Guy Smiley

For anyone who isn't from Pittsburgh or doesn't follow football, this is Hines Ward. This is his usual expression. The man is always smiling. When the going gets tough, and when the game gets rough, Hines' grin just keeps on going. Well, except for that time after we lost in the playoffs last year and he cried while talking to the reporters. And believe me, everyone in Pittsburgh remembers that. If we weren't quite as emotional as he about simply losing the game, seeing him cry certainly got us all going.

I'm so happy that Hines has finally gotten the attention that he deserves from the rest of the country. In last night's game against our arch-rivals, The Cleveland Browns, Ward broke the all-time team record for most receptions previously held by John Stallworth. As usual, Hines handled the moment with quiet dignity and class. The press was all over it though, and rightfully so. Now everyone wants to talk to Hines. Now everyone considers him what I knew he always was - one of the best players in the NFL and a true Steelers great.

Hines Ward has long been my favorite Steeler and I've always been baffled that he's not more famous than he is. He doesn't get the same attention that other receivers like Terrell Owens and Keyshawn Johnson do. Part of that is probably because he doesn't have a big mouth. He plays the game, does it well and doesn't criticize his teammates. He might do a little jig in the end zone post-TD once in a while, but it never becomes a full-on production. He might do a little fun trash-talking on the field to the opposing defense, but it's always with a wink and a smile. Always a smile. This is a man who loves to play football, and it shows. And in a league that has more than its share of extraordinarily greedy, not-quite gentlemen, Ward's attitude is refreshing. He doesn't need to brag about his skills. He goes out on the field every Sunday and shows us what he's got. Actions speak louder than words. And the smile speaks volumes.