A letter to the CEO, Pittsburgh Steelers


                                   ... your Super Bowl talk is simply a smokescreen.


Something is wrong with this picture. The CEO of the Pittsburgh Steelers has created some excitement -- probably as a ploy to distract the team's fans from reality. 

So, Art Rooney II or III of IV -- the number does not matter since he cannot carry the man's cigar -- now says that having a Super Bowl in Pittsburgh would be a wonderful accomplishment. Yes, it would, but I have a problem with that quest. 

It is called focus, and here it is.

 Dear Mr. Rooney, 

 After reaching the Super Bowl three times in five years from the 2005 season to 2010, we have sunk to the depth of mediocrity. For Steeler fans, that is a horrible drop over the past three years.

That should be your priority, Mr. Rooney. After back-to-back 8-8 seasons, the team obviously has problems beyond a new offensive line coach and running backs coach. 

First, we have problems with the "salary cap." The team gave too many huge salary increases to people who have not delivered -- or who are too old to deliver at that level. Case in point: Lamar Woodley. As a result, signing anyone is a problem right now since the players are not producing. 

Second, we have coaching questions. Yes, Mike Tomlin was great with two 
Super Bowls in his first four years, winning one of them, but the last two years have left people questioning his administrative abilities. Questions still abound about whether or not Dick LeBeau, a beloved figure in Pittsburgh, should continue as DC. 

Third, you have front office issues. Has the personnel department provided Tomlin with the quality players as it has in the past? Some of the players have flopped, some have experienced character problems, some were just woeful picks. 

In short, you have plenty on your plate without giving the fans a thrill about having the SB in the 'burgh. Take care of that business first!

A long-time Steelers' fan.

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