The Steelers will beat the Colts (1 Viewer)

[BlueOnion]

How exactly are the Steelers a "finesse" defense? It seems to me a defense that was considered "finesse" wouldn't go a season and a half without allowing a single back to cross the 100-yard mark. I'm just not sure what you mean here.

When I say finesse I mean they don't line up a base defense, bring the same 4 guys every play and drop the same guys into almost the same coverage every play.The 2000 Ravens rushed the same 4 guys and played a lot of man on the outside. The 2002 Bucs were similar that they rushed the same 4 guys and played a basic cover-2 behind it. As an offense, you knew exactly what the defense was going to do almost every play; so you had to beat these defenses mano-y-mano.

When you look at the Steelers, they mix and match their blitz schemes and coverage schemes; part of the strength of Pittsburgh is their unpredictability and the frequenzy in which they beat an offense with their scheme. The ideology behind what the Steelers do on offense seem to resemble the ideology behind what Mike Martz and other offensive gurus do, so I consider them a finesse defense.

I think this plays into the hands of Peyton Manning and the Colts.

 

[AhrnCityPahnder]

Also, to say that your team woulda won if this person had been healthy shows, that your team (in some of the Steelers' fans arguments) in fact is a mediocre team because you lost one person to injury and you had no talented depth behind him.

This may be the dumbest post I've read in a month.

 

[Frenchy Fuqua]

[QUOTE=']

First the trends:

10- The Steelers are 18-6 on MNF under Cowher.  He loves the role of huge underdog in this game too. 

How many of those game are at home? It seems that everytime they were on MNF, they were at home...
[/QUOTE]11-0 at home7-6 on the road

 

[Evilgrin 72]

How exactly are the Steelers a "finesse" defense?  It seems to me a defense that was considered "finesse" wouldn't go a season and a half without allowing a single back to cross the 100-yard mark.  I'm just not sure what you mean here.

When I say finesse I mean they don't line up a base defense, bring the same 4 guys every play and drop the same guys into almost the same coverage every play.The 2000 Ravens rushed the same 4 guys and played a lot of man on the outside. The 2002 Bucs were similar that they rushed the same 4 guys and played a basic cover-2 behind it. As an offense, you knew exactly what the defense was going to do almost every play; so you had to beat these defenses mano-y-mano.

When you look at the Steelers, they mix and match their blitz schemes and coverage schemes; part of the strength of Pittsburgh is their unpredictability and the frequenzy in which they beat an offense with their scheme. The ideology behind what the Steelers do on offense seem to resemble the ideology behind what Mike Martz and other offensive gurus do, so I consider them a finesse defense.

I think this plays into the hands of Peyton Manning and the Colts.

OK, I follow you. How does this play into Manning's hands though - is it necause he's so adept at reading defenses that the changes in scheme/formation won't affect him? I would think this is the only way to beat Manning - if he knows where the rush is coming from and where the coverage will be on every play, he's going to absolutely carve you up unless you beat him into the ground on every snap.

 

[Marc Levin]

I am in the camp that thinks the Steelers and Colts are going to put up the "opposite" game than everyone expects.I hope you don't need your FF players tonight (and I need Edge big time, so this is not a partisan opinion) IMO, we are looking at another early season Colts D game. My predictiion is whichever team is closest to 17 when the game ends will be the winner. Why? B/c Manning this year keys off Edge - not the pass D. If the Steelers shut down Edge (which they are capable of doing), we could see a 13-9 score going into the fourth quarter.BTW, I pray I am keerocking Edge tonight.

 

[Evilgrin 72]

I am in the camp that thinks the Steelers and Colts are going to put up the "opposite" game than everyone expects.

I hope you don't need your FF players tonight (and I need Edge big time, so this is not a partisan opinion)

IMO, we are looking at another early season Colts D game. My predictiion is whichever team is closest to 17 when the game ends will be the winner.

Why? B/c Manning this year keys off Edge - not the pass D. If the Steelers shut down Edge (which they are capable of doing), we could see a 13-9 score going into the fourth quarter.

BTW, I pray I am keerocking Edge tonight.

I tend to agree with this FAR more than the camp that thinks this will be another track meet in which the Steelers simply don't have the horses to compete. I do not expect a 38-24 game by any stretch.

 

[BlueOnion]

How exactly are the Steelers a "finesse" defense?  It seems to me a defense that was considered "finesse" wouldn't go a season and a half without allowing a single back to cross the 100-yard mark.  I'm just not sure what you mean here.

When I say finesse I mean they don't line up a base defense, bring the same 4 guys every play and drop the same guys into almost the same coverage every play.The 2000 Ravens rushed the same 4 guys and played a lot of man on the outside. The 2002 Bucs were similar that they rushed the same 4 guys and played a basic cover-2 behind it. As an offense, you knew exactly what the defense was going to do almost every play; so you had to beat these defenses mano-y-mano.

When you look at the Steelers, they mix and match their blitz schemes and coverage schemes; part of the strength of Pittsburgh is their unpredictability and the frequenzy in which they beat an offense with their scheme. The ideology behind what the Steelers do on offense seem to resemble the ideology behind what Mike Martz and other offensive gurus do, so I consider them a finesse defense.

I think this plays into the hands of Peyton Manning and the Colts.

