Here's to FWP

[DACEB]

Here's an article on Willie that even ProvidenceSteel would appreciate.

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/09/19/sp...ll&oref=slogin

You've got to love Willie!! I have been critical of Willie in the past, right along with ProvSteel, but I do realize that he is a great guy and great Steeler. True team player and leader by example!!

[RunWillieRun]

Nice article. Willie is all class.

[fansince'76]

Originally Posted by DACEB

Here's an article on Willie that even ProvidenceSteel would appreciate.

Unless it tries to point out how Willie "shouldn't be a starting RB at the NFL level," doubtful.

[DACEB]

Originally Posted by fansince'76

Unless it tries to point out how Willie "shouldn't be a starting RB at the NFL level," doubtful.

Hey, like I said, I've been right there with ProvSteel at times criticizing Willie. I must admit though that Willie has shown a huge desire to improve every aspect of his game. The hard work and dedication he has to his craft has shown on the field with improved vision, power running, patience with his blocks and holding on to the ball.

Can't be said enough, a true team player that leads by example!!

[steel#1]

I have always been critical of FWP but I have seen the constant progress and work ethic since he has been in Pitt. FWP has now come into his own. He is a complete back because now he can get the tough yards in the middle of the field since he learned patience, keep the legs driving, and use your leverage. The thing that now ticks me off is that he doesn't get the credit he deserves around the league. They are still seeing only the speed and not the power. Much like Ben and the game-manager label they refuse to acknowledge what he has become and still only see what he was. Both have grown and become a complete back and a complete QB. Oh well the lack of respect just means that both have an advantage.

[fansince'76]

Originally Posted by DACEB

Hey, like I said, I've been right there with ProvSteel at times criticizing Willie.

Not quite, DACEB - please give yourself a little more credit than that.

Valid criticism:

Originally Posted by DACEB

Prov. is absolutely correct in stating the FACT that the fumbles are a problem, I don't understand how anyone can deny that. To those that don't think it's a problem I would ask, how many fumbles a season is acceptable?? Let's ask coach Tomlin,

"You don't like fumbles," Tomlin said. "You don't like fumbles in the red zone, but he is a competitor. I understand that it happens, but we are not going to accept it. We are going to try to be perfect in this area. We have to be."

There you have it, fumbling is in fact unacceptable. Now don't get me wrong, I too believe FWP has tremendous upside and as some have stated is still a little green with limited experience. FWP is indeed an important part of our bright future but the fumbles are a problem and need to be addressed.

As Steelman stated this is a problem that can be corrected (i.e. Barber). FWP only needs to watch tape of Bettis, because the Bus always carried the rock correctly, up tight in your armpit. Yet even Bettis fumbled as we know!!

Bitching simply for the sake of bitching:

Originally Posted by Providence Steel

This guy has fumbled away games in the past and he's doing it again albeit in preseason. I'm stating now that the Steelers will loose games this season...important games, as a result of badly timed Willie Parker fumbles. I don't like the guy as the starting back. Too small and fumbles WAY too much. I have a BAD feeling again about the RB situation this season.

There's a HUGE difference between these two posts from where I'm sitting. How many games did Willie actually lose singlehandedly through fumbling for us last year after Nostradamus here predicted he would? I count ZERO. Which is also why, as Prov himself pointed out in another thread, he shut his mouth about Willie after about week 6 last year - because he was dead wrong.

[klick81]

Man, that's a great story. It sounds like Willie and his father have a great relationship.

[DACEB]

Originally Posted by klick81

Man, that's a great story. It sounds like Willie and his father have a great relationship.

His father must be very proud indeed. He must constantly brag about his son, and show off his rings. He definetly instilled good values and great character in his son.

[moedap]

I agree with DACEB FWP has improved as a an NFL RB. I use to think he didnt have the skill set to read the blocks correctly but now I am thinking the downside to his not playing in college was the honing of those skills at a higher level(high school to college). The way he runs now makes me believe he already had the skills but just had to get his senses back with more competition.

[Galax Steeler]

I have seen a big differance in Willie this year it looks like he is hitting the holes harder an faster.He may also be afraid that Mendenahll will get his job if he don't performe.