jeffsalmans
Footballguy
That would be the one they didn't force.And Bettis' fumble wasn't their only turnover of the game--just the most visible.
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*** Denver vs Pittsburgh *** (2 Viewers)
- Thread starter thatguy
- Start date
Steelers4Life
Footballguy
Of those 23 turnovers, 7 of them (5 interceptions and 2 fumbles) came from Tommy Maddox and Charlie Batch in the 4 games that Roethlisberger missed.6 more of them (5 interceptions and 1 fumble) came in the 2 game stretch in the middle of the year when they lost to Cincy and Indy. I'd say they've come a long way since then.
So, in Roethlisberger's 12 starts, the Steelers turned the ball over only 16 times.
Not saying it's impossible for the Broncos to force turnovers, but the Steelers (and especially Roethlisberger) have done a great job protecting the football.
Denver's been even better at it, with only 16 turnovers all year.
As always, simply brilliant well-informed stuff from SSOG. I compare that opening game vs. Miami to the opening game the Pats had a couple of seasons back vs. the Bills. An opening blowout that made many judge the losing team in the first week of the season. Granted, the Pats got more love a few weeks into the season, but I think that first game is why the Broncos have been overlooked throughout the season. Also, I remember the temperature being extremely high in Miami that day - maybe not extremely high for someone who trains in Miami but definitely for a team wearing dark blue from Colorado. Anyone know what the exact high temp in Miami was that day? (Sept 11, '05)
Since that opening game, the Broncos are 14-2, and those final two losses are from a combined total of 5 points. I think the AFC Championship game will be good but anyone calling for Pitt to blow Denver out is drinking some spiked Pitt kool-aid. Overall, I'm seeing a lot of posts that point out Denver "weaknesses". I guess those obvious "weaknesses" have just been really hard for teams to stop all year, huh?
In addition, I have to laugh when I hear Pitt fans say Denver didn't look good against the Pats. Aside from the obvious comment that Pitt didn't look good against the Pats earlier this year and actually lost to them with Big Ben in the line up (Ben 12/28, 216yds; Parker 55yds, 17 attempts), I have to chuckle because Cowher is the true master of winning ugly. I've liked the way the Steelers have played for years, and no other team has pulled out an ugly one and said "a win is a win" more than the Cowher coached Steelers. So why do some Pitt fans turn that table on Denver? C'mon guys, this is gonna be good smashmouth football from both teams. Pull out some good stats to back up your chatter and sideline the blowout talk.
The Hank
Footballguy
Both Denver and Pittsburgh are built very similarly when compared.Jake Plummer and Ben Roethlisberger are both big bodied, agile, accurate passers that can create plays by utilizing their legs.Willie Parker and Tatum Bell are very quick moving and shifty backs that will be used early and often as both teams will want to get their ground game established both teams love to do screens so watch out for this here, Mike Anderson and Jerome Bettis are the short yardage guys, used sometimes as a 'change of pace' and goaline situations. Ron Dayne is used sparingly in the offense, while Verron Haynes is a hard-nosed 3rd down back that often turns 5 yard dink passes in 15+ receptions. Dan Krieder is a elite fullback who punishes to be tacklers like its nothing. Kyle Johnson is at fullback for the Broncos.Wide Reciever wise the Denver wide recievers are built for size, where as Steelers recievers are a blend of possession and speed. Hines Ward and Rod Smith are the two guys that their respected quaterbacks will look for for clutch receptions. Ashley Lelie is the 2nd option in Denver and is a speedy reciever, that could be compared to Randle El, where as Randle El is used primarily as a return specialist and doesn't get alot of receptions per game. Cedrick Wilson is the wildcard for the steelers and his production and sure hands will be very key and intregal to the Steelers passing game.Tight Ends Jeb Putzier and Heath Miller are excellent recieving options for their quarterbacks as both are prototypical in size and speed with good hands. Heath Miller has dramatically improved his game with excellent protection as of late. Heath Miller is a gamebreaker that if utilized properly could make a huge difference in this game as Denver LBs will have fits covering this rare specimen. Watch out for Denver's basketballer turned TE Wesley Duke.The offensive lines for both teams are built for running teams, Probowlers Alan Faneca and Jeff Hartings cement this offensive line with a reputation of hard nose football players. Marvel Smith and Kendall Simmons are very consistent, look at for Max Starks (6'7" 317), he is a huge book end for the steelers and is suprisingly quick for his size. Tom Nalen and Matt Lepsis anchor a solid offensive line that is built for destroying a defensive line. It will be key for them to pick up **** Lebeau's blitz schemes.A rejunvenated Denver line is represent by 3 former Cleveland Browns that has been electric this year, Trevor Pryce is a menace and should give the steelers oline some problems. The underrated Pittsburgh line is anchored by Casey Hampton who is a monster when it comes to run defense, joined with Casey is Kimo von Oelhoffen and Aaron Smith, two very underrated defensive lineman. These guys are spelled by ends Brett Keisel, Chris Hoke, and Travis Kirschke.The linebackers of Pittsburgh are what makes the 3-4 defense what it is. Joey Porter and James Farrior are the heart of this defense and have had an excellent post season thus far. Underrated Larry Foot and Clark Haggans round out a solid linebacking crew with 2nd year stud James Harrison and suprisingly solid rookie Andre Frazier backing up. Denver's linebacking crew are no lambs, for the fact the D.J Williams, Al Wilson and Ian Gold are in the center of the field for the Broncos and can make some very nice plays for the Broncos and could cause some destruction.The Broncos secondary is great, Champ Bailey rounds out a solid secondary, with long time veteran John Lynch and Dominque Foxworth and Nick Fegurson also in the mix. Steelers secondary has made a complete 360 from a couple years ago with Probowler Troy Polamalu and Chris Hope making plays at safeties. Ike Taylor has stepped up big time and has shut down many of the top WR's in the game today. Deshea Townsend and rookie Brian McFadden fill out the rest of the CB's for what is a very solid secondary for the steelers.All in all, both are built similarly and it basically what it comes down to is who makes the most plays (duh, i know). I feel that this will be a ridiculously close game, but a game that will go to the Pittsburgh Steelers, with relentless blitzing schemes and a successful running game will put them over the edge to beat Plummer and the Broncos. Should be a very fun and interesting game and looking forward to watching the entiriety of it. Good luck to both fans of their respected teams.GO STEELERS! 
