The Fall of Scobee

The kicker can go from being the most loved player to the most hated in a matter of weeks. Former Steelers kicker Josh Scobee knows exactly how that feels.

The Steelers suffered a crushing overtime loss last Thursday night to their division rivals, the Baltimore Ravens. However, the worst part about it is that the Steelers did in fact outplay the Ravens. It was Scobee's poor kicking ability that lost the Steelers this one.

Late during the game, Scobee was given opportunities to kick two game winning field goals that were both of an easily make-able distance for an NFL kicker. However, he failed to convert. This led to Scobee being run out of town, LITERALLY! Within the days after the game, Scobee was released by the Steelers and quickly replaced by young Rice University graduate Chris Boswell.

This opportunity for Boswell will be his first attempt at actually kicking in a regular season game in the NFL. This could be seen as a very stressful situation for the young kicker. However, Boswell needs to look at the positive aspect. He can't possibly be worse than Scobee!

Other than the kicker, the Steelers did show some promise Thursday night against the Ravens. Back-up quarterback Michael Vick made the throws that needed to be made and also used his running ability to pick up several yards during crucial plays. Nevertheless, the aging Vick was still not stellar by any means. He failed to convert two 4th down plays late in the game. This is simply a case in which the Steelers still wish they had a healthy Roethlisberger running the offense, instead of Vick.

This coming week the Steelers take on the San Diego Chargers on Monday night football. This will be a crucial game for the Steelers. They simply cannot go 2-3 on the season.

With all this said, the Steelers will definitely have their work cut out for them. The San Diego offense has been surging, led by quarterback Philip Rivers. Break out star wide receiver Keenan Allen has been nothing short of a complete animal this season and a gift for fantasy owners. Allen is the leading target for Rivers and has definitely taken advantage of the situation. The Steelers defense will without a doubt have to step it up against this lethal duo.

Offensively, the Steelers seem to be in a good position. The extended practice week has allowed players to recover from that stunning Thursday night loss. Additionally, it has allowed Vick to become more familiar with the offense. In an interview, Vick stated that he feels so much better heading into this game and that he has gained immense chemistry with the team.

Nevertheless, the player to watch during this game will be new placekicker Chris Boswell. Hopefully, Boswell be able to perform at an NFL level. Then again, hopefully this game doesn't come down to field goals again.