The Steelers wrapped up their final preseason game of the 2009 season on Thursday night by beating the Carolina Panthers 21-10. The night was highlighted by the play of rookie free agents, Stefan Logan and Isaac Redman. Logan returned his first and only punt return 80 yards for a touchdown and his only kickoff return for 28 yards. By doing so, he has firmly made the final 53 man roster. Redman also will had a good night by rushing for 79 yards on 12 carries and a hard earned 10 yard touchdown. Redman also contributed on special teams and will make it hard on head coach Mike Tomlin to cut him.
The Steelers offensive and defensive starters barely broke a sweat and were out of the game very early. Both second and third string units played well in relief as several players were playing for roster spots. Rookie cornerback Keenan Lewis led the team with 10 tackles and saftey Ryan Mundy intercepted a pass and returned it for a touchdown. The defense recorded 6 sacks and forced 3 turnovers. Offensively the Steelers rushed for 137 yards on 30 carries and had 87 yards passing on only 10 passes. Shaun McMonald led the Steeler receivers with 3 catches for 43 yards.
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The Steelers finished the preseason with a 3-1 record and now get ready for the first week of the season next Thursday versus the Tennessee Titans. The Steelers will also need to release 22 players by Saturday evening to get down to 53 players. Running back Willie Parker (hamstring), wide receiver Santonio Holmes (back), linebacker James Harrison (coaches decision), quarterback Dennis Dixon (shoulder), tight end Sean McHugh (knee) and fullback Carey Davis were all held out of the game.
