Steelers’ line play will determine Super Bowl XLIII’s outcome

Steelers vs Cardinals odds are the talk of the sports world right now, as Super Bowl betting seems to be the only subject on anyone’s mind these days—and the Betting Edge is no different. Over the next two days we’ll breakdown both contestants and examine all aspects of the teams as we break down the epic Steelers vs Cardinals line. Today’s focus is the Pittsburgh Steelers.

OFFENSE

One of the reasons the Steelers vs Cardinals betting matchup is actually happening is that both teams are sound on offense and are structured around good offensive lines.

The Steelers offensive line was a question mark heading into the season but has improved as the season has progressed. Considering they lost guard Alan Faneca last offseason and center Jeff Hartings before that, it’s understandable that some rebuilding was needed.

With Ben Roethlisberger in the pocket – or out of it – the Steelers have been a much more explosive offense than in years past. Previously, they used to rely on the running game and time of possession. Now the Steelers have more speed at the running back position with Willie Parker and Mewelde Moore, and have more explosiveness in the passing game with the addition of Santonio Holmes.

This Steelers vs Cardinals spread favors the Steelers since the Cardinals don’t pressure the quarterback much. If Roethlisberger has time to throw, the Steelers will be able to match point-for-point in a shootout or dominate time of possession if necessary.

DEFENSE

The Steelers defense is one of the reasons why Steelers vs Cardinals betting has been one-sided.

From the defensive line all the way back to the secondary, few units are as physical as the Steelers. With Casey Hampton attracting double teams in the middle of the defensive line, linebackers James Harrison and LaMarr Woodley feast on opposing quarterbacks as evidenced by their 27.5 combined sacks.

While the Steelers finished with 51 sacks, second-most in the NFL, they were just as stifling against the run. The Steelers rush defense ranked second in the NFL, allowing just 80.2 yards per game on the ground and allowed the fewest runs of 20 yards or longer.

Steelers vs Cardinals is going to be the classic offense versus defense tilt, but the Steelers defense will likely win if it can dominate the line of scrimmage like they have all season long.

SPECIAL TEAMS

If Super Bowl XLIII odds come down to special teams, the Pittsburgh Steelers are as reliable as it gets. Placekicker Jeff Reed is a solid blue collar kicker. He made all of his attempts within 30 yards and made nine-of-11 attempts beyond 40. Daniel Sepulveda is also reliable, averaging 42.4 yards on his punts.

As far as returns go, the Steelers did not allow a punt or kickoff return for a touchdown all season.

Who will win the super bowl? Keep your eyes on the BetOnline.com Betting Edge as we provide a new Super Bowl preview article each and every weekday all the way up until the kickoff of Super Bowl XLIII.

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.