7:30PM | Heinz Field | TV: KDKA
The Steeler starters on offense and defense will get their most extended action of the preseason tonight against a worth opponent — the Atlanta Falcons. The first teamers are expected to play the entire first half. Since starters only play a series or two during the final preseason game, tonight will offer up the best chance to see where the Steelers are headed in 2011.
That’s not the most important thing at this juncture in the preseason though. That would be staying healthy. After last week’s injury fest where the Steelers top two left tackles exited the game, I’m hoping Pittsburgh can avoid any more major issues.
Three things to watch for
Dixon’s time to shine From people in the know: Dennis Dixon wants to be a backup (or a starting) QB in the NFL and the Steelers are content with Byron Leftwich and Charlie Batch. If Dixon plays well tonight, he’s going to be dealt.
Matt Ryan vs Pittsburgh secondary Every football fan on the planet knows that the Steelers are vulnerable to a high-powered passing attack. All season long, teams are going to challenge Pittsburgh’s secondary. Matt Ryan and his many weapons are the biggest test of 2011 so far.
Tony Hills: Starting RG? Once lost and awful at the tackle position, Tony Hills is a good performance tonight away from being the team’s starting right guard in week one. He’s been better than Ramon Foster in practice and was solid last week against Philadelphia. Tonight’s the game he’s been waiting for his whole career.
Eagles Blog To Read
The Falcoholic
On the Steelers:
Cameron Heyward has impressed everybody – Post-Gazette
7 things to watch tonight – Steelers Depot
Steelers are 2nd oldest team in NFL – ESPN
On the Eagles:
Three key matchups tonight – Falcoholic
Five things you want to see tonight – AJC
DE Ray Edwards under microscope – AJC