OK, I follow you. How does this play into Manning's hands though - is it necause he's so adept at reading defenses that the changes in scheme/formation won't affect him? I would think this is the only way to beat Manning - if he knows where the rush is coming from and where the coverage will be on every play, he's going to absolutely carve you up unless you beat him into the ground on every snap.

Man, you never seem to take the bait, regardless of how meaty the fishing hook looks, obviously I was hoping someone would take offense to the 'finesse' comment.Regardless, I have mentioned this before. If Peyton goes no-huddle, it does force defenses to play the Colts straight up. This could take away the Steelers plethora of blitz packages because many of their blitz packages include over-loads, zone-dogs and safety blitzes. As an offense if you let the Steelers huddle up and call their defensive play, it allows the Steelers to do what they do best. Take away the Steelers' defensive huddle, how many over-loads, zone-dogs and safety blitzes are they going to call if the defenders don't know what the others are doing.

 

[Steelers4Life]

How exactly are the Steelers a "finesse" defense?  It seems to me a defense that was considered "finesse" wouldn't go a season and a half without allowing a single back to cross the 100-yard mark.  I'm just not sure what you mean here.

When I say finesse I mean they don't line up a base defense, bring the same 4 guys every play and drop the same guys into almost the same coverage every play.The 2000 Ravens rushed the same 4 guys and played a lot of man on the outside. The 2002 Bucs were similar that they rushed the same 4 guys and played a basic cover-2 behind it. As an offense, you knew exactly what the defense was going to do almost every play; so you had to beat these defenses mano-y-mano.

When you look at the Steelers, they mix and match their blitz schemes and coverage schemes; part of the strength of Pittsburgh is their unpredictability and the frequenzy in which they beat an offense with their scheme. The ideology behind what the Steelers do on offense seem to resemble the ideology behind what Mike Martz and other offensive gurus do, so I consider them a finesse defense.

I think this plays into the hands of Peyton Manning and the Colts.

OK, I follow you. How does this play into Manning's hands though - is it necause he's so adept at reading defenses that the changes in scheme/formation won't affect him? I would think this is the only way to beat Manning - if he knows where the rush is coming from and where the coverage will be on every play, he's going to absolutely carve you up unless you beat him into the ground on every snap.

Man, you never seem to take the bait, regardless of how meaty the fishing hook looks, obviously I was hoping someone would take offense to the 'finesse' comment.Regardless, I have mentioned this before. If Peyton goes no-huddle, it does force defenses to play the Colts straight up. This could take away the Steelers plethora of blitz packages because many of their blitz packages include over-loads, zone-dogs and safety blitzes. As an offense if you let the Steelers huddle up and call their defensive play, it allows the Steelers to do what they do best. Take away the Steelers' defensive huddle, how many over-loads, zone-dogs and safety blitzes are they going to call if the defenders don't know what the others are doing.

I'm thinking - or hoping, at least - that **** LeBeau has seen this coming and has some kind of plan to deal with it. He's a great defensive co-ordinator, and I think Peyton will see some blitz packages that the Steelers haven't shown yet.The last thing I expect LeBeau to do is to watch his defense get picked apart without some kind of plan to defense it.

 

[jurb26]

I haven't been this excited for a game all year. I hope it lives up. Good luck tonight Colts.

 

[Marc Levin]

I haven't been this excited for a game all year. I hope it lives up. Good luck tonight Colts.

NE-Pit?I was very excited for that game, and it did not disappoint.

 

[jurb26]

I haven't been this excited for a game all year. I hope it lives up. Good luck tonight Colts.

NE-Pit?

Eh, yeah that was great and all but too early in the year. Like FSU and Mia playing the 1st game of the year in college. It would mean so much more if they waited.

 

[Raiders Fan]

The Colts will make this game a shootout. That's why you can't always look at the numbers in the past. They are 18th even if its garbage yards or not.. They STILL give those yards up. The only good offense they shutdown was Cincinnati. You can't compare them to the Colts especially when the Colts are at home. If this game was in Pitt I could understand your argument. Below is the games they played..Sep 11 Tennessee Won 34-7 Sep 18 @Houston Won 27-7 Sep 25 New England Lost 20-23 Week 4 BYE Oct 10 @San Diego Won 24-22 Oct 16 Jacksonville Lost 17-23 Oct 23 @Cincinnati Won 27-13 Oct 31 Baltimore Won 20-19 Nov 6 @Green Bay Won 20-10 Nov 13 Cleveland Won 34-21 Nov 20 @Baltimore Lost 13-16 Tell me who besides Cincinnati is even a top 10 offense?? NE is 11th and Brady passed for 372 yards. I am not saying Manning will have 400 Yards and 4 TD's but I can see 300 yards and at least 2TD's. This Pass D is worse then last year for sure. Manning just has a way of picking apart D's.

 

[Marc Levin]

The Colts will make this game a shootout.  That's why you can't always look at the numbers in the past.  They are 18th even if its garbage yards or not.. They STILL give those yards up.  The only good offense they shutdown was Cincinnati.  You can't compare them to the Colts especially when the Colts are at home.  If this game was in Pitt I could understand your argument.  Below is the games they played..

Sep 11 Tennessee Won 34-7     

Sep 18 @Houston Won 27-7     

Sep 25 New England Lost 20-23     

Week 4 BYE       

Oct 10 @San Diego Won 24-22     

Oct 16 Jacksonville Lost 17-23     

Oct 23 @Cincinnati Won 27-13     

Oct 31 Baltimore Won 20-19     

Nov 6 @Green Bay Won 20-10     

Nov 13 Cleveland Won 34-21     

Nov 20 @Baltimore Lost 13-16 

Tell me who besides Cincinnati is even a top 10 offense??  NE is 11th and Brady passed for 372 yards. 

