Panthers vs. Steelers: Inside the Game

[mesaSteeler]

Panthers vs. Steelers: Inside the Game
http://www.timesonline.com/sports/sp...-the-game.html
By: Mike Bires
Beaver County Times

Thursday December 23, 2010 07:21 AM

PANTHERS (2-12) at STEELERS (10-4)

8:20 p.m. at Heinz Field (65,050) in Pittsburgh, PA

TV

NFL Network (locally KDKA-TV, Channel 2)

Bob Papa, play-by-play; Matt Millen and Joe Theismann, analysis; Alex Flanagan, sideline reporter

RADIO

Steelers Radio Network (WDVE-FM, 102.5, WBGG-AM, 970; WBVP-AM, 1230, WMBA-AM, 1460)

SERIES HISTORY

Since 1995 when Carolina entered the NFL, the Steelers have only played the Panthers four times. The Steelers lead the series 3-1 and are 2-0 against the Panthers in games played in Pittsburgh. In their last meeting, the Steelers trounced the Panthers, 37-3 on Dec. 17, 2006 at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, N.C.

TONIGHT'S STORYLINE

The Steelers (10-4) need to win to keep pace with the Ravens (10-4) in their chase for the AFC North Division title. The Steelers are expected to win big over a struggling Panthers squad (2-12) that’s expected to have a new coach next season.
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INJURY REPORT

The good news for the Steelers on the injury front is that TE Heath Miller will play after missing the past two games due to a concussion … However, the Steelers will be without SS Troy Polamalu for the second straight game. Polamalu has a lower leg injury that’s affecting his ankle, Achilles’ tendon and calf … DE Aaron Smith will miss his eighth straight game with a torn triceps.

For the Panthers, FB Tony Fiammetta (ankle) is out, CB Chris Gamble (ankle) is listed as doubtful while DE Tyler Brayton (hip) is questionable.

QUOTEWORTHY

"No, not after you get your butts whipped the week before. Everyone is excited to get back out there. We were ready to play the next day (after losing to the Jets).”

_ Steelers LB James Farrior when asked if it’s hard to play a Thursday night game this late in the season

BETTING LINE

The Steelers are favored by 14.

PREDICTION

Steelers 33, Panthers 10