Steelers made comments about the Big Ben Preseason Georgia debacle. (Peter King of Sports Illustrated article)

Wow, after a whole year of no comments you have to make it the Monday of Super Bowl week. Hey NFL why don't you favor the Packers this week too?(oops they already are+2)Could a leauge pull harder against a franchise.

Isn't it amazing that the Number one Franchise in merchandise sales and popularity is treated like the Cleavland Browns.( or the red headed step child)

Bring it on, NFL, Bring it on.

Wade

(almost) Live Steeler Updates #2

2011-01-31T21:14:00.006-05:00

Yinzers,

Late this afternoon a report came from North Texas , Mike Tomlin reported that M. Pouncy and Aron Smith would not be ruled out for Super Bowl 45. A few hours later the report came out from ESPN that both players were ruled ineligible. ( Pictured above Casey Hampton Is eligible and Hungry)

From the Steelers point of view , they will go to work with as many able bodies that it is necessary to get the job done. Back ups will do their job because that is what they do. It's the Steeler way. The Blue collar way. The winning way.

Troy Polamalu has just been named the AP defensive player of the year. Please let me know whom else was on this list? Oh that's right no-one that matters.

Here we go!
Wade

(almost) live Steelers Updates #1

2011-01-31T15:14:00.004-05:00

Yinzers,

Dahn-Town Pittsburgh is Going nuts.Apparently the Steelers are in the Super Bowl. This picture was sent to me From Colleen Brognano live in the Strip district just about 35 hours ago. Apparently Transformers are real, as you can see in the picture above this 1993 thunder bird was getting ready to Transform into a 10 foot tall Steeler Robot. Amazing what the kids at Carnegie Mellon can do these days.

Live (almost) on the Scene ( 5 states away) .

Here we go!

wade

MSM Live( almost live ) Super Bowl week Coverage!

2011-01-31T08:51:00.003-05:00

YINzers,

Sorry for yelling, The steelers are leaving for North Texas in about an hour. I am sure that local news in the burgh' is just going nuts with every bit of useless knowledge available. To be completely honest it is a little much, but I love it. I mean whom doesn't want to read about Keisel brushing his beard twice daily. Or that Ben has never called that girl back from Milledgeville. I mean this is coverage I can't live with.

So there is no real bad blood between the Steelers and the Packers. These two franchises mirror each other right down to not having cheerleaders present at games. Packer Backers are probably the second toughest fans in the NFL. Cold weather, little to do in town , Football is number one sounds kind of familiar. The MSM Will be giving you the most up to date coverage this whole week.

Buckle up , just like Texas this coverage is going to be BIG!

Here we GO!

Wade

Underdogs,Super Steelers and the Death Star.....

2011-01-26T21:44:00.006-05:00

Yinzers,

The Steelers are heading to the Super Bowl. After the last few weeks I have had, this brings me great joy. There is allot more going on in my life because of the Super Bowl and the Steelers, for instance the Ability to pick up the phone and talk to people I have not heard from in weeks or months or years for that matter. The Steelers have done allot for me off the Field than you could ever know.

When I first started watching the Steelers with a Legitimate group of Die hards, it happened when I was in St. Louis Missouri. A few of us started watching the Games at a local bar, and we were thrown out. ( because of me loosing it during Big Ben's Rookie start).So then the Magic happened we found a bigger bar that 4 of us could go to and watch the Steelers consistently. The Bar manager and I became great friends and so did the wait staff. By the end of our 4.5 year run at St Louis all Star cafe we all had become Life Long friends.The four of us that started going there became more like 30 in the end. Out of the original group I still talk to about 15 people on a monthly basis. Without the Steelers bringing us together, I would have missed out on allot of life long friends.

This Steeler Nation is really about the fans, watching the steelers gives us a reason to watch and get together for almost 1/3rd of the year. The Steelers also give you a sence of community, I can't tell you how many times at work I can talk to a fellow yinzer by spotting his tshirt or hat. The Steelers as a whole give you a sence of pride and history that you are a part of. In this very fast moving world I can see a group of people that are honest, hard working and very proud of the town that they grew up in.

UNDERDOGS:
Once again going into this super Bowl we are underdogs, how I really don't know. We were 12-4 , won our division title and our Conference title. #1 defense in the league etc. etc. etc. The Green Bay Packers came in as a 6th seed in a depleted NFC. Someone whom is not a Steelers fan explain this to me. Maybe I am missing the point? Maybe I am not.
The media outside of Pittsburgh really has something against the Sports in our city. They think that we have some sense of entitlement or arrogance for producing winning teams over and over again. The bottom line to the media, it doesn't matter what you think or what you say, Pittsburgh does things the right way.( Pirates excluded)

Death Star:
I have heard the Death Star reference a dozen times in the last 3 days comparing the new Texas stadium to the once non blown up Death Star. That would make Jerry Jones, the emperor ha. I think that it is quite rewarding in some sick sense that The Hated Cowboys are hosting our Super Bowl. Once again they are flashy, all about image and themselves and once again the Steelers are just showing up for work, not saying anything etc. So I ask another question after all these years of watching these two franchises whom is Americas team.
It's a pretty good day when your Hair dresser( Chrissy) can tell you I told you so when she predicted from the begining of the season that the Steelers would be stomping on that big star in Dallas. Touche' Chris,Touche'

I know there is alot to come this week with speculation and predictions etc. I do know one thing when this super Bowl is over I will still love the Pittsburgh Steelers just as much as the next yinzer but as I get older the people that I have met, become freinds with and love to the end mean the most to me. Thank you Pittsburgh Steelers.

Have a great week ahead.
Here we go!

wade

The Stairway to Seven

2011-01-24T11:38:00.004-05:00

Yinzers,

Before ynz read on, we will mention that there are many great parodies turned to Steelers fight songs, including Stairway to Heaven. We are not saying ours is better and we are not trying to rip any of theirs off, this is just our own version. Play the video, listen to the instrumental and read our lyrics. Enjoy

The Stairway to Seven
~lyrics by B. Brog, J. Brog and the Law; Album cover by J. Brog

There are fans who are sure

In their black and their gold

That they’re climbing the stairway to seven

When we get there we’ll know

That the Packers are those

Who are waiting to face the Steel Curtain

Ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh

And we’re climbing the stairway to seven

There’s a man with the ball

Marching straight for the goal

And we know it will end in six points

Yellow towels wave around

As Jets fall to the ground

Meanwhile all of our thoughts turn to Myron

Ooh, Roethlisberger

Ooh, Polamalu

There’s a feeling I get

When I look to west

And the Terrible Towels are all waving

On our hands we can see

Rings of six already

And a space for one more still waiting

Ooh, Michael Wallace

Ooh, fear James Harrison

They will fall, all did say

When the Jets came to Heinz

But Coach Tomlin did lead us to vict’ry

In month 2 of the year

The Steel will stand strong

And the nation will echo “Go Steelers!”

Oh, here we go, here we go, here we go

From the three rivers to the west coast

And even farther

Steeler nation’s borders are endless

With all the antics in the spotlight

The Steelers have none

The Chief still lives in the hearts of kin

And keep reflecting

The spirits of past Super Bowl Champs

An inspiration

And Franco’s calling you to join him

Jack Lambert with L.C. and mean Joe

And the others

A dynasty resurrected new

And as we march to Dallas

Green Bay Packers we’ll face

In the house that Jones built

Both fight for one goal: Lombardi

Rogers fears Diezel’s beard and Big Snack

And will suffer more than ever

And Clay Matthews won’t serve much help

When all is said and all is done

The Steelers will hoist their seventh

And we're climbing the stairway to seven

Where'n the Hell Have you been?

2011-01-23T00:49:00.003-05:00

Yinzers,

First off Happy Birthday to the Voice of the Steelers and Father of the Terrible Towel Myron Cope. Myron Passed a few years ago but his Legacy still remains every Sunday when Heinz field is filled with that Terrible wave.

Today the Pittsburgh Steelers Enter their 15Th AFC championship since 1970. The Jets are visiting Pittsburgh for the second time this year, as you know from reading the MSM It was a devistating loss for Truck and I in late December. Tickets for the Rematch and a one way ticket to the Super Bowl are on the line.( not to mention that they are the Golden ticket to get)

The Jets were relativly silent until today when BIG mouth Bart Scott took an open Jab at #86 Hines Ward. Give me a break. With all the Foot Fetish jokes, Getting High with Tone' and Gang Green the only thing they have to talk about it how Hines hits other Players. Amazing.

Wow what a super Mind game they are pulling, talk trash for the past two weeks and then sweet talk the Steelers for the past one. Give me a break. I personally like Coach Mike Tomlin's Stance on the upcoming Game- let all the talking get done . We are in the Game come 6pm Sunday.