moleculo
Footballguy
Good overview - on paper, they are almost identical. It's the subtile differences that separate the teams. First of all, Anderson is not the change of pace back. He is the primary ball carrier. Bell is more of the change of pace man - brought in to slash the defense. Bell is neither a 3rd down guy as I don't trust his hands (I don't think Shanahan does either), nor is he the primary ball carrier - he will be limited to less than 15 carries. Dayne comes in to spell Anderson on occasion.Both Denver and Pittsburgh are built very similarly when compared.
Jake Plummer and Ben Roethlisberger are both big bodied, agile, accurate passers that can create plays by utilizing their legs.
Willie Parker and Tatum Bell are very quick moving and shifty backs that will be used early and often as both teams will want to get their ground game established both teams love to do screens so watch out for this here, Mike Anderson and Jerome Bettis are the short yardage guys, used sometimes as a 'change of pace' and goaline situations. Ron Dayne is used sparingly in the offense, while Verron Haynes is a hard-nosed 3rd down back that often turns 5 yard dink passes in 15+ receptions. Dan Krieder is a elite fullback who punishes to be tacklers like its nothing. Kyle Johnson is at fullback for the Broncos.
Wide Reciever wise the Denver wide recievers are built for size, where as Steelers recievers are a blend of possession and speed. Hines Ward and Rod Smith are the two guys that their respected quaterbacks will look for for clutch receptions. Ashley Lelie is the 2nd option in Denver and is a speedy reciever, that could be compared to Randle El, where as Randle El is used primarily as a return specialist and doesn't get alot of receptions per game. Cedrick Wilson is the wildcard for the steelers and his production and sure hands will be very key and intregal to the Steelers passing game.
Tight Ends Jeb Putzier and Heath Miller are excellent recieving options for their quarterbacks as both are prototypical in size and speed with good hands. Heath Miller has dramatically improved his game with excellent protection as of late. Heath Miller is a gamebreaker that if utilized properly could make a huge difference in this game as Denver LBs will have fits covering this rare specimen. Watch out for Denver's basketballer turned TE Wesley Duke.
The offensive lines for both teams are built for running teams, Probowlers Alan Faneca and Jeff Hartings cement this offensive line with a reputation of hard nose football players. Marvel Smith and Kendall Simmons are very consistent, look at for Max Starks (6'7" 317), he is a huge book end for the steelers and is suprisingly quick for his size. Tom Nalen and Matt Lepsis anchor a solid offensive line that is built for destroying a defensive line. It will be key for them to pick up **** Lebeau's blitz schemes.
A rejunvenated Denver line is represent by 3 former Cleveland Browns that has been electric this year, Trevor Pryce is a menace and should give the steelers oline some problems. The underrated Pittsburgh line is anchored by Casey Hampton who is a monster when it comes to run defense, joined with Casey is Kimo von Oelhoffen and Aaron Smith, two very underrated defensive lineman. These guys are spelled by ends Brett Keisel, Chris Hoke, and Travis Kirschke.
The linebackers of Pittsburgh are what makes the 3-4 defense what it is. Joey Porter and James Farrior are the heart of this defense and have had an excellent post season thus far. Underrated Larry Foot and Clark Haggans round out a solid linebacking crew with 2nd year stud James Harrison and suprisingly solid rookie Andre Frazier backing up. Denver's linebacking crew are no lambs, for the fact the D.J Williams, Al Wilson and Ian Gold are in the center of the field for the Broncos and can make some very nice plays for the Broncos and could cause some destruction.
The Broncos secondary is great, Champ Bailey rounds out a solid secondary, with long time veteran John Lynch and Dominque Foxworth and Nick Fegurson also in the mix. Steelers secondary has made a complete 360 from a couple years ago with Probowler Troy Polamalu and Chris Hope making plays at safeties. Ike Taylor has stepped up big time and has shut down many of the top WR's in the game today. Deshea Townsend and rookie Brian McFadden fill out the rest of the CB's for what is a very solid secondary for the steelers.