I am not saying Manning will have 400 Yards and 4 TD's but I can see 300 yards and at least 2TD's.  This Pass D is worse then last year for sure.  Manning just has a way of picking apart D's.

and, IMO, you are falling prey to group think. These big time games always seem to happen the opposite of the way they are "supposed" to happen.If I had to make predictions, I'd predict Manning will be able to move the ball through the air - but won't get the TDs and won't force a shootout. 250+ and 2 TD versus 2 INTs could easily be the game I envision - low scoring and defense oriented.

Consider that the Steelers and Colts have almost identical scoring defenses. I could easily see either the Steelers or Colts on top of a 30-27 game as easily as I see either team on top of a 17-13 game, but I just don't see a high scoring game. There is nothing wrong with believing Manning can handle the pass D - whether they'll get TDs against that pass D is a completely different animal.

Those thinking the Colts are going to bust out to a 14-17 point lead early in the game and force the Steelers into a shootout are, IMO, deluding themselves. This game will most likely be, whether high offense or high defense, hotly contested. This is both teams first "playoff" game. The Steelers must tag the Colts with a loss to keep in the home field advantage race and to stay on top of theior division - the Colts want the win to seal their home field advantage, but they don't need it - the Steelers need this game WAY more than the Colts do.

This is, for all intents and purposes, a playoff game for both clubs - thinking they both won't be coming out hitting hard on D (think of the Pitt/SD game for reference) is making a huge mistake.

 

[SickThing]

There's been a lot of interesting points made in this thread. I still don't notice anyone else other than myself predicting a productive, although not his best, game for Edge. Sorry if I simply forgot any other comments to that effect. I also believe it will not be a shootout, with Indy winning by a slight margin like they did in their early season in other defensive battles.Colts 20, Steelers 13Edge: 26/83/0 Rushing, 5/58/1 Receiving (19 pts in my league)Although I don't think it will happen, if the Steelers allow Peyton to pick them apart early, it will completely change the whole game towards more of a shootout style. Indy is very good at adapting to whatever style suits them best as each game unfolds. They'll win either way IMO.

 

[Irish]

I am not sure who will win the game, but there is no doubt in my mind that Peyton Manning will make the Steelers defense look silly.

I am not sure who will win the game, but there is no doubt in my mind that Parker, Bettis, and Staley will make the overrated Colts defense look silly.

 

[Raiders Fan]

The Colts will make this game a shootout.  That's why you can't always look at the numbers in the past.  They are 18th even if its garbage yards or not.. They STILL give those yards up.  The only good offense they shutdown was Cincinnati.  You can't compare them to the Colts especially when the Colts are at home.  If this game was in Pitt I could understand your argument.  Below is the games they played..

Sep 11 Tennessee Won 34-7     

Sep 18 @Houston Won 27-7     

Sep 25 New England Lost 20-23     

Week 4 BYE       

Oct 10 @San Diego Won 24-22     

Oct 16 Jacksonville Lost 17-23     

Oct 23 @Cincinnati Won 27-13     

Oct 31 Baltimore Won 20-19     

Nov 6 @Green Bay Won 20-10     

Nov 13 Cleveland Won 34-21     

Nov 20 @Baltimore Lost 13-16  

Tell me who besides Cincinnati is even a top 10 offense??  NE is 11th and Brady passed for 372 yards. 

I am not saying Manning will have 400 Yards and 4 TD's but I can see 300 yards and at least 2TD's.   This Pass D is worse then last year for sure.   Manning just has a way of picking apart D's.

and, IMO, you are falling prey to group think. These big time games always seem to happen the opposite of the way they are "supposed" to happen.If I had to make predictions, I'd predict Manning will be able to move the ball through the air - but won't get the TDs and won't force a shootout. 250+ and 2 TD versus 2 INTs could easily be the game I envision - low scoring and defense oriented.

Consider that the Steelers and Colts have almost identical scoring defenses. I could easily see either the Steelers or Colts on top of a 30-27 game as easily as I see either team on top of a 17-13 game, but I just don't see a high scoring game. There is nothing wrong with believing Manning can handle the pass D - whether they'll get TDs against that pass D is a completely different animal.

Those thinking the Colts are going to bust out to a 14-17 point lead early in the game and force the Steelers into a shootout are, IMO, deluding themselves. This game will most likely be, whether high offense or high defense, hotly contested. This is both teams first "playoff" game. The Steelers must tag the Colts with a loss to keep in the home field advantage race and to stay on top of theior division - the Colts want the win to seal their home field advantage, but they don't need it - the Steelers need this game WAY more than the Colts do.

This is, for all intents and purposes, a playoff game for both clubs - thinking they both won't be coming out hitting hard on D (think of the Pitt/SD game for reference) is making a huge mistake.

If this was in Pitt I 100% agree with you.. In Indy I think its a totally different type of game.. The fans have a way of pumping up the home team.. For that reason I am expecting a high scoring game in indy.. Low scoring if it was in Pitt.. Again this is my opinion.. I just don't see the Steelers pass D that dominate in indy to shut them down..