Thanks for all your Patience with the MSM lately, life got in the way(along with Computer issues).

For the greatest fan base in all of sports, May the Memory of Myron and Grit and toughness of the Pittsburgh Steelers get us through.

Here we GO!

Wade

For Your Viewing Pleasure....

2011-01-15T23:35:00.000-05:00

Dead Bird Epidemic Continues

2011-01-13T20:14:00.007-05:00

Hola Yinzers!

I have had a jam packed few weeks. I know this isn't my usual day; I've just been jonesing to write I made my way to the Right Coast to visit friends and family, but most importantly I got to watch sports with my favorite Yinzers!

I even got to see a dusting of snow!

It was a great time with great people!

HERE WE GO STEELERS!

Labuda on the Left Coast

Fuse Box Monday

2011-01-10T15:35:00.004-05:00

Yinzers,

It has been quite a while, but we are back to the daily grind here at the MSM. Just to keep you updated, I have tried making a Facebook fan page for all you loyal readers, but was unsuccessful in getting what I needed accomplished. So, we will stick to our good old blog posts. Happy 2011 and here we go!

After losing a heart-breaker to the Washington Capitals in the Winter Classic on New Year's Day (which yours truly was in attendance), the Pens have battled hard and come out 1-1-1. It's not all too bad, losing the Winter Classic. Thus far, only the away team has won the contest. Our Penguins beat the home Buffalo Sabres in the first ever Winter Classic at Ralph Wilson Stadium, followed by the Detroit Red Wings defeating the home Chicago Blackhawks at Wrigley Field and the Philadelphia Flyers defeating the home Boston Bruins last year at Fenway Park. The Penguins just have to put it behind them and get back to their brand of hockey.

The Pens came out of it on January 5th looking to rebound against a surging Tampa Bay Lightning team. Tampa needed a win to tie for the most points in the NHL, something we are all not used to. However, with Jordan Staal back in the lineup in return from his broken hand, the Penguins "opened up a can" on Tampa Bay, earning the victory 8-1. The Penguins scored 7 goals in the first eight minutes of the game, starting just seven seconds in, off the opening faceoff off the stick of Evgeni Malkin. His goal was followed by goals from Chris Connor, Tyler Kennedy and two from Chris Kunitz to round out the first period. But the scoring did not stop there. The Lightning pulled goaltender Dwayne Roloson in favor of Dan Ellis early in the second, but Mark Letestu saw no difference, making it 5-0 Penguins. Chris Kunitz would add his hat-trick goal later in the period and the Penguins led 6-0 after two complete. Former Penguin Adam Hall got the lone Lightning goal early in the third, but Alex Goligoski answered shortly thereafter to give us our final score of 8-1. Marc-Andre Fleury turned away 31 of 32 on a stellar day between the pipes.

The next day, the Penguins traveled to Bell Centre in Montreal to take on the Canadiens. The Penguins have been struggling to beat Montreal as of late, going back to last year's playoffs when Jaroslav Halak shut the door on the Penguins' Stanley Cup hopes. They would have to go this one without the help of Sidney Crosby, due to a concussion suffered in the Winter Classic and exacerbated by a hit he took in the Tampa Bay game. The Pens lost to the Habs in October, but they were both different teams then. It would take a shoot-out to decide this one. Arron Asham opened up scoring just 2:14 in when he rifled a wrist shot past Carey Price and that would be the lone tally in the first period. The second period belonged to the Montreal Canadiens' Benoit Pouliot, scoring the lone tally of that period. The gritty game saw no more goals in regulation, or in overtime. The shoot-out went five rounds with the one, deciding goal being scored by Benoit Pouliot on a classic Petr Forsberg move. The Pens lose the heart-breaker 2-1 with Brent Johnson turning away 22 of 23 and Carey Price stopping 31 of 32.

The Pens would not recover on Saturday January 8 against the Wild. On that night, they ran into something that has ALWAYS given them trouble: the neutral zone trap. For those unfamiliar with the tactic, a team will send one winger to forecheck and disrupt the opponent's breakout. Meanwhile, the other four players will roam the neutral zone, taking away all lanes through which to skate. The only way to beat it is to dump the puck in and grind it out on the boards, but the Wild defense were very agile and stifled the Penguins offensive game. The Penguins would be without Sidney Crosby for a second straight night with a concussion. Crosby's puck possession abilities below the goal line would be sorely missed in this one. The Wild took it 4-0 with goals from Chuck Kobasew, Martin Havlat, Cal Clutterbuck and an empty net goal by Kyle Brodziak. Jose Theodore earns the shut out by stopping all 21 Penguin shots, while Marc-Andre Fleury stopped 33 of 36.

The Penguins now sit in 4th place in the Eastern Conference and second place in the Atlantic with 56 points, one less than first place (in both) Philadelphia with 57. Tonight, they take on the Boston Bruins. The Bruins are 5-2-3 in their last 10 and always bring their A game against the Penguins. Top story lines in this game will be the hatred of the Bruins for Matt Cooke since last year's hit on Marc Savard, ending Savard's season; Sidney Crosby out this whole week with his concussion; Mt. Lebanon (Pittsburgh area high school) grad Matt Bartkowski possibly making his NHL debut in his home town; Dustin Jeffrey getting called back up to the bigs.

Game time tonight is 7:30 on VERSUS. Then it's back to Montreal again on Wednesday at 7:30 pm on FSN and then to Boston on Saturday at 1:00 pm on FSN.

Let's go Pens,
B Brog

Happy New Years

2011-01-01T07:53:00.005-05:00

Yinzers,

So first night was a success as usual. Pens and caps are on today with the winter classic at 8pm tonight. With the New year we will be bringing alot of changes to the msm, along with staff and content. We thank you for continuing to read daily or weekly.

Until B decides to write Happy New Year!

MSM

Merry Christmas

2010-12-24T20:13:00.003-05:00

Yinzers,

So it's Christmas Eve and I am awaiting the Arrival of my Parents. There is nothing in this whole world like having A Christmas Eve with the ones you love. I wish all of you( all 7 readers) and your families the Very Merriest of Christmas's . I hope everyone get's their BB gun!

Missing Everyone in Pittsburgh, Louisville,St Louis and Especially Alabama-.......Wink!

From all of the MSM to your Family, Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Wade Nixon

Mecca

2010-12-15T22:26:00.002-05:00

Yinzers,

First off Happy Hoildays n' at. We are currently getting ready to make our Christmas trip to the burgh. It is always like going on a holy land trip or better yet my Haij, that all Pittsburghers do at least once a year to see their beloved Steelers. It is also time to pay homage to Pittsburgh Royalty once again as we will meet and see the royal families of Pittsburgh( brogs, Nevalas, kolesars,veros friesses and Fairbaughs.)
I am also very excted to eat , drink and be merry.

Wouldn't want to be a Jets fan this Weekend......

Here we GO!
See Yinz soon!
Wade

Truck Tuesday : Pittsburgh Vacation edition

2010-12-13T23:14:00.005-05:00

Hey Yinz,

We will be on our way to Pittsburgh in 72 hours! The forecast says it will snow when we are in the burgh, I just hope we don't get snowed in! I am pretty psyched for snow though...I only get to see snow every 5 or so years, so it will be a treat!

When were were in Pittsburgh at the end of the summer, I kept singing "Pittsburgh Vacation" to the tune of "Christmas Vacation" but I never sang more than "It's that time, Pittsburgh time is here...Hip Hip Hooray for Pittsburgh Vacation" and I was reminded of that this week. So of course I decided to finish the song for this trip. The song is more appropriate now that it is the Christmas season at well...

This probably also shows that I have way too much free time and a lack of creativity, but here goes!

Pittsburgh Vacation

To the tune of Christmas Vacation by Mavis Staples

It's that time, Pittsburgh time is here
Everybody knows there's not a better place to cheer
Shout Hooray, Wade's on his way
Hip, Hip Hooray, for Pittsburgh Vacation

Gotta make it to the great keystone state
(jing-a-ling-a-ling-a-ling-ling)
Now it's getting closer I can't wait
(jang-a-lang-a-lang-a-lang-lang)
Gonna make this holiday as perfect as can be
Just wait and see this Pittsburgh Vacation

This old town, sure is looking good
Got ourselves the finest sports teams in the neighborhood

Ain’t it cold, playing in the snow
That's how its done on Pittsburgh Vacation

Lets all walk the strip and freeze to death
(jing-a-ling-a-ling-a-ling-ling)

Let a toasty totty warm your breath
(jang-a-lang-a-lang-a-lang-lang)
Give the Steelers the warmest welcome that they’ve ever had
We're so glad it Pittsburgh Vacation

And when the snow is falling on Heinz Field

We can boo Jets fans and see a win revealed

(jing-a-ling-a-ling-a-ling-ling)
(jang-a-lang-a-lang-a-lang-lang)

Pittsburgh Vacation (repeat)

We're so glad it's Pittsburgh Vacation

Mad Men Christmas party is getting near
(jing-a-ling-a-ling-a-ling-ling)
Primanti’s and Beto’s in the air
(jang-a-lang-a-lang-a-lang-lang)
Let the spirit of Myron carry us away
Hip, Hip Hooray for Pittsburgh Vacation

Fa-la-la-la-la and ho ho ho
jingle, jangle, jingle as we go
Let the spirit of Myron... (fade)

I hope yinz have a great week - I know I will! I will be posting pics from our trip next Tuesday!

