The 35-7 loss last sunday to the Ravens was the worst feeling I have had while watching a Steelers game since the 2004 AFC Championship game against the Patriots. Terrible offensively. Terrible defensively. It's that simple. This whole week you have heard nothing but criticism about Ben Roethlisberger's performance. Now although he has seen better days than that one, the game shouldn't necessarily be on him. I am confident that he will bounce back tomorrow against the questionable Seahawks secondary. This game could potentially be a way for the Steelers to release their frustration from last week.
I think it's safe to say that Earl Thomas is certainly an up and coming player. He had five interceptions last season as a rookie who started in all 16 games at free safety for the Seahawks. That being said, the remainder of Seattle's secondary doesn't bring much to the table. Cornerback Marcus Trufant has always been overrated in my opinion. I personally have always remembered him as the guy who Hines Ward tore up in Super Bowl 40; but that's just me. On the other side, there's Brandon Browner. (Yes, I don't know who he is either) According to NFL.com, he was on the Denver Broncos roster for the 2005 season, but did not appear in a single game. After a six-year drought, the 6'4, 221 pound Browner is back and now starting for the Seahawks. This week he will face Mike Wallace. Best of luck to him.
Offensively, the Seahawks will start Tarvaris Jackson at quarterback. Critics have certainly questioned his ability throughout the years, but he actually played a pretty impressive game last week in the 33-17 loss to the 49ers. Still, I don't see him being much of a factor in tomorrow's game.
For the Steelers defense, the pass rush needs to improve. The 2010 sack leaders had just one last week (Woodley). Whether or not it was the blitzing scheme, or just poor effort, Flacco had way too much time in the pocket. Adjustments will certainly need to be made.
Prediction-
Steelers 34
Seahawks 10
written by Alex Muchnok
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