Titans vs. Steelers: 6 Questions with Nice Pick, Cowher Co-Editor Dominic di Tolla

Joshua: As of Sep. 4, the Titans are 7-point underdogs. What is your prediction for the outcome of this matchup? Do you see the Steelers finishing any higher than third in the AFC North?

December 30, 2012; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Antonio Brown (84) runs in the end zone after a pass reception for a touchdown against the Cleveland Browns during the third quarter at Heinz Field. The Pittsburgh Steelers won 24-10. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

di Tolla: Seven points is entirely too high.  Moreover, I would put a large amount of money on Tennessee to cover the spread if I was a betting man.  Mike Tomlin’s teams have historically “played up & down” to their level of competition during his tenure. Thus, this game will be closer than most think, especially if Pittsburgh’s struggles in the red zone continue.  I think that the Steelers will still win, but not by a margin of seven.  I think a 23-21 score is something that we will likely see as opposed to any sort of blowout by the home team.

Personally, it would take a miracle for the Steelers to finish above third place in the AFC North.  In fact, it will take a strong effort this fall for them to keep the improved Browns at bay.  Unless injuries cripple Baltimore or “Ginger Spice” absolutely implodes in spite of the weapons around him in Cincinnati, Pittsburgh will be fighting all season to stay out of the basement due to their issues at running back, inexperience along their offensive line, and their lack of depth at the cornerback position.