All in all, both are built similarly and it basically what it comes down to is who makes the most plays (duh, i know). I feel that this will be a ridiculously close game, but a game that will go to the Pittsburgh Steelers, with relentless blitzing schemes and a successful running game will put them over the edge to beat Plummer and the Broncos.
Should be a very fun and interesting game and looking forward to watching the entiriety of it. Good luck to both fans of their respected teams.
GO STEELERS!
TE is another point of contention. I believe Miller is a large part of the Steeler O - providing a big target for Rothlesberger. I don't believe that Putzier is on the same level as Miller, nor does he have the same role. Putzier's role, IMO, is the occasional primary reciever on a select set of plays, aimed mostly at keeping the LB's honest and the safeties shallow. I would like to point out that Denver has played Gonzo, Gates, and Watson twice each, plus Shockey, Cooley, Heap and Witten, allowing a total of 3 TD's in 10 games vs premeir TE's.
One other difference is the OL. Pittsburgh, as far as I know, is built for size and smash mouth football. Denvers OL is based on a zone blocking scheme, where speed and finesse are the key attributes.
I'm not sure what kind (if any) conclusions can be drawn from this, I just wanted Steeler fans to have a better idea of what to expect.
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The Hank
Footballguy
Ok, thanks for the clearup -- should be a fun game!good luck!Good overview - on paper, they are almost identical. It's the subtile differences that separate the teams. First of all, Anderson is not the change of pace back. He is the primary ball carrier. Bell is more of the change of pace man - brought in to slash the defense. Bell is neither a 3rd down guy as I don't trust his hands (I don't think Shanahan does either), nor is he the primary ball carrier - he will be limited to less than 15 carries. Dayne comes in to spell Anderson on occasion.Both Denver and Pittsburgh are built very similarly when compared.
Jake Plummer and Ben Roethlisberger are both big bodied, agile, accurate passers that can create plays by utilizing their legs.
Willie Parker and Tatum Bell are very quick moving and shifty backs that will be used early and often as both teams will want to get their ground game established both teams love to do screens so watch out for this here, Mike Anderson and Jerome Bettis are the short yardage guys, used sometimes as a 'change of pace' and goaline situations. Ron Dayne is used sparingly in the offense, while Verron Haynes is a hard-nosed 3rd down back that often turns 5 yard dink passes in 15+ receptions. Dan Krieder is a elite fullback who punishes to be tacklers like its nothing. Kyle Johnson is at fullback for the Broncos.
Wide Reciever wise the Denver wide recievers are built for size, where as Steelers recievers are a blend of possession and speed. Hines Ward and Rod Smith are the two guys that their respected quaterbacks will look for for clutch receptions. Ashley Lelie is the 2nd option in Denver and is a speedy reciever, that could be compared to Randle El, where as Randle El is used primarily as a return specialist and doesn't get alot of receptions per game. Cedrick Wilson is the wildcard for the steelers and his production and sure hands will be very key and intregal to the Steelers passing game.
Tight Ends Jeb Putzier and Heath Miller are excellent recieving options for their quarterbacks as both are prototypical in size and speed with good hands. Heath Miller has dramatically improved his game with excellent protection as of late. Heath Miller is a gamebreaker that if utilized properly could make a huge difference in this game as Denver LBs will have fits covering this rare specimen. Watch out for Denver's basketballer turned TE Wesley Duke.
The offensive lines for both teams are built for running teams, Probowlers Alan Faneca and Jeff Hartings cement this offensive line with a reputation of hard nose football players. Marvel Smith and Kendall Simmons are very consistent, look at for Max Starks (6'7" 317), he is a huge book end for the steelers and is suprisingly quick for his size. Tom Nalen and Matt Lepsis anchor a solid offensive line that is built for destroying a defensive line. It will be key for them to pick up **** Lebeau's blitz schemes.
A rejunvenated Denver line is represent by 3 former Cleveland Browns that has been electric this year, Trevor Pryce is a menace and should give the steelers oline some problems. The underrated Pittsburgh line is anchored by Casey Hampton who is a monster when it comes to run defense, joined with Casey is Kimo von Oelhoffen and Aaron Smith, two very underrated defensive lineman. These guys are spelled by ends Brett Keisel, Chris Hoke, and Travis Kirschke.
The linebackers of Pittsburgh are what makes the 3-4 defense what it is. Joey Porter and James Farrior are the heart of this defense and have had an excellent post season thus far. Underrated Larry Foot and Clark Haggans round out a solid linebacking crew with 2nd year stud James Harrison and suprisingly solid rookie Andre Frazier backing up. Denver's linebacking crew are no lambs, for the fact the D.J Williams, Al Wilson and Ian Gold are in the center of the field for the Broncos and can make some very nice plays for the Broncos and could cause some destruction.
