The Indianapolis Colts (4-4) take on the Pittsburgh Steelers (6-2) today at Heinz Field. The last meeting between these two teams was the divisional playoff game Jan. 15, 2006, in which the Steelers won 21-18, and then went on to win the Super Bowl versus the Seahawks. The Colts have not won in Pittsburgh since 1968.
Pittsburgh enters this weekend ranked No. 1 in NFL total defense (234.1 yards per game), passing defense (164 yards per game), sacks (32) and touchdowns allowed (10), and look to continue that dominance. A major part of the offensive effort for the Colts quarterback Peyton Manning has been sacked only nine times this year. The Steelers secondary will be tested by wide receivers, Marvin Harrison, Reggie Wayne and Anthony Gonzalez. The Colts also feature one of the leagues best tight ends in Dallas Clark. The Steelers must get to Manning and force errant throws or turnovers.
On offense the Steelers will undoubtedly look to establish the run against a soft Indianapolis run defense. Backu p running back Mewelde Moore will likey sub once again for injured starter Willie Parker, who is doubtful with a shoulder injury. The Colts are ranked 25th in the league versus the run. Wideouts Hines Ward, Santonio Holmes and Nate Washington look to pick up more slack in the passing game with starting tight end Heath Miller sidelined with an ankle injury. Matt Spaeth will probably take his place in the lineup, but mostly be used in the blocking game. The Steelers have allowed 29 sacks on the year, and must protect quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, who looks to start after missing the second half of Monday night\’s win versus the Redsking with an injured right shoulder. The Indianapolis Colts pass rush has generated only 10 sacks on the year will look to bring pressure against the struggling Pittsburgh offensive line.
The Steelers match up well in all aspects of this game, but can not let Manning have a chance late to pull this one out. The Steelers should be able to move the ball at will on offense and must limit the penalties and turnovers.
Steelers 31 Colts 20