 

[Marc Levin]

The Colts will make this game a shootout.  That's why you can't always look at the numbers in the past.  They are 18th even if its garbage yards or not.. They STILL give those yards up.  The only good offense they shutdown was Cincinnati.  You can't compare them to the Colts especially when the Colts are at home.  If this game was in Pitt I could understand your argument.  Below is the games they played..

Sep 11 Tennessee Won 34-7     

Sep 18 @Houston Won 27-7     

Sep 25 New England Lost 20-23     

Week 4 BYE       

Oct 10 @San Diego Won 24-22     

Oct 16 Jacksonville Lost 17-23     

Oct 23 @Cincinnati Won 27-13     

Oct 31 Baltimore Won 20-19     

Nov 6 @Green Bay Won 20-10     

Nov 13 Cleveland Won 34-21     

Nov 20 @Baltimore Lost 13-16  

Tell me who besides Cincinnati is even a top 10 offense??  NE is 11th and Brady passed for 372 yards. 

I am not saying Manning will have 400 Yards and 4 TD's but I can see 300 yards and at least 2TD's.   This Pass D is worse then last year for sure.   Manning just has a way of picking apart D's.

and, IMO, you are falling prey to group think. These big time games always seem to happen the opposite of the way they are "supposed" to happen.If I had to make predictions, I'd predict Manning will be able to move the ball through the air - but won't get the TDs and won't force a shootout. 250+ and 2 TD versus 2 INTs could easily be the game I envision - low scoring and defense oriented.

Consider that the Steelers and Colts have almost identical scoring defenses. I could easily see either the Steelers or Colts on top of a 30-27 game as easily as I see either team on top of a 17-13 game, but I just don't see a high scoring game. There is nothing wrong with believing Manning can handle the pass D - whether they'll get TDs against that pass D is a completely different animal.

Those thinking the Colts are going to bust out to a 14-17 point lead early in the game and force the Steelers into a shootout are, IMO, deluding themselves. This game will most likely be, whether high offense or high defense, hotly contested. This is both teams first "playoff" game. The Steelers must tag the Colts with a loss to keep in the home field advantage race and to stay on top of theior division - the Colts want the win to seal their home field advantage, but they don't need it - the Steelers need this game WAY more than the Colts do.

This is, for all intents and purposes, a playoff game for both clubs - thinking they both won't be coming out hitting hard on D (think of the Pitt/SD game for reference) is making a huge mistake.

If this was in Pitt I 100% agree with you.. In Indy I think its a totally different type of game.. The fans have a way of pumpong up the home team.. For that reason I am expecting a high scoring game in indy.. Low scoring if it was in Pitt.. Again this is my opinion.. I just don't see the Steelers pass D that dominate in indy to shut them down..

and you keep disregarding what I said about Manning v. the pass D - I believe Manning will exploit the heck out of the pass D after Pitt shuts Edge down - but he won't get a slew of TDs out of the passing game - both teams have great scoring defenses, which means they shut you down in the red zone (edit to add - and neither D gives up big plays), and Manning moving the ball like a madman into the red zone won't mean they get TDs against the Steelers' D.Thus, preventing a high scoring game. And considering the Colts are sure to test the Pitt run D with Edge for most of the first quarter, I sincerely doubt Indy jumps out to a huge lead.

No point you have made is incongruous with my prediction that it will not be a shootout - at least not through the first three Q.s.

I hope I am wrong and you are right - it gives Edge a MUCH better chance at a big game I need either 100+ rush yards and 2 TDs out of him or 130 yards combined and 2 TDs to win my big money game. Nothing would make me happier than a 45 yard rushing/45 yard receiving/2 TD first half line out of Edge. I just don't see it happening and I see a relatively low scoring affair - many FGs, not a lot of TDs

 

[Marc Levin]

BTW - why isn't the obvious being considered here - the Steelers have not given up a 100 yard rusher in something like 25 games.If you ALWAYS keep your oppponents to under 4 YPC, they will obviously HAVE to move the ball through the air, thus inflating your pass D numbers. But Pitt has had a very good scoring D for several years now. In short, you can move the ball on them through the air - but you can't find the end zone that way.

 

[Raiders Fan]

The Colts will make this game a shootout.  That's why you can't always look at the numbers in the past.  They are 18th even if its garbage yards or not.. They STILL give those yards up.  The only good offense they shutdown was Cincinnati.  You can't compare them to the Colts especially when the Colts are at home.  If this game was in Pitt I could understand your argument.  Below is the games they played..

Sep 11 Tennessee Won 34-7     

Sep 18 @Houston Won 27-7     

Sep 25 New England Lost 20-23     

Week 4 BYE       

Oct 10 @San Diego Won 24-22     

Oct 16 Jacksonville Lost 17-23     

Oct 23 @Cincinnati Won 27-13     

Oct 31 Baltimore Won 20-19     

Nov 6 @Green Bay Won 20-10     

Nov 13 Cleveland Won 34-21     

Nov 20 @Baltimore Lost 13-16  

Tell me who besides Cincinnati is even a top 10 offense??  NE is 11th and Brady passed for 372 yards. 

I am not saying Manning will have 400 Yards and 4 TD's but I can see 300 yards and at least 2TD's.   This Pass D is worse then last year for sure.   Manning just has a way of picking apart D's.

and, IMO, you are falling prey to group think. These big time games always seem to happen the opposite of the way they are "supposed" to happen.If I had to make predictions, I'd predict Manning will be able to move the ball through the air - but won't get the TDs and won't force a shootout. 250+ and 2 TD versus 2 INTs could easily be the game I envision - low scoring and defense oriented.