Truck

'Tis the Season

2010-12-10T16:46:00.002-05:00

For cramming for finals.

B Brog

Truck Tuesday

2010-12-07T14:18:00.004-05:00

Hey Yinz,

Well the city of Pittsburgh seems to be doing pretty well sports wise right now. The pens just celebrated their 10 straight win, which is the longest win streak since Bylsma has been coach. Last night was a special evening because Bill Guerin (my favorite former penguin) was honored because he made the decision to retire as a penguin. Billy G has played on a lot of other teams and even won a cup with a different team, but he obviously found a connection with the team and the city of Pittsburgh. He was also presented with a picture comemorating his time as a peguin and his family was given a week long trip to Hawaii. This definitely shows how classy the pens are. This also reminded me of how much I loved Billy G and I wish that he was still playing!

The Steelers had a nice win on Sunday, thanks to Troy. The Igloo club had a nice crowd show up to watch the game too. The even more exciting thing is that only one game seperates me from seeing the Steelers live in Pittsburgh!

Well I hope Yinz have a nice week!

Charleigh

Fuse Box Monday

2010-12-06T15:06:00.002-05:00

Yinzers,

The city of Pittsburgh does things to people...more specifically, those athletes who have the privilege of playing here. Billy "Gray Beard" Guerin retired today, but was quoted as saying his "heart is in Pittsburgh." BG the big GB was only with the Penguins since March of 2009, but fell in love with the city, his Penguin team mates and the community as a whole. He announced his retirement today, the day in which the two organizations closest to him face-off: the New Jersey Devils (the team that drafted him) and the Pittsburgh Penguins (the team that won his heart). You can read the whole article and more on the Penguins website. On to the games.

Monday November 29: Pens v. Rangers
The Pens pull a win on "King" Henrik Lundqvist. Scoring opened up in the first period when Max Talbot found a rare rebound from Henrik Lundqvist and buried it over the big Sweed's right shoulder. Tempers started flaring late in the first when Mike Rupp and Brandon Prust duked it out, throwing hay-makers left and right, but the score would stay at 1-0 in favor of the Pens after 1. Kris Letang stayed red-hot as the leagues second-leading, defensive scorer got his 5th of the season. That was followed by a Chris Connor goal and fisticuffs between Sean "Sloppy Seconds" Avery and Tyler Kennedy. Marion Gaborik did answer for the Rangers late in the second, but it would not be enough. With no score in the third, the final was set at 3-1 in favor of the good guys. Marc-Andre Fleury stopped 25 of 26 and tallied another victory.

Thursday December 2: Thrashers v. Pens
The Pens recorded their 8th straight win on Thursday when the Atlanta Thrashers came to Consol Energy Center. The first major event in this one was a major penalty for the fight between Aaron Asham and Chris Thorburn. Atlanta opened up the scoring in the first period by getting the first power play goal on the Penguins in 30-something odd situations. Bryan Little got the goal, but it would be the last time Atlanta had the lead. Sidney Crosby then rolled off a natty hatty (natural hat trick - all three of his goals, uninterrupted), giving the Pens a 3-1 lead half way through the second period. Nikolai Antropov would get another goal for Atlanta, but it would be the last. The Pens took this one 3-2. Marc-Andre Fleury had 20 saves and the Pens continued their streak.

Saturday December 4: Pens v. Blue Jackets
The Pens made the trip to that God-awful state of Ohio on Saturday to take on the Blue Jackets. The Blue Jackets were looking to bounce back from losing to the first seed in the Eastern Conference, Washington. But they were looking in the wrong place. The Pens made it 9 straight with their rout of Columbus. The final ended up at 7-2 with 6 different Penguins getting goals. Sidney Crosby had two and each of Paul Martin, Tyler Kennedy, Mike Rupp and Deryk Engelland added one of their own. Samuel Pahlsson and Chris Clark had goals for Columbus. Mike Rupp was an assist shy of the Gordie Howe hat trick. Rupp added a fight to his goal when he slugged it out with Jared Boll. Marc-Andre Fleury turned away 21 of 23.

Games this week start tonight at 7:00 pm when it's a hockey night in Pittsburgh as New Jersey comes to town. The dirty Jers will be trying to re-equilibriate since they have started off a measly 6-18-2 this season, with only the Islanders below them in the division. Then, the new-look Maple Leafs are in town on Wednesday night at 7:00 and back to Buffalo on Saturday night.

Let's go Pens,
B Brog

Steelers News

2010-12-05T15:00:00.002-05:00

Yinzers,

This is a doctored pic from an "In the Bleachers" cartoon, but I think it correctly reflects the feelings of Steeler nation.

Here we go,
B Brog

Great Weekend of Football!

2010-12-04T13:24:00.000-05:00

Hola Yinz,

THis is for sure a Great Weekend for Football!!

C-A-R-O-L-I-N-A GOOOOO COCKS!!!!

and Steelers....Kill those Ratbirds!

I'm sorry for the hiatus.

Labuda on the Left Coast

Steelers Lab

2010-12-02T17:12:00.002-05:00

Yinzers,

Well, that was a scary one against the Buffalo Buffaloes. I am really not sure we deserved to win that one, but "Thank you" to Stevie Johnson for dropping the ball in the end zone in overtime and "Thank you" to Shaun Suisham for earning his first game check. Did anyone else notice how much the announcers for CBS REALLY wanted the Bills to win that game? "AND So what's happening this week?

The Baltimore Rat Birds host our Pittsburgh Steelers
All us Steeler fans know what this weekend is all about. "It's the old Browns. They're our biggest rival. They're are stiffest competition in the North. etc, etc." All of said statements are correct. These two teams are just as equal this year as they have been in years past. It also does not matter if both teams lead the division at 8-3 and are on two-game win streaks; they have 250 (BAL) and 254 (PIT) points-for; they have 188 (BAL) and 175 (PIT) points-against; rank 4th (BAL) and 5th (PIT) in the power rankings; or are XX (BAL) or XY (PIT). In the end, the stats mean absolutely nothing when these two teams come together because they always play their best against one another. Why? That's what rivals do. The keys for Baltimore this weekend will be the exploitation of the weak Steelers offensive line. If they can get Haloti Ngata to go one-on-one with either of the Steelers' guards, the Steelers are in for a long day. Without Dan Kreider anymore, the Steelers have had a hard time with skilled linebackers, which Baltimore obviously has. Anquan Boldin and Derrick Mason have been a deadly one-two punch on the outsides for Joe Flacco and Ray Rice will undoubtedly be a 1000-yard rusher.

This is exactly the same game plan the Steelers have to follow...that AND have the offensive line actually show up. Surprised? The Steelers' one-two punch with Mike Wallace (whom the CBS announcers consistently called 'Mike Williams' on Sunday) and Hines Ward has also payed great dividends for the Steelers. Rashard Mendenhall only needs 38 yards to be a 1000-yard rusher. For the Steelers, they will need to do the exact same as the Baltimore Ravens. Get in the backfield and stop Ray Rice in his tracks and get Joe Flacco on the ground. The Ravens, like the Steelers, like to control the clock with their rushing attack and play the pass off of it. If you can disrupt the run, it takes away their clock management because Joe Flacco is no Ben Roethlisberger under duress.

As for the injury report, BRETT KEISEL HAD A FULL PRACTICE, as did Flozell Adams, Nick Eason, Bryant McFadden and Troy Polamalu. If all these guys play this weekend, the defense should look even better than ever. Ben had a limited practice due to the ankle, but nobody foresees it keeping him sidelined. James Harrison appears to be a marked man by Roger Goddell, being fined another $25,000 for his hit on Ryan Fitzpatrick. "He led with the crown of his head and hit him under the chin," is what all were saying. When you are running forward, you lead with your head, it's basic momentum. As for hitting Fitzpatrick under the chin, yes, he hit him under the chin...in the STERNUM. For my money, any other player would have been given a pat on the back for that hit, but Harrison got fined.

