Titans Wary of Potent Steelers Passing Game
By Nathan Ealy January 9, 2002

Despite the Steelers success in the running game this year, a big reason for the success of the Steelers is quarterback Tommy Maddox and his arsenal of receivers.

The Steelers have two receivers with over 1,000 receiving yards in Hines Ward and Plaxico Burress. Titans head coach Jeff Fisher says the two receivers compliment each other well.

''Plex is going to lineup outside and stretch the field and make the big plays down the sideline, and out jump people,'' Fisher said. ''He really does a good job in their vertical game.''

Although Burress is the downfield threat, Ward provides the physical, short yardage threat for the Steelers.

''He's the one that bangs around and uncovers and makes plays,'' Fisher said of Ward. ''I've seen him knock out a lot of defensive players in the run game.''

''He loves contact, he's a contact player. He's really helped to make their offense go. He becomes the go to guy in critical situations.''