Teryl Austin Defensive Coordinator | Pittsburgh Steelers Website
Teryl Austin Defensive Coordinator | Pittsburgh Steelers Website
The Pittsburgh Steelers have a rich history filled with notable events and decisions that have shaped the franchise. One such moment was the 1970 NFL Draft coin toss, which determined who would select Terry Bradshaw, a top prospect from Louisiana Tech. Both the Steelers and Chicago Bears ended the previous season with 1-13 records, necessitating a coin toss to break the tie for the first overall pick.
On January 9, two days before Super Bowl IV, Dan Rooney of the Steelers and Ed McCaskey of the Bears met in New Orleans with NFL Commissioner Pete Rozelle officiating. "Go ahead, you call it," Dan Rooney told McCaskey, who called heads. The coin landed on tails, granting the Steelers the first pick. They chose Bradshaw, while the Bears traded their second pick to Green Bay.
In other news related to team needs and player performance, questions about upcoming draft priorities were raised by Nate Skinner from Brewster, MA. He noted positions outside wide receiver as potential areas of need for next year's draft. However, it was emphasized that "there is WAY TOO MUCH left to this regular season" to speculate accurately.
Meanwhile, Mason McCormick's performance as right guard has been under scrutiny following James Daniels' injury. Eric Huttinger from Dayton, OH asked if McCormick would continue in this role long-term. The response highlighted his impressive play since stepping in due to Daniels' Achilles injury.
The team's community involvement was praised by Micki Andersen from Fredericia, Denmark. It was noted that several players have won the Walter Payton Man of the Year Award for their contributions both on and off the field.
Gene Madec from Groton, CT inquired about L.C. Greenwood's status regarding induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Unfortunately, Greenwood did not advance past a recent voting round aimed at selecting finalists among senior candidates.
Questions about historical events also surfaced. Douglas Piper from State College, PA asked whether Terry Bradshaw might have played running back during an injury crisis in 1976—a scenario deemed unrealistic given Chuck Noll's coaching philosophy.
Advancements in football equipment were addressed by Al Warner from East Springfield, OH. It was explained that improvements have made gear lighter yet still effective in protecting players.
Lastly, Daniel Pardue from Stockholm questioned if all AFC North teams had ever made playoffs simultaneously—a feat yet to occur.
For fans seeking nostalgia or information on past achievements like honoring Super Bowl-winning teams or watching vintage games featuring players like Justin Fields or Russell Wilson against rivals such as Kansas City Chiefs—resources are available online through platforms like YouTube.