I still believe this is going to be a physical, all out battle. That's just the way it is when these 2 teams play. Both sides have added firepower in the passing game which will allow each more opportunities for big plays on offense. Still though the team that can out physical the other will prevail.
Running Game: Neither team will reach 100 yds on the ground, it just doesn't happen very often. The front 7 of each is as formidable as ever and neither side will want to give up the ground game. Ray Rice can break one at any time; he's a compact, powerful runner who is good in the passing game as well. It's imperative that the Steelers stop the run because if Rice gets loose it will be that much harder to get a win on the road. - Advantage: Equal
Passing Game: This one clearly goes to the Steelers. With all the weapons Arians has to use, failure to move the ball is not an option here. The offensive line is the key, if they can afford Ben adequate protection there is no way the Ravens can keep up on offense. The big play ability of so many targets can be a dagger and allow the Steelers to take the crowd out of it early if they can hit a few. Joe Flacco does have Bouldin and Lee to throw too, both very good targets that can exploit the Steelers secondary if Lebeau isn't careful. Advantage: Steelers
Run Defense: Both of the front 7's of the Steelers and Ravens are formidable and can certainly generate a pass rush and stop the run. Neither side will normally give up much on the ground. If Mendenhall can get 70 yds on the ground it would not so easy feat to accomplish. The Steelers will need to contain Rice at all costs, and be careful of Vonta Leach, one of the most fearless blockers in the league. The Ravens are not afraid to try and run on the Steelers and they will certainly test these waters early and often. Advantage: Equal
Pass Defense: Neither side has significantly upgraded their secondary. Both sides have veterans but a lot of young talent that has potential, but is still unproven. The cornerbacks in particular have been an achilles heal of both teams in recent years. This will be a big part of the game on Sunday. The Steelers have a healthy Troy Polamalu back and Ike Taylor will be playing, probably still in a cast but that is still unknown for sure. Either way the talent at WR on both sides will prove to be a tough act to keep up with for the secondaries. Advantage: Slightly in favor of the Steelers due to the lack of established weapons in the passing game for the Ravens.
Special Teams: A big play by either side could be the difference in the game. The Steelers coverage units absolutely cannot allow a return for TD or a long return late in the game. Danny Sepulveda must punt it deep and allow the coverage guys time to get down and make the play. Short punts can be disastrous. Suisham will have his chances, both kickers will, so he will need to convert every field goal every time, no exceptions. Advantage: Slightly Ravens, being on their home turf with the crowd noise on a big FG attempt can make a difference.
Overall I like the Steelers to win this game, they can certainly do it, but it's a test of epic proportions certainly and one that they must pass to start off the season on a high note and take an immediate advantage in the division.
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Originally Posted by Speeed
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