Anyone else noticing the similarities between the Broncos and the Steelers? Just take a look:

  • Both teams have a very effective two headed running attack. The Broncos were 2nd in the league in rushing, and the Steelers were 5th.
  • Both teams have an efficient QB who is called to control the ball and manage the offense rather than carry the team on his shoulders.
  • Both teams stifled the run all season long, and ranked 2nd (Broncos) and 3rd (Steelers) in the league.
  • Both teams are considered somewhat suspect against the pass, although those numbers are skewed by how many teams had to throw against them late.
  • Both teams take good care of the ball while relying on their aggressive D to force some turnovers.
  • Both coaches are among the most tenured coaches in the league and have lots of playoff experience.

So what’s the difference? You might look at their records against common opponents. The Broncos were 5-0 while the Steelers were 2-3. I’m not sure that one is all the meaningful. You might consider Shanahan a better big game coach with his two Super Bowl Championships to Cowher’s zero in one appearance. Shanahan might be a slightly better gameplanner, but Cowher’s big game experience can’t be discounted.

There is one clear difference this week — the fans. Not that Steeler fans aren’t great. They are. However, there won’t be nearly as many of them at Mile High next week. Broncos fans — you can…you must be the difference in this game. Disrupt the Steelers offense and let the Broncos feed on your energy. On the NFL Network, Trent Dilfer said the Seahawks fans were the most energized crowd he’s ever seen.

Let’s make him change his mind.

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