
Rule change ‘forcing out’ great efforts
Four NFL officials gathered at the Steelers’ training camp facility in Latrobe in early August to explain the rule changes in the league this season to the area media. When asked about the elimination of the force-out rule, back judge Tony Steratore gave a simple response. “It actually makes our job easier,’’ he said. What he didn’t say was that it will also make the defenders’ job easier, too. The force-out rule has long been a part of the league, allowing a receiver to not necessarily get both of his feet inbounds if the official determined he would have come down inbounds if not “forced out’’ by a defender. The situations were many times controversial and non-reviewable, so the NFL decided to eliminate the human element completely. This year, a receiver has to get both feet inbounds, regardless of whether he’s hit in the air or not. Receivers, however, are not allowed to be “carried’’ out of bounds while in the air.
» Full StoryContest gives sports a bad name
Many big sports matchups dotted the holiday weekend — Venus vs. Serena, Yankees vs. Red Sox, Nadal vs. Federer.
Another one could be thrown into the mix — Kobayashi vs. Chestnut. Unfortunately.
Steelers try to emulate nemesis?
Many say the NFL is a copycat league.
The Steelers may have proven that with their top selections in this past weekend’s draft.
‘Big Shots’ buzzer doesn’t go off
Anyone who picked up a basketball as a kid and shot around dreamed of a game-winning situation.
“He has the ball at midcourt. His team is down one with time running out ... 10, 9, 8 ... He looks over the defense .. 7, 6, 5 ...
Draft plans should be line, line ...
When the Steelers partake in the NFL draft three months from now, their selection strategy may be similar to what it was in 1987.
» Full StoryWinning trumps all strategies
The Steelers could use a week off, but a victory is the more pressing need this Sunday.
The Steelers have the AFC North Division title clinched, and they have no chance to earn a first-round bye in the playoffs.


