Steelers News: Harrison, Villanueva, Jones
By Kim Myers
For the Steelers this week it’s all about riding the hot streak and finishing strong with a playoff spot secured while the Bengals are looking to lock up the AFC North title.
While the Steelers are preparing to head out to Cincinnati we’ll be busy looking for mentions of your Black & Gold so we’ve got you covered. Here’s your Steelers Morning Huddle for Friday, Dec. 11th.
Preparation J.H.
Teresa Varley spoke to Cincinnati Bengals players about how to prepare to go up against the Steelers in a game with so much on the line. Bengals receiver A.J. Green talked about Steelers linebacker James Harrison and how his insane preparation each week keeps him looking a lot younger when he’s out on the field.
"“It’s the way he works. He is benching 400 pounds in Week 15. What has helped him play so long at a high level is the way he works in the offseason.” – A.J. Green"
Is he the answer?
The Kelvin Beachum going down with an ACL injury in a contract year the Steelers had to promote Alejandro Villanueva in his place at left tackle. Villanueva hasn’t had the smoothest of starts after allowing 3.5 sacks so far but the more he plays the more he grows and learns the position.
ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler points out that as far as the Steelers are concerned they may need to think about their options at the left tackle position considering Beachum is a free agent after next season and Villanueva’s contract is far cheaper.
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It’s going to be bloody
The Steelers and Bengals rivalry might just be evolving into the Steelers and Ravens rivalry of a few years ago.
Around the NFL’s Kevin Patra tells us how Bengals coach Marvin Harrison told ESPN.com earlier this week that he’s expecting a bloody battle on both sides of the ball.
"“It’s going to be bloody on both sides. We expect that.” – Marvin Lewis"
In the last meeting between the two teams in November Steelers running back Le’Veon Bell was injured in a hit by Bengals linebacker Vontaze Burfict after being injured the previous year by Bengals safety Reggie Nelson. It’s been bloody so far, no reason to think this game is going to be any different.