Cowboys vs Steelers odds - ‘70s rivalry renewed
Posted on 12/2/2008 3:42:50 PM
By Stan Simmons
Cowboys vs Steelers odds: Dallas getting its mojo back
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WHO: Dallas Cowboys vs Pittsburgh Steelers (-3)
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WHAT: NFL football betting
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WHEN: Sunday, December 6th at 4:15 p.m. ET
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WHERE: Heinz Field in Pittsburgh, PA
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KEY STATS: Dallas is 13-5 SU in its last 18 games on the road
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PICK: Cowboys
Football historians have fond memories of the fierce Cowboys vs Steelers betting rivalry that existed during the 1970s. For nearly 10 years, these two teams were the cream of the crop in their respective conferences, with greats like Roger Staubach and Terry Bradshaw leading the way, respectively. More than 30 years later the feud still exists, and the Cowboys and Steelers find themselves at the forefront of the NFL once again.
Cowboys vs Steelers odds will undoubtedly be the hot topic within NFL betting circles this week. Not only are two of the league’s most storied franchises going head to head, but one of them—the Dallas Cowboys—is battling for a playoff spot as well.
This is a very familiar situation for the Steelers, who demolished the New England Patriots and NFL spreads last week, 33-10. The Pats are much like the Cowboys are right now—plenty of talent but shortchanged by early season controversy and injuries. However, the difference between New England and Dallas is a proven quarterback. Tony Romo is healthy and has been arguably the best pivot in the league over the past few weeks.
The Cowboys have a strong running game, featuring workhorse Marion Barber, to supplement the passing game. Simply put, Dallas can be a threat all over the field, as evidenced in its 34-6 feast on the Seattle Seahawks on Thanksgiving Day. Romo hooked up with tight end Jason Witten nine times, and six other receivers at least once.
While Pittsburgh’s defense is the best in the league, teams often shy away from the run and short yardage game, making things very easy on the Steel Curtain—simply lock up the secondary. That said, the Cowboys vs Steelers line favors the home team for a reason. Pittsburgh usurped the Cowboys last season as underdogs on NFL betting lines, when the Cowboys were arguably a better team. This season, the Steelers come in with a better record and home field advantage.
However, is home field truly an advantage for the Steelers on Sunday? Two of Pittsburgh’s three losses have come at home this season, while the Cowboys have been lassoing teams on the road at an alarming rate, posting a 13-5 record in their last 18 games away from home.
Tony Romo may very well be your NFL MVP this season. Consider where the Dallas Cowboys were without him in the lineup and where they at now. Romo provides a calming influence and a consistency on the offensive side of the ball that few teams are able to enjoy.
STAN’S PICK: With Romo behind center it makes it very difficult for sports bettors to lay their money against Dallas. While Pittsburgh’s struggles at home are more or less inexplicable, they are a cause for concern this week against a red-hot opponent. Three points isn’t enough to get any value on the Cowboys vs Steelers spread so, unless you’re playing a teaser, stick with the moneyline and bet on the Dallas Cowboys.
For insight into Cowboys vs Steelers odds and other NFL lines, bookmark the Betting Edge today.
Stan
Simmons first tasted football through the college game, but his football handicapping
has strictly focused on the professional sport. Not many people devote as much
time to the NFL as Simmons. For six days a week he works, labors and handicaps the
sport, and on the seventh he rests as the games play out. Thoughts or
questions? Email Comments@BetOnline.com.
