I'm torn a bit on this one. The Steelers have been my team since the seventh grade. Jack Lambert was my hero, I wore his number in Pop Warner and played linebacker in which I taped up my forearms just like he did. I was hoping my front teeth would get knocked out just like him, but it never happened. Steelers all the way.
Enter Kurt Warner. Became my second favorite player of all time while with the Rams. I love what this guy stands for on and off the field. He's an absolutely amazing QB with unparalleled accuracy.
Of course on Sunday I will be all for the Steelers... but I'll be bummed for Warner.
Analysis:
This one couldn't be more simple. Pit needs to get to Warner and get to him early and often. You don't have to sack him, just disrupt his timing. Of course the big question is, can the blitz get there in time? Warner will eat you up otherwise. As good as the secondary of the Steelers are, AB and Fitz create some serious match up problems. Especially if AB is at 100%.
For Steelers:
1. Linebacker coverage is gonna be crucial. Warner, especially early, will wanna get the ball out quickly for momentum and confidence building. Which means short flat routes or crossing patterns underneath.
2. Make Warner as uncomfortable as possible. Won't hurt to bang the receivers around some either.
3. Warner, Warner, Warner.
For Arizona:
1. Stop Willy. Make Ben carry the brunt of his second superbowl in which he HAS to play well.
2. Stretch the field vertically with your talent. ANY one on one with Fitz is an opportunity. Polamalu poses a different threat in the sense that if he's already locked up with Fitz, throw the ball. But if he is anywhere in the area of his closing ability (the best in the NFL), do not throw the ball.
3. Warner, Warner, Warner... PROTECT HIM AND YOU WILL BE REWARDED.
4. There's gonna be a lot of traffic around the pocket and it's imperative that Warner takes care of the football. He tends to get careless back there.
First play from scrimmage for Arizona? Deep bomb to AB if he's 100%, if not then Fitz.
First play for Pit? RB option pass. Just like the Seattle game.
Pittsburgh for the win.