Consider that the Steelers and Colts have almost identical scoring defenses. I could easily see either the Steelers or Colts on top of a 30-27 game as easily as I see either team on top of a 17-13 game, but I just don't see a high scoring game. There is nothing wrong with believing Manning can handle the pass D - whether they'll get TDs against that pass D is a completely different animal.

Those thinking the Colts are going to bust out to a 14-17 point lead early in the game and force the Steelers into a shootout are, IMO, deluding themselves. This game will most likely be, whether high offense or high defense, hotly contested. This is both teams first "playoff" game. The Steelers must tag the Colts with a loss to keep in the home field advantage race and to stay on top of theior division - the Colts want the win to seal their home field advantage, but they don't need it - the Steelers need this game WAY more than the Colts do.

This is, for all intents and purposes, a playoff game for both clubs - thinking they both won't be coming out hitting hard on D (think of the Pitt/SD game for reference) is making a huge mistake.

If this was in Pitt I 100% agree with you.. In Indy I think its a totally different type of game.. The fans have a way of pumpong up the home team.. For that reason I am expecting a high scoring game in indy.. Low scoring if it was in Pitt.. Again this is my opinion.. I just don't see the Steelers pass D that dominate in indy to shut them down..

and you keep disregarding what I said about Manning v. the pass D - I believe Manning will exploit the heck out of the pass D after Pitt shuts Edge down - but he won't get a slew of TDs out of the passing game - both teams have great scoring defenses, which means they shut you down in the red zone (edit to add - and neither D gives up big plays), and Manning moving the ball like a madman into the red zone won't mean they get TDs against the Steelers' D.Thus, preventing a high scoring game. And considering the Colts are sure to test the Pitt run D with Edge for most of the first quarter, I sincerely doubt Indy jumps out to a huge lead.

No point you have made is incongruous with my prediction that it will not be a shootout - at least not through the first three Q.s.

I hope I am wrong and you are right - it gives Edge a MUCH better chance at a big game I need either 100+ rush yards and 2 TDs out of him or 130 yards combined and 2 TDs to win my big money game. Nothing would make me happier than a 45 yard rushing/45 yard receiving/2 TD first half line out of Edge. I just don't see it happening and I see a relatively low scoring affair - many FGs, not a lot of TDs

I was only predicting 300 yards and 2TD's. I do also see Edge struggling to get 100 yards tonight.. If he is lucky a goalline TD..

 

[Marc Levin]

The Colts will make this game a shootout.  That's why you can't always look at the numbers in the past.  They are 18th even if its garbage yards or not.. They STILL give those yards up.  The only good offense they shutdown was Cincinnati.  You can't compare them to the Colts especially when the Colts are at home.  If this game was in Pitt I could understand your argument.  Below is the games they played..

Sep 11 Tennessee Won 34-7     

Sep 18 @Houston Won 27-7     

Sep 25 New England Lost 20-23     

Week 4 BYE       

Oct 10 @San Diego Won 24-22     

Oct 16 Jacksonville Lost 17-23     

Oct 23 @Cincinnati Won 27-13     

Oct 31 Baltimore Won 20-19     

Nov 6 @Green Bay Won 20-10     

Nov 13 Cleveland Won 34-21     

Nov 20 @Baltimore Lost 13-16  

Tell me who besides Cincinnati is even a top 10 offense??  NE is 11th and Brady passed for 372 yards. 

I am not saying Manning will have 400 Yards and 4 TD's but I can see 300 yards and at least 2TD's.   This Pass D is worse then last year for sure.   Manning just has a way of picking apart D's.

and, IMO, you are falling prey to group think. These big time games always seem to happen the opposite of the way they are "supposed" to happen.If I had to make predictions, I'd predict Manning will be able to move the ball through the air - but won't get the TDs and won't force a shootout. 250+ and 2 TD versus 2 INTs could easily be the game I envision - low scoring and defense oriented.

Consider that the Steelers and Colts have almost identical scoring defenses. I could easily see either the Steelers or Colts on top of a 30-27 game as easily as I see either team on top of a 17-13 game, but I just don't see a high scoring game. There is nothing wrong with believing Manning can handle the pass D - whether they'll get TDs against that pass D is a completely different animal.

Those thinking the Colts are going to bust out to a 14-17 point lead early in the game and force the Steelers into a shootout are, IMO, deluding themselves. This game will most likely be, whether high offense or high defense, hotly contested. This is both teams first "playoff" game. The Steelers must tag the Colts with a loss to keep in the home field advantage race and to stay on top of theior division - the Colts want the win to seal their home field advantage, but they don't need it - the Steelers need this game WAY more than the Colts do.

This is, for all intents and purposes, a playoff game for both clubs - thinking they both won't be coming out hitting hard on D (think of the Pitt/SD game for reference) is making a huge mistake.

If this was in Pitt I 100% agree with you.. In Indy I think its a totally different type of game.. The fans have a way of pumpong up the home team.. For that reason I am expecting a high scoring game in indy.. Low scoring if it was in Pitt.. Again this is my opinion.. I just don't see the Steelers pass D that dominate in indy to shut them down..

and you keep disregarding what I said about Manning v. the pass D - I believe Manning will exploit the heck out of the pass D after Pitt shuts Edge down - but he won't get a slew of TDs out of the passing game - both teams have great scoring defenses, which means they shut you down in the red zone (edit to add - and neither D gives up big plays), and Manning moving the ball like a madman into the red zone won't mean they get TDs against the Steelers' D.Thus, preventing a high scoring game. And considering the Colts are sure to test the Pitt run D with Edge for most of the first quarter, I sincerely doubt Indy jumps out to a huge lead.

