It’s a critical week for the Steelers, as they are in a dangerous spot of falling to 6-4 or getting to 7-3 if they can get past the Raiders, a team that suddenly looks like they know what they are doing. Here’s our keys and final prediction, one that fans may not be too happy about when they read it.
1. Pressure Jason Campbell – The Raiders have had success the past few weeks throwing the ball, and that’s due to the fact that their O-line has done a nice job keeping him upright. The Steelers pass D the past few weeks has been terrible, allowing 272.6 passing yards per game since Oct. 17, sixth most in the league. It sure would be nice to see James Harrisona and LaMarr Woodely get to Campbell with some pressure to force some poor throws.
2. Get some early momentum – Last week the Steelers were out of sync from the opening kickoff, and it showed in their opening possession – a three and out, while the Pats marched right down the field and scored. There’s no doubt the Steelers thrive on emotion, and there’s no better way to get the crowd in the game and get off to a fast start with either positive plays on offense or making an early stop or two on defense. Ben Roethlsiberger needs to be the guy to take charge on the offense and make plays.
3. Make plays when they are available – Last week it was frustarting to watch more than one player drop a pass that could have turned the momentum of the game vs the Pats. The Steelers need to get back to having good hands, and when the chance is there to make a play, they have to do it. The Raiders defense has been stingy over the last few weeks of their win streak, and when there’s chances to make catches, the Steelers have to do it.
Prediction – After how things fell apart in the fourth quarter in Cincy and for all four quarters last week, the Steelers are officially in trouble. They are still banged up, and the Raiders, a team that came to Pittsburgh and won last year, are smelling blood. The Steelers have to dig down deep, but I have a very uneasy feeling that the collapse of 09 is hanging around, and we could be on the verge of much of the same in 2010. Oakland 27 Steelers 21
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mike
November 20, 2010 at 9:04 pm
I hate to say but i agree. This offense is atrocious and has a terrible approach. The injuries are not an excuse but they are a factor. we are a finesse running team and that simply will not get the job done. I hope they come out with a chip on their shoulder but i am thinking the raiders are going to own the stillers tomorrow: 23-13 Raiders….
Thor Muntz
November 20, 2010 at 10:42 pm
I too have an uneasy feeling that history is repeating itself once again. From what I have seen the league has figured out how to block my beloved Steeler zone blitz. But worries me even more is the inability to consistently run the ball effectively. Meaning in crucial situations its just not there. I do understand that the O line is in shambles. Hopefully tomorrow will be different. I’m also concerned the lack of offensive adjustments during the heat of battle. Why don’t we have 1 and 2 step drops to combat the blitz. Quick releases are effective against us. You can’t say that opposing defenses are better than ours. We all know they are not. Lastly why doesn’t a more powerful runner like Isaac Redman see more carries. He can pound opposing defenses with his grit and relentless power. I’m really confused why they keep’em if they are not gonna use him! STEELER NATiON love to all of you!
Gerald
November 21, 2010 at 8:18 am
Ok guys let’s not give up on them so easy. They played a pissed off Tom Brady who had something to prove. They were woke up by the Browns. We will see how much heart the Steelers have today.
George H
November 21, 2010 at 10:27 am
Good look Gerald… Idk if you saw my post on a past thread a few days back but I said about the same thing. Hard to play against Brees and Brady… even harder to play against a determined Brees and Brady. Lets see if Ben can match that same fire that those other qbs played with after being embarrassed.
Gerald
November 21, 2010 at 12:42 pm
I believe we saw that fire in the 4th Qtr. It’s the defense all of the time we live and die with them. We need to get a solid run game back in Pittsburgh.
George H
November 21, 2010 at 10:27 am
Game Day!!! woooooo
DrGeorge
November 21, 2010 at 12:52 pm
If fans see the problems, the coaches see them too. Notwithstanding all the offensive woes and Ben’s poor performance last Sunday, the Steelers playoff hopes hinge on the defense. The secondary is vulnerable to the pass in the midrange and flat, even when using the zone; the D-line is vulnerable to the run without Smith and Keisel; we still have trouble holding a lead in the 4th Qtr. Today, we’ll find out what adjustments LeBeau has made and whether we have the talent to execute the plan. This is a tipping point game for this season — win or lose — for coaches, players, and fans.
Mike
November 21, 2010 at 1:18 pm
First possession is microcosim of this offense. No attention to detail and unprepared.
Mike
November 21, 2010 at 1:19 pm
Gadgets? We are in trouble.
Mike
November 21, 2010 at 1:20 pm
Another 3 and out. Pathetic.
Mike
November 21, 2010 at 1:27 pm
Helmet to ribcage is now a penalty. Plus they won’t let Clark back in the game now. We are toast.
Mike
November 21, 2010 at 1:40 pm
Spaeth is an abortion in cleats.
Mike
November 21, 2010 at 2:32 pm
I was not expecting this. I was wrong.
Gerald
November 21, 2010 at 9:07 pm
OK why are the Refs trying to use the Steelers as an example?
We cannot be successful if we have to play the Officials in every game. Steelers are definitely a target.