Key Blocks Sprung Mendenhall, Steelers Victory (Photo)

Rashard Mendenhall ran through a gaping hole in the Atlanta Falcons defense for a 50-yard touchdown and the Pittsburgh Steelers escaped with an overtime victory at Heinz Field.  The epitome of hat on a hat football is evident in the photo above.  Mendenhall ran for 120 yards and Hines Ward set a few all-time Steelers records with his 100-yard receiving day.  Dennis Dixon was erratic, especially early in the game.  Dixon settled down to throw for 236 yards including a beautiful pass to Mike Wallace and several key throws to Hines Ward and Heath Miller.  But he also had numerous missed opportunties despite being given ample time by the offensive line.

Go look at that photo again.  Man that is beautiful.

Dixon can be thankful for his line.  The Steelers had plenty of questions marks coming into the game, mainly along that offensive line.  However, the O-line looked solid despite losing starter Max Starks with a high ankle sprain.

Key to victory:  The offensive line.

Big play:  Troy Polamalu had an interception (check back for a pic of the pick) that would have sealed the victory if the Steelers offense was effective or if Jeff Reed would have nailed this field goal as time expired.

We grabbed 305 more pictures today and will get some up later.

Well, if I can stop staring at this thing of beauty that is.