This week, let’s switch gears a bit and talk about the running game, which will be on display in Pittsburgh. In run defense there are no magic or disciplined routes that neutralize a running game. The defensive line must not give in more than a yard and actually if they can “standup” their opposition, then they will be very successful at stopping both the run and getting pressure on the QB.

Here is one of the reasons why we are going to be on New England this week. First off, the game is being moved to Foxboro. The NFL rules committee has reviewed several of the Steelers games concluding that if the referees had normal performances the Steelers would have lost a total of six games. This would give the PATS the home-field advantage.

Seriously, the PATS season has been one of break after break after break. We think they may be able to earn this game though. One of the best ways to stop a north/south running game is to have a great nose tackle that can clog running lanes. Not demanding that he make tackles, just that he holds his ground and clogs 1 or 2 players allowing the LB and safety to fill the gaps. Richard Seymour is the guy we are referring to and he is really something special.

Only a rookie, this guy from Georgia has played the entire line and has done everything asked of him and more. Sure he has been credited for his play - as a rookie - but he really is playing above pro-bowl caliber and we think it will cause problems for the Pittsburgh running game. Bus or Slash will find the middle tough sledding as long as he just clogs the middle and occupies space. We think his job will be to win this battle on every play regardless of whether a running or passing defense is called.

Another advantage for the Patriots “D” is they do not have to resort to gimmick schemes. A gimmick scheme in our opinion is one where they would pull Seymour from the line of scrimmage into pass coverage and his area would be filled with a pair of LB blitzes. What happens if this is a counter run? In sum, it allows the PATS so much more flexibility and defensive looks that just may be enough to cause Kordell a relapse in reading.

Play on New England.