The First Test Drive

Ben was in the game long enough to get a picture as he went 4 for 6 and 33 yards. But that is not what this game was about. Each team allowed there younger players get the bulk of the work.

The Steelers winning 20 to 10 was truly an after thought. Seeing the Men of Steel loosen up was a nice tease for the upcoming weeks and months.

The encouraging news?

RB Isaac Redman scored 2 short yardage TD's. Perhaps he will be the elusive short yardage/goal line specialist? This was a sore spot last season. His success needs to be tempered in regard to the personnel he was facing.

WR Limas Sweed looked primed for a serious growth spurt off of last season's up and down Rookie campaign.

QB Dennis Dixon looked as if he too has made some progress also. For a "kid" who ran a shot gun only offense in college he looked comfortable behind center.

RB Rashard Mendenhall looked good being on the field.

P Dan Sepulvada also made a triumphant return from last season’s injury.

DE Rookie Ziggy Hood had a sack and appeared to be learning on the job.

CB Joe Burnett had a big INT and return.

LB LaMarr Woodley looked as if he is actually getting better. Def Coordinator Dick LeBeau says he is having an outstanding camp thus far and has improved. Bad news for opposing teams!

WR's Shaun McDonald (new sign) and Rookie Mike Wallace had some nice plays.

C Doug Legursky started at center for Justin Hartwig. Not sure if that means anything. But I have been a critic of Hartwig. (Nothing personal) 

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QB Charlie Batch was also a welcome sight. Ben needs a reliable back up. Dixon may be farther along but it is impossible to see that now.

There were others who did some things in addition but these are the ones that stood out to me.

Mike Tomlin had a nice perspective after wards and had the "back to work" attitude that a good Coach should have. He really is a down to Earth man. He sees everything for what it is worth. He also set out the expectations he has of players according to their experience. He noted that he expects the 2nd year players to step it up from their NFL baptism year.

Honestly we can get make much of any of this in the big picture but it was nice to see that from the Head Coach down to the low man on the totem pole the Steelers have put the Super Bowl celebration on the shelf and understand that was last season. 2009 is a new and bigger challenge. REPEATING is harder!

By: Andy Natalie
ProFootball-fans.com Pittsburgh Steelers Correspondent