The Broncos secondary is great, Champ Bailey rounds out a solid secondary, with long time veteran John Lynch and Dominque Foxworth and Nick Fegurson also in the mix. Steelers secondary has made a complete 360 from a couple years ago with Probowler Troy Polamalu and Chris Hope making plays at safeties. Ike Taylor has stepped up big time and has shut down many of the top WR's in the game today. Deshea Townsend and rookie Brian McFadden fill out the rest of the CB's for what is a very solid secondary for the steelers.
All in all, both are built similarly and it basically what it comes down to is who makes the most plays (duh, i know). I feel that this will be a ridiculously close game, but a game that will go to the Pittsburgh Steelers, with relentless blitzing schemes and a successful running game will put them over the edge to beat Plummer and the Broncos.
Should be a very fun and interesting game and looking forward to watching the entiriety of it. Good luck to both fans of their respected teams.
GO STEELERS!
TE is another point of contention. I believe Miller is a large part of the Steeler O - providing a big target for Rothlesberger. I don't believe that Putzier is on the same level as Miller, nor does he have the same role. Putzier's role, IMO, is the occasional primary reciever on a select set of plays, aimed mostly at keeping the LB's honest and the safeties shallow. I would like to point out that Denver has played Gonzo, Gates, and Watson twice each, plus Shockey, Cooley, Heap and Witten, allowing a total of 3 TD's in 10 games vs premeir TE's.
One other difference is the OL. Pittsburgh, as far as I know, is built for size and smash mouth football. Denvers OL is based on a zone blocking scheme, where speed and finesse are the key attributes.
I'm not sure what kind (if any) conclusions can be drawn from this, I just wanted Steeler fans to have a better idea of what to expect.
hardcoredx
Footballguy
Exactly, they just knocked off the 3x champions. I expect the line to go up, no way in hell are they only 3.5 point favorites considering they did something Pittsburgh or Indy couldn't do for so many years.
Steelers4Life
Footballguy
And what did Pittsburgh do by beating Peyton Manning and the Colts in Indy?Maybe I'm wrong, but I think Denver lost to Indy each of the last 2 years in Indy by a combined score of 90-34. But I might have just imagined that.
So, does the line come back down again because Pittsburgh did something Denver couldn't do? The line in this game shouldn't be anything more than it is, and I'd say the Steelers have a 50/50 chance to win the game straight up.
Nothing matters but how good these teams are playing right now and how they match up against each other. These two teams entered the playoffs playing better than anyone else in the AFC (yes, including the Patriots and their win streak against teams like the Bills and Jets).
Lots of good information in this thread already, and I really think the Steelers match up well against the Broncos. I'm sure Bronco fans feel the same way about their matchup with the Steelers.
I'm pretty sure it will be easier for the Steelers to run on the Broncos than it will be for the Broncos to run on the Steelers. Plummer moving out of the pocket worries me, so it'll be on the Steelers linebackers to keep him under pressure and the secondary to stay with the WRs. Roethlisberger will have to be efficient with his throws and once again limit or eliminate his mistakes, because the Broncos don't make many on their side of the ball.
So Steelers came in and beat the Colts actually killed the Colts. Refs made the game closer than it actually was and whats with the officiating this year it is horrible! No calls and bad calls. oh well. That INT for Troy got over turned I mean that was the worst call I ever seen in my life and we have instant replay. Instant Reply should have 2-3 refs look at it and make the call. 1 it can be payed off who knows makes you wonder now.Steelers like every year never get any respect this year Colts get all the glory and what happen to them 1 and done. Steelers were 15-1 last year and they didn't get any glory or respect. Ben didn't play good in the playoffs last year he was a rookie that is gonna happen. Regular season don't mean nothing. Your play in the playoffs is what counts.Peyton Manning is not the greatest or one of the top qb's in the league IMHO. He is a pocket passer and his O is all about timing. Also he has probably the best recieving core in the league. Manning chokes hard when he is pressured or his timing gets out of sync. Ben, Brady, Plummer can atleast scamble somewhat and make a play when the protection breaks down and thats what I think Manning is missing to be great. Ben is like by far the best in the league scambling and making big plays I think.Jerome aint gonna run that much unless they are goalline or if Parker is tired for a play or 2. asthma give me a break.Should be an interesting game though. Maybe being on the road is what the Steelers need since they can barely win at home in the playoffs. I like to see Steelers go all the way almost a gaurantee whoever goes from AFC will win the show. Cowher, Bettis especially deserves a world championship. Jerome is a great guy and that would be cool for him to go out with a ring just like Elway.Broncos O couldn't really get any points on there own cept for turnover drives or bad pass interf. call. You cant deny Patriots gave that game away but Broncos played good D though. 3/4 of them turnovers shouldnt of happend. Every Broncos fan watching the wildcard games wanted the Bengals to win so bad they were all scared of the Pats. hahaSo everyone thinks the Broncos are the best team cause they knocked off the Pats? Pats run has to end sometime can't be the best forever.Anyways enough ramblin should be a great game. Steelers are very very very hungry now... you don't think last years afc champ game aint still in there heads? Heath Miller I think will have a big game and be the difference.Steelers 31 Broncos 17
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Franknbeans
Footballguy
Defense wins championships and the Steelers are playing a little better than the Broncos on that side of the ball.
