The Pittsburgh Steelers hit the road to take on the Atlanta Falcons in a battle of two teams fighting for their postseason lives. After a convincing 42-21 win at Cincinnati last week, the 8-5 Steelers are now holding a wild card spot in the AFC, while also trailing the 8-4-1 Bengals by just half a game for the AFC North lead.
Steelers vs. Falcons 2014 picks and predictions: Experts split on battle of playoff contenders
The Steelers and Falcons are fighting for their playoff lives in Atlanta this week.
As for the 5-8 Falcons, they're coming off a 43-37 loss at Green Bay, but are still tied with the New Orleans Saints for first place in the NFC South. They can remain there with a win this week against a Steelers team hungry for a playoff berth. Following Atlanta's loss to the Packers, the NFC South is guaranteed to produce a division winner that has a .500 record or worse.
Pittsburgh is on the verge of ending its two-year playoff drought after not making the postseason since the 2011 season. To do so, though, the Steelers have to play more consistently, especially on the road against an unpredictable team that can be dangerous despite its losing record. Neither team can clinch a playoff berth this week, but both will be looking to improve their chances of playing in January.
So, what are the experts saying about this game?
The team at CBS Sports favors Atlanta, with five of eight experts picking the Falcons to win, while the ESPN panel likes the Steelers on the road by a 10-2 margin. As for the SB Nation crew, they’re split right down the middle with both teams getting four picks.
Week 15 | Ryan Van Bibber | Stephen White | Joel Thorman | David Fucillo | Danny Kelly | PFT Commenter | Matt Ufford | OddsShark Computer |
PIT @ ATL | PIT | PIT | PIT | ATL | ATL | ATL | ATL | PIT |
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