Philadelphia at Pittsburgh

The best matchup of the season so far. The surprising Steelers at 6-1 vs. the undefeated Eagles. If you're not a believer in Ben Roethlisberger and the Pittsburgh Steelers after their manhandling of the Patriots last week, check your pulse. Don't underestimate the meaning of last week's game. Pittsburgh absolutely crushed a team that had won 21 straight games. Bill Belichick is known for confusing opposing quarterbacks. Roethlisberger wasn't confused in the least bit. If you told me at the beginning of the season that a rookie QB would be facing the Philadelphia Eagles defense, I'd have told you I fear for his life. But not now. Big Ben hasn't been rattled yet. This should be a close hard fought battle but there are a few edges for the Steelers. First off they are at home. I know, Philly's not far from Pitt but there's nothing like playing on your home turf. Also, the Eagles will probably be without running back Brian Westbrook again. Losing your leading rusher is not a good thing. In close games, it often comes down to who's got more blood on their jerseys at the end of the game. Philadelphia has had a pretty easy ride this year, winning games by huge margins. This one should be a tougher fight. And, Pittsburgh is more of a smash-mouth, tough football team. Philly's more finesse. I expect Pittsburgh to run it down Philly's throat. The Eagles are second-last in the league in rushing yards allowed per carry. Philadelphia's got a bend-but-don't break defense. They allow a lot of yards between the 20's but keep opposing teams out of the end zone. But get this: Pittsburgh's got the best red zone offense in the league. They punch it into the end zone 76% of the time and score 9 out of 10 times inside the zone. Philly suffers their first loss of the season on Sunday. Bet 220 to win 200 on the Steelers.