No point you have made is incongruous with my prediction that it will not be a shootout - at least not through the first three Q.s.

I hope I am wrong and you are right - it gives Edge a MUCH better chance at a big game I need either 100+ rush yards and 2 TDs out of him or 130 yards combined and 2 TDs to win my big money game. Nothing would make me happier than a 45 yard rushing/45 yard receiving/2 TD first half line out of Edge. I just don't see it happening and I see a relatively low scoring affair - many FGs, not a lot of TDs

I was only predicting 300 yards and 2TD's. I do also see Edge struggling to get 100 yards tonight.. If he is lucky a goalline TD..

I'm with ya - but 300/2 does not mean a shootout - especially if it is 300/2/2 and much of that yardage and TD comes in Q.4.I believe those thinking this will be a 14-17 (point) Colts lead after a quarter due to Manning's arm, thus forcing a shootout, are deluding themselves.

 

[Steelers4Life]

This Pass D is worse then last year for sure. Manning just has a way of picking apart D's.

If you're referring to the Steelers' pass defense as being worse than last year's, you haven't paid attention to the Steelers this year at all.This year's secondary is much better than a year ago because of the emergenc of Ike Taylor. Ike shut down CJ until he caught a garbage time 45 yarder, and CJ had some nice things to say about Taylor after the game. Polamalu and Hope are playing better, too.

 

[SYMPHONY X]

All the talk in this thread has been the Colts offense versus the Stillers D. IMHO, this game comes down to Big Ben. If the boy is rusty, and throws a pick or two early on, this game will be over in a hurry. If he comes out with some accuracy and picks up some key first downs, then it's game on!This will allow the Stillers to stick to the running game, and keep their defense fresh, while Manning is sitting safely on the sidelines. Another point I would like to throw in about EDGE. The Steelers seem to have NO answer for the dump-off pass to the RB. EDGE won't get 100 on the ground tonight, but I can see EDGE with 5-7 catches for 100+ yards tonight.Here's hoping Ben comes out hot so that we all see a good game tonight!

 

[Marc Levin]

Another point I would like to throw in about EDGE. The Steelers seem to have NO answer for the dump-off pass to the RB. EDGE won't get 100 on the ground tonight, but I can see EDGE with 5-7 catches for 100+ yards tonight.

Your lips to the fantasy gods ears.100+ yards either receiving or rushing is fine for me - as are 130 combined (80/50 maybe?) - plus two TDs.

 

[BlueOnion]

I think the Steelers offense will be good for 5 scores out of a possible 9 drives, that aint gonna get it done.

 

[jurb26]

I think the Steelers offense will be good for 5 scores out of a possible 9 drives, that aint gonna get it done.

Yes it will because the D and ST will chip in for a score each as well.

 

[Irish]

I think the Steelers offense will be good for 5 scores out of a possible 9 drives, that aint gonna get it done.

35 points will be plenty for the Steelers.

 

[BlueOnion]

I think the Steelers offense will be good for 5 scores out of a possible 9 drives, that aint gonna get it done.

35 points will be plenty for the Steelers.

Do you and Michael Irvin have a mutual friend? Put down that crack pipe. Indy scores 28 in a heartbeat. If the Steelers hang around after the first 28 are scored, Indy will score another 28.

 

[Marc Levin]

I think the Steelers offense will be good for 5 scores out of a possible 9 drives, that aint gonna get it done.

35 points will be plenty for the Steelers.

Do you and Michael Irvin have a mutual friend? Put down that crack pipe. Indy scores 28 in a heartbeat. If the Steelers hang around after the first 28 are scored, Indy will score another 28.

I'm willin gto bet you that there will not be 63+ points scored in this game (35 plus 28).Not a shootout - a tight defensive battle.

 

[BlueOnion]

I think the Steelers offense will be good for 5 scores out of a possible 9 drives, that aint gonna get it done.

35 points will be plenty for the Steelers.

Do you and Michael Irvin have a mutual friend? Put down that crack pipe. Indy scores 28 in a heartbeat. If the Steelers hang around after the first 28 are scored, Indy will score another 28.

I'm willin gto bet you that there will not be 63+ points scored in this game (35 plus 28).Not a shootout - a tight defensive battle.

That is a check my mouth can't write.

 

[Marc Levin]

either way - I don't see these 35/28 numbers - that implies a LOT of TDs and almost no FGs.IMO, you will see many more drives stall with FGs than end in TDs - for both teams.

 

[BassNBrew]

I am not sure who will win the game, but there is no doubt in my mind that Peyton Manning will make the Steelers defense look silly.

I am not sure who will win the game, but there is no doubt in my mind that Parker, Bettis, and Staley will make the overrated Colts defense look silly.

 

[BigRed]

oops Gotta admit I never saw a good run D by the Colts coming either though. Nor did most.

 

[BassNBrew]

That's a 100 for Edge. Was there a single correct prediction in this thread?