Game time is 8:20 pm on NBC's Sunday Night Football after "Football Night in America" (I still call it "Sunday Night Countdown"). Bill Hillgrove, Tunch Ilkin and Craig Wolfley will be at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, broadcasting live on DVE and all your other Steelers' networks.

Here we go,
B Brog

Fuse Box Monday

2010-11-29T12:05:00.002-05:00

Yinzers,

Four games to cover, so this one will be dry.

Monday November 22: Pens v. Panthers
It seems like forever since the Penguins have played good against a Floridian opponent, but they out-played the Panthers dahn in Miami last week. The Pens won 3-2 with a huge boost on the power play, scoring two of such goals. The red-hot Kris Letang had one of said goals and Sidney Crosby is now hot as well scoring the other. The game-winner came from Chris Connor at 12:56 in the third period to give the Pens the 3-2 victory. The Panther goals were scored by Cory Stillman and Brian McCabe. Marc-Andre Fleury continued to shine as he turned away 27 of 29. All the dads were in attendance.

Wednesday November 24: Pens v. Sabres
Dads game number two was a shiner for Marc-Andre Fleury. Fleury turned away 30 of 30 in the 1-0 shut out of the Sabres. Pittsburgh native (and former school-mate of yours truly) Michael Weber made the starting lineup for Buffalo on defense. He generated one shot in 11:33 of ice time. I wish him the best of luck in his young career. Pascal Dupuis had the only goal in the contest at 12:05 in the first.

Friday November 26: Sens v. Pens
Black Friday did not bode well for Sergei Gonchar and the Ottawa Senators when they came to the burgh. Gonchar has had a rough go since leaving the Pens with a +/- of -12. The Penguins would take this one 2-1 in regulation with goals coming from Evgeni Malkin and Alex Goligoski, both of which were on the power play. Ottawa got the game-opening goal from Jesse Winchester. The biggest news from this game was Marc-Andre Fleury opting to drop his gloves and take a roughing penalty when Chris Neil did what he does best and got in Fleury's face. Fleury turned away 43 of 44 and continues to stay hot.

Saturday November 27: Flames v. Pens
The Penguins looked like last year's club did when the Western Conference Calgary Flames came to town. The Pens dominated this one from the get-go (not at Giant Eagle) winning handily 4-1. Aaron Asham got things started at 6:56 in the first and then Sidney Crosby took over, grabbing the hat trick. Rene Bourque broke up the natty hatty with the only Flame goal. Deryk Engelland was back in the lineup and got into a fight with Tim Jackman in the second period. What else is new? Brent Johnson stopped 30-31 and the Penguins are looking dangerous with MAF and Brent both playing great hockey.

The Pens are now 15-8-2, second in the Atlantic Division behind the Philthadelphia Flyers by two points (34-32) and fourth in the league. What is more important is that they are red-hot right now. The power play is getting goals and the penalty kill has killed off something like 70+ in a row. The Pens have won 6 straight and are 9-1-1 in their last 11.

The Pens play Monday, Thursday and Saturday this week against the Rangers, Thrashers and Blue Jackets, respectively. All games are at 7:00.

Thank god for Pittsburgh

2010-11-24T21:13:00.003-05:00

Yinzers,

Tis the Season. Tis the start of the best of the sports seasons. Hockey is in full stride. College Football is starting to dwindle, NFL is starting to get good and decide whom is going post season, etc etc.

Tis the season to count your blessings, of the people that you know the family that you have and the place that you are from. Give thanks to being part of the black n gold family. Just think if I would have been born 147 miles to the west....the Morning Steel Mill would be some Cleavland brown spot blog....

TIs the season to start getting excited about the Panthers, Gamecocks and Lions.

Just make sure that you give thanks .

Rivals Weekend

Growing up in the Big East the one big game of the year was the Backyard Brawl. Pitt and WVU the best of the best of the big east go into this weekend looking for one team to emerge the Champion of the Big east and get to play in a BCS bowl. The other will prob end up in the Mien eke bowl in Charlotte.

The Battle of the Palmetto State is bigger than ever this year with USC having the upper hand for the first time in a decade. The cocks are riding high and going into this rival game with a swagger that has never been around these parts before. It's kinda nice to see the Gamecocks with a powerful team .

Finally the Iron bowl between Alabama and Auburn is bigger than life this year I am pulling for the crimson Tide, for Gamecock Reasons.

All in all , remember that you should be thankful for all the things in life that make you smile. Enjoy the day , football and parades.

From the Staff at the MSM

Happy thanks giving.

Wade

Truck Tuesday

2010-11-23T11:19:00.004-05:00

Hey Yinz,

So I have been a major slacker for the past couple of weeks! My apologies!

There isnt a whole lot to report on, but I am happy to tell you all that mine and wade's trip to the burgh is less than 4 weeks away. We have our plane tickets booked, our rental car booked and our tickets to the Steelers game - only 5 rows up from the Steelers bench might I add! I hate to wish away half of Decemeber, but I am ready to get there!

Because I have lived in the south my entire life, Wade took me shopping for hard core cold weather clothes for this trip. Last January we went to the Papa John's Bowl in B'ham, Al and I almost froze...but I didnt wear socks with my flat shoes, which obviously wasn't very smart either. I'm sure at the Steelers game it will be much colder and I definitely want to be warm enough to enjoy this game. We purchased a lot for me to layer at the game...I just hope that my small jersey will fit over all the layers when we are at the game. And I am also a little bit concerned about fitting all the layers in my little carry on. There is no way I am paying $50 to check a bag.

Speaking of the airport, I am definitely looking forward to being groped in security. Apparently, it has gotten worse in the past couple of months. A Fb friend of mine even posted, " Hey TSA- If I wanted someone half heartedly patting my groin without eye contact, I'd get married." Interesting thought.

Well Yinz, thats all I have for now! I hope you have safe travels this week and a happy thanksgiving with family and friends!

Truck

Fuse Box Monday

2010-11-22T17:46:00.002-05:00

Yinzers,

Three games again, but once the college football season is over, we will be back to the book-end weekdays for the Fuse Box. Here's what went down.

Monday November 15: Rangers v. Penguins
What is it about "King" Henrik Lundqvist that gives the Penguins such a hard time? Is it the fact that he covers post-to-post, naturally? Whatever the reason, it seems like he always stifles the Pens, this time stopping 37 of 39. This game took overtime and the only Penguins' mistake, but it was still a win for Lundqvist. Ryan Callahan and Mike Comrie went toe-to-toe in the first, making it a traditional Atlantic division contest. Scoring opened with the only goal of the second period going to former Penguin Erik Christensen on his patented wrist shot. The third picked up pace with Chris Kunitz and Matt Cooke picking up quick goals late in the period to give the Pens a 2-1 lead in the waning moments. But the younger Staal added a short handed goal when New York pulled Lundqvist with under 2:00 to tie the game at 2 and force overtime. As I said before, the Penguins made just one mistake all game and it came at 3:38 in overtime. Zbynek Michalek stumbled and fell transitioning in the neutral zone, leaving Ryan Callahan and Brian Dubinsky with a 2-on-1. Naturally, they scored and stole the extra point from the Penguins. Marc-Andre Fleury stopped 22 of 25.

Wednesday November 17: Canucks v. Penguins
The Sedin twins were in town with arguably one of the best squads in the Western Conference in the Vancouver Canucks. Once again, the game opened up with a fight, this time between Craig Adams and Kevin Bieska. Sidney Crosby scored late in the first to put the Penguins ahead 1-0, a lead that they would take into the first intermission. The rest of the scoring took place in the second period. Mad Max Talbot put a short handed goal on the board and Aaron Asham got his second of the year to give the Pens a 3-0 lead. Dan Hamhius would put one past Marc-Andre Fleury to make it 3-1, but that would be the last goal scored in the game. Fleury turned away 29 of 30 and Roberto Luongo turned away 26 of 29. The Pens moved to 10-8-2 and second place behind the Philthadelphia Flyers.

Friday November 19: Hurricanes v. Penguins
Over the summer, the Carolina Hurricanes went out to try and secure as much of the bloodline as possible when they acquired Jared Staal (the youngest of the 4) from the Phoenix Coyotes for a first round pick. He has not played with the big club yet this year, but I would look for it in the future. This game was an epic back-and-forth throughout. Scoring opened up just 42 seconds into the game when Brandon Sutter snapped a shot passed Marc-Andre Fleury. Chris "enfuego" Kunitz and Tyler Kennedy added goals in the middle of the period to give the Pens a 2-1 lead, but Patrik Dwyer sneaked one past Fleury to tie the game at 2 going into the first intermission. The teams exchanged goals in the second with Jussi Jokinen answering Sidney Crosby's tally and the game would be tied at 3 after 2. Chris Kunitz got his second-and what looked to be game winning-goal on the power play, but Jussi Jokinen got his second as well with under one minute to go, forcing overtime with the game tied at 4. A hint of controversy was added to this bag-o-chips when there were no goals scored in overtime and the Hurricanes asked the ice crew to widen the stripe of fresh ice because "Jussi Jokinen goes really wide on his shoot out attempts and he will be shooting." It wouldn't matter. Kris Letang made Justin Peters look simply silly with his trademark, double-move to the backhand. Jeff Skinner followed with a miss for Carolina. Sidney Crosby sniped the five-hole of Peters to put the Pens up 2-0 in the shoot out with the game riding on the stick of none other than Jussi Jokinen. As if on-cue, he took it nearly to the wall but MAF stood him up, getting the Pens the 5-4 shoot out victory.

