Pittsburgh Steelers 2010 Season Predictions

Pittsburgh Steelers 2010 Season Predictions

The Pittsburgh Steelers have a tough challenge ahead of them for the 2010 season. They have to find a way to manage the first four games of the season without starting quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, who was suspended for legal issues. At the same time the Steelers are trying to bounce back from a disappointing 2009 season where they failed to defend their Super Bowl title by not even making the playoffs. Here is a look at what the Steelers bring to the table for the 2010 season, plus my prediction on where they finish the year in the AFC North.

Offense: The Steelers added veteran quarterback Byron Leftwich this offseason and he figures to battle it out with Dennis Dixon for the starting job until Roethlisberger gets back. If either of these guys gets the team off to a good start, it will be interesting to see if they immediately plug Roethlisberger back into the starting lineup.

Look for a monster season from running back Rashard Mendenhall, as he will get the majority of the carries this season with the team letting Willie Parker go. Mewelde Moore and rookie Jonathan Dwyer will compete for carries as the backup.

The Steelers decided to trade away Santonio Holmes to the Jets, after Holmes got into some trouble himself. Look for second year pro Mike Wallace to take over for Holmes, while veteran Hines Ward remains the go to guy out of the slot position. The Steelers also went out and signed Arnaz Battle and former Steeler Antwaan Randle El.

The offensive line wasn't all that good in 2009, but the hope is first round pick Maurkice Pouncey can change that around. Pouncey is best suited to play center in the NFL, but will likely spend the season at right guard while Justin Hartwig holds down the position. The Steelers decided to stick with Max Starks at left tackle, even though he is better suited at the right tackle spot. For now Willie Colon holds down the right tackle spot, and has really turned into a solid player for the Steelers.

Defense: The Steelers were able to lock up nose tackle Casey Hampton with a new deal, and even at the age of 33 he is one of the best at what he does. Defensive ends Aaron Smith and Brett Keisel are also getting up there in age, and Smith was only able to play five games last season. Keep an eye out for second year end Ziggy Hood to make a bigger impact this season.

At linebacker the Steelers have two of the best outside linebackers in the league in James Harrison and LaMarr Woodley, but there are some concerns in the middle. The Steelers brought back Larry Foote after he spent one season in Detroit, and he figures to compete for a starting job with Lawrence Timmons and James Farrior.

The key to the Steelers defense is safety Troy Polamalu, who turns a really good defense into a great defense when he is on the field. The problem is Polamalu has had some trouble staying healthy, and played just five games last season. The Steelers re-signed safety Ryan Clark who gives the Steelers a dangerous duo when he and Polamalu or on the field. At corner the Steelers welcome back Bryant McFadden, who should end up starting opposite of Ike Taylor, but could get some competition from youngsters Keenan Lewis and Joe Burnett.

Prediction - 3rd AFC North: Even with a healthy Roethlisberger I think the Steelers would have a hard time topping both the Bengals and Ravens this season, but with Roethlisberger out for the first four games I don't think this team will have what it takes to win the division in 2010.

See where I have every team finishing the 2010 season in my 2010 NFL predictions. If you plan on betting the NFL this season, be sure to stop back for our life NFL odds each and every week to ensure you the best chance at a winning season.

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