 

[Capella]

I like the Steelers, and I will ignore the point spread. This is a money-line special all the way! In fact, this is my favorite money-line play of the year. Steelers on the road, Steelers on MNF, Cowher's record Vs. Dungy and Indy, etc. 31-13 will be my prediction.

 

[Your Mom]

I like the Steelers, and I will ignore the point spread.  This is a money-line special all the way!  In fact, this is my favorite money-line play of the year.  Steelers on the road, Steelers on MNF, Cowher's record Vs. Dungy and Indy, etc.  31-13 will be my prediction.Stick to your day job

 

[Marc Levin]

That's a 100 for Edge. Was there a single correct prediction in this thread?

defensive oriented game?

 

[Marc Levin]

That's a 100 for Edge. Was there a single correct prediction in this thread?

also - lots of FGs in the red zone instead of passing TDs?I predicted Manning at 250 2/2 he's at 245 2/1

 

[SickThing]

That's a 100 for Edge. Was there a single correct prediction in this thread?

Well, I predicted a good game for Edge in post #8, among others. I also said not a shootout and final 20-13 Colts (post #114). I think I was pretty much in the ballpark, but I was off about Edge getting some of his 141 predicted combined yards via receiving, and it wasn't as close as I predicted thanks to stellar work by the Indy D.

 

[BassNBrew]

That's a 100 for Edge.  Was there a single correct prediction in this thread?

also - lots of FGs in the red zone instead of passing TDs?I predicted Manning at 250 2/2 he's at 245 2/1

Colts had it on cruise control.That said...they are becoming very predictable and can be beat. BB was probably watching tonite and planning the coup. Manning is telegraphing too many plays. If you can stop the Colts on 1st down, you can compete with this team. Personally, I think the defense is every bit as good as the offense.

 

[Marc Levin]

so what?I was still correct with my prediction. I also believe the Seahawks will beat the Colts in Seattle.

 

[BassNBrew]

so what?

I was still correct with my prediction. I also believe the Seahawks will beat the Colts in Seattle.

That wasn't the thesis of the bulk of your posts.

 

[BassNBrew]

10- The Steelers are 18-6 on MNF under Cowher. He loves the role of huge underdog in this game too. Didn't matter9- Roethlisberger is back. He is 18-1 as regular season starter.Marino or Montana wouldn't have made a difference.8- The Steelers are 8-0 lifetime agains the Indy Colts, including a 28-10 victory over Manning & Co. on MNF in 2002.Make that 8-1Now the meat:7- The Steelers should have James Farrior back at ILB. He is their anchor against the run/in the nickel. His presence will allow the Steelers to stay in the nickel during Manning's no-huddle and not compromise their ability to stop the run. He is also very active in pass coverage.Edge was huge.6- The Steelers have the depth and speed at CB to hold their own with the Colts WR. Ike Taylor, Deshea Townsend, Ricardo Colclough and Bryant McFadden are under the radar but these guys are all above average corners. They have given up the fewest TD passes in the league, faring very well against Carson Palmer and the Bengals solid WRs.Didn't look like it on the first possession.5- Steelers OLBs Haggans and especially Porter are one dimensional speed rushers...artificial turf will help them, Heinz "grass" does not. The key to this game in my opinion is here. If the Steelers can't get pressure on Manning with these guys and need to send safeties or corners it won't be good.It wasn't good.4- The gameplan. The Steelers will control the line of scrimmage on O. Coming off an embarrassing loss to the Ravens in which they completely deviated from their normal gameplan (nearly 2-1 pass to run vs. Balt) the Steelers will pound away at the Colts undersized DEs and LBs. They need Marvel Smith back. If Trai Essex is matched up against Dwight Freeney, he will need plenty of help.Controlled the o-line los like an open flood gate.3- Troy Polamalu - Rodney Harrison used to wear down the Colts WRs after they caught passes over the middle. Polamalu will send a message early in this game.Too bad that message arrived too late. 2- The Colts DBs have allowed an average of over 250 yards passing in the past 3 games. Expect the Colts to load up early to stop the run and Roethlisberger will take some shots deep. Big Ben won't throw many passes but he's always effective when he does.The Steelers don't have the talent on O to play from behind.1- Willie Parker was made for artificial turf. Bettis or Staley will grind the clock but Parker will hit a HR in this game. Indy yields 4.5 yards per carry. Teams that beat the Steelers stop their running game (NE, Jax, Balt) Indy will not.Did he even play tonite?

 

[Raiders Fan]

That's a 100 for Edge.  Was there a single correct prediction in this thread?

also - lots of FGs in the red zone instead of passing TDs?I predicted Manning at 250 2/2 he's at 245 2/1

I thought the Steelers could have made it closer but I guess I was wrong.. Manning didn't have to do anything in the 4th.. As I expected Manning had no problem with the Steeler pass D.. my surprise was Edge doing so well.. If this game was in Pitt it goes down to teh last min..

 

[SickThing]

Nice list, but nothing in it convinces me that Edge won't have a huge day again, which changes a lot. Just last week backup RB Chester Taylor put up 85 total yards against them in only 23 touches. Now imagine a much better running threat than CT, with more touches, combined with the far more potent passing threat of the Colts, and this game looks like another easy big win for Indy to me.

Along this same line of thought, I was just looking at my lineup considering giving Peyton and Wayne a rest this week, but keeping Edge in for sure.

This is not to say that your list of Pitt strengths is inaccurate. Just not enough to slow the scoring machine that's now shifting into high gear.

