Hines Wards is out and his status is important for the Steeler passing game and Willie Parker’s running as Ward’s downfield blocking ability helps Parker run for big gains. Troy Polamalu is nursing an abdominal injury and his health is important for the Steelers defense. The Steelers aren’t healthy and are playing a Seahawk team that is 3rd in the NFC in defense and are giving up an average of 13 points per game. Pittsburgh offensive line had problems protecting Roethlisberger as he was sacked 4 times last week against Arizona. Seattle can get to the quarterback as they sacked 49’er quarterbacks 6 times last week. Seattle linebacker Julian Peterson has been played well this season and the Steelers need to block him. He had 3 of those sacks last week. Seattle quarterback Matt Hasselbeck has been effective with a passer rating of 100.1 and is completing 67% of his passes. Seattle is playing well on both sides of the ball and you are getting 6 so if the game lands 3 or 4 you win no matter who wins so give me the Seahawks +6 in a game that could be decided by a late field goal.
