Any other time, Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger would be considered a major threat against this Jets defense. Even though Roethlisberger is capable of putting up big numbers through the air, his offensive line has not put much faith in anyone in Steeler Nation. Even with the change at left tackle, Pittsburgh will still be overwhelmed with New York’s defense that is fifth in the league in sacks.
Advantage: Jets
This past Monday night, the Jets swallowed up the running game of the Atlanta Falcons. Even with Steelers rookie running back Le’Veon Bell potentially breathing new life into Pittsburgh’s running game (which is dead last in the NFL), Gang Green’s second-ranked run defense should dominate without a problem.
Advantage: Jets
Although Jets rookie quarterback Geno Smith didn’t commit any turnovers last week, he still has thrown eight interceptions on the season so far. Pittsburgh’s fifth-ranked pass defense is one of the few bright spots for the Steelers this year. I would mark this as a big-time advantage for the black and gold if Pittsburgh had any takeaways this year. However, even after acknowledging that, I still will give them the very slight edge.
Advantage: Steelers
New York is averaging 122.0 yards on the ground, while Pittsburgh has surrendered over 100 yards to every team that they have face so far this season. The Jets have a running back by committee that seems to be working for them. The Steelers have yet to find a way to fix the holes in their 25th ranked run defense.
Advantage: Jets
Both the Jets’ kicking and punting games have been pretty consistent this year. Unfortunately, the same can’t be said for the Steelers. Kicker Shaun Suisham is perfect on the year, but punter Zoltan Mesko has failed to assist in trying to win the battle of field position so far this season.
Advantage: Jets
Jets head coach Rex Ryan has found ways to keep his defense as one of the best in the NFL despite losing arguably the best defensive player in the league in Darrelle Revis. Furthermore, he and the rest of his coaching staff has had success with a rookie quarterback. Steelers’ head coach Mike Tomlin has made some bold moves on Pittsburgh’s roster in efforts to turn things around, and is still trying to find a way to get things back on track.
Advantage: Jets
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