The Pens play tonight at 7:30 when they travel to Miami to take on the Florida Panthers. We all know how the Pens do against Florida teams, but let's try and rectify that tonight. Then it's off to Buffalo on Wednesday at 7:00 and then back-to-back afternoon games at 1:00 on black Friday against the Ottawa Senators and Saturday against the Calgary Flames.

Let's go Pens,
B Brog

Blood Fued.

2010-11-21T00:30:00.002-05:00

The Wind is a mighty Raider,

More like they Blow....
Here We GO!

Steelers Lab

2010-11-18T12:18:00.002-05:00

Yinzers,

Let's all just forget about last week. The Steelers simply did not show up to play. If you read the MSM, it was a damn good game plan to win, but the Steelers simply did not show up. Even with the loss, the Steelers are still tied with the Rat Birds for first in the AFC North. Let's talk more about this week.

The Oakland Raiders are in town this week, but they are absolutely not the same Raiders that beat the Steelers just a year ago. This year's Raiders team is far better than last year's. The Raiders rank 2nd in the league in rushing offense. This is mostly due to Darren McFadden finally living up to his Heizman hype in the NFL. McFadden is getting both tough and fast yards to the total of 757, averaging 5.4 per carry. Do the math and the Raiders get a first down generally every other time McFadden touches the ball. Their pass offense is nothing too spectacular, but it is enough to keep some balance. The Raiders finally got rid of Jamarcus Russel and replaced him with a similar style QB in Jason Campbell. He can make throws when he needs to and is also fairly elusive with his legs. His favorite target is TE Zack Miller, but Darius Heyward-Bey is also coming into his own in the NFL. The Raiders' defense is also ranked 2nd in the NFL against the pass, allowing just under 185 yards per game. Richard Seymour and Kamieron Wimbley are getting to opposing quarterbacks with relative intensity, each with 4.5 sacks. If the Raiders want to beat the Steelers to get to 6-4, they will have to get Ben Roethlisberger on the ground, blitzing the mediocre Steelers line all day and stay stout against Rashard Mendenhall.

The Steelers just need to wake up. This week may be the first week where the MSM is going to say "It may not be a good idea to go deep to Mike Wallace this week." The only reason I say this is because Oakland is so athletic in their defensive secondary. It's not that they have anyone that can go stride-for-stride with Wallace, it's that the double team may actually work for this Raiders' defense. Heinz Ward, coming off a concussion last week, and Antwaan Randel El will be the key players for this week's pass offense. It's tough to go down the field on the Raiders' secondary, so the short, quick-hitter routes will be the safest way to get 5-10 yards per play. The Steelers also have to take advantage of the 24th ranked rush defense they will be facing. So basically, the offensive line needs to show up this week. On defense, the Steelers need to stay balanced. The Raiders run:pass ratio is almost 1:1. They like to pound the ball between the tackles, so the famous Dick Lebeau A-gap blitzes will be the most effective. If the Steelers are to avoid being beaten by the Raiders two years in a row, they have to stay balanced, get their blocks and control field position.

In case you haven't heard, Jeff Reed was cut by the Steelers following Sunday's loss to the New England Patriots. There were many factors involved with this decision: the drunken battles with vending machines and paper towel dispensers; his poor numbers this year including missing at least 3 important field goals; his comments about the "poor turf" and high expectations from fans. Reed is replaced by Shaun Suisham. Will Allen is still out with a concussion, Brett Keisel is still limited in practice from the hamstring, Chris Kemoeatu is limited from the ankle, Troy Polamalu did not practice due to an Achilles, Lawrence Timmons was limited due to the hip and Heinz Ward underwent a full practice in spite of concussion symptoms. The Polamalu injury is news to the MSM and I have no further info on it. Keep checking it out on FSN Pittsburgh or most likely ESPN.

Game time is 1:00pm. Get your hard hats on and get back to work.

Here we go,
B Brog

Fuse Box Monday

2010-11-15T11:27:00.002-05:00

Yinzers,

Wednesday November 10: A Day to Forget
Last Wednesday, the Pens took on the Bruins in Consol Energy Center. The Penguins and Bruins played a tough, even first period and came out tied into the first intermission. The Penguins scored the book-end goals of the period off the sticks of Arron Asham and the ever so dangerous Brooks Orpik. The tweeners for the Bruins were scored by the Recchinball, Mark Recchi and Brad Marchand. There were also two more fights, which seems to be a common theme for this year's Penguins team. The first was a heavyweight bout between Shawn Thornton and Eric Goddard; the second between Gregory Campbell and Mad Max Talbot. These fights are most like due to residual bad blood from the Matt Cooke hit on Marc Savard a year ago. The Penguins owned the second period, scoring two goals and winning another fight. Chris Kunitz and Sidney Crosby had the goals and Arron Asham beat up on Adam McQuaid...more importantly, the Penguins led 4-2 after two. Then everything fell apart. The Penguins defense, Brent Johnson's confidence and the Pittsburgh offense. The Bruins scored 5 unanswered goals in the third period. They came from Nathan Horton, Zdeno Chara, Shawn Thornton, Blake Wheeler and Milan Lucic. This was just the second loss for Brent Johnson this year, the only in regulation and Tim Thomas moved to 9-0 on the season for the B's.

Friday November 11: Revenge?
The Penguins looked to bounce back two days after their huge, embarrassing failure when the Tampa Bay Lightning came to town. Marc-Andre Fleury came out of his coma and stood on his head in this one. He turned away 15 of 16 shots, but many of those saves were of the outstanding variety. After an idle first period for both teams, the Penguins took control for the final two periods. Pascal Dupuis and Alex Goligoski scored in the second period to give the Pens a 2-0 lead after two complete. Steven Stamkos scored a power play goal early in the third, but it would be the only goal the Lightning could muster up. Max Talbot, Sidney Crosby and Deryk Engelland finished off with goals and the Penguins took the 5-1 victory.

Saturday November 12: Back on Track
The next day, the Penguins traveled to Atlanta to take on the Thrashers. Marc-Andre Fleury played out of his mind again. Atlanta opened up with the first and only goal in the first period, but that would be the last time that Atlanta held the lead. Brent Sopel got said goal, but then the Penguins took over, starting with a fight between Chris Thorburn and Mike Rupp. Evgeni Malkin got the equalizer in the second period, the only goal scored in the second. So after two complete, the Penguins and Thrashers were knotted at 1. The third period was all Penguins with goals coming from Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin (2), giving Geno his first hat-trick this season. There was one intermittent goal for the Thrashers scored by Niclas Bergfors, but it would not help the Thrashers. The Pens win 4-2 with Marc-Andre Fleury showing signs of strength stopping 31 of 33 shots.

The Penguins have a week-long home stretch this week, competing against the other Staal brothers. It starts tonight against Marc Staal and the New York Rangers. They then play Wednesday night when the Vancouver Canucks come to town and Friday night as they welcome Eric Staal and the Carolina Hurricanes. All games are at 7:00 pm.

Let's go Pens,
B Brog

Steelers Lab

2010-11-11T16:02:00.004-05:00

Yinzers,

Oh, to be a fly on the wall in the Steelers' locker room this week. The above picture is actually a drosophila, a.k.a. fruit fly, that I took a scanning electron microscope shot of in lab today (I finally got her to sit still this afternoon so we could take some glamour shots). But that is off topic. I bet if I were indeed a drosophila on the wall in the locker room, I would have heard one of the greatest reemings on record. The Steelers nearly pissed away a 27-7 lead against the Cincinnati Bungles. This week was probably spent on defending the 2:00 drill and keeping composure. On to this week's contest.