Godsbrother
Footballguy
Nice info here by Hank and moleculo. Everything appears like these are two evenly matched teams. Of course turnovers will loom large but special teams may be the wildcard. The Steelers return coverage was suspect earlier in the year but has improved dramatically. Randel El is always is a threat to run one back but also has a tendency to do some dumb things as well.Ok, thanks for the clearup -- should be a fun game!good luck!Good overview - on paper, they are almost identical. It's the subtile differences that separate the teams. First of all, Anderson is not the change of pace back. He is the primary ball carrier. Bell is more of the change of pace man - brought in to slash the defense. Bell is neither a 3rd down guy as I don't trust his hands (I don't think Shanahan does either), nor is he the primary ball carrier - he will be limited to less than 15 carries. Dayne comes in to spell Anderson on occasion.Both Denver and Pittsburgh are built very similarly when compared.
Jake Plummer and Ben Roethlisberger are both big bodied, agile, accurate passers that can create plays by utilizing their legs.
Willie Parker and Tatum Bell are very quick moving and shifty backs that will be used early and often as both teams will want to get their ground game established both teams love to do screens so watch out for this here, Mike Anderson and Jerome Bettis are the short yardage guys, used sometimes as a 'change of pace' and goaline situations. Ron Dayne is used sparingly in the offense, while Verron Haynes is a hard-nosed 3rd down back that often turns 5 yard dink passes in 15+ receptions. Dan Krieder is a elite fullback who punishes to be tacklers like its nothing. Kyle Johnson is at fullback for the Broncos.
Wide Reciever wise the Denver wide recievers are built for size, where as Steelers recievers are a blend of possession and speed. Hines Ward and Rod Smith are the two guys that their respected quaterbacks will look for for clutch receptions. Ashley Lelie is the 2nd option in Denver and is a speedy reciever, that could be compared to Randle El, where as Randle El is used primarily as a return specialist and doesn't get alot of receptions per game. Cedrick Wilson is the wildcard for the steelers and his production and sure hands will be very key and intregal to the Steelers passing game.
Tight Ends Jeb Putzier and Heath Miller are excellent recieving options for their quarterbacks as both are prototypical in size and speed with good hands. Heath Miller has dramatically improved his game with excellent protection as of late. Heath Miller is a gamebreaker that if utilized properly could make a huge difference in this game as Denver LBs will have fits covering this rare specimen. Watch out for Denver's basketballer turned TE Wesley Duke.
The offensive lines for both teams are built for running teams, Probowlers Alan Faneca and Jeff Hartings cement this offensive line with a reputation of hard nose football players. Marvel Smith and Kendall Simmons are very consistent, look at for Max Starks (6'7" 317), he is a huge book end for the steelers and is suprisingly quick for his size. Tom Nalen and Matt Lepsis anchor a solid offensive line that is built for destroying a defensive line. It will be key for them to pick up **** Lebeau's blitz schemes.
A rejunvenated Denver line is represent by 3 former Cleveland Browns that has been electric this year, Trevor Pryce is a menace and should give the steelers oline some problems. The underrated Pittsburgh line is anchored by Casey Hampton who is a monster when it comes to run defense, joined with Casey is Kimo von Oelhoffen and Aaron Smith, two very underrated defensive lineman. These guys are spelled by ends Brett Keisel, Chris Hoke, and Travis Kirschke.
The linebackers of Pittsburgh are what makes the 3-4 defense what it is. Joey Porter and James Farrior are the heart of this defense and have had an excellent post season thus far. Underrated Larry Foot and Clark Haggans round out a solid linebacking crew with 2nd year stud James Harrison and suprisingly solid rookie Andre Frazier backing up. Denver's linebacking crew are no lambs, for the fact the D.J Williams, Al Wilson and Ian Gold are in the center of the field for the Broncos and can make some very nice plays for the Broncos and could cause some destruction.
The Broncos secondary is great, Champ Bailey rounds out a solid secondary, with long time veteran John Lynch and Dominque Foxworth and Nick Fegurson also in the mix. Steelers secondary has made a complete 360 from a couple years ago with Probowler Troy Polamalu and Chris Hope making plays at safeties. Ike Taylor has stepped up big time and has shut down many of the top WR's in the game today. Deshea Townsend and rookie Brian McFadden fill out the rest of the CB's for what is a very solid secondary for the steelers.
All in all, both are built similarly and it basically what it comes down to is who makes the most plays (duh, i know). I feel that this will be a ridiculously close game, but a game that will go to the Pittsburgh Steelers, with relentless blitzing schemes and a successful running game will put them over the edge to beat Plummer and the Broncos.
Should be a very fun and interesting game and looking forward to watching the entiriety of it. Good luck to both fans of their respected teams.
GO STEELERS!
TE is another point of contention. I believe Miller is a large part of the Steeler O - providing a big target for Rothlesberger. I don't believe that Putzier is on the same level as Miller, nor does he have the same role. Putzier's role, IMO, is the occasional primary reciever on a select set of plays, aimed mostly at keeping the LB's honest and the safeties shallow. I would like to point out that Denver has played Gonzo, Gates, and Watson twice each, plus Shockey, Cooley, Heap and Witten, allowing a total of 3 TD's in 10 games vs premeir TE's.
