my take on the game.
Coaching: Even. Although I wouldn't be surprised if there was a slight edge for the Cardinals, based on learning the system in and out in their years in Pittsburgh. Unfortunately, I think that the schemes don't matter nearly as much as execution, so it won't be that big of an advantage.
Quarterbacks: Cardinals. I know Warner has had some stinker games, but the three things going for the Cardinals are:
1- Their QB system is built on putting up numbers, which should lead to touchdowns. If Pittsburgh does get a lead, the Cardinals can come back very quickly. (Big Ben's strength, on the other hand, is never quitting... plays can break down and he is a playground Quarterback. If it is a low scoring game, it really helps the Steelers)
2- Warner has been a stud in the playoffs. He is clutch in big games, the anti-Manning in a way, and he has done it in some really big games in the playoffs.
3- Depth. If something happens to Warner (And I could see it happening), Leinart can step in and be pretty good too. If Big Ben gets injured, and he is already hurting quite a bit, I don't think Leftwich is quite the same.
Running Backs: Even. I say this because while I know Parker is faster than Edge, I don't expect either team to be successful rushing the ball. Everyone who is discounting the Cardinals needs to look at what they did the past three weeks...
Michael Turner was a stud during the regular season. They kept him to 42 yards, on 18 carries. Atlanta was #2 in yards during the regular season. Meanwhile, Arizona was 32nd in the regular season in rushing, averaging 3.5 yards per carry, and they got 4.4.
Carolina was 2nd in rushing, 3rd in average... they kept CAR to 75 yards. ARI rushed for 133 yards... controlling the clock, which lowered the average back down to around 3.5 yards per carry.
Philly was held to 66 yards (by running backs) and Arizona had 106 yards averaging 4 yards per carry.
Meanwhile, the Steelers were 29th in average and 23rd in rushing yards during the regular season. I can see Arizona shutting Parker down.
Wide Receivers: Huge edge for Arizona.
Offensive line: Edge for Arizona. This could easily be offset by Pittsburgh's amazing defense, but I have heard a lot of bad things about the Steelers O-line, and less about Arizona's. Not saying they are amazing, but Big Ben is the only saving grace for the Steelers.
Tight End: I don't know. Edge for Steelers? I like Miller, don't know anything about ARI's.
Defense: I'll just say its an edge for the Steelers. Huge edge.
I think It comes down to whether the Steelers D shut the Cardinals down, or not? If not, then I think they win
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