LIKE LOOKING IN THE MIRROR

This is the week I have been waiting for since day 1.  These two franchises have been tied together since the beginning of this league.  The two families have been close and are now actually related through marriage.  Both have always been class acts and have played the game in similar fashion.

The STEELERS (5-1) are #1 in defense in the league.  The GIANTS are #1 in defense in the NFC.

The Steelers have always been a run first team like the GIANTS.  More than ever, this game is about stopping the run and pressuring their QB, Big Ben Roethlisberger.  Big Ben is indeed big and strong and he takes a lot of hits and sacks.  He is the most sacked QB in the league.  This is not only attributable to the fact that he likes to hold the ball a long time, but to a rebuilding of the offensive line.  The Steelers lost 2 players to free agency and one to injury on the front line.  They have yet to play well as a unit and therefore give up many sacks.  This, of course, bodes well for our very active front four and linebackers also.  The GIANTS should have an advantage here and hold the #25 offense of the Steelers below their average of 21 points a game.

The GIANTS offense must step it back up this weekend.  Playing this defense, you must establish the run, complete quick short passes for first downs, and protect Eli long enough to exploit their secondary.  This team is built just like the GIANTS.  It all depends on pressure.

It seemed to me last week that Eli was forcing the offense through Plaxico.  I understand how big a weapon he can be, but I think that spreading the wealth and not worrying about how many catches he gets is imperative to a consistent and sustained offense.

Games like this usually come down to turnovers and special teams play.

Not an easy road game to say the least.

Pittsburgh favored by 2 1/2

Enjoy this one.  The match-up is one of the best in the league and one we don't get to see all that often.

BREAKING NEWS!!  PITTSBURGH STARTING WIDE RECEIVER SANTONIO HOLMES SUSPENDED BY TEAM FOR SUNDAY'S GAME.  HE WAS FOUND WITH MARIJUANA IN HIS VEHICLE DURING A TRAFFIC STOP.