One other difference is the OL. Pittsburgh, as far as I know, is built for size and smash mouth football. Denvers OL is based on a zone blocking scheme, where speed and finesse are the key attributes.
I'm not sure what kind (if any) conclusions can be drawn from this, I just wanted Steeler fans to have a better idea of what to expect.
I don't know enough about the Broncos special teams to comment.
moleculo
Footballguy
I would say Steeler return game > Bronco return game. Darrent williams is the biggest threat, but I'm not sure how he is coming wrt recovery from the groin pull. Charlie Adams has been handling duties in his absence - no fumbles (knock on wood), but no amazing returns.on the other hand, Denver kicking game > Steeler kicking game. I'll take Elam and Sauerbrun any day over almost any other kicking duo. Others might disagree.
kupcho1
Footballguy
I thought the line should be 8 to 8.5 Sunday evening and I've not read or heard anything to change my mind.Home field advantage - particularly at such a high altitude - is worth far more than 3 points in the playoffs. Denver is extremely tough at home.DEN 17PIT 9seems about right. Unless the Steelers manage to force some turnovers I don't see them winning. Nice year, and something to build on (especially the meteoric growth of Big Ben as a QB), but no SuperBowl this year.
C
CrossEyed
Guest
Do you really think that Denver can keep the Steelers out of the endzone?
Ghost Rider
Footballguy
New England was also picked by the majority to beat Denver last week. What else ya got?Code:Denver [ 84 ] ** [46.67%]Pittsburgh [ 92 ] ** [51.11%]Total Votes: 176
Evilgrin 72
Distributor of Pain
After week 2 last year and the dawn of the Roethlisberger Era, the Steelers went 14-0 into the playoffs, pounding both Super Bowl teams along the way. they had the bye week and the AFC title game at home, and none of that mattered.The team that wins is going to be the team that is the hungriest, that plays with a chip on its shoulder, that is the more physical team, and that makes the most plays. It could be either team, but I like the Steelers. They are playing as well right now as I have seen them play in 5 years.
Ghost Rider
Footballguy
That is true, but the Steelers barely eeked by a not-that-great Jets team in the previous round and they looked vulnerable going into the title game because of how Roethlisberger's play in his rookie year went downhill at the end of the season. And I think their opponent in last year's AFC title game had something to do with it, as well.
I think their passing game and defense are functioning very well right now, but doesn't their running game worry you a bit? They averaged only 2.7 YPC against the Colts (one of the worst rushing defenses in the league) last week and even struggled to run it late in the game when they had the lead. It is doubtful that Roethlisberger will be able to pick apart Denver's secondary like he did Indy's and if their running game struggles again, they could be in trouble.
Steelers4Life
Footballguy
The Jets game was definitely a warning sign, and Roethlisberger just didn't have anything left in the tank. The Pats were the better team.The Steelers may have struggled to run in the first half against the Colts, but in the 2nd half, when the Colts KNEW they wanted to run the ball, the Steelers ran the ball 23 times for 88 yards and a TD, not counting Roethlisberger's 3 kneel downs to end the game or his QB sneak on 4th and 1. They definitely didn't struggle to run it late at all, and ran the ball almost exclusively on a drive that ate up about 8 minutes of the 4th quarter.That is true, but the Steelers barely eeked by a not-that-great Jets team in the previous round and they looked vulnerable going into the title game because of how Roethlisberger's play in his rookie year went downhill at the end of the season. And I think their opponent in last year's AFC title game had something to do with it, as well.
I think their passing game and defense are functioning very well right now, but doesn't their running game worry you a bit? They averaged only 2.7 YPC against the Colts (one of the worst rushing defenses in the league) last week and even struggled to run it late in the game when they had the lead. It is doubtful that Roethlisberger will be able to pick apart Denver's secondary like he did Indy's and if their running game struggles again, they could be in trouble.
denver has a solid defense and a solid offense...pittsburgh has a solid defense and a solid offense..i think the games going to come down to who ever makes the biggest mistake or who gets the ball last because of how sound both teams are on each side of the ball...i expect a good game.. i just hope the refs don't try and ruin the game againBig Ben doesn't seem scared like last year, he will throw it down field with accuracy, i am hopinng that trend continues and we run like normal and get the oh so sweet victory.
hardcoredx
Footballguy
Denver beat a team that is more talented than Pittsburgh- NE Patriots. Hell, Pittsburgh doesn't even make the playoffs if they were in the AFC West. SSOG pointed out the AFC West is by far the best division in football and he is sooooo right. I think San Diego is a better team than Pittsburgh , even KC is a top 6 team in the NFL . Basically. 3 of the top 6 teams in the AFC are in this divsion for sure. It's a brutal divsion and to be 13-3 in it cinches it for me. I laid out $275 on Carolina over the Bears and am thinking about putting it on Denver if the line goes down to Denver +3. I don't bet on +3.5 lines, because they are typically sucker bets. Indy is a cupcake team , they are weak in the middle and play in a sorry division (see Jacksonville vs NE). A statistically weak passing team like Pittsburgh threw with ease against them. I simply don't believe Pittsburgh is as good as Indy made them look. Steelers head coach Bill Cowher is 1-4 all-time in AFC Championship games, including a 24-21 loss to the Broncos on Jan. 11th, 1998.Does anyone know which team was one of the worst teams in the AFC West for so many years? Well that team (Seattle) might be going to their first Super Bowl ever...in the NFC.
