2. Miami vs. 6. Pittsburgh
How Miami can win: The Dolphins defense has a slew of penetration defenders to disrupt the timing of Pittsburgh QB Joe Montana — and there’s a big advantage on the line of scrimmage for the Miami defense. The receiving targets in Pittsburgh don’t match up well against Miami’s secondary, and safety Sean Taylor is a big hitter who can step up and crack Pittsburgh’s shallow targets in TE Mike Ditka and RBs Tony Dorsett and Curtis Martin. Offensively, Miami’s incredible receiving corps can space the field, and with QB Lamar Jackson’s elusiveness, the Dolphins offense can roll the pocket to keep pass-rushers Aaron Donald and Jason Taylor guessing on their landmarks. Jackson would be wise to test Pittsburgh safeties Jordan Whitehead and Malik Hooker early and often. — Kyle Crabbs, Dolphins Wire
How Pittsburgh can win: When you have Joe Montana, you trust him to carry the offense. But Hall of Fame running backs Tony Dorsett and Curtis Martin also create serious matchup problems for any defense. On defense, Pittsburgh’s front seven of Aaron Donald, Sean Gilbert, Jason Taylor, Sam Huff, Joe Schmidt, Jack Ham and Sean Lee is capable overwhelming opposing offensive linemen. Look for them to constantly be in the Miami backfield. This Pittsburgh team is fast and athletic and will cause great disruption for Miami QB Lamar Jackson. Pittsburgh is riding a wave of momentum and should finish this one off early. — Curt Popejoy, Steelers Wire
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