The New England Patriots
There are a couple reasons most Steelers fans dislike the Patriots:
1. they are named after a region
2. the media LOVES them almost as much as they love the Dallas Cowboys
3. the Tom Brady tuck rule...well, just Tom Brady
The Patriots come into this game at 6-2, one of six teams with the same record, the best in the NFL so far. That second loss was last week at the hands of the Cleveland Browns. They will be looking to rebound off of that huge, embarrassing failure. The way they operate on offense is pretty much typical New England fashion under Tom Brady. They throw a lot of short- to intermediate-routes to a lot of different players and work of a "running back by committee." Aaron Hernandez and Wes Welker get the bulk of the yards, mostly after the catch. The ground game is split between upwards of four running backs, with BenJarvus Green-Ellis (wtf?) and Danny Woodhead (all-time leader in yards in NCAA Div. I-AA) doing most of the work. Ben Green/Jarvus Ellis does have 6 scores to his name. On defense, the Patriots are struggling. They are 27th overall, including 21st against the run and 29th against the pass. If the Pats want to rebound off that Cleve Brownie beat-down, they will need to find some defense. God knows they can score points.

Your Pittsburgh Steelers
Do I have to say what needs improved on this week? Keep the hunger and anger through the entire game, fellas. This week on offense, I hope to see Bruce Ariens open up play a little bit. He started out down the field in the first quarter of the Bungle game, but never returned to it. Keep going down the field if it is working. The Patriots do not have the secondary to match the speed of Mike Wallace nor Emanuel Sanders. The cornerstone to victory, however, will be good old fashioned Rashard Mendenhall. Peyton Hillis put up 187 on the ground against New England last week, and he's a white guy. Give the ball to 'Shard early and often and let those nimble feet go to work. On defense...close out the ball game. Most of the offense of the Patriots will be coming within 7 yards of the line of scrimmage. The linebackers will be the most important part of the defense this week. As long as they keep their heads, Pittsburgh should keep Tom Brady in check. Also, if they get to Brady, swipe that ball. They didn't name the rule after him for nothing.

The Steelers have a few notables on the injury report this week. Will Allen (concussion), Chris Kemoeatu (knee+ankle), Heath Miller (knee) and Brett Keisel (hamstring) did not practice through today. I would imagine that most of these guys will be game-day decisions. On the good side, Miwelde Moore and Isaac Redman participated fully both yesterday and today. This should greatly help the Steelers on third down.

Game time is 8:20 pm on Sunday Night Football from Heinz Field in beautiful, dahntahn Pittsburgh.

Here we go,
B Brog

Bungals

2010-11-08T11:58:00.001-05:00

Yinzers,

Don't know what happened to the Fuse Box Monday? Sorry B- Congrats to Joe PA 400,

Enjoy!
Here We Go!
Wade

Fuse Box Monday

2010-11-08T11:53:00.002-05:00

Yinzers,

Last year, the Penguins showed just exactly how the west was won. Not so much this year. The Western Conference has proven to be a 180 so far this year. If you do not know what I mean, read on.

Wednesday November 3: Penguins v. Stars
Wednesday was a loss filled with poor play and four fights down in Dallas. The Penguins rarely play poorly when facing a Western Conference opponent, but this was a game to forget. Dallas came out on top 5-2 and the Penguins frustration was very apparent throughout the game. Stephane Robidas opened up the scoring at 3:57 in the first period and the Stars kept the lead ever since. Later in the first period, Brad Richards added his fourth of the season to give the Stars a 2-0 lead. The fisticuffs started at the end of the first with the opening round pitting Jamie Benn against Tyler Kennedy. Kennedy scored after coming out of the box in the second period to bring the score to 2-1, but Steve Ott answered for the Stars, followed by a Loui Eriksson goal on a penalty shot. Round two came up with Kris Letang fighting Brendan Morrow, which had stemmed from a few altercations from earlier in the game. Also in round two, Sidney Crosby dropped the gloves with Matt Niskanen. Crosby was quoted saying he picked the fight to stick up for Kris Letang. Round three then followed later in the second when Jamie Benn fought Chris Kunitz. The Stars led 4-1 after two complete. The third period was comparatively less exciting with Loui Eriksson adding his second of the night to make it 5-1 and Matt Cooke adding a goal late to make it 5-2. Brent Johnson had an uncharacteristic night, turning away 19 of 24 and the Penguins could only muster up 23 shots of their own. You can't expect to win hockey games like that.

Friday November 5: Penguins v. Ducks
The Western Conference frustration continued for the Penguins when they traveled to Anaheim to take on the [Mighty] Ducks. Pittsburgh native George Parros shaved his iconic mustache and is growing a new one over the next 30 days to raise awareness for prostate cancer research. A good cause for a good kid from Washington, PA. He then went on to fight Deryk Engelland at 1:42 in the first period of Friday night's game. Scoring did not open up until the second period when Bobby Ryan ripped a wrist shot past Marc-Andre Fleury. Ryan Getzlaf and Saku Koivu also added goals in the second before the Penguins answered to the tone of a Sidney Crosby power play goal late in the second. Sidney Crosby scored again early in the third to bring the score to 3-2, but that is the closest the Penguins would get. Marc-Andre Fleury turned away 14 of 17 in the loss, but the Penguins did put 32 shots on Jonas Hiller.

Saturday November 6: Penguins v. Coyotes
The Penguins finished up this Western Conference road trip in Phoenix, on a pseudo-high note. The Pens got a win against the Coyotes, but it took overtime to get it. This was Zbynek Michalek's first game back to his old team since the Penguins picked him up this summer. Phoenix jumped out to a 2-0 lead after 6 minutes in the first period, scoring 2 goals on 5 shots leading to the pulling of Marc-Andre Fleury. Eric Belanger and Radim Vrbata had said goals. The Penguins answered back with two goals early in the second period from Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin, to tie the score at 2. Fisticuffs flew again in this game when former Penguin Paul Bissonette squared off against current Penguin Deryk Engelland. Wojtek Wolski (pronounced Voyteck Valllski) put the Coyotes up 3-2 before Chris Kunitz added a power play goal late to tie the game at 3 after 2 periods. No scoring in the third and overtime periods led to a shoot out. After no goals in the first two rounds of the shoot out, the man who leads all rookies in points brought home the victory for the Penguins: Mark Letestu. The Penguins finish 1-2 on this road trip to the West, bringing their overall against the West to 2-3 this season.

The Penguins' games this week are as follows:
Wednesday, "It's a hockey night in Pittsburgh" against the Boston Bruins at 7:00
Friday, another hockey night in Pittsburgh against the Tampa Bay Lignting at 7:00
Saturday is "A great day for hockey" in Atlanta against the Thrashers at 7:00

Let's go Pens,
B Brog

Let's Go Pens

2010-11-06T15:18:00.004-04:00

Hola Yinz!

It's a beautiful SoCal Day! I don't mean to complain, but it has been in the upper 90's- TOO HOTT TO HANDLE!

Brett, Me, Joy, & Josh

(Joy and Josh are not really fans, but I made them dress for success if they wanted to sit with me :))

I got to see my Pens play last night! We drove to Anaheim to see the Pens take on the Ducks. It's so exciting to be around fellow fans! The crowd was about 50/50 Pens fans, and we defiantly out yelled the Ducks fans. LET'S GO PENS! Unfortunately, you already know the outcome, but that did not change the fact that the Pittsburghers took over the bar across the street after the game.

Oh, by the way.... I think I might be cursed. I've never seen the Pens win live... and I have been to quite a few games. Any ideas on how to get rid of it?

Overall, It was an awesome Pittsburgh moment this week.

Ready for Monday Night...Bungles!
Labuda on the Left Coast

Penn State Phryday

2010-11-05T08:04:00.002-04:00

Yinzers,

Hopefully, a milestone will be reached tomorrow. I apologize for the use of the passive voice, but it seemed like the most appropriate grammatical structure to capture the spirit of the thing as Dicky Dunn in Slapshot would have done. For any of the readers out there who did not know, Joe Paterno is going for his 400th win this weekend when the Wildcats of Northwestern come to Happy Valley. This is an amazing feat within itself, considering most coaches do not coach in 400 games in their careers. So, here we go.

Northwestern Wildcats
The Wildcats come into this game with a record of 6-2 (2-2 in the Big Ten). Northwestern's two losses came at the hands of then undefeated Michigan State and Purdue and all six of their wins have been games in which they should have won. Simply stated, they have beaten the bad teams and lost to the good teams. Generally speaking, Northwestern has been sticking to their same game plan for the last four years, their quarterback. Dan Persa is the quarterback this year, and they have thrown 234 times in 8 games. Persa is also the leading rusher for the Wildcats with 360 yards on 121 attempts. The "balance" in the Northwestern offense simply means that they drop Persa back and give him the decision to run or pass. Persa's favorite target is wide receiver Jeremy Ebert, who leads the team with 7 touchdowns. If Northwestern is to be successful on offense, they will have to take advantage of the depleted Penn State secondary and use high percentage passing routes. The key to victory on defense for Northwestern will be to get to the quarterback...if they can. Northwestern's defense is ranked 63rd overall, so they need to step it up if they want to be successful.