The AFC over Seattle
hardcoredx
Footballguy
Can you remind me who lost to NE the week before ,yet again? It's a lot different to play in a weak divsion than a strong one. I stand my statement -they would not make the playoffs if they were in the AFC West.
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Steelers4Life
Footballguy
Well, the Steelers went into San Diego and beat them in a Monday night game. Your notion that the Steelers aren't a playoff team in that division is somewhat ridiculous, but hey, whatever. San Diego and KC are way too inconsistent to be considered top 6 teams in the NFL. One of them probably should've made the playoff over Jacksonville, though.
If you think the Pats are a better team than the Steelers, that's fine. Not everyone would agree with that, but it's not worth debating.
But most of all, the Steelers aren't a statsitically weak passing team. They're one of the most efficient passing teams in the NFL, but they normally don't need to pass as much as some teams do. They don't pass a whole lot all the time, but Ben's yards per attempt is among the best in the NFL (I think it's top 3, but I'm not sure). This was hardly the first time that Ben ripped apart a secondary in the first half only to end up with relatively mediocre stats because he didn't pass much in the 2nd half.
You don't have to believe how good the Steelers are. Right now, it's probably the best, most balanced Steelers team I can remember in the past 10 years. They have the passing threat to go with the running game, and both the defense and special teams are playing at a very high level.
Finally, I've made numerous posts about the AFCC the Steelers have lost. They lost the 1997 game you mention because Kordell Stewart threw 3 INTs (2 in the red zone) and fumbled once, and the Elway-led Broncos still only won by 3. This will be the first time since the 1994 game that there isn't a huge talent disparity between the Steelers' starting QB and the opponent's starting QB.
hardcoredx
Footballguy
I agree the talent difference between Plummer and Ben is not much. However, they won 11 games in the weak AFC Central. Baltimore and Cleveland were horrible , that was 4 easy games they don't get in the AFC west. No way on earth they win more than 10 in the AFC west -that does not get you in the playoffs. They only won 1 more game than KC . That game with San Diego was after their bye
Steelers4Life
Footballguy
Fair enough, but you can also consider they lost once in OT to Jacksonville when Maddox turned the ball over 4 times, and they lost a close one to Baltimore without Ben, too. The Steelers with Ben are a much, MUCH better team that you apparently think they are, and they probably go 13-3 if he's healthy all year. Hell, they lost to Indy in his first game back after a month off. They're also playing by far their best football of the year right now.
And for the record, both Baltimore and Cleveland both had 6 wins. The Raiders had 4.
I'm not saying the Steelers will win this weekend at all, but I think this is going to be a great game between 2 evenly matched teams.
jurb26
Footballguy
Not to mention that the vaunted Pony's nearly lost to the lowly Ravens at HOME, the only team from the AFC North they played all year. Yet the Steelers beat the only team that played from the AFC West on the ROAD. A team he claims should be in the playoffs.
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Ditkaless Wonders
Footballguy
Of course John Lynch shows up at Smoo's for a weekly face punching regardless of the activity in which Smoo is engaged.Leave it to Smoo...
aulharveyvoice: And now you know the rest of the story. aulharveyvoice:Luka_shocked28
Footballguy
Pittsburgh has beat the #3 seed Bengals, and the #1 seed Colts. Denver is the #2 seed. all i have to say is 123, Pitts will win, Troy Polamalu will intercept Jake the Snake since the referee (Archie Manning) from the PIT v. IND won't be there to make bull calls.
rockbottom895
Footballguy
Wow my friend, you are surely misled. Denver will smack the tired Steelers all the way back to Pittsburgh. All Pitt does is run, and the Broncos have the 2nd best rush defense in the leauge! Champ Bailey will put the lockdown on HInes, and maybe take one back 100 yds again, but we never know. Mike will pound and pound and pound and tire the defense of the Steelers, but then in comes Tatum to break it for a big won. Broncos will win this game 27 to 10. EASY WIN FOR JAKE AND THE BRONCOS!
