Regular Season Record: 11-5
All-Time Playoff Record: 27-19
Previous Playoff Results: Click Here
All-Time Playoff Record: 27-19
Previous Playoff Results: Click Here
Strengths
The Pittsburgh Steelers are a team that relies heavily on a strong running game and a tough defense, but don't underestimate their ability to move the ball through the air. Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger has an impressive record as a starter, and the fact that he doesn't rack up a lot of passing yards is more a result of the Steelers' commitment to the run than any shortcomings he might have.
Their running game is fueled by a balanced attack by bruising running back Jerome Bettis, who most likely is playing in the final game of his career, and speedster Willie Parker. Both backs benefit from a solid blocking line, especially the left side with tackle Marvel Smith and guard Allen Faneca opening holes.
Defensively, the Steelers love to bring blitzes from different areas of the field to keep the opposing offensive line and quarterback guessing. Strong safety Troy Polamalu is a one-man wrecking crew that offenses must account for on every play. The Steelers have an adequate secondary, but the relentlessness of the front seven generally masks any deficiencies in the pass defense.
Steelers' Keys to Victory:
- Pound the rock... Seattle's front seven doesn't possess a lot of size, and Jerome Bettis, who still runs with a lot of power even at this late stage of his career, should be able to wear them down.
- Attack with the tight end... The Steelers have had early success throwing medium-to-deep passes down the middle to rookie tight end Heath Miller because defenses are stacking the box against the run. Roethlisberger should be looking for Miller again on play-action early in the game to loosen up the Seahawks defense and keep the Seahawks on their heels.
- Blitz, blitz, blitz... The Steelers are the best blitzing team in the league, and Seattle quarterback Matt Hasselbeck is likely to get a big dose of safety Troy Polamalu and linebacker Joey Porter. The Steelers must continue to get big pressure on the QB, as they have throughout the postseason. The Seahawks have good balance on offense, so they'll have to pick and choose their spots, but they must keep Hasselbeck uncomfortable in the pocket.