Penn State Nittany Lions
The Nitany Lions are coming off a big victory in the Big Ten as they beat Michigan and Denard Robinson 41-31 last week, under the lights in Beaver Stadium. Sophomore Matt McGloin got the start and threw for 250 yards and a touchdown while Evan Royster put up 150 yards on the ground with 2 scores of his own. The score was a little bit misleading, considering Denard Robinson ran for 190 and passed for 190. All that matters is they got the win. The Northwestern Wildcats and Dan Persa are not nearly as dangerous on offense as Denard Robinson is. Penn State's balance was there, which kept the opponent's defense off-balance. If they want to be successful and get JoePa his 400th win this weekend, they will need to do the same. Feed the ball to Evan Royster and take advantage of mismatches down the field. On defense, keep Persa contained and get him on the ground early and often. These are the basic keys to success in the Big Ten.

Game time is 3:30 pm on either ABC or ESPN2, depending on your region.

For the Glory,
B Brog

Steeler's Lab

2010-11-04T12:36:00.003-04:00

Yinzers,

This week in the NFL is the first Monday Night Football game of the 2010 campaign for the Pittsburgh Steelers. The lights will be on in Paul Brown Stadium when the Steelers travel to southern Ohio to take on the Cinci Bungles.

The Bengals are coming off of a 22-14 loss to the Miami Dolphins last week. This year's Bungle team was supposed to be the team to beat in the AFC North, according to many "experts." Thus far in the year, that does not look like a viable prediction as they sit in last place in the AFC North at 2-5. With the addition of Terrell Owens to Chad Johnson (I will not call him "Ochocinco"), this was supposed to be the receiving corps to lead all receiving corps this year. Granted the two have put up respectable numbers as a tandem, but the Bungles have done absolutely nothing otherwise. The Cincinnati defense ranks 22nd against the run and 20th against the pass. Was the addition of Adam (Pacman) Jones not enough to solve the defensive problems? The Bungles have not been getting pressure on the quarterback nearly as much as they have in the past. If they want to be successful against the Steelers this week, they will have to keep balanced on offense and get to Ben Roethlisberger.

As for the Steelers, coming off a loss to the defending Superbowl champion Saints, take some shots down the field. Bruce Ariens' "iso-iso-screen" is really frustrating the lab techs here at the MSM. You have arguably the fastest receiver in the NFL at your disposal, use him to your advantage. In addition to that, stop running the iso play to a side that keeps getting beat off the ball. If there is a deficiency in the line, don't run there (last week it was the Bronco Legursky side). The defense is continuing to play solid. Just like last week, however, the Steel Curtain will be going up against a pass-heavy offense. We at the lab would like to see a little more exotic blitzing from Dick Lebeau. Not to say that there was not enough last week, but Carson Palmer holds onto the ball a lot longer than does Drew Brees. If the Steelers are to be successful, they will have to establish the run and use that play-action-bomb to Mike Wallace.

Game time is 8:30 on ESPN. Unfortunately we will have to listen to Chris Collensworth. Pay close attention. He sounds like a drunken elderly man both in speech and in reasoning.

In other scientific news, did you know some funny stuff can be done to mice by knocking out/swapping their genes? When I say funny stuff, I mean you can make genetically altered mice that are OCD, Schizophrenic, alcoholic, bisexual and supermice all from messing around with their homeobox genes. Normally, these genes control where stuff gets put, making sure your ribs go on the right vertebrae, fingers on the ends of your hands, etc. But if you take some of these out or swap them for others, you can create mice with ailments listed above. Interesting stuff...

Here we go,
B Brog

Truck Tuesday

2010-11-02T10:24:00.006-04:00

Hey Yinz,

The best month of the year is now over, but it did end on a good note for the Igloo club (but not so much for the steeler nation..) Unfortuately we did have a loss on Sunday night vs the Saints - but we still have a great record for the season and it was Halloween, so how can you get too upset?

The Igloo Club had its second big party of the season, which was fantastic because we got to have a Pittsburgh Halloween Party. Most people just wore jerseys which wasn't exactly a Halloween costume, but you could always argue that we have a lot of people who dressed as yinzers!

We did have a few local pittsburgh celebrities drop by, like Big Ben with his glove, gut & unshaven face. We also had Troy (who doubled as the youtube infamous "hide ya kids, hide yo wife" guy) who was drinking out of his head and shoulders bottle..now we know the secret.

Wade was Steeley McBeam and we got to pleasure of hearing him talk like steeley for most of the game. His Custome was definitely the most well thought out and put together costume that we had there. Yours Truely was a Heinz Ketchup bottle. We also had a Penguins Puck Bunny. And now that I think about it, I think those were the only costumes that showed up to the party, which is kinda lame considering we had over 20 people show up! Oh well, some people just don't know how to get into the spirit!

Hope you all had a great Halloween!

Truck

Fuse Box Monday

2010-11-01T17:21:00.002-04:00

Yinzers,

Three games to cover so we'll jump right into it.

Wednesday October 27: Penguins v. Lightning
Martin St. Louis had two goals to move the Tampa Bay Lightning past the Penguins in a very sloppy 5-3 loss. The Pens were simply running around and leaving the Lightning players to do whatever they wanted with the puck after taking a 3-1 lead. Marc-Andre Fleury got hit with another loss, even though he turned away 26 of 30 shots. Fleury's goals against average is right about 3.5, which makes it very difficult to win hockey games. It is alarming that he is still not out of his funk, but this game was not all on him. The Penguins got goals from Craig Adams (SH), Matt Cooke (SH) and Pascal Dupuis. Tampa Bay got tallies from Dana Tyrell, Teddy Purcell, Vincent Lecavalier and Martin St. Louis (2). The Pens fall to 5-4-1 on the season.

Friday October 29: Flyers v. Penguins
The Pens dropped a close one to the Philthadelphia Flyers on Friday, taking a 3-2 loss. It is not so bad that it was a 3-2 loss, but it is bad that it was to the Flyers. The Penguins led after one period after Kris Letang got his 3rd goal of the season, but that would be the last time the Penguins held the lead. Claude Giroux (SH) and Daniel Carcillo added goals for the Flyers in the 2nd. Claude Giroux added a power play goal and Tyler Kennedy scored for the Penguins late in the 3rd, but the score would remain 3-2. Marc-Andre Fleury stopped 21 of 24, dropping his record to 1-6 on the season and the Penguins to 5-5-1, looking up at the Flyers in the Atlantic Division.

Saturday October 30: Penguins v. Hurricanes
In this first game of a 4 game road trip, the Penguins rallied behind another great game from Brent Johnson as he out-dueled Cam Ward, pushing the Penguins past the Canes 3-0. Johnson turned away all 33 shots he faced, earning his 5th win (5-0-1) this season. Johnson also boasts the league's third best goals against average at 1.16. The Penguins scored a goal in each period from Pascal Dupuis, Max Talbot and Pascal Dupuis again. The Penguins are now tied with the Philthadelphia Flyers with 13 points, atop the Atlantic Division.

At least in the poor play of Marc-Andre Fleury, Brent Johnson is having a career year. The Penguins are not playing bad hockey either, just getting some things smoothed out. The next game for the Pens on this road trip is on Wednesday night in Dallas when they take on the Modano-less Stars. Game time is 8:30 pm.

Let's go Pens,
B Brog

Happy Halloween Yinz!

2010-10-30T23:12:00.003-04:00

Hola Yinz,

I will be dawning my Polamalu costume and gracing San Diego with my presence. What are you wearing??

Make sure you get your Clark Bars :)

Sorry for the late post.

Labuda on the Left Coast

All Hallows Eve, Monolith and A win is a win......

2010-10-27T22:23:00.004-04:00

Yinzers,

Do you remember picking out your Halloween costume when you were little. I do . I know another random strange fact from the world that I live in. I can remember going to the 5 n dime in Downtown Elizabeth Pa and looking at all the costumes that would come in the little cardboard boxes. The costumes ranged from GI Joe , to Transformers for boys to Barbie and some other dumb girls costume.

Second Thing I remember was trying to figure out how you could coax your parents into going into town and Trick or treating.I can remember that we Trick or treated in the same neighborhood as the one and only( night of the living dead) George Ramero. The other thing that i remember was that he never gave out candy. He was a bum.

What a time we had.

Halloween is now quite different. Instead of raiding your closet and having your mom or grandma make you a costume - you can go to any run of the mill Halloween stores and get whatever you want. In fact those huge Halloween stores kind of take the fun out of Halloween by pigeon Holing you into the "best Costume of the year".

Kinda dumb.

Still I fight the same old , same old dress up as Austin Powers etc run of the mill costume. It is a fact that I will never grow up. I love Halloween, and all the good that it does for kids. I think kids are being pushed to grow up to fast anymore. Let the kids Enjoy Halloween.

