Column: These three must step up for Steelers

Good analysis, DK.
Looking for a great game and enjoying the ride!

Steelers typically start slowly against the Ravens. Looking for a big second half and a motivated 43.

Looking for a good game tonight, hopefully they can win without Bell? How much playing time do you think the new guy Tate will play?

At the beginning of the year the team was inconsistant. Now they are consistant and the Ravens are the inconsistant team. Locals should win.

Saw that Torrey Smith was whining about the field surface at Heinz. If you're worrying about that sort of thing, the other team (us) has an edge already. The bad weather really would have favored Bell; that part is unfortunate.

Agree 100% with DK.Line play and keeping both Harris and Roethlisberger comfortable is vital..I'll add to his list 3 of my own. Ben Roethlisberger, The masked man, Josh Harris and Shawn Suisham. The first two cannot turn the ball over and the money man has to put the ball through the uprights when the opportunity presents itself. An 80% chance of rain at game time makes turnovers and field goals crucial. Nail bitter tonight folks!

Steelers need to keep it simple. I believe that, after a period of adjustment, the offense will take care of business and carry the team to Denver. Will be cheering the team on from Murrells Inlet, SC. HERE WE GO!

Good points DK. I would add Tuitt at the top of the list, who needs to hold his own against Marshall Yanda moving to right tackle if they are to stop Forsett. Most likely scenario I see for a Steelers loss, is if the ravens establish the outside zone and and have a big advantage in time of possession. If Tuitt and co can minimize Forsett and get them into 3rd and long situations consistently, then Harrison can tee off on an unproven left tackle.

DK, i will bet you right now that Flacco throws at least 3 40 yd+ passes looking for a great catch or DPI. The Ratbird offense depends on those bombs.

With the rain I see this as a 14-10 game. When it's that close special teams make a difference. I'm worried about Wing burping up one of his 29 yard punts at the worst time. And do NOT kick to Jacoby Jones.

thank you dk for the insightful analysis.

I hope they can do it, but I'm not holding my breath with this team. Too many inconsistencies & brain farts at crucial times can do them in.

I envision heavy use of a short, controlled passing game - yes, complete with many side screens - in an attempt to take the place of the running game they feel is out with a hyper-extended knee. I also think they are terrified of the Ravens pass rush with no Bell as a blocking back. I'm with DK that they should put this fear to the side and take some shots downfield. I just don't think they'll do that. I think they'll be playing for a 13-10 or 16-13 win, and that is a dangerous game. They have more offensive weapons than Baltimore and a better QB. Open it up!

These articles are unparalleled in terms of access, and the incorporation of video to illustrate the points being made and let us get to know the players is very effective. This site is just miles and miles ahead of any other news outlet in the area.

Excellent analysis, DK, but I smell a blowout: Steelers 31-6.

Hope it doesn't look like this...
http://usatoday30.usatoday.com/sports/football/nfl/2007-11-26-steelers-dolphins_N.htm
The same result would be ok though

Terrific column, DK! Feel like I'm inside the locker room.

Stop the run and no big plays = Steelers win.

Marcus Gilbert needs to step up also.

Dri Archer does not deserve a helmet, he shows nothing.

Ike Taylot better not start, if so, they will lose. He is at best 4th best corner on active roster.

If Troy gets beat deep, he had his chance. This is one and done.

Owen Daniels, killed them, cannot have him catching passes uncontested, with two rookies on the line, LeBeau needs to make him stay in and block.

Steelers can win, but the coaching staff is on full display today, their decisions on starters and activations, along with hesitation to pull ineffective players will be huge.

If Jacoby Jones breaks free, I do hope Tomlin tackles him because it is inexcuseable for this special teams to cost us again.

Dont forget, the game is expected to be played in monsoon conditions. That will hamper the passing game.
The team that rushes the best, and turns it over the least will win.