So far in the playoffs, I have gone 6-4 in my predictions. I'm garunteed over 50% accuracy!
When Pittsburgh has the ball-
Pittsburgh has changed it up during the playoffs going directly to the pass to open up the run. This has given Pittsburgh success that's caught everybody off gaurd. Still it's not Cower's style and I think that Pittsburgh will run the ball more during the first half than they have the last three games. Still, I don't expect the Steelers will get too far from success and expect more passes than runs during the first half.
Seattle will be prepared for a Steeler team that tries to open up the run with the pass. Seattle should focus on the pass but the key here is going to be on the front four. If Seattle's front four will have to get pressure on big Ben and close the gaps along the line. Seattle also can't get so caught up in defending the pass that they ignore the run, which is my biggest concern for this Seahawk defense.
Seattle has got to force some three and outs against the Steelers. Denver put the Steelers in third and long all day, but Pittsburgh was able to convert. Seattle has to get their defense off the field in those situations. If not, Pittsburgh's offense will get hot.
When Seattle has the ball-
Offensively the Hawks are going to have to get Alexander's legs moving. Run some sweeps to Joey Porter's side early and often. Keep Porter guessing and wear him out. Second, Seattle can not get caught up in second, third and longs. They have to pick up four or five yards consistently on first down. I expect to see Seattle passing on first down during their first three series.
Play action pass early in the first quarter is probably a good idea. Penalties, Seahawks have to avoid offensive penalties throughout this game. Holding is fine but no false starts. False starts will stall this team against the Steelers.
Stop Sean Alexander. Steelers will spend a lot of capital into stopping the Seahawk run game and will take the chance at forcing the birds to beat them through the air. Pressure Hasselback! Send in early blitzes to get Hasselbacks uniform dirty. If they can do that, they can force Seattle to get to the run earlier.
Over all, I think both these teams are very evenly matched. This could be one of the best superbowls ever and that's exactly what I am going to predict.
Now that I have my winning percentage secured, it doesn't matter if I'm wrong or right. Because everybody is sucking up to Pittsburgh Steelers, I'm going to go against the grain and pick da Seaburdz.
AV~Picks: Seaburdz 27 Pittsburgh 24 (OT)