What kind of message does it send?

[desertsteel]

What kind of message do you think it sends to the Steelers FO, Coaches and Players that their arch rival is going to the Super Bowl? I think that in some way, it's a good thing, in that it may light a fire under them. They have already made comments about changes and I think that this will only intensify that position. It's like how the Yankees must feel when the Red Sox go to the World Series. It's a different feeling when it hits close to home versus two random teams.

I'm not saying that it's a huge deal, but perhaps just one more thing that aligns to make a perfect offseason storm for change in 2013.

[maddog78]

Agree 100%. The Rooneys need to get back in the business of football and out of the business of politics. This Super Bowl is a win-win in that regard. Either their arch rival wins it, or the Niners tie them and get bragging rights for a while.

[harrison'samonster]

Having a successful rival is definitely a plus. It's a big motivator to make yourself better. While SB's are the goal, getting them each year isn't realistic. Getting the chance to punch a rival in the face twice a year is something different.

[Quackjack]

Originally Posted by harrison'samonster

Having a successful rival is definitely a plus. It's a big motivator to make yourself better. While SB's are the goal, getting them each year isn't realistic. Getting the chance to punch a rival in the face twice a year is something different.

Yup. While the Pats have been very good, they don't have a legit rival. The Jets had a few good years but have sucked otherwise, and the Dolphins and Bills management is mentally retarded.

[steelfury02]

you know what I like

possible Ravens as defending champs without their current leaders on defense - sounds like a huge meltdown waiting to happen next season and ripe for the picking

I KINDA like being under the radar again - could make things interesting!

[Steelers5895]

The steelers HAVE to make good draft picks this year. I look at all these teams this weekend and how many mid round players were contributing?

[wwhickok]

The Steelers not only have to make good draft picks this year their first 3 rds have to be gems. People who can come in and start rather quickly.

[VaDave]

We are also going to be active in the FA market too. I'm fairly certain we are going to have more than 7 roster spots to fill.

[pete74]

Originally Posted by VaDave

We are also going to be active in the FA market too. I'm fairly certain we are going to have more than 7 roster spots to fill.

We can't afford any big name players though.

[OX1947]

The message sends that even a deaf, blind and stupid squirrel will find a nut at least once. The Ratbirds making it to the Bowl finally doesn't mean dick. The Bucs and Saints won 1. Does that mean their legacy of assness should just be eliminated? No. Sorry.