Photo Credit: Jannah Jablonowski
The Pittsburgh Steelers open their 2012 season against the Denver Broncos under the Sunday Night Football lights. This game is being viewed by many as a chance to exact revenge on Denver, but the Steelers have the opportunity to turn it into so much more. Following an early playoff elimination, concerns were raised about the dexterity of the Black and Gold. There is no better place to re-establish dominance than in the national spotlight.
If the Steelers intend to prove their prowess there are a few hurdles that they will have to jump. David DeCastro, who was drafted to strengthen the offensive line, was placed on Injured Reserve on September 7th. He may be able to return at a later point this season, but in the meantime the Steelers will need someone to step up to protect Ben Roethlisberger. Filling the roster spot vacated by DeCastro is speedy cornerback DeMarcus Van Dyke, who was the fastest participant in the 2011 Scouting Combine.
Offensive line issues are not the only ones the Steelers will have to address. For at least week one, the defense will be operating without two key players. James Harrison will not be active against the Broncos due to a knee injury. While Harrison’s tenacity is difficult to match, players such as LaMarr Woodley will be looked to in an effort to fill the void. Safety Ryan Clark will also be sidelined for the Steelers opener, just as he was in last season’s elimination game. His inactivity is not the result of an injury, but rather a blood condition aggravated by the high altitude in Denver.
The start of every NFL season brings with it a clean slate for each franchise. For every team week one is a time to showcase exactly what type of competitor they intend to be. For the Pittsburgh Steelers, it is a chance to remind not only the AFC North, but the entire league that they remain a force to be reckoned with.
