Pittsburgh Review

LATROBE, Pa. – The July 25 edition of "Asked and Answered" addressed several inquiries from fans regarding the Pittsburgh Steelers' history and current practices.

Keith Miller from Canton, NC, asked about a playoff game in which injuries to Franco Harris and Rocky Bleier affected the Steelers' chances for a third consecutive Super Bowl win. In response, it was confirmed that during the 1976 season, both players were injured in a Divisional Round game against the Colts. Harris sustained a rib injury after rushing for 134 yards on 18 carries, while Bleier suffered a toe injury early in the game. Their absence in the AFC Championship Game against the Raiders contributed to the Steelers' 24-7 loss.

James Meehan from Bethel Park, PA, queried whether any NFL defense has given up fewer points than the 1976 Steelers. It was clarified that although the Steelers allowed only 28 points in their final nine games of that season, their total points allowed was 138. The record for fewest points allowed in a 14-game season is held by the 1977 Atlanta Falcons with just 129 points.

Chuck Rein from Erie, PA, sought an explanation for why NFL teams hold joint practices. It was explained that these sessions offer teams an opportunity to practice against different opponents after extensive intra-squad training camp activities. However, such practices can sometimes lead to altercations or injuries.

Mark Rice from Las Vegas, NV, asked about practice squad pay rates. Players with two or fewer years of NFL service are paid at a fixed rate of $12,500 weekly in 2024. This amount will increase annually until 2030. Veterans on practice squads can negotiate their pay within a range set by the Collective Bargaining Agreement.

Grant Spellerberg from Cutler Bay, FL, wondered if the Steelers might pursue wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk if he became available for trade. The response indicated that such speculation is purely hypothetical and unlikely based on reported demands.

Michael Cooper from Chagrin Falls, OH, questioned whether re-signing former players is routine for the Steelers. It was noted that such decisions are made on a case-by-case basis depending on team needs and salary considerations.

Kerwin Broman from Decatur, IN., asked about "11 personnel," an unfamiliar term to him used by Dale Lolley in his column "Five for Friday." It was explained that "11 personnel" refers to an offensive formation with one running back and one tight end on the field simultaneously.

Dan McNeel from Manchester, NH., reminded readers not to be concerned with player rankings lists like those of top NFL players as they are deemed irrelevant by Bob Labriola who does not consider them worth attention.

###