Batch, Defense lead Steelers to 38-13 Win at Tampa

The headline pretty much sums it up actually. Charlie Batch, yes, Charlie Batch, threw for 186 and more importantly 3 TD passes on a stellar 12 of 17.  100 of those yards and two touchdowns went to Mike Wallace, exactly what the Doctor ordered. Wallace made a brilliant catch on his 2nd TD as it was deflected by the defender and he stayed with the play and pulled it in. He was the deep threat that we’ve all been calling for the first few weeks. This was the Wallace that made all of us think Holmes could be replaced. Finally a ball downfield huh?  Batch played much better than we anticipated that’s for sure.  He did have two poor interceptions, the first, very early and we did get worried, admittedly. The Bucs capitalized on that and went up 3-0. After that, the Steelers never looked back. Mendenhall carried the ball 19 times for 143 and looked like a truly dominant back. The D, what can we say, they did it again. They were constantly in the offensive backfield and forced Josh Freeman into sacks, bad throws and knockdowns. The Bucs eventually pulled Freeman from the game when it was evident they had no chance. James Harrison is so disruptive it’s ridiculous. He is in the QB’s face constantly and pair him up with Woodley and Timmons, sprinkle in some Farrior and you have a monster LB corp.  Troy is Troy and he’s a player that all offenses must worry about. The Steelers know this and can use him anywhere on the field. On a side note, how about that play Troy made when he was not in the game? He makes one hell of a catch when he’s not playing, just on the sideline, he’s amazing! 

We felt that coaching had a nice game plan and stuck with it. They let Batch throw down field and the O line even looked good.  There really are no complaints here. The Bucs had some success moving the ball but it’s hard to see in the stats. Their leading rusher had 27 yards and leading receiver had 57.  This D is solid right now and they are playing with a chip on their shoulder from last year, no question. 

Next week vs. Baltimore will be a true battle but you have to take the first 3 wins that’s for sure. Nobody thought they’d pull this without Ben. No question this is a good start.

3-0, up next Baltimore