The big talk around Super Bowl XLIII has largely centered on the matchup between the Steelers defense and the Cardinals offense. However, as everyone knows, these will not be the only units out on the field tomorrow evening in Tampa Bay. Online bookmaker Sportsbook.com is anticipating a fairly high-scoring affair between the two conference champions as their 2009 Super Bowl: Steelers Offense vs Cardinals Defense odds have the over/under set at 46.5.
Pittsburgh is well renowned for their run first mentality, but that has gone somehwat by the wayside this season. The offensive line has not opened as many holes as they have in the past, and injuries have also forced the Steelers most productive runners out of the lineup in a number of games. The combination of ineffectiveness and injuries has caused offensive coordinator Bruce Arians to lean more on Ben Roethlisberger and the passing game.
The results have not been astounding, as the Steelers produced a mediocre 21.7 points per game. Their 17th ranked passing attack averaged 206.3 yards per game in the regular season while their run game ranked in the bottom third of the league at 105.6 yards per game.
Their production has not been that much better in the post-season, other than their point per game average going from 21.7 to 29 as a result of a special teams touchdown and an interception return for a score. The passing numbers have dropped from 206.3 to 200, and the rushing numbers have moved from 105.6 to 108.5.
The Cardinals defense, like the Steelers offense, is used to living in the shadow of their counterpart. They do not get a great deal of credit for what they do, despite being a fairly sound unit. Their numbers are not overwhelming, but they are not horrendous either (except for their 26.6 regular season points per game allowed average).
Arizona's defense tied for 14th in the league this year with 31 sacks (an average of 1.9 per game) and they also ranked 16th against the run, allowing 110.3 yards per game on the ground. They have bettered those numbers in the playoffs, posting an average of 2.3 sacks per game while limiting teams to an average of just 77.3 yards per game rushing.
The key battle should be between the Cardinals front seven and the Steelers offensive line. Pittsburgh gave up 49 sacks this season, a number that does not bode well for them against what has been a high pressure Cardinals playoff defense.
Additionally, Arizona is plus nine in post-season turnover margin thanks to their opportunistic play. Pittsburgh, however, has been very sound in their ball security, having lost just one fumble in the playoffs (no interceptions). Which ever team can continue their current trend will most likely be holding the Lombardi Trophy on Sunday evening.
Sportsbook.com's 2009 Super Bowl: Steelers Offense vs Cardinals Defense
Pittsburgh -7 (-105), Over 46.5 (-110), -240 (Moneyline)
Arizona +7 (-115), Under 46.5 (-110), +200 (Moneyline)
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