Pittsburgh Steelers’ historical edge no win surety vs transformed New York Jets – NFL Preview
The New York Jets do not have the historical record in their favour but a win for the Pittsburgh Steelers, when they host the former in the second game of the season this Sunday, will not be easy at all, given the Jets are now a completely transformed unit,
having star performers like quarterback Tim Tebow and it makes them well capable of beating any side in the league.
Further, the Steelers’ performance in the season opener against the Denver Broncos did not look impressive as they struggled to find rhythm. The Steelers were a sheer reflection of individual and team failure.
Yet with some reinforcement expected this week with possible return of linebacker James Harrison and safety Ryan Clark, coach Mike Tomlin is hopeful of the team’s chances of victory.
He said:
"Obviously, those guys are capable of helping us. They're quality veteran players. They know how to play and, specifically in Ryan's case, not only his play but his communication and leadership. That remains to be seen and we're not going to assume anything.
What we are going to do is focus on the healthy guys and get them prepared to play and, ultimately, expect them to play on the acceptable level."
James can particularly play a role with his daring challenges and tackles. He is well capable of going after any offensive player and it will be interesting to see him confronting Tim Tebow. His return nevertheless will be good news for the team, as some
reports have hinted at the possibility of his availability for the next game, after recovering from a major knee procedure. There is no guarantee of his participation, though.
Historically, the Jets maintain a 4-17 (four wins 17 losses) record against the Steelers, while their road games record is even worse: they have scored only one win and eight (1-8) major losses.
As earlier said, the major difference now is that the Jets have two main attacking players: QBs Tim Tebow and Mark Sanchez. While they are the same old team at rest of the positions, their increased strength on the offensive line should be bad news for the
Steelers.
On the contrary, Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger is struggling to find form. One of the main problems for him is his age. He is fast nearing maturity of his career and admittedly has gone selective in the plays.
Also, he is not happy over the transformation of the team’s offence by new coach Todd Haley. The run-focused offence has warranted more fitness and efforts from Ben, while he is already in bad terms with the coach, and the chances of his success are very
few.
The quarterback has remained below-the-mark for last few successive games, which was also a period of injury scares for him. Ben has been struggling with an ankle, knee and some other minor and major problems since last season, and maintaining his fitness
hundred percent has become a big question for him now.
Overall, both teams appear to have right balance at all positions and fighting spirit. The game is expected to be played in very competitive conditions, and while the Steelers have an edge over the opposition, any result can be expected.
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