Game Preview
Antonio D'Arcangelis
Predicted Score: Steelers 23, Jags 20
Pittsburgh: The Steelers have looked their most impressive and dominant against teams with bumbling offenses, because when they force turnovers and work with a short field, Ben Roethlisberger is quite dangerous. But the Steelers offensive line has a hard time mounting long, sustained drives now - its makeup just isn't what it was a few years ago. Don't expect huge numbers from any of the Steelers starters this week, but you have to play the guys that have gotten you this far.
- Start: QB Ben Roethlisberger, RB Willie Parker, WR Hines Ward, WR Santonio Holmes
- Consider: Steelers D/ST, TE Heath Miller, K Jeff Reed
- Sit: WR Nate Washington
Jacksonville: The Jaguars can knock off the Steelers if they can cut down on giveaways and contain the pressure from the Steelers front seven, which is now without studly end Aaron Smith. I like the two-pronged running attack, but this could be one of those rare occasions where neither back gets starter-worthy numbers. While I'd stay away from the backs, I like Marcedes Lewis and Reggie Williams, who've both shown to be reliable targets for David Garrard - especially Williams in the red zone.
- Start: TE Marcedes Lewis, WR Reggie Williams
- Consider: QB David Garrard, RB Fred Taylor, RB Maurice Jones-Drew, Jaguars D/ST
- Sit: WR Dennis Northcutt, WR Ernest Wilford