The issue of players kneeling during the national anthem is front and center again due to the NFL’s zest to please everyone, including any and all potential paying customers.
At this time last year the Steelers perceived themselves, and rightfully so, as a team that was a mere win over the Patriots away from returning to the Super Bowl. This year, the focus is elsewhere.
The power play, star power and goaltending are among the primary weapons the Penguins have at their disposal in their quest for another championship. But so, too, is an unshakable belief they can hoist Lord Stanley's Cup three times in a row.
Pittsburgh is blessed this week to host Duke and Mike Krzyzewski, Villanova and Jay Wright, and Oklahoma and freshman sensation Trae Young, among others, at PPG Paints Arena.
After swine flu kept him from competing in Sochi in 2014, short track speed skater John-Henry Krueger finally won a spot on the podium at the Winter Olympic Games in Pyeongchang.
They’re still playing hockey at the Winter Olympics, but without NHL players.
Which means the guys doing the playing are relative nobodies. That isn’t necessarily a bad thing.
In the midst of the winter Olympics, the Pittsburgh Curling Club is moving ahead with plans to increase Pittsburgh’s appreciation for its intricate sport.
A year ago at this juncture, the Steelers could legitimately perceive the Patriots as the only team standing between them and yet another championship. Now, a lot more more than just one team is in the way.