Luka_shocked28
Footballguy
Oh my dear god!!! did a bronco fan just blame a team for running too much!?!?!!? then go on to brag about their secondary!!!?!?!?!?!? Bettis will break Bailey in half after Lynch gets a hernia
rockbottom895
Footballguy
Actually, yes, I did just blame a team for running too much. The Steelers run 57% percent of the time, INEFFECTIVELY! The Broncos run the ball 52% percent of the time EFFECTIVELY! Jerome Bettis sucks, he doesnt even play. How many carries does he have in two games in the playoffs? 27? Did he also almost lose the game for them in the Confrence Championship? YES! Bettis is a huuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuge guy, but he wont be able to run over the linebacking core of Al Wilson (starting in the probowl), DJ Williams, and Ian Gold. Try Again Luck A Shocked 92
Luka_shocked28
Footballguy
sorry charlie, but the PIT defense is simply better, joey porter/james farrior is better than wilson/gold and Troy Polamalu on his own is better than Bailey/Lynch. better recievers, better QB, better D, better team, and Jake Plummer might as well be on the cardinals, BIG Ben will dominate like the 1st quarter of the Indy game. and last i checked Indys a better team then Denver
moleculo
Footballguy
Oh my dear god!!! did a bronco fan just blame a team for running too much!?!?!!? then go on to brag about their secondary!!!?!?!?!?!? Bettis will break Bailey in half after Lynch gets a hernia'][QUOTE=Luka_shocked28][QUOTE=rockbottom895][QUOTE=Luka_shocked28][QUOTE=rockbottom895][QUOTE=Luka_shocked28]Pittsburgh has beat the #3 seed Bengals said:
[/QUOTE]Actually, yes, I did just blame a team for running too much. The Steelers run 57% percent of the time, INEFFECTIVELY! The Broncos run the ball 52% percent of the time EFFECTIVELY! Jerome Bettis sucks, he doesnt even play. How many carries does he have in two games in the playoffs? 27? Did he also almost lose the game for them in the Confrence Championship? YES! Bettis is a huuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuge guy, but he wont be able to run over the linebacking core of Al Wilson (starting in the probowl), DJ Williams, and Ian Gold. Try Again Luck A Shocked 92
[/QUOTE]sorry charlie, but the PIT defense is simply better, joey porter/james farrior is better than wilson/gold and Troy Polamalu on his own is better than Bailey/Lynch. better recievers, better QB, better D, better team, and Jake Plummer might as well be on the cardinals, BIG Ben will dominate like the 1st quarter of the Indy game. and last i checked Indys a better team then Denver
[/QUOTE]HAH POLAMALU IS BETTER THAN CHAMP AND LYNCH? IN WHAT UNIVERSE?champ is the best cover corner in the league, and lynch has been in the top 5 SS in his conference for the last 8 ish years. i give the broncos the edge in this matchup
[/QUOTE]I think I had an arguement like this once...then my homeroom teacher yelled at me and I had to go to the principals office.
rockbottom895
Footballguy
Joey Porter and James Farrior are better than Al Wilson and Ian Gold?!?!? HA! Who is starting in the Pro Bowl for the AFC? AL WILSON, NOT JOEY PORTER! Who had 54 tackles, and who had 73 tackles? AL HAD 73! Now lets move on to Farrior and Ian Gold. Ian Gold is a faster and more effective linebacker than Farrior. Also, Bailey is the best corner in the league. No one can touch him. I will agree that Palamolu is a good safety, but he isnt as good as Bailey is as a corner. Hines will have 2 receptions at best. Better QB? Who won more games? Who barely even played in the NFL this year? Better Defense? HAHAAH? The Broncos will dominate the weak running game of the Steelers. And Last time I checked, the Steelers should have lost that game.
Luka_shocked28
Footballguy
Oh my dear god!!! did a bronco fan just blame a team for running too much!?!?!!? then go on to brag about their secondary!!!?!?!?!?!? Bettis will break Bailey in half after Lynch gets a hernia'][QUOTE=Luka_shocked28][QUOTE=rockbottom895][QUOTE=Luka_shocked28][QUOTE=rockbottom895][QUOTE=Luka_shocked28]Pittsburgh has beat the #3 seed Bengals said:
[/QUOTE]Actually, yes, I did just blame a team for running too much. The Steelers run 57% percent of the time, INEFFECTIVELY! The Broncos run the ball 52% percent of the time EFFECTIVELY! Jerome Bettis sucks, he doesnt even play. How many carries does he have in two games in the playoffs? 27? Did he also almost lose the game for them in the Confrence Championship? YES! Bettis is a huuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuge guy, but he wont be able to run over the linebacking core of Al Wilson (starting in the probowl), DJ Williams, and Ian Gold. Try Again Luck A Shocked 92
[/QUOTE]sorry charlie, but the PIT defense is simply better, joey porter/james farrior is better than wilson/gold and Troy Polamalu on his own is better than Bailey/Lynch. better recievers, better QB, better D, better team, and Jake Plummer might as well be on the cardinals, BIG Ben will dominate like the 1st quarter of the Indy game. and last i checked Indys a better team then Denver
[/QUOTE]HAH POLAMALU IS BETTER THAN CHAMP AND LYNCH? IN WHAT UNIVERSE?champ is the best cover corner in the league, and lynch has been in the top 5 SS in his conference for the last 8 ish years. i give the broncos the edge in this matchup
[/QUOTE]Unlike you i'm living in the universe where Lynch is old and gets ejected from games for looking at WRs funny, thats also the universe where Bailey's best days were in WAS. This also happens to be the universe where Polamalu is better and more versatile than any defensive player in the league
Luka_shocked28
Footballguy
and the steelers deserved the win b/c of the interception, if it ws called right then there wudnt hav been a fumble