Even as an adult I look forward to our Annual Halloween Party and dressing up, giving out candy and watching the Steelers.

That's right Watching the Steelers,for the second time in my adult life I am throwing a Halloween party on a steelers game. Steelers and Saints write it down - Sunday 8:20. Big easy.

The thing that I don't get about Halloween is how Slutty the Girls dress and get away with it. When was the last time you saw a real sexy Bo peep, oh that's right Halloween. Hey sluts give me a break. The only true Halloween that is left, is that solid 30 minutes of The great Pumpkin Charlie Brown. ( oh that and baby Butterfingers)

Steelers win.

Ok National Media we get it, we got a boarder line win. We get it. We were given the game as usual. Not so fast. Hey if you really watch the replays - the refs gave us the game. Oh yeah and Jeff reed kicking it through- really didn't matter. Blah get over it- were 5-1.

Finally,

I am not a big tech guy, but this past week I upgraded my phone to a Tmobile, android G2 phone. It has so many applications it is ridiculous. I call it the Monolith. That's what it is.

Sorry that my Blogs have been sporadic lately, I look forward to talking more about the steelers as the weeks go into the second part of the season. I also can't wait to start talking about the Pens and their ongoing season.

But until then , Happy Hallows Eve.

And get those kids off my lawn

Wade

Truck Tuesday

2010-10-26T08:23:00.000-04:00

Truck Tuesday

Hey Yinz,

Well the Miami game this past sunday was pretty crazy. Again, I am pretty sure B will inform you of all the details. I only saw the last quarter because I didn't realize it was on cable until then, but the 15 mins of game time that I did see definitely made me sweat. I still can't believe we were able to pull off a W.

Well Aaron Smith is done for the season (or forever?) so we will see what Ziggy Hood can do this Sunday against the Saints. We (the Igloo Club) are having our big Halloween party/Steelers viewing party on Sunday and we are expecting a pretty big crowd. I am still undecided as to whether I want to dress up or not. Look for to pictures posted next week of the big extravganza.

Hope you all have a fantastic Tuesday!

Truck

Fuse Box Monday

2010-10-25T12:53:00.002-04:00

Yinzers,

We'll start off with some team news today and then get right into the game recaps. As of this afternoon, forward Eric Tangradi and defenseman Andrew Hutchinson have been assigned to AHL affiliate Wilkes Barre-Scranton. This is in preparation for the returns of forward Arron Asham and defenseman Zbynek Michalek. Both are recovering from undisclosed, upper body injuries. Asham will most likely play in the next game (Wednesday in Tampa Bay) and Michalek participated in a full practice for the first time since suffering the injury back in early October. With Brooks Orpik back in action and these two on the way back, the only remaining piece of the puzzle will be Jordan Staal. It will be interesting to see who Dany Bylsma assigns to the baby pens when that time comes. Anyway, here's what you missed.

Monday October 18: Senators v. Penguins
The Pens rout the Sens 5-2 on the return trip for Sergei Gonchar. The Penguins straight up dominated this game from start to finish, starting with three goals in the first period by Mark Letestu, Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin. Deryk Engelland went toe-to-toe with Chris Neil in Neil's attempt to win back some momentum for the Senators, but it would not help on this night. Daniel Alfredsson got a power play goal early in the second to bring the score to 3-1, but Pascal Dupuis and Kris Letang each added a goal later in the game to bring the score to 5-1 after two complete. The Senators tried to rally in the third, but he Penguins buckled down on defense, letting up just one goal to Chris Campoli. Brent Johnson continued to shine, stopping 32 of 34 shots to remain undefeated on the year.

Thursday October 21: Penguins v. Predators
The Predators used to be an "easy win" on the schedule. Not so anymore. Nashville has really developed and is showing a lot of promise in the Western Conference. This shows because they took the red-hot Pittsburgh Penguins to overtime, but the Penguins still came out on top 4-3. David Legwand had the only goal in the first period, giving the Predators a 1-0 lead at home after one period. The two teams then alternated goals for the second and third period by way of Evgeni Malkin (1-1), Cody Franson (2-1 NSH), Sidney Crosby (2-2), Patric Hornqvist (3-2 NSH) and Sidney Crosby again (3-3). Also in the second period, fisticuffs flew again between Kevin Klein and Deryk Engelland. Engelland is proving why he should stay with the big club when Zbynek Michalek comes back. The kid backs down from nobody. With the score tied at three, we go to overtime and at 3:49 in OT, Kris Letang wins it for the Penguins on a slap shot. Pens take it 4-3 with Marc-Andre Fleury stopping 21 of 24 and getting his first win of the year.

Saturday October 23: Penguins v. Blues
The St. Louis Blues are another one of those teams that has been so bad for so long. Not so anymore. They finished up last season with 90 points, just missing the playoffs. This year, they are primed for a deep run in the Stanley Cup playoffs and showed their toughness against the Penguins. It only took one goal to win this game and it took overtime to get it. This game featured relentless forechecking, finishing of body checks and a gritty atmosphere that every hockey fan loves. There was even a brawl between BJ Crombeen and Craig Adams in the second period. Adams was by far the smaller player, but put up a good fight against the much bigger Crombeen. The game winning goal came off the stick of Erik Johnson just 50 seconds into overtime. Brent Johnson was disgusted at himself for letting it in, but what can you do? The Pens come away with one point in the 1-0 overtime loss. Brent Johnson turned away 23 of 24 and was bested by, who else, Jaroslav Halak who turned away all 31 Penguin shots.

The Pens still sit atop the Atlantic Division with a record of 5-3-1 and 11 points.

The Penguins' next game is Wednesday night at 7:30 on FSN-Pittsburgh when they take on Steven Stamkos and the Tampa Bay Lightning.

Let's go Pens,
B Brog

Penn State Phryday Preview

2010-10-22T11:12:00.002-04:00

Yinzers,

First off, sorry about not posting for yesterday's Steelers Lab but I had two labs of my own to work on. More specifically E. coli plasmid cloning and staining samples for microscopy (see below).

Mouse Kidneys

Now on to your Penn State preview
This weekend, the Nittany Lions travel to Minneapolis, Minnesota to take on the Golden Gophers. The Gophers have been essentially in rebuilding since the departure of Lawrence Maroney and Matt Spaeth a number of years ago. So this game has two outcomes: neither team can score any points or both teams will put up big numbers. Minnesota comes into this weekend at 1-6 with their only win coming against an FCS (NCAA division I-AA) team. That's not to say that the Golden Gophers are a bad team. They have scored at least 20 points in all but one of their games this season. The problem is, the Gophers are far from stout on defense, giving up at least 28 in all 7 games this season. If the Gophers want to add their second win of the season this week, they will have to do it by actually playing defense and throwing screens.

As for Penn State, this is a "must-win" game for JoePa's Nittany Lions. Overall, Penn State has played relatively solid considering the number of key losses to the NFL and the number of big-time player injuries so far this year. The defense is playing well, considering they lost all three linebackers to the NFL and their two best play-makers to injury in the first half of this season. They will need to continue to hold teams to low scores to win the games they should for the rest of the year. On offense, just continue to get Robert Bolden experience. Let him take some shots down the field as long as there is more than one route for him to throw to. Control the clock with the run game and stop throwing those stupid screen passes. College football is won on the big breaks. Penn State needs to take advantage of their size mismatches on the outside and start going deep.

Game time 12:00 pm tomorrow on ESPN-U.

For the Glory,
B Brog

Truck Stop...Wednesday

2010-10-20T18:17:00.002-04:00

Hey guys,

So this week has been manic, so much that I thought today was Tuesday and then realized it was Wednesday and then Wade asked me to blog for him, so I am blogging. I have been getting to work at 5 and 6am the past couple days to drive around the state for pipeline meetings. The speaker from these meetings is an original Pittsburgher and he lives in Ellwood City, which is near B Brog's house, I think? Anywho, just wanted you to know that I am continuing to be followed by all things Pittsburgh.

This past week the Steelers played the Browns and won, surprise. I watched the game and thought that Big Ben played well, but apparently the media did not. Oh well, I am excited for what is to come. Also, I am sure you have heard by now, but James Harrison was fined $75k for his dirty/illegal hits. It was rumored that Harrison was considering retiring, but Tomlin said he expected Harrison to be at training tomorrow. I guess we will find out soon.

Bigger News: Wade and I booked plane tickets to come up to the Steelers-Jets game Dec 19. I am excited to be attending my first ever NFL game and seeing the burgh all decorated for Christmas! Fingers crossed for snow!!

We do not have game tickets yet, so if you know of any, let us know!

Can't wait for my second trip up!

Truck