50-YARD LINE

Here we go, Steelers, here we go! The Steelers open up their division schedule tonight, looking to gain some ground in the AFC North, against the Bungles in Cincy. Keys to tonight's game. 1)The Steelers defense is ranked 31st in the NFL on 3rd down conversions, allowing 49.15%. In the second half, that goes up to 57.1%. They also have a 1.24% sack rate, 29th in the league. What's that tell us? The D needs to put more pressure on the quarterback and get off the field on 3rd downs. Things may be looking up as both Woodley and Harrison are expected to start at outside linebacker. Meet at the quarterback, guys! 2)Bungles QB Andy Dalton has thrown 12 touchdowns this season along with 9 picks. 3 of those interceptions have been returned for TDs. Could he be suffering from the dreaded sophomore slump? It helps that Cincy's running game is 21st in the league with 99.3 yards per game. Rattle Dalton's cage and stop the run! 3)Big Ben got banged up in practice this week and twisted his ankle. He thrives on the drama and thrives on playing in his home state of Ohio, were he is 14-2 in his career. Let's see him go to 15-2! The Steelers love to take night games to the final seconds before they win or lose the game. I'd like to get a good night's sleep so.....  Score early, score often, score BIG! Hit 'em early, hit 'em often, hit 'em HARD! Go Steelers!!!!!!