MONDAY NIGHT MATCH UP FAVORS STEELERS

When the NFL schedule was announced, it looked like a prime Monday night NFL match up, Baltimore at Pittsburgh. But, don’t hold your breath.

The once proud Ravens seem to be a team that is spinning in the wrong direction. They have gotten pretty old at some key positions. And some of the team’s leaders are also showing some age. It’s a long, tough physical season and things may get worse before they get better.

Pittsburgh got off to a good start, but they are also showing some chinks in their armor. First year head coach, Mike Tomlin has been a breath of fresh air for the Steelers players. Most consider him much looser and more relaxed than the uptight Bill Cowher. Early season reviews have been good on Tomlin and expectations about his future are high.

But there’s still a learning curve. Veteran head coach Tony Dungy has said on Sports Spectrum that he is a much better coach now than when he first became the head coach at Tampa Bay. Tomlin will improve as well.

While the Steelers don’t appear to be near the class of the Patriots and the Colts there’s still a lot to like about this team. They’re the best team in their division and could be a spoiler in the playoffs. They get a great deal of mileage out of their running back, especially when you consider the fact that all of their backs were undrafted free agents.

The pick for tonight’s game is Pittsburgh 24 Baltimore 13.

Frank Giardina