TITANS VS STEELERS SHOWDOWN
Tonight marks the opening night of the NFL 2009-2010 regular season and no team is more ready for its journey down the road to reclaim Super Bowl glory than the Pittsburgh Steelers. In a match pitting them against the team with the most wins last season, the Tennessee Titans, , fantasy team owners and fans alike will be marking their score cards on Big Ben and company’s performance on the field. Although this is only Week 1, this game is an epic matchup for a couple of reasons.
1.) Titans LT Michael Roos vs Steelers OLB James Harrison – Both players are Pro Bowlers that were selected for the 2008 All Team. Look for them to blaze the field in their own right. Considered as one of the best in the league at his position, Roos is quick and light on his feet. Harrison is as synonymous with defense as Chad OchoCinco is with Twitter rants. The 2008 Defensive Player of the Year had 16 sacks last season and is a threat on being able to recognize plays.
2.) Chris Johnson Runs This Town – Key to beating the Super Bowl champions will be the running game. While the Steelers dominated the passing game (206.3 yards), the Titans have the upper hand in the rushing game (137.4 yards).Chris Johnson is entering his second year and is expected to get a lot of yards and carries. As a backup to Lendale White, he will explode on the field this season.
3.) Big Ben Pressure Cooker – Despite being sacked 5 times in their last meeting, Ben Roethlisberger certainly knows how to extend play for the Steelers’ receivers. With the loss of Albert Haynesworth, Titans defense will have to step up coverage to pressure Roethslisberger out of his comfort zone and run the ball.
4.) Offense and Defense Dynamic Duo – The Steelers may have the best the #1defense in the league however the Tennessee Titans have the best combination of offense and defense in the NFL. Steelers defense will keep it close but they will find it tough running the ball on the Titans who have tightened up their offense by bringing in an assortment of weapons known as
5.) Home field advantage – The home team has won six out of seven times since the NFL started the season on Thursday nights. The Steelers have not lost a season opener since 2002 and currently hold the record for most wins over the Titans 41-30 including postseason games however the Titans currently hold the winning streak over the Steelers 4 out of 5 times.
6.) Mike Tomlin – No further explanation necessary for one of the most prolific coaches in the NFL
After Lendale White and Keith Bullock had stomp fest on the Terrible Towel, Steeler fans have been looking for revenge ever since. Tonight they could very well have their chance at redemption.
Winner : Steelers
