RAY SWANSON | Keystoner Preseason prognosticators created confusion

I'm not certain, but I do believe the Pittsburgh Steelers have been eliminated from any title contention this season. I thought that about three weeks ago, but I kept reading about this mathematical thing that raised the hopes. So much for the mathematics.
The final nail was driven into the coffin, however, by the New York Jets (6-0) in a snow-swept field in East Rutherford, N.J., back on Dec. 14.
I was one of thousands suckered in again by the preseason prognosticators who stated the Steelers didn't have to show up to win their division this season. Hah! What a joke!
There's a lot of work to be done before the 2004 Steelers take the field. The pass defense was very suspect, quarterback Tommy Maddox came back to earth after his glowing 2002 season, and Jerome Bettis, despite surpassing the great Franco Harris in total yardage, didn't have one of his better years.
The Steeler defense had some shining moments, but the offensive line left a lot to be desired. And yes, Steeler coach Bill Cowher was not above reproach.
Cowher remains cool
Cowher, through it all, never lost his cool -- at least until he unloaded on official Dale Hamer following the Steelers' last-minute 24-20 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals in late November. That outburst drew a public apology from the Steeler skipper.
There were a few bright spots, especially in the play of Hines Ward and the tremendous returns of Antwaan Randle El. Both are competitors and it showed despite the lackluster campaign.
Wide receiver Plaxico Burress was another who had a sub-par season. He made some spectacular catches but only when he caught the eye of Maddox, which was not that often.
It remains what changes have to be made for Steeler success, but it's evident those changes must be made or we'll all be watching other teams in the next Super Bowl once again.
About time
It's certainly unlike Farrell High to drag its feet on any matter, especially one of importance like naming a new basketball coach. That was the case this season following the resignation of former head coach Mike DeCello, who made his decision during the first week of pre-season practice.
Farrell then played its first four games under four assistant coaches, including Ryan Anderton, Sam Iacino, Gary Wilson and Woodie Pippens.
As it turned out, none of the assistants was named to lead the Steelers. By a 7-1 vote, Roland Shannonhouse, a former Steeler hardwood standout, was named the new Steeler pilot.
Shannonhouse's new assistants include: Shawn Roberts, a former Steeler standout who played his college ball at Akron; Frank Sincek, a former Farrell High head basketball coach; and Mario Stinson. Sincek coached Shannonhouse during the latter's scholastic career.
Shannonhouse had previous coaching experience at Farrell, where he had served for five seasons as a junior varsity coach and varsity assistant. He also coached seventh grade girls basketball in the Hermitage School District.
Happy New Year
Here's wishing you and yours a very happy, healthy and prosperous New Year, and many more.