The Steel Curtain

            The Pittsburgh Steelers’ defense rose to the occasion yet again as they have done so many times before during this season, with another outstanding performance Sunday afternoon against the New England Patriots.  Linebacker, James Harrison, had a spectacular day forcing two fumbles and getting two sacks on quarterback, Matt Cassel.  Troy Polamalu also got an interception when he picked off Cassel in the 4^th quarter; it is Polamalu’s third straight game in which he has gotten an interception.  The defense of the Pittsburgh Steelers just played stellar throughout the game.  Matt Cassel’s day ended miserably, being sacked a total of five times, going 19-39 for 169 yards and throwing two interceptions, a rating of 39.4.

            Steelers’ halfback, Willie Parker, did end up starting the game after a week of speculation.  Parker ran very well, rushing for 87 yards on 16 attempts.  The Steelers did a good job of splitting the carries between Parker and Mewelde Moore to keep the Patriots’ defense off balance.  Moore rushed for 67 yards of his own on 12 attempts.  Ben Roethlisberger did well managing the game for the Steelers as he threw for 179 yards and two touchdowns, while the offensive line for the Steelers allowed one only one sack.

            As important as this victory was for the Steelers, it will be important for them not to lose focus.  The Dallas Cowboys come to town next week and they will be playing for their playoff lives.  The Steelers better be ready for an old fashioned showdown.