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View Full Version : AFC North Blog : 'Steel Curtain' prepping for playoff run



stillers4me
12-12-2010, 06:55 PM
December, 12, 2010 Dec 12
7:40
PM ET


http://a.espncdn.com/photo/2010/1212/nfl_u_polamalu_576.jpgJason Bridge/US PresswireTroy Polamalu had two interceptions against the Bengals -- including a 45-yard pick six.
PITTSBURGH -- In a year where very few teams are playing elite defense, the Steelers may have found their niche.

After playing through various fines, penalties and other struggles earlier this season, Pittsburgh's defense is gaining momentum. It put together another dominant performance in Sunday's 23-7 (http://espn.go.com/nfl/recap?gameId=301212023) victory over the Cincinnati Bengals (http://espn.go.com/nfl/team/_/name/cin/cincinnati-bengals) (2-11).

The Steelers held the Bengals to 190 total yards of offense, forced three interceptions and kept Cincinnati scoreless after its opening drive. Pittsburgh also scored two defensive touchdowns for the first time since Nov. 22, 1998, courtesy of pick-sixes by safety Troy Polamalu (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?playerId=4474) and linebacker LaMarr Woodley (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?playerId=10490). The Steelers' defense scored more than their offense (nine points) and the entire Bengals team (seven points) in this AFC North win.

In the past month, Pittsburgh is allowing only nine points per game and the team is 4-0 in that stretch. This was also the second time in four games the Steelers kept an opponent to fewer than 200 total yards.

Pittsburgh's "Steel Curtain" defense is hardening at just the right time with the postseason just around the corner.............................

http://espn.go.com/blog/afcnorth/post/_/id/21664/steel-curtain-prepping-for-playoff-run