Dr. Z's Forecast

I just can't shake the idea that the Steelers are heading for a blue period. Against Denver on Sunday, I saw them outhustled and outhit by a team that had earned a reputation for softness. Pittsburgh got its yards through finesse or by Big Ben dodging a rush and finding something in the midst of confusion. I didn't see the hard, honest gains that were once the team's trademark. Worst of all, I saw a defense that used to have fairly tight control allow Denver to drive for the winning field goal in the last 1:10, which is usually an indication of a sagging pass rush.

Now, if you could choose a team against whom the Steelers might regain their composure, the Bengals would be close to ideal: a bit disorganized, certainly not as physical as Pittsburgh . So I'm having trouble figuring out why I'm leaning toward Cincy as my upset special. Maybe it's because the spread is so tiny, especially with the game in Cincinnati , a place that's been friendly to the Steelers . They've won their last six there. Maybe it's because I don't really trust the Pittsburgh secondary or pass rush. Maybe it's because I can see Carson Palmer (right) putting up big numbers that the Steelers will fail to match. Cincy is my upset pick.

I can't find any more upsets. As of Monday it wasn't clear who'd be the Jets ' QB, but a move to Kellen Clemens would stir things up enough to give the Jets a win over Buffalo . The game might be anticlimactic after Indy on Monday night, but I think the Jaguars will have enough left to beat the Bucs . The Saints will feast on a struggling 49ers O-line, and Chicago gets revenge against Detroit . The Eagles bounce back and win one in Minnesota . I like Cleveland , even on the road, better than St. Louis . In the Monday-nighter, if the Broncos show anything near the emotion that carried them past Pittsburgh , they will beat Green Bay .

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Season 35--20