If the Pittsburgh Steelers want to ensure that they are the AFC North Champions this year, they need to start by playing to their strengths against the Carolina Panthers.
The Carolina Panthers can run the football. Jonathan Stewart has rushed for 460 yards in the last four games. However, not team is more suited to stop the run than the Pittsburgh Steelers. After giving up over 100 rushing yards against the Jets, the Steelers run defense should be fired up and ready to hold Jonathan Stewart in check.
Pittsburgh's passing defense hasn't been as dominant this season as its rushing defense. But fortunately for the Steelers, Jimmy Clausen hasn't shown much proficiency as a passer. His passer rating is only 59.1 and he has two touchdowns to his seven interceptions. If the Steelers stop the run, Carolina will struggle to move the ball through the air.
James Harrison and LaMarr Woodley need to get after Clausen. This could be a big game for them. As bad as the Steelers' offensive line has performed this season, Carolina's is worse. he Panthers' line has given up 43 sacks and allowed 84 quarterback hits. If ever there was a time for Dick Lebeau to unleash the dogs on an opposing quarterback, this is it.
Defensively, Carolina is one of the worst teams in the NFL at defending the run. They allow an average of over 120 yards a game. Pittsburgh needs to give Mendenhall the ball early and often. Not only will this allow the Steelers to sustain drives, but it will set-up play action passing for Roethlisberger and keep the pass rush off of his back.
This is a game that the Steelers should win. Pittsburgh has done a good job of winning against the teams that they should beat. They need to continue that trend in order to take a step closer to a first round bye in the playoffs.
Brooke Burns Busy Philipps Cameron Diaz Cameron Richardson Camilla Belle
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