EMQB Interview: Lawrence Timmons

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National Football League Blogcast, NFL Blogcast

You’ve heard the phrase “defense wins championships.” Think that’s an antiquated notion? The Pittsburgh Steelers certainly don’t. In the Steel City — where defense has been and always will be king — bloodying opposing offenses is what matters most. The modern day “Steel Curtain” is currently ranked first in pass defense (163.3 ypg) and total defense (239.1 ypg). And they’re second in run defense (75.8 ypg). Head coach Mike Tomlin brought his defensive mind to Pittsburgh last year and continues in a longstanding tradition that heralds defensive dominance. I caught-up with Steelers 2007 first round Draft pick linebacker Lawrence Timmons (four tackles, a sack and forced fumble last week) after practice today to talk about where the Steelers have been (AFC North champs) — and where they’re headed (Super Bowl XLIII?).

• 0:11 – For the Steelers, AFC North title is just the beginning
• 0:36 – Last week’s game vs. Ravens was instant defensive classic
• 1:04 – This week’s game vs. Titans could decide home field through playoffs
• 1:24 – The difficulty of taking one game at a time and not looking ahead
• 1:47 – Being “battle tested” against good teams keeps Steelers sharp
• 2:24 – Steelers’ top defense only has three names on the 09 Pro Bowl roster
• 2:46 – Comparisons to great “Steel Curtain” defenses of the 70s inevitable
• 3:29 – The NFL encourages points scored, but defense still wins championships
• 4:03 – Giving credit to the Steelers coaching staff for defensive dominance
• 4:45 – Staying healthy has been key to Steelers success so far this season
• 5:13 – The natural progression from rookie to second-year in the NFL

Links: Steelers.com, NFL Players, NFL.com

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