Hood could shut door on Smith

LATROBE — Ziggy Hood is going to replace Aaron Smith as the Steelers’ starting left defensive end. If he plays well Thursday night, that transition may be sooner rather than later.

Hood, the Steelers’ first-round pick in 2009, played well last year when replacing Smith, who was lost for the season after tearing a triceps muscle in the fourth game of the season.

Now 35, Smith has been a standout over the years. But he’s been hurt often in recent seasons and he’s missed the last three practices with a sore knee.

In all probability, Smith won’t play Thursday night when the Steelers play the Eagles at Heinz Field. Hood will likely get the start, and if he plays well, it may be hard to keep him off the first-team defense.

http://www.timesonline.com/sports/local_sports/steelers-notes-hood-could-shut-door-on-smith/article_74f2ed4f-b94f-522d-bd86-337d24dba5e2.html

I think it's time for Smith to go, unfortunately. But Smith might be hurt anyways so it won't be too big of a deal

If Smith can just stay healthy, I have no doubt he can really help us make yet another SB run this year. It certainly wouldn't hurt to have him help groom the rookie Heyward and Hood for 1 more year. Ziggy will get his chance, and it will be next season.... if not sooner.

Not sure which way to think on this, I think Smith time on the field has passed but I would for him to pass down all his experience.

blastfurness wrote:

Not sure which way to think on this, I think Smith time on the field has passed but I would for him to pass down all his experience.

Ziggy played behind him for two seasons ... hopefully, that'll be enough. The only thing left to teach him is how to get injured and miss half the season.

The only good thing about him staying this last year is the fact Heyward will get to be under his wing for a season so that can only help.

Farrior_roirraW wrote:

The only good thing about him staying this last year is the fact Heyward will get to be under his wing for a season so that can only help.

That's a good point. Ziggy might be ready to start, but he might not be ready to be a leader and mentor.

I think Ziggy was workng behind the diesel to be honest but there is plenty of leaders on that defense, we need him work that 5 technique and take up blockers and space on the running game so we can free up silver back

blastfurness wrote:

I think Ziggy was workng behind the diesel to be honest but there is plenty of leaders on that defense, we need him work that 5 technique and take up blockers and space on the running game so we can free up silver back

You could be right. I always assumed it was Smith because he's a couple/few years older than the Beard and because he's only played one full season since '07.