Why the D will be improved

What is really interesting is that given how well things were progressing is what would have been the results if they had started Tuitt in game 1 and rotated him with Keisel. The progression of Vince Williams, Sean Spence, and Shazier when he worked himself back into game shape makes for some interesting formation combos since they lack quality depth on the outside. Could you see Butler giving them a 1-5-5 type of look with more ILB or a big 1-5-5 with say Spence or Shazier taking the spot of a safety. I think with Peezy talking over the OLB's you will see even more aggression that last season and perhaps Butler is more aggressive as well, some higher risk reward type plays.

 

I think Butler is going to blitz a lot more, and hopefully he retires some of the old blitzes that have started to not worked so well as of late.

 

Thanks, Thorn. I also like good football discussion, and don't even mind being wrong, from time to time. I think you brought up some good points, and I may have over-simplified the situation, as you say. Of course there is more to it than _just_ being about improving from the old regime and kissing up to Troy, but I do feel it's a factor and we will improve because those factors will be gone. Also, let me repeat that I honor and respect both DL and TP for their awesome contributions in the past. They have been legendary. Please realize I greatly enjoyed their contribution as Steelers.

 

I think your spot on Mac.

 

I just want to say, that with the more recent developments, I believe my initial thoughts on the OP more than ever. It turns out the Rooneys never intended on bringing DL back as DC, but he would only come back in a reduced role. Also, it appears they intended on ending the Polamalu and Ike era, which I am in total agreement. I think we are going to find an invigorated D, sans the man worship of LeBeau and Troy. At one point, that set up brought us championships, and some of the best D's in the NFL, so I will remember it fondly, forever. But all good things must come to an end, and it was time for us to move on. Best wishes, Dick, Troy and Ike; may the rest of your lives bring you much joy.