Don't stand anywhere near Cowher. His head might explode.

My first post in this thread in it's entirety.

 

[Frenchy Fuqua]

10- The Steelers are 18-6 on MNF under Cowher. He loves the role of huge underdog in this game too. 

Didn't matter

9- Roethlisberger is back. He is 18-1 as regular season starter.

Marino or Montana wouldn't have made a difference.

8- The Steelers are 8-0 lifetime agains the Indy Colts, including a 28-10 victory over Manning & Co. on MNF in 2002.

Make that 8-1

Now the meat:

7- The Steelers should have James Farrior back at ILB. He is their anchor against the run/in the nickel. His presence will allow the Steelers to stay in the nickel during Manning's no-huddle and not compromise their ability to stop the run. He is also very active in pass coverage.

Edge was huge.

6- The Steelers have the depth and speed at CB to hold their own with the Colts WR. Ike Taylor, Deshea Townsend, Ricardo Colclough and Bryant McFadden are under the radar but these guys are all above average corners. They have given up the fewest TD passes in the league, faring very well against Carson Palmer and the Bengals solid WRs.

Didn't look like it on the first possession.

5- Steelers OLBs Haggans and especially Porter are one dimensional speed rushers...artificial turf will help them, Heinz "grass" does not. The key to this game in my opinion is here. If the Steelers can't get pressure on Manning with these guys and need to send safeties or corners it won't be good.

It wasn't good.

4- The gameplan. The Steelers will control the line of scrimmage on O. Coming off an embarrassing loss to the Ravens in which they completely deviated from their normal gameplan (nearly 2-1 pass to run vs. Balt) the Steelers will pound away at the Colts undersized DEs and LBs. They need Marvel Smith back. If Trai Essex is matched up against Dwight Freeney, he will need plenty of help.

Controlled the o-line los like an open flood gate.

3- Troy Polamalu - Rodney Harrison used to wear down the Colts WRs after they caught passes over the middle. Polamalu will send a message early in this game.

Too bad that message arrived too late.

2- The Colts DBs have allowed an average of over 250 yards passing in the past 3 games. Expect the Colts to load up early to stop the run and Roethlisberger will take some shots deep. Big Ben won't throw many passes but he's always effective when he does.

The Steelers don't have the talent on O to play from behind.

1- Willie Parker was made for artificial turf. Bettis or Staley will grind the clock but Parker will hit a HR in this game. Indy yields 4.5 yards per carry. Teams that beat the Steelers stop their running game (NE, Jax, Balt) Indy will not.

Did he even play tonite?

Thanks Nostradamus. Love the guys that don't stick their neck out before the game but have all the answers after.Great game by the Colts, they clearly outplayed and outcoached the Steelers in all phases. Hope to get another shot at Manning & Co.

 

[BassNBrew]

That's a 100 for Edge.  Was there a single correct prediction in this thread?

also - lots of FGs in the red zone instead of passing TDs?I predicted Manning at 250 2/2 he's at 245 2/1

I thought the Steelers could have made it closer but I guess I was wrong.. Manning didn't have to do anything in the 4th.. As I expected Manning had no problem with the Steeler pass D.. my surprise was Edge doing so well.. If this game was in Pitt it goes past the first min..

Edited for accuracy.

 

[Rainbow Randolph]

I like the Steelers, and I will ignore the point spread.  This is a money-line special all the way!  In fact, this is my favorite money-line play of the year.  Steelers on the road, Steelers on MNF, Cowher's record Vs. Dungy and Indy, etc.  31-13 will be my prediction.

Agreed. It looked good until the kickoff! Actually, I thought the Steelers hung in there just fine until the interception before halftime. It looked like they were taking control of the game. Colts got the INT and a FG to go up by 2 scores at the half. Once Cowher, the genius, came out with the onside kick, the game was over. I thought the Steelers D played well enough, considering the competition. Indy looked great, though. Maybe Manning will get it done this year. We'll see. Hey, you make bold predictions and you gotta stand by them. I still think a healthy, prepared Steelers team is just as good as the Colts, but it was hard to tell from that ####-pounding tonight.

 

[Marc Levin]

so what?

I was still correct with my prediction.  I also believe the Seahawks will beat the Colts in Seattle.

That wasn't the thesis of the bulk of your posts.

Umm - 10-7, then 13-7, then 16-7. All on stalled drives inside the red zone.That was EXACTLY the thesis of my posts.

 

[buckeye35]

I hope you're right about FWP. I'm playing for the division this week and we get double points for 50+ TDs. I've been waiting for Willie to give me one of those all year!

Knowing Frenchy and his record on predicting games this year, take Indy and the points. It's a lock.

I say, when it all washes out, the Colts win 34-20. Ben will be rusty. He might have a few big plays in him, but it won't be enough.

Maybe next time Frenchy. Better take care of the Bengals next week or you might be out of the wildcard race.

 

[pizzatyme]

That's a 100 for Edge.  Was there a single correct prediction in this thread?

also - lots of FGs in the red zone instead of passing TDs?I predicted Manning at 250 2/2 he's at 245 2/1

I thought the Steelers could have made it closer but I guess I was wrong.. Manning didn't have to do anything in the 4th.. As I expected Manning had no problem with the Steeler pass D.. my surprise was Edge doing so well.. If this game was in Pitt it goes past the first min..

Go Colts!

Edited for accuracy.