Grading the Steelers:

Neil Gordon is in his 14^th season as the head coach of the Penn Hills High School Indians. He has won one WPIAL title.

Grading the Opponent:

Jack McCurry is in his 23^nd season as the head coach of the North Hills High School Indians. He has won four WPIAL titles.

Offense: A

The elusiveness of Kordell Stewart, the power and speed of Jerome Bettis and Richard Huntley, the blocking of Dan Kreider, and the ability of the receiving corps to get open -- a balanced attack too impressive to stop. Game balls to those unsung heroes -- another masterpiece by the offensive line.

Offense: D

QB Jeff George was supposed to lead the Redskins to a Super Bowl season. Instead, he led the lackadaisical Redskins to an early exit from playoff consideration. Five turnovers by the high-priced Redskins were too difficult to overcome. Don't look for the Redskins to return to glory. A total overhaul is needed.

Defense: A

An opportunistic bunch, to say the least. Forced fumbles, a pick by Dewayne Washington, a pick by Chad Scott and inspired play by the best linebacking corps in the league sealed Washington's coffin for the 2000 season. Hats off to rookie Ainsley Battles, a yeoman's job replacing Lee Flowers.

Defense: D

Even Lavar Arrington, our hometown hero from North Hills, couldn't alter Washington's fate. The Redskins' poor tackling and poor pass coverage contributed to the loss. The Redskins' troubles started long before this game and will continue into the offseason. It's time to say goodbye to some of the high-priced veterans. If you don't play with enthusiasm and heart, it's tough to win. Enough said.

Special Teams: B+

The battle for field position was dominated most of the day; big, critical plays were turned in by the special teams. Great punt and kickoff coverage, Hank Poteat's 53-yard touchdown return, and Josh Miller's inside-the-5 placements, headlined a very special day for coach Jay Hayes and his troops. Kudos for a job well done.

Special Teams: D

The Redskins surrendered a long punt return for a touchdown, and that alone was enough for the Steelers to win. In adverse conditions, special teams usually play a major role. The Redskins didn't come to play, and it showed. At least Eddie Murray made a field goal, though it really didn't matter.

Coaching: A

The Black and Gold outplayed Washington in every aspect of the game -- aggressive and intelligent play by the entire squad sealed the final victory in Three Rivers. A tip of the hat to Coach Bill Cowher and his staff; well-schemed and well-executed gameplans and an impressive rebound from the disaster in the Meadowlands last week.

Coaching: C

The firing of Norv Turner was supposed to motivate the Redskins. It looks like it had the opposite effect. The Redskins lack leadership and team chemistry. It's not Coach Terry Robiskie's fault, and he shouldn't be judged by the Redskins' late-season collapse. The micro-mismanagement by owner Daniel Snyder has been detrimental. But, hey, he owns the team. Maybe you don't always get what you pay for.

Team Score: 96

Team Score: 66

Key

100-95

Super Bowl performance

94-90

Division title contenders

89-80

Wild Card possibility

79-70

Shooting for high draft picks in 2000

69-less

Check waiver wire